Dowling Catholic High School

Dowling Catholic High School is committed to serving the Greater Des Moines Catholic community and embracing learners of all faiths. Dowling will inspire a Christ-centered love of learning and a respect for fellow human beings through the application of moral principles, a commitment to service, and excellence in academics, athletics, the arts, and extra-curricular activities.

Quick Stats (2025)

  • Top Ranked IA School
  • Grades: 9-12
  • Enrollment: 1,389 students
  • Average class size: 23 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

Top Rankings

Dowling Catholic High School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Iowa for:

School Overview

School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 9-12
Year Founded
1918
Colors
Maroon, White
Summer School Offered
Yes
Awards
 Blue Ribbon School - Selected in 2003

Student Body

Total Students
1,389 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
27%
State avg.: 16%
Students by Grade
Dowling Catholic High School Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
90 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
15:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
57%
Average Class Size
23 students
Number of AP Courses
15 courses
List of Courses Offered
Advanced Courses
Advanced Placement Courses: Biology, an, Calculus, Chemistry, Computer Science, English and Language Composition, English Literature and Compostition, Environmental Science, European History, Government, Microeconomics, Physics 1 & 2, Pyschology, Spanish
Average ACT score
24
(Out of 36)
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
khaki, navy or black slacks with a DCHS polo

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Tuition Notes
We have participating and non-participating tuition. www.dowlingcatholic.org
% on Financial Aid
40%
Admissions Director
Tatia Eischeid
Admissions Associate
Kelly Lentsch
Application URL

Sports

School Notes

  • School Motto: Leaders for Life, Centered on Christ.
  • School Mascot: Maroons
  • Dowling Catholic High School is committed to serving the Greater Des Moines Catholic community and embracing learners of all faiths. In an environment that is faithful, caring and dedicated, Dowling Catholic forms each student to become a Christ-centered leader.
  • Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
    • Shallee Keenan, Class of 2003 - notable for her contributions post-graduation. -
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are famous alumni from Dowling Catholic High School?
Dowling Catholic High School famous alumni include: Shallee Keenan, Class of 2003 - notable for her contributions post-graduation..
What sports does Dowling Catholic High School offer?
Dowling Catholic High School offers 20 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Bowling, Cheering, Cross Country, Dance, Diving, Football, Golf, Polo, Rugby, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field, Volleyball, Weightlifting, Winter Track and Wrestling. Dowling Catholic High School is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in Iowa for most sports offered.
What is Dowling Catholic High School's ranking?
Dowling Catholic High School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Iowa for: Highest percentage of students of color, Largest student body, Most AP courses offered and Most sports offered.
When is the application deadline for Dowling Catholic High School?
The application deadline for Dowling Catholic High School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).

School Calendar

View the Dowling Catholic High School yearly calendar below. Note key dates such as:

Event
Date
First Day of School
August 25, 2025 (Monday)
Thanksgiving Break
November 26, 2025 (Wednesday)
Spring Break
March 16, 2026 (Monday)

School Reviews

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Quick Stats (2025)

  • Top Ranked IA School
  • Grades: 9-12
  • Enrollment: 1,389 students
  • Average class size: 23 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Polk County, IA is $7,965 for elementary schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Polk County, IA is 85% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

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