For the 2025 school year, there are 254 private schools serving 52,291 students in Iowa (there are 1,320 public schools, serving 501,674 students). 9% of all K-12 students in Iowa attend private schools (compared to the national average of 10%).
The average private school tuition is $9,468 for elementary schools and $11,239 for high schools (view national tuition averages).
The top-ranked private schools in Iowa include Heartland Christian School, Rivermont Collegiate, and Sacred Heart Continuation School.
The average acceptance rate is 86% (view national acceptance rates). Minority enrollment is 16% and the student:teacher ratio is 12:1.
Top Ranked Iowa Private Schools by County (2025)
Popular neighborhoods: Cedar Hills (3 schools), Noelridge Park (2 schools), Southwest Area (2 schools), Merle Hay (2 schools), Penn (2 schools).
County
# Schools
# Students
% of K-12 Students in Private Schools
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked private schools in Iowa?
The top-ranked private schools in Iowa include Heartland Christian School, Rivermont Collegiate, and Sacred Heart Continuation School.
How many private schools are located in Iowa?
There are 254 private schools are located in Iowa.
How much do private schools cost in Iowa?
The average private school tuition in Iowa is $9,468 for elementary schools and $11,239 for high schools
How diverse are private schools in Iowa?
Approximately 16% of students in Iowa private schools are minority students (compared to the national percentage).
What percentage of students in Iowa go to private school?
9% of all K-12 students in Iowa attend private schools (compared to the national average of 10%).
What percentage of private schools are religiously affiliated in Iowa?
Which private schools in Iowa are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of private schools in Iowa include: Burlington Notre Dame vs. Great River Christian School, Ames Christian School vs. St. Cecilia Elementary School, St. Cecilia Elementary School vs. Ames Christian School
Recent Articles
Podcasts That Will Change the Way You Think About Education
This article highlights a curated selection of podcasts that offer thought-provoking discussions, expert insights, and innovative ideas on various aspects of education. From exploring new teaching methods and technologies to discussing policy changes and social issues, these podcasts provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for anyone interested in education. Each podcast is briefly described, highlighting its unique focus and tone.
For-profit vs. Not-for-profit Schools
This comprehensive guide explores the differences between for-profit and not-for-profit private schools, discussing their organizational structures, advantages, and key considerations for parents. It emphasizes that a school's success is determined by its educational quality and management rather than its profit status.
2023-24 Best SSAT Prep Courses Reviewed
This article reviews the top SSAT prep courses, including Test Innovators, Enrollment Management Association (EMA), Princeton Review, Ivy Global, and Kaplan. Each course is evaluated based on its price, in-person and online services, officially licensed materials, instant normative scoring, and free trial options. We'll dive into the features and benefits of each course, helping you understand which one best fits your student's needs and learning style.
