Best Iowa Blue Ribbon Private Schools (2026-27)

For the 2026-27 school year, there are 10 blue ribbon private schools serving 5,286 students in Iowa.

The blue ribbon private schools in Iowa include Dowling Catholic High School, Newman Catholic School, and Lourdes Catholic School.

The average acceptance rate is 91%, which is higher than the Iowa private school average acceptance rate of 87%.

100% of blue ribbon private schools in Iowa are religiously affiliated (most commonly Catholic and Other).

Blue Ribbon schools have been recognized by the Department of Education for achieving superior standards of academic excellence. Read more about this national school awards program and how blue ribbon schools work.

Quick Facts (2026-27)

# Private Schools: 10
# Students Served: 5,286

Quick Facts (2026-27)

# Private Schools: 10
# Students Served: 5,286

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top ranked blue ribbon private schools in Iowa?

The blue ribbon private schools in Iowa include Dowling Catholic High School, Newman Catholic School, and Lourdes Catholic School.

How many blue ribbon private schools are located in Iowa?

10 blue ribbon private schools are located in Iowa.

How diverse are blue ribbon private schools in Iowa?

Iowa blue ribbon private schools are approximately 14% minority students, which is lower than the Iowa private school average of 16%.

What percentage of blue ribbon private schools are religiously affiliated in Iowa?

100% of blue ribbon private schools in Iowa are religiously affiliated (most commonly Catholic and Other).

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