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79.2%Acceptance
$20,988Tuition
1,062Students
69%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$54,317Earnings
#12 in IowaPrivate nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalLiberal ArtsNCAA Division IIIStudy AbroadData: 2023-24Reformed Church in America

Cost Details

In-State Tuition
$20,988
Out-of-State Tuition
$20,988
Average Net Price
$22,353
Students Receiving Financial Aid
21.4%
Room & Board (On Campus)
$12,220
Room & Board (Off Campus)
$12,220
Books & Supplies
$1,275
Total Cost of Attendance
$34,483
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,984
Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
$286/mo
Loan Repayment Rate
77.1%
Students Taking Federal Loans
65.5%
Pell Grant Recipients
21.4%

Net Price by Family Income

Average annual net price after grants and scholarships. Source: U.S. Department of Education

Net price by family income bracket
Family Income Average Net Price
$0 – $30,000 $14,745
$30,001 – $48,000 $16,426
$48,001 – $75,000 $19,418
$75,001 – $110,000 $22,308
$110,001+ $25,764

Cost Estimator

Family Income
Residency
Housing

Cost Overview

Most Central College families pay far less than the $34,483 sticker price. Net costs range from $14,745 for families earning under $30,000 to $25,764 for those earning over $110,000. The college meets demonstrated need through institutional grants averaging $10,999 for about one-third of students. Over four years, total costs run between $59,000 and $103,000 depending on family income.

Graduates typically handle debt well despite the $26,984 median load. Monthly loan payments of $286 represent a manageable portion of the $54,317 median salary ten years out. The 77% loan repayment rate suggests most alumni stay current on payments. Low-income students get the strongest value proposition here, paying less than half the full price while accessing the same small-class experience with a 12:1 student-faculty ratio.

Official Net Price Calculator

Get a personalized cost estimate from Central College:

Visit Official Net Price Calculator

This links to the school's federally-required net price calculator for a personalized estimate.