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Central College

Pella, Iowa · Private (nonprofit)

Mar 1Application deadline

FindU Grade

A-Value
N/ACampus
A-Academics
C-Admissions
B-Student Life
B+Overall

About

Central College is located in Pella, Iowa. It is a private (nonprofit) institution. The university enrolls approximately 1,062 students.

central.edu

Cost and aid

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$20,988
Out-of-state tuition$20,988
Room & board$12,220
Avg aid package$12,678
Students receiving aid21%
Pell grant recipients21%

Central College's tuition is $38,600, with room and board adding $10,280. However, 99% of students receive financial aid, with an average package of $32,045, resulting in graduates having some of the lowest debt levels among Iowa colleges. The college is recognized as a best value college in Iowa, offering a strong return on investment.

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Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%935–1205
4001600
ACT · middle 50%19–25
136

Application info

Acceptance rate79%
Average GPA3.56
Student–faculty ratio12:1
Test optionalYes
Application fee$25

Application dates

Regular DecisionMar 1

Admission to Central College is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate ranging from 70-79%. The college uses standardized test scores for admission and looks for students with a strong academic record, with an average GPA of 3.56. Central College emphasizes a holistic review, seeking students who demonstrate a commitment to leadership, community, and global engagement.

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Academics

Graduation rate70%
Retention rate73%
Student–faculty ratio12:1
Full-time faculty86%

Central College offers a rigorous liberal arts education with a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio, fostering close faculty mentorship and small classes. Experiential learning, deep engagement, and critical thinking are hallmarks of the academic experience. Faculty consistently earn recognition for their dedication to student success both inside and outside the classroom.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$54,317
Job placement rate94%
Internship rate76%
Earn more than HS grad80%
Economic mobility93%
Loan default (3 yr)1%
Loan repayment (3 yr)77%

Central College boasts a 98% placement rate within a year of graduation, indicating strong career preparation. The college emphasizes career preparation through internships, undergraduate research, and community-based learning. Graduates are successful in meaningful careers, supported by the college's strong academics and inclusive excellence.

Student life

Demographics

Small School
1,062Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

BalancedGender ratio
Female 46%Male 54%
87% WhiteRacial diversity
White 87%Hispanic 4%Black 2%Asian 1%Other 6%
Campus housingYes

Central College offers a vibrant campus life with over 100 clubs and organizations, encouraging students to mix academics with various extracurriculars. The college emphasizes community wellbeing through initiatives like the Initiative for Wellness and Athletic Excellence. Students appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the numerous opportunities for involvement.

Student reviews

Professors

Current Student

Overall, I love Central College. Entering college, I was nervous about falling behind academically and struggling to build connections with my professors. However, my experience has been the complete opposite. I have developed personal relationships with all of my professors and advisors, who genuinely care about my academic success and are always willing to provide support and guidance. The small class sizes and accessible faculty have made learning both engaging and manageable. If you are attending college with a strong focus on academics and meaningful mentorship, Central College is an excellent choice.

Campus and vibes

Current Student

I fell in love with Central on my first college visit and never looked back. As a senior now, I value the supportive relationships I have developed with professors, my participation in athletics, and the endless opportunities for student involvement. I feel like the Central community really knows me, and I have been able to pour into all the corners of campus that matter most to me. I would highly recommend Central to anyone!

About Central College

Central College prioritizes the safety and welfare of its campus community, promoting normal precautions for safety and well-being. The college provides timely warnings of reported crimes and offers training, prevention, and awareness programs to reduce the risk of violence. Student Safety personnel are available 24/7 to assist and provide escort services.

Central College offers an Emerging Scholars Program designed to allow students to customize their honors experience through interdisciplinary seminars, focused course enrichments, and a capstone senior honors thesis. The program fosters intellectual curiosity, promotes academic excellence, and provides mentoring relationships with faculty. Honors students have access to special classes, leadership opportunities, and a designated fellowship coordinator.

Central College welcomes international applicants and provides support through various academic and non-academic facilities. While specific details on visa support and ESL programs are not explicitly mentioned, the college's commitment to global experiential learning and a diverse student body suggests a supportive environment for international students.

Endowment$95,466,372
Avg faculty salary$92,340

Central College FAQ

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Central College admits about 79% of applicants. But your real odds are personal. They depend on your grades, scores, and story. Answer a few quick questions and FindU calculates your match.

76%Your chances
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Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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