
Central College
Pella, Iowa · Private (nonprofit)
FindU Grade
About
Central College is located in Pella, Iowa. It is a private (nonprofit) institution. The university enrolls approximately 1,062 students.
central.eduCost and aid
Cost breakdown
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.
Admissions
Test scores
Application info
Application dates
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.
Academics
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
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
Compared to 5,382 national average
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
Campus and vibes
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.
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