Find the Best K-12 & Higher Education Institutions in Iowa | Updated 2025
Are you searching for the best schools in Iowa ? Whether you’re looking for top-ranked public schools , private institutions , or Iowa colleges , this guide covers all the essential details, including contact information, rankings, and more. We’ve compiled data from trusted sources like U.S. News, Niche, and the Iowa Department of Education to bring you the most accurate list.
📚 Table of Contents
- Why Trust This List?
- Top Public Schools in Iowa
- Top Private Schools in Iowa
- Top Colleges & Universities in Iowa
- How Are These Schools Ranked?
- FAQs About Iowa Schools
- Conclusion
👨🏫 Why Trust This List?
This list is based on recent academic performance, college readiness scores, student reviews, and rankings from authoritative platforms such as:
- U.S. News & World Report
- Niche.com
- GreatSchools.org
- Iowa Department of Education
We update our rankings annually to ensure accuracy and relevance.
🏢 Top Public Schools in Iowa (2025 Rankings)
Here are the top public schools in Iowa based on academic excellence, test scores, and graduation rates.
| Rank | School Name | Location | Website | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | West Des Moines Valley High | West Des Moines | valleyhighschool.net | (515) 494-8600 |
| 2 | Waukee High School | Waukee | waukeeschools.org | (515) 978-8000 |
| 3 | Johnston Senior High | Johnston | johnstoncsd.org | (515) 278-0100 |
| 4 | Linn-Mar High School | Marion | linnmar.k12.ia.us | (319) 892-6400 |
| 5 | Cedar Rapids Kennedy High | Cedar Rapids | crsd.org | (319) 558-3200 |
💡 Pro Tip: Many of these schools offer STEM programs , AP courses , and extracurricular opportunities that boost college admissions.
🏰 Top Private Schools in Iowa (2025)
Looking for private education options in Iowa? Here are the top-rated ones based on academics, teacher credentials, and parent reviews.
| Rank | School Name | Location | Website | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | St. Thomas More Catholic School | Coralville | stmcoralville.org | (319) 351-8411 |
| 2 | Dowling Catholic High School | West Des Moines | dowlingcatholic.org | (515) 277-2100 |
| 3 | The Summit Christian Academy | Ankeny | thesummitiowa.org | (515) 964-3030 |
| 4 | Trinity Lutheran School | Dubuque | trinityluth.com | (563) 588-3181 |
| 5 | Prairie Hills Montessori School | Urbandale | prairiehills.org | (515) 278-9595 |
🎓 Most private schools have smaller class sizes , faith-based curricula , and strong college placement records .
🎓 Top Colleges & Universities in Iowa
Iowa is home to several prestigious higher education institutions known for their research, affordability, and campus life.
| Rank | Institution | Location | Website | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Iowa | Iowa City | uiowa.edu | (319) 335-3500 |
| 2 | Iowa State University | Ames | iastate.edu | (515) 294-4111 |
| 3 | University of Northern Iowa | Cedar Falls | uni.edu | (319) 273-2011 |
| 4 | Grinnell College | Grinnell | grinnell.edu | (641) 269-3000 |
| 5 | Drake University | Des Moines | drake.edu | (515) 271-2011 |
🧪 Iowa’s colleges are especially strong in engineering , agriculture , business , and liberal arts .
📊 How Are These Schools Ranked?
The rankings are determined by a combination of factors, including:
- Standardized test scores
- Graduation rates
- College acceptance rates
- Teacher qualifications
- Student-to-teacher ratios
- Parent and student reviews
- Extracurricular offerings
Sources include:
- U.S. News & World Report
- Niche.com
- GreatSchools.org
- Iowa Department of Education
❓ FAQ About Iowa Schools
Q: What is the #1 ranked high school in Iowa?
A: As of 2025, Valley High School in West Des Moines holds the top spot for public high schools.
Q: Are there good private school options in Iowa?
A: Yes! Schools like Dowling Catholic High School and St. Thomas More Catholic School are highly rated for academics and college prep.
Q: What is the best university in Iowa?
A: The University of Iowa ranks highest overall for research, medical programs, and graduate success.
Q: How can I apply to an Iowa school?
A: Visit the official website of the school or use the Iowa Department of Education’s online portal at education.iowa.gov .
📝 Conclusion
Whether you’re a parent seeking quality K-12 education or a student preparing for college, Iowa offers some of the best educational institutions in the Midwest. With strong academics, supportive communities, and affordable tuition options, it’s no wonder families and students keep choosing Iowa schools.
Use this guide to find your ideal school, get in touch using the provided contact details, and start your educational journey today!
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