Central College

School Overview

Central College is located in Pella, IA, and offers a distinctive educational experience. In the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, it is ranked #131 among National Liberal Arts Colleges. It is also recognized as #251 in Engeerg Programs (no doctorate). The school features a rural setting and serves 1,084 undergraduate students. The institution maintains a 86% acceptance rate, making it accessible. Admitted students typically present SAT scores of 1056-1120 and ACT scores of 20-26. The average high school GPA of incoming freshmen is 3.6. A 12:1 student-faculty ratio provides an environment conducive to individualized academic attention. About 61% of classes enroll fewer than 20 students, fostering an intimate learning environment. The most popular areas of study include Business Administration and Management, General (23%), Exercise Science and Kinesiology (13%), and Social Sciences (11%). Graduates in Business Administration and Management, General earn a median salary of $68,027 after entering the workforce. Annual tuition and fees are $21,934, with room and board adding approximately $12,060. The average net price for students receiving financial aid is $22,578. The four-year graduation rate stands at 58%.