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Buena Vista University and Waldorf University are both private nonprofit institutions — Buena Vista University in Storm Lake, IA and Waldorf University in Forest City, IA. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Storm Lake, IA · Private
Acceptance rate: 77.6%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,366
Tuition: $41,798/year
Student-faculty ratio: 13.0:1
Graduation rate: 61.7%
Top programs: Education, Business and marketing, Public administration and social service
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Storm Lake, IA with published program strength in Education and Business and marketing.
Forest City, IA · Private
Acceptance rate: 77.0%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,827
Tuition: $25,978/year
Student-faculty ratio: 22.0:1
Graduation rate: 21.1%
Top programs: Security and law enforcement, Business and marketing, Psychology
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Forest City, IA with published program strength in Security and law enforcement and Business and marketing.
| Factor | Buena Vista University | Waldorf University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 77.6% | 77.0% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1120 average |
| Not reported |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 19–26 | Not reported |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 1,366 | 1,827 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $41,798/year | $25,978/year |
| Average net price after aid | $18,846 | $19,693 |
| Graduation rate | 61.7% | 21.1% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $49,156 | $51,165 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 13.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Storm Lake, IA | Forest City, IA |
| Largest program areas | Education, Business and marketing, Public administration and social service | Security and law enforcement, Business and marketing, Psychology |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (77.6% vs 77.0%). Buena Vista University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($18,846 vs $19,693). Buena Vista University reports the higher graduation rate (61.7% vs 21.1%). Waldorf University is the larger undergraduate campus (1,827 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
Common questions when choosing between Buena Vista University and Waldorf University
Buena Vista University has an acceptance rate of 77.6%; Waldorf University is around 77.0%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Buena Vista University tuition is $41,798/year. Waldorf University is $25,978/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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