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Central College and University of Dubuque are both private nonprofit institutions — Central College in Pella, IA and University of Dubuque in Dubuque, 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.
Pella, IA · Private
Acceptance rate: 86.2%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,070
Tuition: $20,988/year
Student-faculty ratio: 11.0:1
Graduation rate: 66.2%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Social sciences
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Pella, IA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Biological sciences.
Dubuque, IA · Private
Acceptance rate: 88.6%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,440
Tuition: $42,095/year
Student-faculty ratio: 10.0:1
Graduation rate: 40.1%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Health professions, Education
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Dubuque, IA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Health professions.
| Factor | Central College | University of Dubuque |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 86.2% | 88.6% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1056–1120 |
| 980–1220 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 20–26 | 18–24 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 1,070 | 1,440 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $20,988/year | $42,095/year |
| Average net price after aid | $23,377 | $23,386 |
| Graduation rate | 66.2% | 40.1% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $54,317 | $51,190 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Pella, IA | Dubuque, IA |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Social sciences | Business and marketing, Health professions, Education |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (86.2% vs 88.6%). Central College has a lower average net price after grant aid ($23,377 vs $23,386). Central College reports the higher graduation rate (66.2% vs 40.1%). University of Dubuque is the larger undergraduate campus (1,440 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 Central College and University of Dubuque
Central College has an acceptance rate of 86.2%; University of Dubuque is around 88.6%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Central College tuition is $20,988/year. University of Dubuque is $42,095/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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