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Drake University and Luther College are both private nonprofit institutions — Drake University in Des Moines, IA and Luther College in Decorah, 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.
Des Moines, IA · Private
Acceptance rate: 63.8%
Undergrad enrollment: 2,543
Tuition: $52,130/year
Student-faculty ratio: 11.0:1
Graduation rate: 74.0%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Communication, Biological sciences
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Des Moines, IA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Communication.
Decorah, IA · Private
Acceptance rate: 71.5%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,379
Tuition: $52,120/year
Student-faculty ratio: 9.0:1
Graduation rate: 71.1%
Top programs: Health professions, Visual and performing arts, Business and marketing
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Decorah, IA with published program strength in Health professions and Visual and performing arts.
| Factor | Drake University | Luther College |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 63.8% | 71.5% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1110–1350 |
| 1078–1406 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 24–29 | 22–29 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 2,543 | 1,379 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $52,130/year | $52,120/year |
| Average net price after aid | $29,127 | $23,097 |
| Graduation rate | 74.0% | 71.1% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $71,901 | $59,850 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Des Moines, IA | Decorah, IA |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Communication, Biological sciences | Health professions, Visual and performing arts, Business and marketing |
Drake University is more selective (63.8% vs 71.5% acceptance rate). Luther College has a lower average net price after grant aid ($23,097 vs $29,127). Drake University reports the higher graduation rate (74.0% vs 71.1%). Drake University is the larger undergraduate campus (2,543 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.
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Common questions when choosing between Drake University and Luther College
Drake University has an acceptance rate of 63.8%; Luther College is around 71.5%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Drake University tuition is $52,130/year. Luther College is $52,120/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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