Central College has been recognized as one of the top higher education institutions in Iowa, earning high marks for value, athletics, and academic quality in the new 2026 Best Colleges rankings from Niche.com.

In the state-level rankings, Central was named the No. 2 Best Value College in Iowa and No. 4 Best College Athletics in Iowa, only following the state’s three public universities. The rankings highlight the college’s commitment to providing an affordable, high-impact education that leads to successful outcomes. The national recognition for Central was further solidified by the 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings, where the college was once again listed among the top National Liberal Arts Colleges in the United States, earning specific recognition for its success in promoting social mobility for its graduates.

Niche.com’s Best Value ranking analyzes a combination of factors, including net price, alumni earnings, academic quality and student debt. The rankings consider key statistics and student reviews to identify colleges that offer a balanced and positive experience for their students and student-athletes.