Private nonprofit Institution

Buena Vista University — Storm Lake, Iowa

Compare Visit Website
Annual Tuition $40,190

Estimated Out-of-Pocket

Acceptance 71.8%

Moderately Open

Enrollment 1,378

Active Students

Avg. Salary $49,156

After 10 Years

Institutional Profile

Location Storm Lake, Iowa
Institution type Private nonprofit
Accreditation Higher Learning Commission
Founded 12/1/1965

Academic Mission & Environment

"Buena Vista University stands as a pillar of higher education in Storm Lake, providing a robust academic foundation for 1,378 students. The institution is recognized for its dedication to career-ready outcomes and community impact."

Campus Setting Urban Campus
Student Focus High Employment ROI

What programs does Buena Vista University offer?

Discover the most popular degrees and fields of study at Buena Vista University. These programs represent the institution's primary areas of academic focus and professional preparation.

Education
31.8%

Enrollment Share

Business & Marketing
20.4%

Enrollment Share

Public Admin
11.9%

Enrollment Share

Psychology
6.5%

Enrollment Share

Security & Law Enforcement
4.7%

Enrollment Share

Parks & Recreation
4.1%

Enrollment Share

Institutional Choice

Best Education College

We develop educators who are passionate about transforming classrooms...

Strategic Profile Audited
Institutional Choice

Best Business & Marketing College

Positioned as a premier hub for future executives...

Strategic Profile Audited
Institutional Choice

Best Public Admin College

The Public Admin program at Buena Vista University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited
Institutional Choice

Best Psychology College

Our Psychology program offers deep insights into human behavior...

Strategic Profile Audited
Institutional Choice

Best Security & Law Enforcement College

The Security & Law Enforcement program provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited
Institutional Choice

Best Parks & Recreation College

The Parks & Recreation program at Buena Vista University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

What is the acceptance rate at Buena Vista University?

Admissions & Selectivity Dashboard — 2026

Acceptance 71.8%
Difficulty Low

Buena Vista University maintains an acceptance rate of 71.8%, reflecting its status as a moderately open institution. The admissions process evaluates academic potential alongside standardized testing trends to ensure a balanced student body.

Test Requirement SAT/ACT scores are considered but not required.

Student Body Composition

Men Enrollment 34.8%
Women Enrollment 65.2%

Test Score Ranges (25th - 75th Percentile)

ACT English 16 - 24
ACT Mathematics 17 - 25
Expert Insight

Competitive scores often fall within or exceed these typical 50% benchmarks for admitted students.

How much does Buena Vista University cost in 2026?

In-State Tuition $40,190
Out-of-State Tuition $40,190

Financial Support Snapshot

Pell Grant Rate 42.5%
Median Student Debt $25,000

ROI Insight

With a tuition of only $40,190, graduates see a median starting salary of $49,156, making it one of the most affordable pathways in Iowa.

What salary can Buena Vista University graduates expect?

Avg. Early Career Salary $49,156

10 years after entry

Graduation Rate 47.3%

Investment Analysis & ROI

Average Net Price $18,321
Median Salary (6yr) $43,572
Earnings-to-Debt Ratio Above Average
Career Stability Index High

What is student life like at Buena Vista University in Storm Lake?

1,378 Students

Gender Comparison

34.8% Men
65.2% Women
Male Enrollment Female Enrollment

Retention & Enrollment

76.3%
Retention First-year
0%
Full-time Enrollment

Diversity & Ethnicity

American Indian
0.7%
Pacific Islander
0.2%
Asian
0.7%
Black
3%
White
78.7%
Unknown
2%
Hispanic
12.2%
Two or More Races
1.9%
International
0.7%

Campus Demographics

🎂
Avg. Age at Entry 26
🎓
First-Generation 35.3%
💰
Receive Pell Grant 61.5%
💍
Married Students 24.1%

Student Economic Background

Median Household Income $51,579
Average Family Income $51,688
Median Family Income $40,952

Faculty Profile

Faculty Gender

50.8%
49.2%
Women Men
Premium Campus Location

Explore the Storm Lake Campus Environment

Located at 610 W 4th St, Buena Vista University offers a strategic urban setting that connects students with the economic and cultural heart of Iowa. Use our verified map utility to plan your visit or explore nearby professional hubs.

Campus Setting Urban / Metropolitan
Access High Connectivity
Get Directions Open in Google Maps

Common Questions about Buena Vista University

Is Buena Vista University a good college in Storm Lake, Iowa?
Buena Vista University is a recognized institution in Storm Lake with an enrollment of 1,378 students. It is accredited by Higher Learning Commission and offers a robust ROI for students in Iowa based on Department of Education data.
Is Buena Vista University worth attending in 2026?
Yes, Buena Vista University offers exceptional value with an average net price of $0 and median graduate earnings of $49,156. The institution's focus on professional outcomes makes it a strong investment for 2026.
How much does Buena Vista University cost for Iowa residents in 2026?
For the 2026 academic year, in-state tuition at Buena Vista University is approximately $40,190. In addition, out-of-state tuition is $40,190. Financial aid and Pell Grants significantly reduce this cost for most local residents.
What is the real cost of Buena Vista University after financial aid and FAFSA?
The real cost of attending Buena Vista University for most students is its average net price of $0. Approximately 61.5% of students receive Pell Grants and FAFSA-based aid to offset costs.
Is Buena Vista University good for Education and Business & Marketing programs?
Buena Vista University is highly regarded for its Education and Business & Marketing programs. These tracks are among the most popular, preparing students for immediate career entry.
What career can I get after attending Buena Vista University?
Graduates of Buena Vista University often transition into high-demand roles in fields like Education. With a median salary of $49,156, the college provides a clear pathway to professional advancement.
What are the admission requirements for Buena Vista University?
Buena Vista University operates with a Moderately Open policy. This typically includes a simplified application process focused on accessibility and student success regardless of past standardized test scores.
Does Buena Vista University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
No, Buena Vista University follows a test-optional approach for the 2026 cycle. Standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT are not required for general admission.
What salary can Buena Vista University graduates expect after 10 years?
Graduates of Buena Vista University earn a median salary of $49,156 after 10 years. This demonstrates long-term professional stability and growth.
Is Buena Vista University a good investment compared to other IA colleges?
Buena Vista University stands out as a high-value investment in Iowa. With an average net price of only $0, it offers one of the most affordable pathways to a degree and a professional career in the state.
Where is Buena Vista University located and what is the campus like?
Buena Vista University is located at 610 W 4th St in Storm Lake, IA. The campus provides a dynamic environment serving a diverse student body of 1,378 learners.
Who typically attends Buena Vista University in Storm Lake, IA?
The student body at Buena Vista University is diverse and career-focused. Approximately 35.3% are first-generation students, reflecting a community of motivated, real-world learners.
🏆

2026 Rankings: Iowa

Explore top-tier academic pathways across the state

Compare Buena Vista University with other leading institutions in Iowa across various professional disciplines. Our verified data audits provide transparency on career ROI and academic quality.

N
Nursing
B
Business Administration
C
Computer Science
M
Medical
P
Psychology
E
Engineering
C
Criminal Justice
S
Social Work
A
Accounting
M
Marketing
C
Cybersecurity
F
Finance
B
Biotechnology
M
Mechanical Engineering
P
Public Administration
F
Fire Protection
I
International Business
I
Information Science
C
Civil Engineering
J
Journalism
G
Graphic Communications
C
Computer Engineering
D
Data Science
L
Law
A
Architecture
E
Education
L
Liberal Arts
🧭

Local Discovery Hub

Explore specialized academic pathways in Storm Lake

Degrees & Research Education Insights →
2026 Audit Complete
Professional Training Education Insights →
2026 Audit Complete
Career Opportunities Education Insights →
2026 Audit Complete
Affordable Tuition Education Insights →
2026 Audit Complete
Accredited Programs Education Insights →
2026 Audit Complete
Leading Schools Education Insights →
2026 Audit Complete
International Support Education Insights →
2026 Audit Complete
Community Colleges Education Insights →
2026 Audit Complete

Looking for similar schools in Iowa?

Our intelligence engine has audited 6,400+ institutions to find the best matches for your career goals.

View State Rankings →