Affordable access is the foundation of Bright College's mission. We focus on reducing barriers so you can focus on your education.
The Bright College Pathway – 100% Tuition Covered
Iowa residents who qualify for the Federal Pell Grant will have 100% of their tuition costs covered at John Dee Bright College.
2026–2027 Bright College Tuition
When looking at tuition costs, it’s important to distinguish between gross tuition (the “sticker price”) and net tuition (how much you’ll actually pay). Let’s dive in.
$19,034$19,034 is Bright's gross annual tuition for year 1 (fall and spring) before scholarships and grants are applied. Year 2 (summer, fall, spring) is $20,894 before aid. |
— AVG AID100% of tuition will be covered for Iowa residents qualifying for the federal Pell Grant. On average, 94% of first-year tuition was covered for 2025-2026 entering students. |
= $1,300*Average net tuition and fees at Bright College for year one (fall + spring) in 2025-26 were $1,300 and only $533 for year two (summer + fall + spring). |
A student activity fee of $260 and holistic wellness fee of $350 are reflected in the average net tuition cost listed above. The gross tuition cost is effective for students entering the 2026-27 academic year. Learn more about Drake University Cost of Attendance Budgets.
Additional and optional costs to help you plan
- Laptop computer that meets Drake's minimum technology requirements
- Personal transportation (if needed)
- Campus Parking (if needed)
- Room options are available, but not required
- Meal Plan options are available, but not required
Get maximum financial support
The FAFSA is a U.S. Department of Education form that your family fills out to help determine how much financial aid Drake can offer you. The FAFSA is the only way to qualify for federal student aid. Since we want you to get the best financial aid package you can, we highly encourage you to fill out the FAFSA. Don't forget to include Drake's FAFSA school code, 001860.
Complete your FAFSA by July 1 to be considered for the Iowa Tuition Grant valued at up to $8,500 per year in aid.
Questions about Bright College? Contact your counselor.
Reach out to Graze Wenzel, your Bright College admission counselor.
Joel Johnson, EdD
Dean of Admission
Office of Admission
Phone: 515-271-3182
Email: joel.johnson@drake.edu
Office: Cole Hall
Grace Wenzel
Associate Director of Undergraduate Admission and Bright College Recruitment
Office of Admission
Phone: 515-271-2091
Email: grace.wenzel@drake.edu
