Iowa High School Graduation Rates Reach Five-Year High

Graduation rates exceed pre-pandemic levels for the first time since 2020.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 9:26pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph in soft, warm tones depicting the silhouettes of several high school students walking together, conveying a sense of optimism and achievement.The rise in Iowa's high school graduation rates, particularly among underserved student groups, reflects the state's dedication to educational equity and empowering all learners.Des Moines Today

Iowa's high school graduation rate climbed to 88.8% in 2025, marking the highest rate in five years, according to new data from the Iowa Department of Education. This marks the first time since 2020 the rate has exceeded prepandemic levels. Several student groups, including those with disabilities, low-income backgrounds, and experiencing homelessness, saw graduation rate increases that outpaced the state average.

Why it matters

Improving high school graduation rates is a key indicator of educational success and can have long-lasting impacts on students' future opportunities and economic outcomes. The gains made by traditionally underserved student groups are particularly noteworthy, as they help address persistent achievement gaps.

The details

The graduation rate increased 0.5 percentage points from 88.3% for the class of 2024, with about 35,116 students graduating in 2025 - nearly 1,000 more than the previous year. Students with disabilities saw a 1.6 percentage point increase, students with low-income backgrounds saw a 1.0 percentage point rate increase, and students experiencing homelessness saw a 4.9 percentage point rate increase.

  • The graduation rate for the class of 2025 was 88.8%.
  • The graduation rate for the class of 2024 was 88.3%.
  • In 2019, the pre-pandemic graduation rate was 88.3%.

The players

McKenzie Snow

Iowa Department of Education Director.

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What they’re saying

“In our class of 2025, nearly 1,000 more Iowans earned their high school diploma–a powerful accomplishment positioning them to learn more and earn more.”

— McKenzie Snow, Iowa Department of Education Director

“Through the hard work of our students, families and educators, Iowa significantly narrowed graduation rate gaps experienced by students with disabilities, low-income backgrounds, and experiencing homelessness. These gains reflect Iowa's collective focus on accountability for learner outcomes and our unwavering commitment to empowering all students to meet high expectations.”

— McKenzie Snow, Iowa Department of Education Director

The takeaway

The improvements in Iowa's high school graduation rates, particularly among traditionally underserved student groups, demonstrate the state's commitment to educational equity and providing all students with the support they need to succeed. These gains position more Iowans for future academic and career opportunities.