Ames has a strong tradition of quality public education. National and state achievement test scores show Ames students perform at a high level of proficiency, often far above national and state averages. Ames typically produces the greatest number of National Merit Scholars in Iowa, and local school districts attract and retain top-quality staff.

The Ames community is served by four school districts:

Ames Community School District

Gilbert Community School District

Nevada Community School District

United Community School District