The Core Curriculum Act establishes new general education requirements for undergraduate students at institutions governed by the state board of regents in Iowa. The Act mandates that each institution must implement a set of specific credit hour requirements, including six hours of English, three hours of mathematics and statistics, four hours of natural sciences, six hours of social sciences, six hours of humanities, three hours of western heritage, and three hours of American heritage, totaling no more than thirty-seven semester credit hours. Additionally, the Act stipulates that institutions must provide equivalent credit for transfer students and that any established centers for intellectual freedom or civic education must review and approve relevant courses.

Furthermore, the Act includes provisions to ensure that the courses meeting these general education requirements do not distort historical events or promote identity politics, while still preserving academic freedom for instructors. Exceptions to the general education requirements are allowed for certain degree programs, particularly those lasting three years or less, or if the board determines that a program requires a greater focus on major-related courses. The Act also empowers individuals to report potential violations to the attorney general, who can take action to enforce compliance. The new requirements will apply to students enrolling in regents institutions starting from the academic year beginning July 1, 2027.