300 College Overview
Research dataset for College Admissions Simulator · Class of 2029 data · Compiled 2026-03
300
Total Colleges
30
In Simulation
270
Research-Only
14
Categories
47.9%
Avg Accept Rate
🏛️ Elite Private (33)🔬 STEM-Focused Elite (9)🏫 Public Elite (11)🎓 Flagship Public (20)🏟️ Large Public (42)📚 Regional Public (14)⭐ Selective Private (15)✝️ Jesuit & Catholic (35)📖 Top Liberal Arts (29)🌿 Selective Liberal Arts (16)🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts (39)✊ HBCUs (14)🎖️ Military Academies (7)🎨 Art & Design (7)📋 Other (9)
🏛️ Elite Private
| # | Rating | College | Overall Admit | Early Admit | SAT Mid 50% | ACT Mid 50% | Avg GPA | Class Size | Yield | Testing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stanford UniversitySIM Stanford, CA |
3.6% | 7.2% REA | 1500–1570 | 34–36 | 3.96 | 1,700 | 80% | Test_Optional | Does not officially publish EA vs RD breakdowns. Extremely low acceptance rate across all rounds. | |
| 3 | University of ChicagoSIM Chicago, IL |
4.5% | 17.9% EA_and_ED | 1510–1560 | 34–36 | 3.95 | 1,800 | 86% | Test_Optional | Does not officially publish ED/EA rates. Has both EA and ED/EDII options. Known for quirky essay prompts. Intellectual rigor culture. | |
| 4 | Harvard UniversitySIM Cambridge, MA |
3.6% | 9.1% REA | 1480–1580 | 34–36 | 3.95 | 1,650 | 84% | Required | Most selective Ivy. Legacy and ALDC (athletes, legacies, dean's list, children of staff) comprise ~43% of white admits. | |
| 5 | Princeton UniversitySIM Princeton, NJ |
4.5% | 10.5% SCEA | 1500–1570 | 34–36 | 3.95 | 1,500 | 75% | Required | No longer publishes early action acceptance rates separately. | |
| 6 | Yale UniversitySIM New Haven, CT |
3.7% | 9.3% SCEA | 1470–1580 | 34–36 | 3.95 | 1,550 | 70% | Test_Flexible | Test-flexible policy allows AP/IB in lieu of SAT/ACT. | |
| 7 | University of PennsylvaniaSIM Philadelphia, PA |
4.9% | 14.0% ED | 1490–1570 | 34–36 | 3.93 | 2,400 | 68% | Required_Starting_2030 | Will require standardized tests starting Class of 2030. Wharton business school is most competitive division. | |
| 8 | Columbia UniversitySIM New York, NY |
3.9% | 16.7% ED | 1480–1570 | 34–36 | 3.93 | 1,600 | 65% | Test_Optional | No longer publishes specific ED acceptance rates. Located in NYC, strong pre-professional culture. | |
| 9 | Brown UniversitySIM Providence, RI |
4.5% | 14.6% ED | 1480–1570 | 34–35 | 3.93 | 1,700 | 67% | Required | Open curriculum. Recruited athletes account for ~1/3 of ED acceptances. Known for flexible academics. | |
| 10 | Cornell UniversitySIM Ithaca, NY |
7.9% | 16.5% ED | 1470–1560 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 3,500 | 68% | Required | Largest Ivy. Has both private and state-funded (contract) colleges. Acceptance rate varies by college from ~4% to ~18%. | |
| 12 | Georgetown UniversitySIM Washington, DC |
12.0% | 12.9% EA | 1400–1540 | 32–35 | 3.90 | 1,600 | 79% | Required | Requires SAT/ACT. EA rate actually LOWER than RD rate (unusual). Catholic Jesuit university. Strong for policy/government. | |
| 13 | Vanderbilt UniversitySIM Nashville, TN |
4.7% | 18.8% ED | 1510–1560 | 34–36 | 3.89 | 1,650 | 61% | Test_Optional | Record-low 4.7% overall rate for Class of 2029. RD rate only 3.3%. ED I + ED II offered. | |
| 14 | Dartmouth CollegeSIM Hanover, NH |
5.5% | 18.9% ED | 1470–1560 | 33–35 | 3.91 | 1,150 | 64% | Required | Smallest Ivy. Strong Greek life and outdoors culture. ED acceptance rate 3x+ overall rate. | |
| 15 | University of Notre DameSIM Notre Dame, IN |
9.0% | 13.5% REA | 1470–1540 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 2,100 | 62% | Test_Optional | Catholic university. Strong legacy preference. Athletic tradition. REA program with 12.9% rate. | |
| 16 | Duke UniversitySIM Durham, NC |
5.0% | 21.1% ED | 1500–1570 | 34–35 | 3.94 | 1,750 | 53% | Test_Optional | ED fills ~50% of class. Strong athletics recruitment. Southern elite culture. | |
| 17 | Northwestern UniversitySIM Evanston, IL |
7.0% | 29.2% ED | 1440–1550 | 33–35 | 3.92 | 2,100 | 57% | Test_Optional | ED acceptance rate is ~3x overall rate. Strong for journalism (Medill) and performing arts. | |
| 18 | New York University New York, NY |
7.7% | 16.0% ED | 1480–1550 | 34–35 | 3.81 | 6,500 | 60% | Optional | Largest private university in the US. Offers ED I and ED II (no EA). Over 50% of class admitted via early decision. Record 120K+ applicants. Global campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai. Three schools (CAS, Stern, Nursin… | |
| 23 | Rice UniversitySIM Houston, TX |
6.8% | 13.2% ED | 1510–1560 | 34–36 | 3.96 | 1,050 | 44% | Test_Optional | ED I rate 13.2%, ED II rate 6.0%. Residential college system. Smaller campus feel. | |
| 28 | Carnegie Mellon UniversitySIM Pittsburgh, PA |
11.7% | 22.0% ED | 1510–1560 | 34–36 | 3.91 | 1,700 | 47% | Test_Optional | Top for CS/Engineering/Fine Arts. Acceptance rate varies dramatically by school (SCS ~3%, CFA ~8%, etc.). | |
| 29 | Northeastern University Boston, MA |
5.6% | 43.0% ED | 1450–1520 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 2,760 | 47% | Optional | Co-op program leader; 105K apps make it one of the most applied-to universities in the US. ED acceptance rate (~43%) vastly exceeds RD (~3.8%). Only ~24% of enrollees submitted SAT scores. | |
| 30 | Johns Hopkins UniversitySIM Baltimore, MD |
6.4% | 10.5% ED | 1530–1560 | 34–36 | 3.94 | 1,350 | 36% | Test_Optional | Offers ED I and ED II. Combined ED acceptance rate ~10.5%. Top pre-med reputation. | |
| 35 | Tufts UniversitySIM Medford, MA |
10.5% | 30.0% ED | 1480–1550 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 1,400 | 37% | Test_Optional | ED I and ED II offered. Known for 'demonstrated interest' factor. International relations strength. | |
| 38 | University of Southern California Los Angeles, CA |
11.2% | 8.4% EA | 1450–1550 | 33–35 | 3.80 | 3,759 | 40% | Optional | 83K applicants; EA non-binding with 8.4% admit rate (42,119 EA applicants, 3,524 EA admits). Pilot ED for Marshall School of Business starting Fall 2026. 21% first-generation. 44% of enrolled submitted test scores. | |
| 39 | Washington University in St. LouisSIM St. Louis, MO |
12.1% | 30.0% ED | 1500–1570 | 33–35 | 3.92 | 1,850 | 35% | Test_Optional | ED I and ED II offered. Strong pre-med and research. Generous financial aid. | |
| 50 | Emory UniversitySIM Atlanta, GA |
10.3% | 20.0% ED | 1480–1540 | 33–35 | 3.88 | 1,400 | 25% | Test_Optional | ED I and ED II offered. Strong pre-med. Two campuses (Emory College and Oxford College). | |
| 51 | Boston University Boston, MA |
12.8% | 29.5% ED | 1430–1510 | 32–34 | 3.87 | 3,450 | 35% | Optional | Offers ED I and ED II (no EA). 59% of enrolled class came via ED. Meets 100% demonstrated need without loans for domestic first-years. | |
| 52 | Boston CollegeSIM Chestnut Hill, MA |
13.9% | 30.0% EA | 1460–1520 | 33–35 | 3.87 | 2,350 | 30% | Test_Optional | Catholic Jesuit university. EA rate ~30% vs 10% RD. Strong for business and pre-law. | |
| 54 | Tulane University New Orleans, LA |
14.7% | 59.4% ED | 1430–1500 | 32–34 | 3.67 | 1,850 | 39% | Optional | Massive ED advantage (59% ED vs 14.7% overall). Offers ED I, ED II, and EA. Strong post-Katrina growth. AAC member. | |
| 60 | Wake Forest University Winston-Salem, NC |
20.8% | 34.0% ED | 1410–1520 | 32–34 | 3.90 | 1,545 | 38% | Optional | Test-optional pioneer since 2008. ACC member. Does not publish recent ED acceptance rates; 34% ED rate is historical (Class of 2024). Class of 2029 is largest ever. | |
| 79 | Lehigh University Bethlehem, PA |
29.0% | 47.4% ED | 1350–1490 | 32–35 | 3.90 | 1,500 | 28% | Optional | Strong engineering and business programs. Patriot League member (NCAA Division I). ED fills ~57% of class. Offers ED I and ED II. | |
| 97 | Case Western Reserve University Cleveland, OH |
35.3% | 37.0% ED | 1450–1530 | 32–34 | 3.78 | 1,650 | 12% | Optional | Offers ED I, EA, ED II, and RD. Strong STEM and pre-med (affiliated with Cleveland Clinic). D3 athletics (UAA). Very low yield (11%) suggests heavy safety-school usage. 16% international. | |
| 103 | University of Rochester Rochester, NY |
40.0% | 38.0% ED | 1420–1540 | 32–35 | 3.86 | 1,179 | 15% | Optional | Offers ED I, ED II, and RD (no EA). Unique 'Take Five' scholars program for tuition-free 5th year. Open curriculum (no core requirements). D3 athletics (UAA). ~24% international. About 42% of class enters via ED. | |
| 118 | Brandeis University Waltham, MA |
45.0% | 42.0% ED | 1380–1480 | 31–34 | 3.87 | 761 | 17% | Optional | Research-intensive university near Boston. Strong in social sciences, sciences, and humanities. NCAA Division III (no athletic scholarships). Offers ED I and ED II. | |
| 137 | Southern Methodist University Dallas, TX |
47.6% | 74.0% ED | 1340–1480 | 31–34 | 3.68 | 1,715 | 15% | Optional | Applications surged 56% after joining ACC. ED acceptance rate (74%) far exceeds overall (47.6%). Strong business (Cox) and engineering programs. 42% from Texas. |
🔬 STEM-Focused Elite
| # | Rating | College | Overall Admit | Early Admit | SAT Mid 50% | ACT Mid 50% | Avg GPA | Class Size | Yield | Testing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | Massachusetts Institute of TechnologySIM Cambridge, MA |
3.9% | 5.5% EA | 1510–1580 | 35–36 | 3.96 | 1,100 | 87% | Required | No legacy preference. Need-blind for all applicants including internationals. Strongest STEM hook. | |
| 19 | California Institute of TechnologySIM Pasadena, CA |
2.6% | 6.0% EA | 1530–1570 | 35–36 | 3.97 | 235 | 43% | Test_Free | Smallest elite university. Test-free policy. Most STEM-focused school. No legacy preference. | |
| 37 | Cooper Union New York, NY |
13.0% | — ED | 1400–1520 | 33–35 | 3.85 | 196 | 52% | Optional | Historically tuition-free institution in NYC focused on engineering, art, and architecture. All admitted students receive half-tuition scholarships minimum. Acceptance rates vary by school: 4% architecture, 9% art, 23… | |
| 49 | Olin College of Engineering Needham, MA |
22.0% | — | 1490–1560 | 34–36 | 3.95 | 85 | 48% | Optional | Extremely small (350 total students) engineering-only college. Unique two-stage admissions with Candidates' Weekend interview. Every admitted student receives a half-tuition scholarship. No NCAA athletics. Cross-regis… | |
| 119 | Stevens Institute of Technology Hoboken, NJ |
48.0% | 72.0% ED | 1380–1505 | 31–34 | 3.86 | 1,054 | 21% | Optional | Overlooking NYC skyline from Hoboken. Strong co-op and career placement (97% outcomes rate within 6 months). ED acceptance rate significantly higher at 72%. Starting Fall 2026: full tuition for families earning under … | |
| 147 | Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Troy, NY |
58.0% | 70.0% ED | 1375–1510 | 30–34 | 3.80 | 1,580 | 16% | Test_Optional | Historic STEM school (founded 1824). Low yield rate (~16%) despite strong academics. Offers ED I (Nov 1) and ED II (Dec 15). Rensselaer Medal merit scholarship program. | |
| 151 | Colorado School of Mines Golden, CO |
60.0% | — EA | 1330–1460 | 29–33 | 3.80 | 1,500 | 25% | Required | Public STEM university focused on engineering, earth sciences, and energy. Top 3 public university for 40-year ROI. NCAA D-II with 18 varsity sports. Non-binding EA with Nov 1 deadline, decisions by Dec 15. | |
| 156 | Worcester Polytechnic Institute Worcester, MA |
60.0% | 65.0% ED | 1300–1460 | 30–34 | 3.90 | 1,250 | 18% | Optional | Pioneer of test-optional policy (since 2007). Project-based STEM curriculum with 7-week terms. Offers both ED and EA. NCAA D-III with 20 varsity teams. Strong engineering and CS programs. | |
| 169 | Rochester Institute of Technology Rochester, NY |
67.0% | 78.0% ED | 1300–1460 | 29–34 | 3.70 | 3,042 | 21% | Optional | Large tech university with co-op program. Home to National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID). NCAA D-I hockey, D-III for 22 other sports. ED I (Nov 1) and ED II (Jan 1). About 25% of class enters via ED. |
🏫 Public Elite
| # | Rating | College | Overall Admit | Early Admit | SAT Mid 50% | ACT Mid 50% | Avg GPA | Class Size | Yield | Testing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40 | Georgia Institute of Technology Atlanta, GA |
12.7% | 11.0% EA | 1400–1550 | 31–35 | 3.90 | 4,000 | 46% | Required | Top public STEM university. EA split into EA1 (in-state, ~30% admit) and EA2 (out-of-state, ~9% admit). Strong engineering and CS programs. 12% first-gen students. | |
| 43 | University of California, Berkeley Berkeley, CA |
11.4% | — | 1310–1530 | 30–35 | 3.89 | 6,724 | 46% | Free | Top public university; UC system was test-blind but reinstating SAT/ACT for 2025-26. No early rounds — all UC apps due Nov 30. 127K applicants make it one of the most applied-to schools in the US. | |
| 47 | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Chapel Hill, NC |
15.3% | 20.0% EA | 1400–1520 | 29–34 | 3.90 | 5,094 | 45% | Optional | Carolina Covenant covers full need debt-free for low-income students. Mandated 82% in-state enrollment cap makes OOS admission (~8%) extremely competitive. Largest first-year class ever in fall 2025. | |
| 57 | University of Florida Gainesville, FL |
19.8% | — EA | 1380–1510 | 31–34 | 3.92 | 7,500 | 43% | Required | Consistently ranked top-5 US public university; introduced EA in 2024-25 cycle (10,510 EA admits, 7,659 RD admits); SEC powerhouse with 21 varsity sports. First-generation admits: 2,501. | |
| 61 | University of VirginiaSIM Charlottesville, VA |
16.9% | 24.0% EA | 1410–1520 | 33–35 | 3.88 | 3,900 | 26% | Test_Optional | Public flagship. In-state advantage (~23% vs ~12.5% OOS). Strong liberal arts within a public university. | |
| 66 | University of California, Los AngelesSIM Los Angeles, CA |
8.6% | — | 1290–1510 | 30–34 | 3.90 | 6,600 | 18% | Test_Blind | Test-blind - does not consider SAT/ACT at all. UC system application. Most applied-to university in the US. No early round. | |
| 69 | University of Texas at Austin Austin, TX |
22.2% | — ea | 1270–1470 | 27–33 | 3.83 | 9,900 | 47% | Required | Record 90,690 applications for Fall 2025 (up 24.4% YoY, 51% since 2022). Texas Top 6% auto-admit (top 5% for 2026 entry). SEC member. EA deadline Oct 15 but non-binding and no advantage in review. 80.5% in-state. | |
| 70 | University of MichiganSIM Ann Arbor, MI |
15.6% | 30.0% EA | 1350–1530 | 32–35 | 3.90 | 7,200 | 20% | Test_Optional | Huge in-state advantage (39% vs 16% OOS). EA round is de facto binding for competitive applicants. Rolling admissions after EA. | |
| 87 | College of William & Mary Williamsburg, VA |
37.0% | 49.7% ED | 1390–1520 | 32–34 | 3.90 | 1,642 | 27% | Optional | Second-oldest US college (1693). Covers full tuition/fees for in-state Pell recipients. Strong liberal arts identity within a public university framework. | |
| 90 | University of California San Diego La Jolla, CA |
28.4% | — | 1280–1460 | 26–33 | 3.90 | 7,341 | 20% | Blind | Top-ranked public university and UC system flagship for STEM. Test-blind admissions (entire UC system). 136K+ freshman applicants. Recently transitioned to NCAA Division I. Strong in biological sciences, engineering, … | |
| 121 | University of California Santa Barbara Santa Barbara, CA |
38.3% | — | 1230–1440 | 26–33 | 3.87 | 5,008 | 14% | Blind | Top-ranked public university and Hispanic-Serving Institution. Test-blind admissions (entire UC system). 110K+ freshman applicants. Strong in physics, materials science, and engineering. Beachside campus in Santa Barb… |
🎓 Flagship Public
| # | Rating | College | Overall Admit | Early Admit | SAT Mid 50% | ACT Mid 50% | Avg GPA | Class Size | Yield | Testing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 83 | University of Georgia Athens, GA |
34.0% | 31.0% EA | 1300–1470 | 30–34 | 3.85 | 6,200 | 38% | Required | Georgia flagship; top-20 public university; strong honors program (CURO); 80% in-state enrollment target. EA: 30,490 applicants, ~9,500 admitted (42% in-state, 23% out-of-state). | |
| 86 | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Champaign, IL |
36.6% | — EA | 1420–1540 | 31–35 | 3.70 | 9,207 | 27% | Optional | Top-5 CS program (~7% admit rate) is dramatically more selective than the university overall. Strong engineering across the board. Illinois Commitment covers tuition for qualifying in-state families. Record 60,848 tot… | |
| 98 | University of Wisconsin-Madison Madison, WI |
41.0% | — EA | 1370–1490 | 29–33 | 3.90 | 8,465 | 28% | Optional | Record 65,913 applications for Fall 2025 (up 43% from prior year). EA non-binding (Nov 1 deadline, decisions by end of January). Top 5% Wisconsin students guaranteed admission starting 2025-26. Big Ten powerhouse with… | |
| 100 | University of California, Irvine Irvine, CA |
28.9% | — | 1230–1430 | 26–33 | 3.84 | 6,736 | 19% | Blind | UC system test-blind admissions. 124K freshman applications (3rd most in UC system). Strong CS and engineering. Big West / NCAA Division I with 18 varsity sports. Unweighted GPA median 3.95 for admits. | |
| 102 | University of Washington Seattle, WA |
39.0% | — | 1330–1500 | 28–33 | 3.83 | 7,120 | 27% | Optional | 69K applicants; single deadline Nov 15 (no early rounds). Returning to test-required for 2025-26 cycle. Direct-to-major system for CS and engineering is highly competitive. Strong CS, engineering, and health sciences.… | |
| 104 | University of Maryland, College Park College Park, MD |
44.8% | 39.0% EA | 1390–1530 | 32–35 | 3.90 | 5,800 | 22% | Optional | Top public university near Washington DC with strong CS, engineering, and business programs. Big Ten member since 2014. 70% of incoming class are Maryland residents. Proximity to federal agencies and labs drives stron… | |
| 111 | North Carolina State University Raleigh, NC |
42.0% | 48.0% EA | 1300–1460 | 28–32 | 3.83 | 5,412 | 29% | Optional | Top-5 undergraduate engineering among publics. ACC member. Centennial Campus is a major research park. Largest freshman class in NC. Strong CS and textiles programs. | |
| 114 | Purdue University West Lafayette, IN |
43.4% | 54.0% EA | 1220–1480 | 28–34 | 3.81 | 9,580 | 29% | Required | Top-10 engineering school. Frozen tuition since 2012-13. Engineering admits at 35% vs 43% overall. Strong CS, aerospace, and Krannert business. | |
| 140 | Stony Brook University Stony Brook, NY |
49.0% | 70.5% EA | 1330–1470 | 28–33 | 3.60 | 4,040 | 15% | Optional | SUNY flagship for STEM and healthcare with AAU membership. Majority-minority campus (36% Asian, highest among NY publics). Strong CS, biology, and pre-med. Home to Brookhaven National Lab partnership. 18 Division I va… | |
| 142 | University of California, Davis Davis, CA |
44.6% | — | 1160–1400 | 25–32 | 3.82 | 6,767 | 16% | Blind | UC system test-blind admissions. HSI-eligible (25% Hispanic). Record 41,239 total enrollment fall 2024. Strong STEM and agriculture programs. Big West / NCAA Division I with 25 varsity sports. | |
| 144 | The Ohio State University Columbus, OH |
53.0% | 60.4% EA | 1280–1430 | 26–32 | 3.76 | 8,210 | 22% | Optional | Largest campus in the Big Ten with 36 varsity sports. Top public research university with strong engineering, business, and medical programs. First incoming class required to take AI courses. 68% from Ohio. | |
| 145 | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Blacksburg, VA |
54.6% | 64.0% EA | 1280–1450 | 28–32 | 3.80 | 7,088 | 23% | Optional | Top-20 public university. #6 undergraduate engineering (no PhD). ACC member. Strong Corps of Cadets tradition. 13% first-generation students in Class of 2029. | |
| 146 | Texas A&M University College Station, TX |
57.3% | — | 1160–1390 | 25–31 | 3.78 | 12,498 | 40% | Optional | Texas Top 6% automatic admission rule applies. SEC member. Rolling admissions with Dec 1 priority deadline. Engineering EA deadline Oct 15. Largest freshman class among Texas publics. | |
| 149 | University of Massachusetts Amherst Amherst, MA |
57.0% | 61.0% EA | 1330–1480 | 30–33 | 3.80 | 5,388 | 18% | Optional | Rising flagship known as 'ZooMass' for spirited campus life. Strong computer science, engineering, and linguistics programs. Most diverse class in university history for Class of 2029. Member of Five College Consortiu… | |
| 150 | Rutgers University-New Brunswick New Brunswick, NJ |
58.0% | — EA | 1270–1480 | 28–33 | 3.80 | 7,100 | 21% | Optional | New Jersey's flagship public university and Big Ten member since 2024. Strong programs in pharmacy, engineering, and business. Increasingly selective with declining acceptance rates. 58% BIPOC enrollment reflects New … | |
| 155 | University of Connecticut Storrs, CT |
52.0% | 60.0% EA | 1220–1420 | 28–33 | 3.79 | 4,800 | 15% | Optional | Big East powerhouse with record 62K+ applications for Class of 2029. Launched ED program in 2024. Back-to-back NCAA men's basketball championships (2023-24). Strong engineering, business, and health sciences. 21 varsi… | |
| 174 | Pennsylvania State University (University Park) University Park, PA |
61.0% | — Rolling | 1250–1410 | 27–32 | 3.60 | 9,148 | 17% | Optional | Rolling admissions with priority deadline. Major Big Ten research university with 31 varsity sports and strong engineering, business, and meteorology programs. Record 145K+ system-wide applications. Third-largest inco… | |
| 187 | University of Minnesota Twin Cities Minneapolis, MN |
77.0% | — EA | 1320–1470 | 27–32 | 3.72 | 7,300 | 22% | Optional | Top-ranked public research university and Big Ten member. Strong programs in engineering, business (Carlson), and health sciences. Urban campus in Minneapolis with proximity to major corporate headquarters. Only 40% o… | |
| 223 | Indiana University Bloomington Bloomington, IN |
78.0% | — EA | 1180–1390 | 27–32 | 3.60 | 9,600 | 22% | Optional | Flagship Big Ten university with top-ranked Kelley School of Business, Jacobs School of Music, and School of Public Health. Record enrollment of 48,424 in fall 2024. 45% of admitted students applied test-optional. Str… | |
| 263 | University of Iowa Iowa City, IA |
84.0% | — EA | 1130–1320 | 22–28 | 3.55 | 5,561 | 23% | Optional | Top public university known for the Iowa Writers' Workshop, strong healthcare and nursing programs, and the Tippie College of Business. 'No harm' testing policy uses scores only if they help. 52% of first-year student… |
🏟️ Large Public
| # | Rating | College | Overall Admit | Early Admit | SAT Mid 50% | ACT Mid 50% | Avg GPA | Class Size | Yield | Testing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 80 | Florida State University Tallahassee, Florida |
0.2% | — | 1290–1400 | 29–32 | 3.85 | 6,800 | 0% | Required | Top public university in Florida; strong business, film, and music programs; major ACC athletics | |
| 84 | Clemson University Clemson, South Carolina |
0.4% | 0.3% EA | 1240–1410 | 28–32 | 3.80 | 4,880 | 0% | Optional | ACC member; top-ranked public university in South Carolina; nationally renowned engineering and architecture programs | |
| 107 | Mississippi State University Starkville, Mississippi |
0.8% | — | 1100–1340 | 21–29 | 3.60 | 3,750 | 0% | Optional | SEC member; strong engineering and agriculture programs; highest research expenditure in Mississippi | |
| 108 | University of Tennessee Knoxville, TN |
34.0% | — EA | 1210–1360 | 25–31 | 3.80 | 6,804 | 27% | Optional | Record-low acceptance rate in 2024. All 20 varsity sports reached postseason in 2024-25. Strong engineering, business, and supply chain programs. 65% in-state admission rate vs 27% out-of-state. | |
| 113 | Binghamton University Vestal, NY |
39.0% | — EA | 1340–1490 | 29–34 | 3.70 | 3,248 | 16% | Optional | Most selective SUNY campus (~39% acceptance rate). Known as a 'Public Ivy' with strong accounting, CS, and pre-med programs. EA deadline November 1 with January 15 decisions. 21 Division I varsity sports in America Ea… | |
| 117 | University of Central Florida Orlando, FL |
44.7% | — EA | 1270–1400 | 25–29 | 3.72 | 8,259 | 34% | Optional | Largest university in Florida by enrollment (70,000+). Big 12 member since 2023. Strong engineering, computer science, and hospitality programs. Known for space research partnerships with nearby Kennedy Space Center. | |
| 120 | University of Arkansas Fayetteville, Arkansas |
0.7% | — | 1030–1220 | 22–28 | 3.62 | 6,614 | 0% | Optional | SEC powerhouse; strong engineering and business programs; nationally ranked track & field | |
| 123 | University of South Florida Tampa, FL |
41.0% | — | 1230–1370 | 24–29 | 3.72 | 6,900 | 23% | Required | Florida's largest metropolitan research university; AAU member since 2023; strong engineering and health sciences. 20 varsity sports competing in the American Athletic Conference. | |
| 129 | West Virginia University Morgantown, West Virginia |
0.9% | — | 1010–1220 | 20–26 | 3.42 | 4,400 | 0% | Optional | Big 12 member; flagship university of West Virginia; strong forensics, engineering, and energy programs | |
| 130 | University of Mississippi Oxford, Mississippi |
1.0% | — | 1000–1200 | 21–29 | 3.55 | 5,973 | 0% | Optional | SEC member; strong accountancy and pharmacy programs; historic campus in Oxford literary tradition | |
| 136 | Auburn University Auburn, AL |
45.0% | — EA | 1240–1380 | 25–31 | 3.75 | 6,103 | 24% | Optional | Strong engineering and veterinary programs. War Eagle tradition and competitive SEC athletics. 21 varsity teams. 60% out-of-state enrollment growing. | |
| 167 | University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh, PA |
59.0% | — | 1270–1450 | 29–33 | 3.72 | 4,596 | 12% | Optional | Rolling admissions with no EA/ED. Major AAU research university and ACC member. Strong programs in health sciences, engineering, and philosophy. Consistently ranks among top public universities. Record 64K+ applicants… | |
| 168 | University of South Carolina Columbia, SC |
61.0% | — EA | 1200–1380 | 26–32 | 3.69 | 7,290 | 26% | Optional | Record 52,708 applicants in 2024. Top-ranked international business program (Darla Moore School). Strong Honors College. Nationally ranked women's basketball and baseball programs. | |
| 183 | Florida Atlantic University Boca Raton, FL |
51.0% | — | 1040–1210 | 20–26 | 3.60 | 4,200 | 20% | Required | Record 47K+ applicants for Fall 2024; gained national visibility from 2023 Final Four basketball run. NCAA Division I in the American Athletic Conference; 18 varsity sports. | |
| 189 | Florida International University Miami, FL |
55.0% | — | 1060–1250 | 20–26 | 3.60 | 3,510 | 20% | Required | Largest Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) in the continental US; 64% Hispanic enrollment. Strong international business and hospitality programs. NCAA Division I in Conference USA. | |
| 195 | Georgia State University Atlanta, GA |
55.0% | — | 1040–1280 | 19–26 | 3.20 | 4,200 | 23% | Optional | Urban research university in downtown Atlanta; one of the most diverse campuses in the US with 39% Black enrollment. National leader in eliminating equity gaps in graduation rates. NCAA Division I (FBS) in the Sun Bel… | |
| 201 | University of Delaware Newark, DE |
70.0% | — EA | 1200–1360 | 26–31 | 3.60 | 4,190 | 19% | Optional | Mid-Atlantic flagship moving to Conference USA for FBS football. Strong chemical engineering, business, and physical therapy programs. Biden's alma mater. Draws 60%+ from out of state. 21 Division I varsity sports wit… | |
| 204 | University of California, Santa Cruz Santa Cruz, CA |
65.6% | — | 1160–1360 | 24–31 | 3.63 | 4,370 | 9% | Free | UC campus known for research in astrophysics, marine biology, and computer science. Banana Slugs mascot. Redwood-forested campus overlooking Monterey Bay. UC system test-blind through 2025-26. | |
| 209 | University of Houston Houston, TX |
73.9% | — | 1160–1340 | 23–29 | 3.58 | 6,218 | 27% | Optional | Big 12 member since 2023. One of the most ethnically diverse major research universities in the U.S. — designated Hispanic-Serving Institution. Strong engineering (Cullen) and business (Bauer) programs. 45% Pell Grant… | |
| 210 | University at Buffalo Buffalo, NY |
74.0% | — EA | 1210–1380 | 27–32 | 3.70 | 4,146 | 16% | Optional | Largest and most comprehensive SUNY campus with AAU membership. Strong engineering, pharmacy, dental, and management programs. 16 Division I varsity sports in MAC conference. Large international student population (~2… | |
| 211 | University of Oklahoma Norman, OK |
76.6% | — EA | 1140–1330 | 23–29 | 3.62 | 5,593 | 30% | Optional | Largest freshman class in school history (5,593). Recently joined SEC from Big 12. Strong petroleum engineering, meteorology, and dance programs. 49.7% out-of-state freshmen. 537 student-athletes earned record 3.27 cu… | |
| 217 | Kennesaw State University Kennesaw, GA |
69.0% | — | 1030–1220 | 19–25 | 3.30 | 9,117 | 38% | Optional | Third-largest university in Georgia with ~48K students; rapidly growing suburban campus northwest of Atlanta. Transitioned to NCAA Division I FBS in Conference USA in 2024. 18 varsity sports. | |
| 219 | Louisiana State University Baton Rouge, LA |
74.0% | — EA | 1150–1330 | 24–30 | 3.65 | 7,925 | 23% | Optional | Flagship Louisiana university with 42,000+ enrollment. Strong petroleum engineering, agriculture, and business programs. Death Valley is one of college football's most iconic stadiums. | |
| 221 | University of Nebraska-Lincoln Lincoln, NE |
77.0% | — Rolling | 1090–1330 | 22–28 | 3.54 | 4,734 | 33% | Optional | Big Ten member since 2011 with storied football tradition. Strong programs in agricultural sciences, engineering, and business. Rolling admissions with priority deadline. 85% of undergrads receive grants or scholarshi… | |
| 222 | Oregon State University Corvallis, OR |
77.3% | — | 1160–1390 | 24–31 | 3.70 | 4,778 | 20% | Optional | Land-grant R1 research university. Top programs in forestry, oceanography, nuclear engineering, and ecology. One of only two US universities operating a nuclear reactor for education. Near-equal gender split. | |
| 224 | University of Missouri Columbia, MO |
78.0% | — EA | 1150–1330 | 23–30 | 3.60 | 5,983 | 31% | Optional | First public university west of the Mississippi. Home to the oldest journalism school in the US. Freshman enrollment surged 16% in 2024. Strong journalism, agriculture, and health sciences programs. | |
| 227 | University of Alabama Tuscaloosa, AL |
76.0% | — EA | 1110–1360 | 23–32 | 3.86 | 7,970 | 18% | Optional | Home to a record 362 National Merit Scholars in Class of 2028. Top SEC football program. Strong business, engineering, and nursing programs. 55% out-of-state enrollment. | |
| 237 | Oklahoma State University Stillwater, OK |
75.0% | — | 1030–1240 | 20–27 | 3.55 | 5,030 | 34% | Optional | Big 12 athletics power with dominant wrestling program (34 NCAA titles). Strong agriculture, veterinary medicine, and engineering programs. 94% of beginning undergrads receive grant/scholarship aid. 10.4% multiracial … | |
| 238 | University of Colorado Boulder Boulder, CO |
76.0% | — EA | 1190–1400 | 27–33 | 3.50 | 7,432 | 14% | Optional | Flagship Colorado public university. Big 12 member since 2024 (formerly Pac-12). Strong aerospace engineering, physics, and environmental science programs. Located in one of the most desirable college towns in the U.S… | |
| 245 | Kansas State University Manhattan, KS |
81.9% | — | 1060–1255 | 20–27 | 3.78 | 3,493 | 30% | Optional | Enrollment growing after decade of decline, largest freshman class since 2018. Strong agriculture, veterinary medicine, and architecture programs. Freshmen from 43 states. Big 12 athletics with competitive football un… | |
| 246 | University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT |
86.1% | — EA | 1200–1370 | 22–29 | 3.40 | 5,546 | 28% | Optional | Big 12 member since 2024 (formerly Pac-12). Carnegie R1 research university. Strong engineering, computer science, and health sciences programs. Rapidly growing enrollment — 24% surge in first-year students in 2023. L… | |
| 252 | University of California, Riverside Riverside, CA |
76.4% | — | 1080–1280 | 24–30 | 3.84 | 5,422 | 12% | Free | Most diverse UC campus with 85% students of color. Hispanic-Serving Institution. Strong in entomology, plant sciences, and engineering. #1 in social mobility among R1 universities. | |
| 256 | Iowa State University Ames, IA |
88.7% | — | 1120–1360 | 22–28 | 3.75 | 5,906 | 29% | Optional | Leading STEM university with 60.6% of students in STEM majors. Strong engineering and agriculture programs. 9.5% international enrollment. Big 12 athletics with competitive basketball and wrestling programs. | |
| 257 | Arizona State University Tempe, AZ |
90.0% | — | 1130–1360 | 22–29 | 3.54 | 17,900 | 34% | Optional | Largest public university by enrollment in the US. #1 in innovation by US News for 9 consecutive years. Strong engineering, business, and sustainability programs. Hispanic-Serving Institution. | |
| 261 | Temple University Philadelphia, PA |
81.0% | 92.0% EA | 1150–1370 | 25–31 | 3.46 | 4,700 | 14% | Optional | Offers EA (non-restrictive). Urban research university in North Philadelphia with strong ties to the city. Record 45K+ applicants for Class of 2029. 62% students of color in Class of 2028. 26% first-generation. NCAA D… | |
| 264 | University of Arizona Tucson, AZ |
86.1% | — | 1160–1420 | 21–28 | 3.47 | 9,240 | 18% | Optional | R1 research university and land-grant institution. Top programs in astronomy, optics, and planetary sciences. Steward Observatory operates telescopes worldwide. 55% women enrollment. | |
| 265 | University of Hawaii at Manoa Honolulu, HI |
86.6% | — | 1130–1350 | 21–29 | 3.69 | 3,123 | 21% | Optional | Flagship university of Hawaii. R1 research institution with strengths in marine biology, astronomy, and Pacific/Asian studies. One of the most ethnically diverse campuses in the US with Asian-majority enrollment. 58% … | |
| 274 | Michigan State University East Lansing, MI |
84.0% | — Rolling | 1100–1310 | 24–30 | 3.55 | 9,700 | 18% | Optional | Major Big Ten research university with top-ranked programs in supply chain, hospitality, education, and nuclear physics. Rolling admissions with priority deadline. One of the nation's largest residence hall systems. S… | |
| 276 | University of Oregon Eugene, OR |
88.3% | — | 1130–1360 | 22–30 | 3.76 | 5,057 | 14% | Optional | Pac-12 flagship with iconic Phil Knight-funded athletics. Strong in journalism, environmental science, and sports business. Nike co-founded by UO track coach Bill Bowerman. 56% women enrollment. | |
| 277 | University of Kansas Lawrence, KS |
93.5% | — | 1090–1280 | 22–28 | 3.68 | 5,323 | 31% | Optional | Record-setting enrollment of 30,770 in fall 2024. Record-high 45% out-of-state freshmen. Storied basketball program (6 national championships). Strong pharmacy, journalism, and aerospace engineering programs. | |
| 286 | University of Kentucky Lexington, KY |
92.0% | — EA | 1080–1290 | 21–28 | 3.54 | 6,571 | 22% | Optional | Record enrollment of 36,141 in Fall 2024. 25 varsity athletic teams including storied basketball program. Strong pharmacy, engineering, and nursing programs. | |
| 295 | University of New Mexico Albuquerque, NM |
95.2% | — | 900–1160 | 19–26 | 3.35 | 3,642 | 31% | Optional | R1 research university and flagship of New Mexico. Hispanic-serving institution with 54% Hispanic enrollment. Strong programs in engineering, health sciences, and Native American studies. Mountain West Conference athl… |
📚 Regional Public
| # | Rating | College | Overall Admit | Early Admit | SAT Mid 50% | ACT Mid 50% | Avg GPA | Class Size | Yield | Testing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 101 | California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo San Luis Obispo, CA |
31.3% | — | 1220–1440 | 26–32 | 3.80 | 5,545 | 25% | Free | Most selective CSU campus. 'Learn by Doing' polytechnic philosophy. Top programs in engineering, architecture, agriculture, and computer science. CSU system is permanently test-blind for admissions. | |
| 131 | San Diego State University San Diego, CA |
36.2% | — | 1130–1340 | 22–29 | 3.65 | 6,629 | 22% | Free | Mountain West Conference member moving to Pac-12 in 2026. CSU system school — test-blind admissions. Hispanic-Serving Institution with 57% students of color. Record 94,000+ applications for Class of 2029. Strong busin… | |
| 180 | University of Vermont Burlington, VT |
65.0% | — EA | 1250–1420 | 28–32 | 3.65 | 2,800 | 17% | Optional | Small flagship in Burlington with strong environmental science, pre-med, and food systems programs. Draws heavily from out-of-state (75%+). Known for outdoors culture and skiing. 18 Division I varsity teams in America… | |
| 194 | SUNY Geneseo Geneseo, NY |
64.0% | — ED | 1200–1380 | 26–31 | 3.72 | 900 | 11% | Optional | Offers ED and EA. Often called the 'Public Ivy' of SUNY. Small selective public honors college known for strong liberal arts education. Average class size of 23. NCAA Division III (Empire 8 Conference). 19 varsity teams. | |
| 196 | College of Charleston Charleston, SC |
60.0% | — ED | 1130–1300 | 24–29 | 3.70 | 2,344 | 12% | Optional | Founded 1770, one of America's oldest colleges. Located in historic downtown Charleston. Offers ED I, ED II, and EA. Strong marine biology and historic preservation programs. CAA Conference member. 41% out-of-state en… | |
| 207 | James Madison University Harrisonburg, VA |
71.5% | — EA | 1190–1330 | 25–29 | 3.65 | 4,984 | 18% | Optional | Largest public university in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. Sun Belt Conference member. Strong business and health sciences programs. 44,782 applications for Class of 2029, a record. Students from 32 states and 20 coun… | |
| 234 | University of North Florida Jacksonville, FL |
71.0% | — | 1070–1260 | 20–26 | 3.55 | 2,800 | 21% | Optional | Mid-size regional university in Jacksonville; strong nursing and business programs. NCAA Division I in the ASUN Conference with 19 varsity sports. 1,381-acre nature preserve campus. | |
| 258 | University of Rhode Island Kingston, RI |
72.0% | 72.0% EA | 1020–1280 | 22–28 | 3.40 | 3,300 | 16% | Optional | Offers EA (non-restrictive). Rhode Island's flagship public university with a coastal campus. Strong programs in pharmacy, ocean engineering, and marine biology. NCAA Division I (Atlantic 10 Conference). 49% of freshm… | |
| 266 | New College of Florida Sarasota, FL |
74.0% | 50.0% | 1030–1250 | 20–27 | 3.55 | 200 | 14% | Optional | Florida's designated public honors college; small liberal arts model (~880 students). Contract-based curriculum with no traditional grades. Launched NAIA athletics in 2023 with 17 varsity sports (Mighty Banyans). Unde… | |
| 280 | University of Idaho Moscow, ID |
79.1% | — | 950–1200 | 20–29 | 3.47 | 1,656 | 19% | Optional | Idaho's land-grant and flagship university. Big Sky Conference athletics. Strong programs in engineering, natural resources, and agriculture. Located in the Palouse region near Washington State University. 51% women. | |
| 285 | University of New Hampshire Durham, NH |
88.0% | — EA | 1100–1320 | 26–30 | 3.42 | 2,700 | 14% | Optional | Offers EA (non-restrictive). New Hampshire's flagship public university on a 2,600-acre campus. Strong programs in business, engineering, and marine science. NCAA Division I (America East Conference, football in CAA).… | |
| 290 | University of Wyoming Laramie, WY |
96.9% | — | 1040–1280 | 21–28 | 3.55 | 1,463 | 27% | Optional | Only four-year university in Wyoming. Mountain West Conference athletics with 17 NCAA Division I sports. Strong programs in energy, geology, and atmospheric science. At 7,220 ft, one of the highest-elevation universit… | |
| 292 | Northern Arizona University Flagstaff, AZ |
89.6% | — | 1010–1280 | 20–26 | 3.50 | 4,975 | 16% | Free | Public university in Flagstaff at 7,000 ft elevation. Big Sky Conference athletics with nationally ranked cross-country program. Strong forestry, education, and hospitality programs. 62% women enrollment. | |
| 293 | Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, VA |
92.6% | — | 1030–1270 | 22–30 | 3.50 | 4,084 | 21% | Optional | Major urban research university in downtown Richmond. Top-ranked arts program (VCUarts). Strong health sciences via VCU Health System. Highly diverse student body — 56% students of color. Atlantic 10 Conference member. |
⭐ Selective Private
| # | Rating | College | Overall Admit | Early Admit | SAT Mid 50% | ACT Mid 50% | Avg GPA | Class Size | Yield | Testing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 72 | University of Richmond Richmond, VA |
22.0% | 33.8% ED | 1450–1520 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 864 | 23% | Optional | Highly selective LAC-style university. Meets 100% of demonstrated need. ED students comprise 46% of enrolled class. A10 Conference (sports). Robins School of Business is top-ranked. 12% international students. Beautif… | |
| 73 | Babson College Wellesley, MA |
17.0% | 35.0% ED | 1380–1500 | 30–33 | 3.75 | 625 | 22% | Optional | #1 in entrepreneurship for 30+ consecutive years (US News). All students major in business. Offers ED I, ED II, and EA. NCAA Division III with 23 varsity sports. Students from 80+ countries. Signature Foundations of M… | |
| 75 | Villanova University Villanova, PA |
27.0% | 56.0% ED | 1450–1520 | 32–34 | 3.87 | 1,770 | 28% | Optional | Augustinian Catholic university (not Jesuit) on Philadelphia's Main Line. Offers EA, ED I, and ED II. Strong business school (Villanova School of Business). NCAA Division I-FCS with 24 varsity sports. 2018 and 2016 NC… | |
| 77 | University of Miami Coral Gables, Florida |
0.2% | 0.5% ED | 1320–1480 | 30–33 | 3.80 | 2,328 | 0% | Optional | Top private research university in South Florida; strong marine science, pre-med, and music programs; ACC athletics | |
| 125 | Bentley University Waltham, MA |
45.0% | 55.0% ED | 1290–1410 | 29–32 | 3.75 | 1,054 | 22% | Optional | Business-focused university with integrated liberal arts. Offers ED I, ED II, EA I, and EA II. NCAA Division II (men's hockey Division I). CPA pass rate among highest nationally. Bloomberg terminals and trading room o… | |
| 126 | George Washington University Washington, DC |
47.1% | 66.3% ED | 1360–1470 | 30–33 | 3.66 | 2,459 | 19% | Optional | Prime DC location near State Dept, World Bank, and K Street; strong pipeline to government, policy, and international affairs careers. Offers ED I (Nov 1) and ED II (Jan 5), no EA. | |
| 153 | Providence College Providence, RI |
51.0% | 54.0% ED | 1250–1400 | 29–33 | 3.60 | 1,222 | 19% | Optional | Dominican Catholic college (not Jesuit) in Providence. Known for strong liberal arts curriculum with unique Development of Western Civilization (DWC) seminar. Offers EA, ED I, and ED II. NCAA Division I in the Big Eas… | |
| 164 | Fordham University Bronx, NY |
58.0% | 52.0% ED | 1350–1480 | 30–34 | 3.61 | 2,478 | 10% | Optional | Jesuit university in NYC with campuses in the Bronx (Rose Hill) and Manhattan (Lincoln Center). Offers EA, ED I, and ED II. 26% first-gen students. NCAA Division I athletics (Atlantic 10 / Patriot League football). | |
| 165 | University of Tulsa Tulsa, OK |
61.5% | — ED | 1220–1530 | 25–34 | 3.56 | 733 | 23% | Optional | Small private research university in Tulsa. Strong petroleum engineering and cybersecurity programs. NCAA Division I (AAC). Offers ED and two EA rounds. Generous merit aid brings net cost down significantly for lower-… | |
| 171 | Marist College Poughkeepsie, NY |
56.5% | — EA | 1190–1340 | 25–31 | 3.50 | 1,267 | 20% | Optional | Private college along the Hudson River in Poughkeepsie, NY. Strong business, communications, and fashion programs. Study-abroad program in Florence. NCAA Division I (MAAC) with 23 varsity teams. EA only (no ED). Legac… | |
| 179 | Chapman University Orange, CA |
65.0% | 74.0% EA | 1280–1410 | 29–33 | 3.65 | 1,631 | 16% | Optional | Private university in Orange County known for Dodge College of Film and Media Arts (top 10 film school). NCAA Division III (SCIAC). 21 varsity sports. Offers EA and ED. | |
| 181 | American University Washington, DC |
65.5% | 79.8% ED | 1300–1430 | 29–32 | 3.77 | 1,660 | 11% | Optional | DC location with strong political science, international relations, and public affairs programs. Patriot League athletics. Offers ED I, ED II, and non-restrictive EA. | |
| 203 | Drake University Des Moines, IA |
63.9% | — | 1110–1350 | 24–29 | 3.69 | 618 | 10% | Optional | Private university in Des Moines known for pharmacy, actuarial science, and journalism. Host of the Drake Relays, one of America's premier track and field events. NCAA Division I (Missouri Valley Conference). EA deadl… | |
| 206 | Ithaca College Ithaca, NY |
69.0% | — ED | 1230–1390 | 27–30 | 3.50 | 1,050 | 12% | Optional | Private college in Ithaca, NY known for communications (Park School), music, physical therapy, and performing arts. NCAA Division III with 28 varsity teams. Offers binding ED (Nov 1) and non-binding EA (Dec 15). Music… | |
| 229 | University of Denver Denver, CO |
77.3% | — ED | 1230–1410 | 28–33 | 3.65 | 1,458 | 11% | Optional | Oldest private university in the Rocky Mountain region. NCAA Division I with 35 national titles (24 skiing, 10 hockey, 1 lacrosse). Offers ED I, ED II, and EA. ED admits receive additional $5K merit aid. Strong intern… |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic
| # | Rating | College | Overall Admit | Early Admit | SAT Mid 50% | ACT Mid 50% | Avg GPA | Class Size | Yield | Testing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 71 | College of the Holy Cross Worcester, MA |
17.0% | — ED | 1250–1410 | 27–32 | 3.60 | 830 | 45% | Optional | Highly selective Jesuit liberal arts college. Only offers ED (binding) and RD. 27 varsity sports with ~25% of students as athletes. NCAA Division I (Patriot League). Strong alumni network in law and finance. | |
| 94 | Fairfield University Fairfield, CT |
25.0% | — ED | 1310–1420 | 27–31 | 3.60 | 1,450 | 21% | Optional | Jesuit university in coastal Connecticut. Record-setting selectivity for Class of 2029 (25% admit rate, 21K applications). Strong in nursing, business, and engineering. NCAA Division I (MAAC). Offers EA, ED I, and ED II. | |
| 105 | Yeshiva University New York, NY |
55.6% | — ED | 1320–1500 | 28–33 | 3.50 | 566 | 61% | Required | Jewish-affiliated research university. Strong pre-med, pre-law, and Jewish studies programs. NCAA Division III athletics. High yield rate reflects dedicated applicant pool. | |
| 106 | Brigham Young University Provo, UT |
67.8% | — | 1290–1450 | 28–32 | 3.82 | 6,147 | 78% | Optional | LDS Church-affiliated university with one of the highest yield rates in the nation (78%, top 5 nationally). Honor code requires adherence to Church standards. Extremely low tuition for LDS members (~$6,500/yr). Big 12… | |
| 127 | Santa Clara University Santa Clara, CA |
48.0% | 69.0% ED | 1340–1500 | 30–33 | 3.75 | 1,610 | 18% | Optional | Jesuit university in Silicon Valley. Strong engineering (particularly CS), business, and pre-law programs. Offers EA, ED I, and ED II. NCAA Division I in the West Coast Conference with 20 varsity sports. 40% students … | |
| 132 | Baylor University Waco, TX |
38.9% | 85.5% ED | 1160–1340 | 25–31 | 3.74 | 3,320 | 21% | Optional | Baptist university with record-low 38.9% acceptance rate for Class of 2028. 31% of freshmen report legacy connections. ED acceptance rate (85.5%) vastly exceeds RD. Largest private university in Texas. Strong pre-med … | |
| 135 | Texas Christian University Fort Worth, TX |
44.5% | 67.0% ED | 1240–1340 | 29–31 | 3.65 | 2,488 | 28% | Optional | Disciples of Christ-affiliated but broadly inclusive. ED acceptance rate (~67%) far exceeds overall. Strong business (Neeley) and communications programs. 61% female enrollment. Big 12 athletics powerhouse (football, … | |
| 139 | Loyola Marymount University Los Angeles, CA |
45.0% | 55.0% EA | 1280–1400 | 29–33 | 3.67 | 1,644 | 15% | Optional | Jesuit university in Los Angeles with strong film, business, and engineering programs. NCAA Division I (West Coast Conference). Offers EA, ED I, and ED II. 12% Pell Grant recipients. | |
| 166 | University of San Diego San Diego, CA |
52.0% | — EA | 1210–1350 | 27–31 | 3.62 | 1,100 | 12% | Optional | Catholic university (Diocese of San Diego) overlooking Mission Bay. Strong business, nursing, and engineering programs. NCAA Division I (WCC, PFL football). 17 varsity sports. | |
| 175 | Pepperdine University Malibu, CA |
63.0% | — EA | 1330–1420 | 30–33 | 3.70 | 843 | 12% | Optional | Church of Christ-affiliated university in Malibu with strong business, communications, and international programs. NCAA Division I (WCC). ED applicants receive additional $2,000/year scholarship. | |
| 193 | University of San Francisco San Francisco, CA |
62.0% | — EA | 1200–1380 | 25–30 | 3.65 | 920 | 9% | Optional | Jesuit university in San Francisco. NCAA Division I in the West Coast Conference. Highly diverse student body with strong international enrollment. Offers EA and ED. | |
| 197 | University of Dayton Dayton, OH |
65.0% | 63.0% EA | 1200–1380 | 26–31 | 3.60 | 1,680 | 12% | Optional | Catholic (Marianist) university in Dayton, OH. Strong in engineering, business, and law. NCAA Division I (Atlantic 10). Known for strong campus community and residential life. | |
| 202 | Gonzaga University Spokane, WA |
76.0% | — EA | 1280–1410 | 29–32 | 3.70 | 1,280 | 17% | Optional | Jesuit university in Spokane known for elite men's basketball program (perennial March Madness contender). Strong nursing and engineering programs. NCAA Division I in the West Coast Conference. 12:1 student-faculty ra… | |
| 212 | Creighton University Omaha, NE |
80.0% | — EA | 1250–1410 | 24–30 | 3.70 | 1,100 | 20% | Optional | Jesuit university in Omaha known for health sciences, business, and law. NCAA Division I (Big East). 82% of students are from out of state. | |
| 213 | Wheaton College Wheaton, IL |
87.4% | — EA | 1260–1470 | 28–32 | 3.75 | 533 | 30% | Optional | Evangelical Christian liberal arts college; Billy Graham alma mater; requires faith statement for admission; strong sciences and music conservatory; NCAA D-III athletics. | |
| 226 | Seton Hall University South Orange, NJ |
73.0% | — EA | 1220–1390 | 27–31 | 3.50 | 1,601 | 9% | Optional | Catholic (Diocesan) university near NYC in South Orange, NJ. Strong in diplomacy, business, and nursing. NCAA Division I (Big East). Two EA rounds with priority review. | |
| 232 | Stonehill College Easton, MA |
66.0% | 75.0% EA | 1130–1280 | 24–29 | 3.32 | 768 | 14% | Optional | Catholic college (Holy Cross Fathers) near Boston. Recently transitioned to NCAA Division I (Northeast Conference). Offers EA, ED, and rolling admission. Known for strong alumni network in Boston area. | |
| 233 | Siena College Loudonville, NY |
70.0% | — EA | 1110–1340 | 27–33 | 3.53 | 759 | 13% | Optional | Franciscan Catholic college near Albany, NY. NCAA Division I athletics (MAAC). Offers EA, binding ED, and regular admission. Known for strong business and science programs. | |
| 239 | Loyola University Maryland Baltimore, MD |
76.0% | — EA | 1210–1370 | 27–31 | 3.55 | 1,100 | 11% | Optional | Offers ED and EA. Jesuit university in Baltimore's Evergreen neighborhood. Strong liberal arts core with two required theology courses. 99% of students receive financial aid. NCAA Division I (Patriot League). Known fo… | |
| 241 | Saint Louis University St. Louis, MO |
81.0% | — EA | 1210–1430 | 26–31 | 3.70 | 1,700 | 14% | Optional | Jesuit research university in St. Louis. Strong in health sciences, aviation, and public health. NCAA Division I (Atlantic 10). Offers EA with Dec 1 deadline. | |
| 243 | Seattle University Seattle, WA |
77.0% | — EA | 1160–1360 | 25–31 | 3.55 | 968 | 14% | Optional | Jesuit university in Capitol Hill, Seattle. Strong nursing, computer science, and business programs. NCAA Division I (WAC, rejoining WCC July 2025). 55% BIPOC enrollment. 25% Pell Grant recipients. | |
| 244 | Marquette University Milwaukee, WI |
81.0% | — EA | 1200–1360 | 26–31 | 3.60 | 2,149 | 14% | Optional | Jesuit university in downtown Milwaukee. Strong nursing, business, and engineering programs. NCAA Division I in the Big East Conference. 31% students of color. 11:1 student-faculty ratio. | |
| 255 | Samford University Homewood, AL |
82.0% | — | 1080–1240 | 22–28 | 3.72 | 1,087 | 29% | Optional | Baptist-affiliated university in suburban Birmingham. NCAA Division I in the Southern Conference with 17 varsity sports. 98% graduation success rate (2nd nationally). Known for pharmacy, nursing, and law programs. Rol… | |
| 259 | Saint Anselm College Manchester, NH |
78.0% | — EA | 1110–1280 | 25–27 | 3.48 | 572 | 18% | Optional | Benedictine Catholic liberal arts college in NH. NCAA Division II athletics (Northeast-10 Conference). Hosts the NH Institute of Politics, prominent in presidential primary debates. Offers EA and binding ED. | |
| 267 | DePaul University Chicago, IL |
76.0% | — EA | 1090–1300 | 26–31 | 3.50 | 2,566 | 11% | Optional | Largest Catholic university in the US. Jesuit, located in Chicago's Lincoln Park and Loop. Strong in business, communications, and computing. NCAA Division I (Big East). | |
| 269 | Loyola University Chicago Chicago, IL |
82.0% | — | 1160–1340 | 27–31 | 3.55 | 2,763 | 9% | Optional | Largest Jesuit university in the US with campuses along Lake Michigan. Known for nursing, social work, and law. Rolling admissions with no EA/ED. NCAA Division I in the Missouri Valley Conference. Famous 2018 Final Fo… | |
| 271 | Manhattan College Bronx, NY |
79.0% | — ED | 1140–1330 | 22–31 | 3.40 | 626 | 8% | Optional | Lasallian Catholic college in Riverdale, Bronx. NCAA Division I athletics (MAAC). Offers binding ED and rolling admission. Strong engineering school. Recently rebranded as Manhattan University. | |
| 272 | St. John's University Queens, NY |
83.4% | — | 1150–1340 | 24–30 | 3.50 | 2,350 | 12% | Optional | Catholic (Vincentian) university in Queens, NYC. One of the most ethnically diverse large private universities in the US. Strong pharmacy, education, and business programs. NCAA Division I (Big East). EA deadline Dec … | |
| 273 | Catholic University of America Washington, DC |
84.0% | — EA | 1110–1340 | 24–30 | 3.45 | 700 | 18% | Optional | Only university founded by U.S. Catholic bishops. Located in northeast DC near Basilica of the National Shrine. Strong architecture and nursing programs. NCAA Division III with 25 sports. 54% women enrollment. | |
| 278 | Le Moyne College Syracuse, NY |
83.0% | 76.0% EA | 1140–1300 | 25–30 | 3.40 | 619 | 12% | Optional | Jesuit college in Syracuse, NY. Recently transitioned to NCAA Division I (Northeast Conference). Offers EA and regular admission (no ED). Known for nursing, business, and education programs. | |
| 279 | Saint Joseph's University Philadelphia, PA |
89.0% | — EA | 1180–1330 | 28–31 | 3.50 | 1,332 | 14% | Optional | Jesuit university in Philadelphia. NCAA Division I athletics (Atlantic 10 Conference). Offers EA and binding ED. Merged with University of the Sciences in 2022. Known for Haub School of Business and strong health scie… | |
| 281 | Assumption University Worcester, MA |
83.0% | 92.0% EA | 1110–1250 | 23–28 | 3.48 | 497 | 10% | Optional | Catholic university (Augustinians of the Assumption) in Worcester, MA. NCAA Division II athletics (Northeast-10 Conference). Offers EA and binding ED. Known for strong pre-health and business programs. | |
| 282 | University of Portland Portland, OR |
89.0% | — EA | 1160–1340 | 25–31 | 3.58 | 710 | 10% | Optional | Holy Cross-affiliated Catholic university in Portland. Strong nursing, engineering, and education programs. NCAA Division I (WCC). Small campus (4,000 students). 65% out-of-state students. | |
| 284 | Xavier University Cincinnati, OH |
87.0% | — EA | 1105–1290 | 22–29 | 3.55 | 1,100 | 8% | Optional | Jesuit university in Cincinnati. Strong business, nursing, and education programs. NCAA Division I in the Big East Conference. 11:1 student-faculty ratio. 57% of first-year students receive need-based aid. | |
| 294 | Loyola University New Orleans New Orleans, LA |
93.0% | — EA | 1030–1230 | 20–26 | 3.50 | 579 | 12% | Optional | Jesuit university in New Orleans. NAIA Division I member of the Southern States Athletic Conference with 21 varsity sports. Known for music industry studies and law school. Offers EA only (no ED). |
📖 Top Liberal Arts
| # | Rating | College | Overall Admit | Early Admit | SAT Mid 50% | ACT Mid 50% | Avg GPA | Class Size | Yield | Testing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | Barnard CollegeWomen's New York, NY |
9.0% | 23.8% ED | 1480–1540 | 33–35 | 3.94 | 719 | 69% | Optional | Seven Sisters women's college affiliated with Columbia University. Students compete in NCAA Division I athletics through the Columbia Lions. Cross-registration with Columbia, access to shared libraries and facilities. | |
| 20 | Bowdoin College Brunswick, ME |
6.8% | 14.8% ED | 1470–1540 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 515 | 54% | Optional | Test-optional since 1969; NESCAC founding member; 31 varsity sports with 44% of students as athletes. | |
| 21 | Pomona College Claremont, CA |
6.9% | 13.0% ED | 1490–1560 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 440 | 50% | Optional | Most selective LAC after Amherst. Part of Claremont Colleges consortium (cross-registration). Meets 100% of demonstrated need. QuestBridge partner. | |
| 22 | Claremont McKenna College Claremont, CA |
9.4% | 22.0% ED | 1470–1560 | 33–35 | 3.87 | 335 | 52% | Optional | Strong finance/econ/government focus. Part of Claremont Colleges consortium. CMS athletics with Harvey Mudd and Scripps. Robert Day Scholars program. | |
| 24 | Colby College Waterville, ME |
7.0% | 20.0% ED | 1440–1550 | 32–35 | 3.88 | 530 | 49% | Optional | Major endowment expansion; DavisConnects career program; 32 varsity NESCAC sports with skiing in Division I. | |
| 25 | Williams CollegeSIM Williamstown, MA |
8.3% | 26.6% ED | 1500–1560 | 34–35 | 3.93 | 540 | 43% | Test_Optional | #1 LAC. ED rate 26.6% vs 7.3% RD. Small classes, tutorial system. | |
| 31 | Swarthmore College Swarthmore, PA |
7.4% | 18.0% ED | 1460–1560 | 33–35 | 3.93 | 430 | 44% | Optional | Quaker LAC with one of highest endowments per student (~$2M). Offers both ED I (Nov 15) and ED II (Jan 4). Engineering program rare for LACs. Centennial Conference (D3). | |
| 32 | Amherst CollegeSIM Amherst, MA |
9.0% | 25.0% ED | 1500–1560 | 33–35 | 3.92 | 470 | 40% | Test_Optional | Open curriculum. Need-blind admissions. One of top 3 LACs. ED fills ~40% of class. | |
| 34 | Wellesley College Wellesley, MA |
13.7% | 29.8% ED | 1470–1550 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 573 | 50% | Optional | Seven Sisters women's college; admits women, trans, and non-binary students; offers ED I (Nov 1) and ED II (Jan 5); test-optional since 2020; NEWMAC DIII athletics. | |
| 36 | Harvey Mudd College Claremont, CA |
12.3% | 27.0% ED | 1480–1560 | 34–36 | 3.96 | 229 | 40% | Optional | STEM-focused Claremont Consortium member. Offers ED I (Nov 15) and ED II (Jan 5). Athletics via combined CMS (Claremont-Mudd-Scripps) D3 program. Highest median mid-career salary among all LACs. | |
| 41 | Haverford College Haverford, PA |
13.3% | 33.1% ED | 1440–1540 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 374 | 45% | Optional | Quaker honor code; Tri-College Consortium with Bryn Mawr and Swarthmore; only U.S. varsity cricket team; Centennial Conference. | |
| 42 | Middlebury CollegeSIM Middlebury, VT |
10.7% | 30.0% ED | 1440–1550 | 33–35 | 3.88 | 700 | 34% | Test_Optional | ED I + ED II. ED rate ~30% vs ~5% RD - one of biggest ED advantages. Known for languages and environmental studies. | |
| 44 | Davidson College Davidson, NC |
12.6% | 30.2% ED | 1360–1510 | 31–34 | 3.86 | 510 | 47% | Optional | Known for strict honor code and NCAA D1 athletics; Steph Curry's alma mater; permanently test-optional since 2022. | |
| 45 | Hamilton College Clinton, NY |
13.5% | 30.0% ED | 1450–1550 | 33–35 | 3.88 | 473 | 39% | Optional | Open curriculum with no distribution requirements; NESCAC D-III member; 29 varsity teams with 35% of students as athletes. | |
| 46 | Washington and Lee University Lexington, VA |
13.5% | 34.0% ED | 1450–1510 | 33–34 | 3.85 | 499 | 41% | Optional | Famous honor system since 1842; W&L Promise covers full tuition for families under $150K; historically Southern character with strong Greek life. 58% of Class of 2029 enrolled via ED. | |
| 55 | Bates College Lewiston, ME |
14.8% | 46.0% ED | 1430–1510 | 32–34 | 3.85 | 496 | 34% | Optional | First major college to go test-optional (1984); NESCAC founding member; smallest college in conference. | |
| 56 | Grinnell College Grinnell, IA |
16.0% | 48.0% ED | 1420–1550 | 31–34 | 3.89 | 450 | 32% | Optional | Self-governance tradition; no-loan financial aid policy; need-blind admissions meeting 100% of need; 20% international students. ED I rate 48%, ED II rate 18%. | |
| 58 | Carleton College Northfield, MN |
20.0% | 30.0% ED | 1450–1560 | 32–35 | 3.90 | 518 | 35% | Optional | Strong STEM and liberal arts in rural Minnesota; trimester system; 506 varsity athletes across 18 D-III sports. | |
| 59 | Vassar College Poughkeepsie, NY |
18.6% | 31.2% ED | 1448–1550 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 665 | 29% | Optional | Founded 1861 as pioneering women's college; coeducational since 1969; test-optional since 2020 (permanent 2023); Liberty League member. | |
| 62 | Colgate University Hamilton, NY |
17.4% | 35.3% ED | 1450–1510 | 33–35 | 3.86 | 834 | 28% | Optional | Patriot League D-I school; offers both ED I and ED II; 25 varsity teams with 25% of students as athletes; 47% from private high schools. | |
| 64 | Smith College Northampton, MA |
22.0% | 33.0% ED | 1450–1520 | 32–35 | 3.88 | 703 | 35% | Optional | Seven Sisters women's college; first women's college to join NCAA (1981); offers ED I and ED II; test-optional since 2009; open curriculum (no distribution requirements). | |
| 65 | Pitzer College Claremont, CA |
25.0% | 42.0% ED | 1370–1460 | 30–33 | 3.96 | 286 | 45% | Free | Test-free LAC in Claremont Colleges consortium. Known for social justice focus and environmental studies. Competes athletically as Pomona-Pitzer Sagehens. Cross-registration across all 5 Claremont Colleges. 44% from C… | |
| 78 | Macalester College Saint Paul, MN |
28.0% | 41.0% ED | 1390–1520 | 31–34 | 3.80 | 527 | 22% | Optional | Strongest international student body among LACs (17% international, 59 countries); offers ED1, ED2, and EA; full-tuition scholarship for families under $100K income. | |
| 82 | Bryn Mawr College Bryn Mawr, PA |
29.4% | 37.0% ED | 1280–1490 | 29–33 | 3.88 | 380 | 32% | Optional | Seven Sisters women's college. Part of Tri-College Consortium with Haverford and Swarthmore; cross-registration with UPenn. First women's college to offer PhD programs. | |
| 85 | Reed College Portland, OR |
24.6% | 40.0% ED | 1290–1520 | 29–34 | 3.90 | 303 | 13% | Optional | Highest PhD production rate per capita of any US college; honor principle governs academic and social life; no varsity athletics; intellectual rigor-focused curriculum with mandatory freshman humanities course. | |
| 88 | Scripps College Claremont, CA |
38.0% | 47.0% ED | 1450–1520 | 31–34 | 3.90 | 313 | 25% | Optional | All-women's LAC in Claremont Colleges consortium. Competes athletically as CMS (Claremont-Mudd-Scripps). Cross-registration across all 5 Claremont Colleges. Meets 100% of demonstrated need. | |
| 89 | Mount Holyoke College South Hadley, MA |
38.4% | 50.0% ED | 1380–1510 | 32–35 | 3.88 | 546 | 31% | Optional | Oldest of the Seven Sisters (founded 1837). Part of Five College Consortium with UMass Amherst, Amherst, Smith, and Hampshire. Most globally diverse LAC in the US with students from 44 countries. | |
| 92 | Kenyon College Gambier, OH |
31.0% | 55.0% ED | 1358–1503 | 31–33 | 3.90 | 435 | 18% | Optional | Home of the Kenyon Review, one of America's premier literary magazines; NCAA D-III swimming dynasty with 50+ national titles; 100% residential campus; strong creative writing program. | |
| 96 | Oberlin College Oberlin, OH |
34.0% | 40.0% ED | 1390–1530 | 31–34 | 3.74 | 769 | 19% | Optional | Home to the oldest conservatory of music in the US; first college to regularly admit Black students (1835) and women (1837); 37% of A&S enrolling class admitted via ED. Combined A&S + Conservatory enrollment. |
🌿 Selective Liberal Arts
| # | Rating | College | Overall Admit | Early Admit | SAT Mid 50% | ACT Mid 50% | Avg GPA | Class Size | Yield | Testing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 53 | Wesleyan University Middletown, CT |
16.1% | 38.3% ED | 1420–1530 | 32–35 | 3.90 | 810 | 36% | Optional | Part of 'Little Three' with Williams and Amherst; NESCAC member with 28 varsity teams; ~60% of Class of 2029 from ED; test-optional since 2014; strong film, music, and social sciences programs. | |
| 68 | Colorado College Colorado Springs, CO |
22.0% | 35.0% ED | 1370–1520 | 31–34 | 3.90 | 517 | 34% | Optional | Unique Block Plan schedule where students take one course at a time for 3.5 weeks; NCAA D3 in most sports but D1 in men's ice hockey (NCHC) and women's soccer (MWC); located at the base of Pikes Peak with strong outdo… | |
| 74 | Denison University Granville, OH |
17.0% | 22.0% ED | 1320–1490 | 30–33 | 3.80 | 600 | 26% | Optional | One of the most selective liberal arts colleges in the Midwest; strong sciences and economics programs; 350-acre hilltop campus in Granville, OH; member of the NCAC; offers both ED I and ED II rounds. | |
| 76 | Skidmore College Saratoga Springs, NY |
21.0% | 41.0% ED | 1330–1470 | 30–33 | 3.70 | 692 | 27% | Optional | Founded 1903; Liberty League member with 19 varsity teams; known for creative arts and creative thought motto; students from 44 states and 59 countries; strong studio art, business, and science programs. | |
| 81 | Bucknell University Lewisburg, PA |
28.9% | 55.4% ED | 1340–1500 | 31–34 | 3.70 | 994 | 30% | Optional | Patriot League (D-I); strong engineering and liberal arts; 27 varsity sports; record enrollment in 2024-25; high student-athlete graduation rate (98%). | |
| 95 | Lafayette College Easton, PA |
31.4% | 43.6% ED | 1370–1490 | 31–34 | 3.55 | 700 | 22% | Optional | Patriot League (D-I); strong engineering program within a liberal arts college; 23 varsity sports; rival of Lehigh (The Rivalry is longest-running in college football). | |
| 99 | Franklin & Marshall College Lancaster, PA |
28.2% | 52.0% ED | 1310–1460 | 30–33 | 3.60 | 524 | 19% | Optional | Centennial Conference (D-III); 28 varsity sports — most in conference; D-I wrestling and women's squash; 40% of students are varsity athletes; strong pre-med. | |
| 109 | Connecticut College New London, CT |
37.0% | 55.0% ED | 1350–1500 | 31–34 | 3.70 | 451 | 15% | Optional | Founded 1911; NESCAC member with 28 varsity teams; ~50% of class enrolled via ED; 756 student-athletes across 28 sports; scenic hilltop campus overlooking Thames River. | |
| 110 | Occidental College Los Angeles, CA |
39.4% | 59.2% ED | 1400–1495 | 31–34 | 3.61 | 531 | 20% | Optional | Urban LAC in Eagle Rock, Los Angeles; alma mater of President Obama (first two years); Barack Obama Scholars Program; strong emphasis on diversity, global literacy, and civic engagement; frequently used as film/TV loc… | |
| 116 | Whitman College Walla Walla, WA |
38.1% | — ED | 1310–1480 | 29–33 | 3.69 | 385 | 14% | Optional | Strong liberal arts with required first-year 'Encounters' seminar; high PhD production rate; collaborative campus culture in Walla Walla wine country; NCAA D3 with 17 varsity sports; 9:1 student-faculty ratio. | |
| 134 | Union College Schenectady, NY |
44.0% | 42.0% ED | 1310–1480 | 29–33 | 3.60 | 500 | 14% | Optional | Liberal arts college in upstate New York. NCAA Division III for most sports, Division I for ice hockey. Member of the Liberty League. Strong in engineering and liberal arts. Offers ED I, ED II, and EA. | |
| 138 | Furman University Greenville, SC |
43.0% | 69.2% ED | 1280–1418 | 28–32 | 3.66 | 620 | 14% | Optional | NCAA Division I school with just 2,600 undergrads; strong music and sustainability programs; located in Greenville, SC, one of the South's fastest-growing cities. | |
| 141 | Rhodes College Memphis, TN |
50.0% | — ED | 1330–1500 | 29–33 | 3.72 | 390 | 12% | Optional | Gothic-style campus in midtown Memphis; strong pre-med and pre-law pipeline; NCAA D3 with 34% student-athletes; 47% of incoming class are students of color or international. | |
| 157 | Illinois Wesleyan University Bloomington, IL |
45.0% | 70.0% EA | 1120–1340 | 25–30 | 3.65 | 395 | 18% | Optional | Strong pre-professional programs (nursing, business, fine arts) within a liberal arts framework; 11:1 student-faculty ratio; EA deadline November 15; not affiliated with Wesleyan University in CT. | |
| 178 | Lawrence University Appleton, WI |
63.0% | — ED | 1200–1430 | 27–32 | 3.60 | 364 | 17% | Optional | Unique combined liberal arts college and conservatory of music (25% study in conservatory); 8:1 student-faculty ratio; Freshman Studies signature program; offers ED and EA with November 1 deadlines. | |
| 192 | Agnes Scott CollegeWomen's Decatur, GA |
62.0% | — EA | 1160–1330 | 25–31 | 3.71 | 210 | 16% | Optional | Women's college near Atlanta. Known for SUMMIT experiential learning curriculum. NCAA Division III member in Collegiate Conference of the South. Strong STEM programs with 62% students of color. |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts
| # | Rating | College | Overall Admit | Early Admit | SAT Mid 50% | ACT Mid 50% | Avg GPA | Class Size | Yield | Testing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 67 | Mills College at Northeastern UniversityWomen's Oakland, CA |
17.0% | — | 1390–1520 | 31–34 | 3.75 | 160 | 28% | Optional | Historic women's college merged with Northeastern University in 2022. Undergraduate program remains women-only. Located on 135-acre campus in Oakland hills. Now operates as Mills College at Northeastern University wit… | |
| 91 | Trinity College Hartford, CT |
29.0% | 45.0% ED | 1340–1453 | 30–33 | 3.70 | 482 | 25% | Optional | Founded 1823; NESCAC member with 27 varsity teams; 50% of Class of 2029 admitted via ED; historic campus along Hartford's 'Long Walk'. | |
| 122 | Gettysburg College Gettysburg, PA |
38.9% | 64.0% ED | 1270–1460 | 29–33 | 3.60 | 580 | 18% | Optional | Civil War heritage campus; Centennial Conference (D-III); Eisenhower Institute for public policy; 40% of class enrolls via ED; 25 varsity sports. | |
| 124 | Dickinson College Carlisle, PA |
42.1% | 65.0% ED | 1310–1460 | 30–33 | 3.60 | 580 | 17% | Optional | Strong global education focus with study-abroad emphasis; Centennial Conference (D-III); about half of incoming class enrolls via ED; 25 varsity sports. | |
| 128 | St. Olaf College Northfield, MN |
48.0% | 55.0% ED | 1260–1470 | 28–32 | 3.70 | 770 | 27% | Optional | Norwegian Lutheran heritage; one of the top college music programs in the country (St. Olaf Choir is world-renowned); offers ED1, ED2, and EA; strong sciences and math; 25% of class enrolls via ED. | |
| 143 | Sarah Lawrence College Bronxville, NY |
50.0% | 65.0% ED | 1270–1440 | 28–33 | 3.75 | 380 | 15% | Optional | Founded 1926; known for seminar-conference system and individualized curricula; test-optional for decades; strong writing, performing arts, and humanities programs; Skyline Conference NCAA DIII. | |
| 152 | Millsaps College Jackson, MS |
43.1% | — EA | 1130–1360 | 21–28 | 3.60 | 179 | 18% | Optional | United Methodist-affiliated liberal arts college; strong pre-med and business programs; Else School of Management; NCAA D-III with football; small campus in Mississippi's capital city. | |
| 154 | Bard College Annandale-on-Hudson, NY |
52.0% | — ED | 1290–1440 | 30–32 | 3.70 | 500 | 13% | Free | Founded 1860; no SAT/ACT required; offers unique Immediate Decision Plan and written essay-based admission; Liberty League NCAA DIII; strong programs in arts, humanities, and social sciences; 18 varsity sports. | |
| 158 | Centre College Danville, KY |
54.4% | — ED | 1230–1423 | 27–32 | 3.62 | 396 | 19% | Optional | Hosted a 2000 VP debate and a 2012 VP debate; Colleges That Change Lives member; NCAA D3 with over 45% of students competing in varsity athletics. | |
| 159 | Southwestern University Georgetown, TX |
43.1% | — ED | 1140–1290 | 26–30 | 3.50 | 374 | 14% | Optional | Oldest university in Texas (founded 1840); United Methodist-affiliated; Paideia interdisciplinary curriculum; strong sciences and education; NCAA D-III with football; near Austin metro area. | |
| 160 | Rollins College Winter Park, FL |
47.5% | — ED | 1210–1360 | 26–31 | 3.46 | 583 | 14% | Optional | Oldest college in Florida (founded 1885); lakefront campus in Winter Park near Orlando; NCAA D2 with 21 varsity teams; strong business and international relations programs. | |
| 161 | Wofford College Spartanburg, SC |
52.0% | — ED | 1200–1350 | 27–31 | 3.65 | 427 | 18% | Optional | One of the nation's top Phi Beta Kappa chapters; NCAA D1 (Southern Conference) despite small size (~1,800 students); strong liberal arts focus with an innovative Interim term in January. | |
| 163 | Sewanee: The University of the South Sewanee, TN |
56.9% | — ED | 1236–1398 | 27–32 | 3.78 | 465 | 18% | Optional | 13,000-acre mountaintop campus (The Domain) on the Cumberland Plateau; affiliated with the Episcopal Church; NCAA D3 with 24 varsity sports and over 30% athlete participation. | |
| 170 | Hendrix College Conway, AR |
55.6% | — EA | 1120–1330 | 23–31 | 3.79 | 318 | 18% | Optional | United Methodist-affiliated liberal arts college; known for Odyssey experiential learning program; strong sciences and pre-med; NCAA D-III with football; Colleges That Change Lives member. | |
| 172 | DePauw University Greencastle, IN |
57.0% | — EA | 1200–1410 | 28–32 | 3.70 | 510 | 13% | Optional | Home of the Monon Bell rivalry (oldest college football rivalry west of the Alleghenies vs. Wabash); strong music school and media fellows program; 23 Division III varsity teams; notable alumni include journalists and… | |
| 173 | College of Wooster Wooster, OH |
60.0% | 63.0% ED | 1220–1460 | 27–33 | 3.69 | 372 | 11% | Optional | Known for its unique Independent Study (IS) program requiring all seniors to complete a year-long thesis; member of the Five Colleges of Ohio consortium and NCAC; 23 varsity sports. | |
| 176 | Wheaton College Norton, MA |
63.0% | 84.0% ED | 1250–1420 | 29–33 | 3.72 | 470 | 18% | Optional | Founded 1834; NEWMAC conference NCAA DIII with 21 varsity teams; named after founding consultant Mary Lyon; strong connections to nearby Boston; originally a women's seminary, coeducational since 1988. | |
| 177 | Allegheny College Meadville, PA |
55.0% | 31.0% ED | 1173–1358 | 25–30 | 3.60 | 289 | 10% | Optional | Requires a double major or major-minor in different divisions; member of the Presidents' Athletic Conference; investing $60M in a new NCAA Division III athletic center; founded in 1815, one of the oldest colleges west… | |
| 184 | Ohio Wesleyan University Delaware, OH |
56.0% | 77.0% EA | 1105–1350 | 24–30 | 3.60 | 428 | 15% | Optional | Founded in 1842; strong botany and zoology programs with the Perkins Observatory; member of the NCAC and Five Colleges of Ohio consortium; 24 varsity sports; historic connections to several US presidents. | |
| 185 | Gustavus Adolphus College Saint Peter, MN |
62.0% | — EA | 1160–1370 | 25–31 | 3.69 | 571 | 18% | Optional | Swedish Lutheran heritage; strong sciences (Nobel Conference is oldest undergraduate science conference in the US); MIAC conference athletics powerhouse; EA deadline November 1. | |
| 190 | Beloit College Beloit, WI |
57.0% | 71.0% EA | 1200–1360 | 25–31 | 3.33 | 224 | 10% | Optional | Progressive tradition; Colleges That Change Lives member; renowned anthropology program with on-campus museum (Logan Museum); strong environmental studies; EA deadline November 1. | |
| 199 | Augustana College Rock Island, IL |
65.0% | 83.0% ED | 1130–1380 | 23–29 | 3.55 | 600 | 14% | Optional | Swedish Lutheran heritage in Quad Cities; strong pre-med and biology programs; offers ED and EA with November 15 deadlines; 12:1 student-faculty ratio; 25 varsity sports with high athlete participation. | |
| 200 | Simmons UniversityWomen's Boston, MA |
66.0% | — EA | 1200–1380 | 27–31 | 3.60 | 380 | 11% | Optional | Women-centered university in Boston's Fenway neighborhood. Undergraduate programs women-only; graduate programs coeducational. NCAA Division III Sharks compete in Great Northeast Athletic Conference. Strong nursing an… | |
| 208 | Muhlenberg College Allentown, PA |
72.0% | 78.6% ED | 1250–1410 | 29–33 | 3.48 | 466 | 15% | Optional | Test-optional since 1996; Centennial Conference (D-III); strong pre-med and theater programs; 22 varsity sports; 25% of class enrolls via ED. | |
| 216 | Wabash CollegeMen's Crawfordsville, IN |
63.0% | 62.0% EA | 1060–1270 | 23–28 | 3.50 | 229 | 19% | Optional | One of only three remaining all-male liberal arts colleges in the US; known for the Gentleman's Rule honor code; Monon Bell rivalry with DePauw; 13 varsity sports; ~50% of students are varsity athletes. | |
| 218 | Hollins UniversityWomen's Roanoke, VA |
70.0% | — EA | 1160–1360 | 24–30 | 3.66 | 180 | 9% | Optional | Women's university in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. NCAA Division III member of Old Dominion Athletic Conference. Renowned creative writing MFA program. Undergraduate women-only; graduate programs coeducational. | |
| 220 | Lewis & Clark College Portland, OR |
74.2% | 75.0% ED | 1230–1390 | 28–31 | 3.60 | 677 | 12% | Optional | Located on a 137-acre estate in Portland's southwest hills; strong international affairs and environmental studies programs; includes graduate schools of law and education; NCAA D3 with 19 varsity sports in the Northw… | |
| 228 | Kalamazoo College Kalamazoo, MI |
76.2% | — ED | 1208–1370 | 26–31 | 3.73 | 370 | 13% | Optional | Known for the K-Plan integrating rigorous academics, career internships, study abroad (85%+ participation), and a Senior Individualized Project; NCAA D-III; strong sciences and international focus. | |
| 235 | Austin College Sherman, TX |
71.1% | — ED | 1110–1300 | 23–29 | 3.50 | 357 | 15% | Optional | Presbyterian-affiliated liberal arts college north of Dallas; strong pre-med and international studies programs; 85% of students study abroad; NCAA D-III with football. | |
| 236 | Luther College Decorah, IA |
73.0% | — EA | 1100–1320 | 22–29 | 3.55 | 345 | 20% | Optional | Norwegian Lutheran liberal arts tradition in the scenic Driftless Area; nationally recognized music program; strong study-abroad participation (70%+); rolling admissions begin October with EA deadline January 1. | |
| 240 | University of Puget Sound Tacoma, WA |
76.0% | 83.6% ED | 1170–1380 | 27–31 | 3.60 | 409 | 11% | Optional | Test-optional since 2015, an early adopter; strong music conservatory and business programs; 23 NCAA D3 varsity sports in the Northwest Conference; residential campus near Puget Sound waterfront in Tacoma's North End. | |
| 249 | Sweet Briar CollegeWomen's Sweet Briar, VA |
72.0% | — EA | 1020–1310 | 21–28 | 3.55 | 130 | 15% | Optional | Women's college on 3,250-acre campus in rural Virginia. NCAA Division III member of ODAC. Nationally recognized equestrian and riding program. Survived near-closure in 2015 through alumnae fundraising campaign. | |
| 250 | Earlham College Richmond, IN |
73.0% | 84.0% EA | 1110–1290 | 24–33 | 3.50 | 180 | 14% | Optional | Founded by Quakers in 1847; known for consensus-based decision-making and social justice commitment; 19% international students; strong sciences producing more PhD graduates per capita than most peers; member of the H… | |
| 253 | Eckerd College St. Petersburg, FL |
78.7% | — EA | 1150–1336 | 24–29 | 3.60 | 450 | 15% | Optional | Waterfront campus on Boca Ciega Bay; strong marine science and environmental studies programs; NCAA D2; known for outdoor learning and study-abroad participation. | |
| 254 | University of Redlands Redlands, CA |
81.0% | — EA | 1100–1330 | 25–30 | 3.75 | 500 | 16% | Optional | Johnston Center for Integrative Studies offers self-designed majors with contract-based grading; NCAA D3 with 21 varsity sports in SCIAC; Hispanic-Serving Institution; located in the Inland Empire near San Bernardino … | |
| 260 | Hope College Holland, MI |
79.2% | — EA | 1120–1330 | 25–32 | 3.75 | 821 | 10% | Optional | Reformed Church in America affiliated; strong STEM and pre-med programs; vibrant campus life with annual Pull tug-of-war and Nykerk traditions; NCAA D-III with 22 varsity sports. | |
| 275 | Ursinus College Collegeville, PA |
87.0% | 95.8% ED | 1160–1360 | 25–31 | 3.48 | 410 | 14% | Optional | Common Intellectual Experience (CIE) first-year seminar; Centennial Conference (D-III); 26 varsity sports; 85% of students participate in athletics; open curriculum with no required major courses. | |
| 289 | Linfield University McMinnville, OR |
88.0% | — EA | 1020–1200 | 20–27 | 3.60 | 454 | 20% | Optional | Small-town Oregon LAC in Willamette Valley wine country; strong NCAA D3 athletics with 21 varsity teams and nationally competitive football program; most diverse incoming class in school history (2024); January term f… | |
| 298 | Randolph CollegeWomen's Lynchburg, VA |
95.0% | — EA | 960–1210 | 20–24 | 3.45 | 150 | 10% | Optional | Founded in 1891 as Randolph-Macon Woman's College, became coeducational in 2007 and renamed Randolph College. NCAA Division III member of Old Dominion Athletic Conference. Now 62% women, 38% men. Known for strong scie… |
✊ HBCUs
| # | Rating | College | Overall Admit | Early Admit | SAT Mid 50% | ACT Mid 50% | Avg GPA | Class Size | Yield | Testing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 112 | Spelman CollegeWomen's Atlanta, GA |
25.0% | — ED | 1128–1303 | 24–29 | 3.75 | 700 | 20% | Optional | Most selective HBCU and top women's HBCU. Part of Atlanta University Center consortium with Morehouse and Clark Atlanta. Strong STEM pipeline. | |
| 148 | Howard University Washington, DC |
41.3% | — EA | 1120–1320 | 22–28 | 3.60 | 2,800 | 21% | Optional | Most prominent HBCU. Located in DC. Strong in law, medicine, business, and communications. Significant alumni network in politics and media. | |
| 182 | Morehouse CollegeMen's Atlanta, GA |
44.0% | — ED | 950–1160 | 19–25 | 3.40 | 684 | 24% | Optional | Premier men's HBCU. Part of Atlanta University Center. Notable alumni include MLK Jr., Spike Lee, Samuel L. Jackson. Strong in business and STEM. | |
| 188 | North Carolina A&T State University Greensboro, NC |
46.0% | — EA | 960–1190 | 17–23 | 3.40 | 2,755 | 19% | Optional | Largest HBCU in the nation by enrollment. NCAA Division I (CAA). Top producer of Black engineers and Black STEM graduates in the U.S. Carnegie R2 research university. Strong nursing and business programs. | |
| 198 | Hampton University Hampton, VA |
48.0% | 71.5% EA | 940–1130 | 18–24 | 3.40 | 1,207 | 21% | Optional | Historic HBCU on the Virginia coast. Strong in nursing, business, and architecture. Known for strict dress code and traditional campus culture. | |
| 214 | Tuskegee University Tuskegee, AL |
48.7% | — | 970–1215 | 18–26 | 3.00 | 787 | 14% | Optional | Historically Black university founded by Booker T. Washington in 1881. NCAA Division II (SIAC). Top-ranked HBCU for engineering and veterinary medicine. Home of the famed Tuskegee Airmen legacy. | |
| 215 | Fisk University Nashville, TN |
58.0% | — EA | 1060–1360 | 19–25 | 3.30 | 350 | 7% | Optional | Historic HBCU in Nashville. First HBCU admitted to Phi Beta Kappa. Recently transitioned to NAIA D1. Known for arts, sciences, and the Jubilee Singers. | |
| 225 | Southern University and A&M College Baton Rouge, LA |
35.1% | — | 790–1020 | 15–19 | 2.80 | 1,714 | 20% | Required | Flagship of the only HBCU university system in the U.S. NCAA Division I (SWAC). Famous for the 'Human Jukebox' marching band. Strong nursing, engineering, and public policy programs. | |
| 247 | Grambling State University Grambling, LA |
44.9% | — | 860–1060 | 17–23 | 2.80 | 1,047 | 18% | Optional | Known as 'The World Famed' for its marching band, the Tiger Marching Band. NCAA Division I (SWAC). Legendary football program under Coach Eddie Robinson. Strong mass communications and criminal justice programs. | |
| 287 | Clark Atlanta University Atlanta, GA |
65.0% | — EA | 880–1120 | 16–20 | 3.20 | 1,100 | 6% | Optional | Part of Atlanta University Center consortium with Spelman and Morehouse. NCAA Division II member (SIAC). Strong in mass media arts, business, and education. | |
| 288 | Xavier University of Louisiana New Orleans, LA |
74.0% | — EA | 930–1130 | 19–25 | 3.50 | 690 | 10% | Optional | Only historically Black and Catholic university in the US. #1 in placing Black students into medical school. Strong pre-pharmacy and STEM programs. | |
| 296 | Prairie View A&M University Prairie View, TX |
79.3% | — | 860–1080 | 16–21 | 2.90 | 1,885 | 18% | Optional | Second-oldest public institution in Texas and member of the Texas A&M University System. NCAA Division I (SWAC). Strong engineering, nursing, and architecture programs. Designated as a national resource. | |
| 297 | Morgan State University Baltimore, MD |
82.2% | — | 920–1100 | 17–22 | 3.00 | 2,377 | 12% | Optional | Maryland's preeminent public urban research university and largest HBCU in the state. NCAA Division I (MEAC). Carnegie R2 designation. Strong programs in engineering, business, and architecture. | |
| 300 | Bethune-Cookman University Daytona Beach, FL |
89.5% | — | 830–1000 | 15–20 | 2.80 | 702 | 10% | Optional | Founded by Mary McLeod Bethune in 1904. NCAA Division I (SWAC). Known for its marching band 'The Marching Wildcats.' Strong programs in education, nursing, and criminal justice. |
🎖️ Military Academies
| # | Rating | College | Overall Admit | Early Admit | SAT Mid 50% | ACT Mid 50% | Avg GPA | Class Size | Yield | Testing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26 | United States Naval Academy Annapolis, MD |
9.4% | — | 1210–1410 | 25–31 | 3.85 | 1,201 | 85% | Required | Federal service academy requiring congressional nomination. 5-year active duty obligation. 33 varsity sports (NCAA Division I, Patriot League). All midshipmen participate in athletics. Free tuition, room, board, and m… | |
| 27 | United States Air Force Academy Colorado Springs, CO |
11.6% | — | 1265–1440 | 28–33 | 3.86 | 1,112 | 76% | Required | Federal service academy requiring congressional nomination. 5-year active duty Air Force/Space Force obligation. 27 NCAA Division I varsity sports (Mountain West). 96% of Class of 2029 played a varsity sport in high s… | |
| 33 | United States Military Academy West Point, NY |
12.5% | — | 1200–1430 | 27–33 | 3.84 | 1,244 | 80% | Required | Federal service academy requiring congressional nomination. 5-year active duty Army obligation. 27 NCAA Division I varsity sports (Patriot League). Free tuition, room, board, and monthly stipend. | |
| 63 | United States Coast Guard Academy New London, CT |
22.0% | — | 1210–1380 | 26–31 | 3.79 | 300 | 66% | Optional | Smallest federal service academy. No congressional nomination required (direct application). 5-year active duty Coast Guard obligation. NCAA Division III (NEWMAC). Free tuition, room, board, and monthly stipend. | |
| 93 | United States Merchant Marine Academy Kings Point, NY |
34.0% | — | 1110–1300 | 22–29 | 3.60 | 300 | 64% | Required | Federal service academy requiring congressional nomination. Midshipmen spend a year at sea during training. 5-year service obligation (active duty or reserve + merchant marine). NCAA Division III (Skyline Conference).… | |
| 186 | Virginia Military Institute Lexington, VA |
72.0% | — | 1090–1270 | 24–31 | 3.65 | 480 | 49% | Required | State-funded public military college (not a federal academy). All students are cadets in the Corps. No service obligation. NCAA Division I (Southern Conference). 17 varsity sports with 644 athletes. Strong ROTC commis… | |
| 268 | The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina Charleston, SC |
80.0% | — | 1080–1250 | 21–27 | 3.50 | 660 | 23% | Optional | State-funded public military college (not a federal academy). South Carolina Corps of Cadets ~2,226. No service obligation. NCAA Division I (Southern Conference). 16 varsity sports. ROTC commissioning available. |
🎨 Art & Design
| # | Rating | College | Overall Admit | Early Admit | SAT Mid 50% | ACT Mid 50% | Avg GPA | Class Size | Yield | Testing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 48 | Rhode Island School of Design Providence, RI |
17.0% | 27.0% ED | 1395–1520 | 31–34 | 3.80 | 480 | 51% | Optional | Premier art and design school. Portfolio required for admission. Cross-registration with Brown University. Very high international enrollment (35%). ED yield is exceptionally high. | |
| 115 | California Institute of the Arts Valencia, CA |
32.0% | — | — | — | 3.30 | 163 | 28% | Free | Founded by Walt Disney. Highly selective arts conservatory — test-blind, portfolio/audition-based. Six schools: Art, Critical Studies, Dance, Film/Video, Music, Theater. Small enrollment (~1,200 total). 27% internatio… | |
| 133 | Berklee College of Music Boston, MA |
44.0% | — | — | — | 3.20 | 1,707 | 45% | Free | Premier contemporary music college. Test-blind admission — audition-based. Over 100 countries represented (25% international). 7,600+ undergraduates. Programs in performance, songwriting, film scoring, music productio… | |
| 162 | Pratt Institute Brooklyn, NY |
53.0% | — EA | 1160–1380 | 26–32 | 3.60 | 900 | 20% | Optional | Top art, design, and architecture school in Brooklyn. Portfolio required. Joined Atlantic East Conference (NCAA D-III) in 2024-25. Very high international enrollment (36%). Non-binding early action with Nov 15 deadline. | |
| 191 | Parsons School of Design New York, NY |
57.0% | — ED | 1100–1320 | 24–30 | 3.47 | 900 | 20% | Optional | Part of The New School. Top-ranked design school globally. Programs in fashion, communication, product, and architectural design. 32% international enrollment. Manhattan Greenwich Village location. No preference given… | |
| 262 | Savannah College of Art and Design Savannah, GA |
83.0% | — | 1050–1280 | 21–28 | 3.56 | 3,650 | 29% | Optional | Largest art and design university in the US with 17K+ students across Savannah, Atlanta, and online. Rolling admissions (no ED/EA). Portfolio-focused admission (70-80% weight). NAIA athletics. 25% international studen… | |
| 299 | School of Visual Arts New York, NY |
93.0% | — EA | — | — | 3.30 | 604 | 21% | Optional | NYC-based visual arts college with 52% international students from 57 countries. Portfolio-based admission. Programs in illustration, animation, computer art, photography, film, and fine arts. EA applicants get guaran… |
📋 Other
| # | Rating | College | Overall Admit | Early Admit | SAT Mid 50% | ACT Mid 50% | Avg GPA | Class Size | Yield | Testing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 205 | Elon University Elon, NC |
66.0% | — ED | 1130–1320 | 25–30 | 3.70 | 1,800 | 13% | Optional | Known for experiential learning and study abroad (>80% participation). CAA Conference member. U.S. News #1 for undergraduate teaching among national universities. ED deadline Nov 1, EA deadline Dec 1. 96% graduation s… | |
| 230 | Drexel University Philadelphia, PA |
79.0% | 92.0% ED | 1230–1430 | 27–33 | 3.55 | 3,353 | 13% | Optional | Offers ED and EA. Known for its co-op program, one of the oldest and largest in the nation. Five-year bachelor's programs with three six-month co-op placements. Strong engineering, business, and health sciences. NCAA … | |
| 231 | Willamette University Salem, OR |
79.0% | — EA | 1220–1430 | 27–32 | 3.60 | 420 | 14% | Optional | Oldest university in the West (1842), adjacent to Oregon State Capitol. Strong liberal arts with data science and sustainability programs. NCAA Division III (Northwest Conference). 24% scholar-athletes. EA/ED applican… | |
| 242 | Quinnipiac University Hamden, CT |
72.2% | — ED | 1150–1320 | 25–30 | 3.50 | 1,917 | 11% | Optional | Private university in Hamden, CT known for health sciences, nursing, PA, and communications programs. Strong ice hockey tradition. NCAA Division I (MAAC). Offers binding ED (Nov 1) and non-binding EA (Nov 15). | |
| 248 | Stetson University DeLand, FL |
72.0% | — ED | 1090–1280 | 21–28 | 3.66 | 700 | 8% | Optional | Private university in central Florida. NCAA Division I in the ASUN Conference and Pioneer Football League. 20 varsity sports. Strong in music, business, and law. Offers ED and EA. | |
| 251 | High Point University High Point, NC |
75.0% | 84.6% ED | 1110–1320 | 23–29 | 3.55 | 1,528 | 12% | Optional | Known as the 'Premier Life Skills University.' Massive campus investment — $3B+ since 2005. ED deadline Nov 1, ED II Feb 1, EA deadline Nov 15. Big South Conference member. 95% of first-time students receive grant/sch… | |
| 270 | Butler University Indianapolis, IN |
85.0% | — EA | 1160–1330 | 25–31 | 3.70 | 1,259 | 14% | Optional | Mid-size private in Indianapolis. Big East Conference member. Known for pharmacy (top-20) and performing arts (Jordan College). ED only for Nursing program. EA deadline Nov 1 with rolling decisions Oct-Dec. Hinkle Fie… | |
| 283 | Belmont University Nashville, TN |
95.3% | — | 1160–1350 | 24–30 | 3.69 | 1,547 | 18% | Optional | Christian university in Nashville known for music business, songwriting, and entertainment industry programs. Two EA rounds (Nov 1, Dec 1). NCAA Division I (Missouri Valley Conference). 95% acceptance rate but strong … | |
| 291 | Bellarmine University Louisville, KY |
88.0% | — EA | 1030–1225 | 19–26 | 3.49 | 548 | 16% | Optional | Catholic university in Louisville. NCAA Division I in the ASUN Conference with 25 varsity sports. Recently transitioned from Division II. Strong in nursing, business, and education. Offers EA. |
🏆 All 300 Colleges — Ranked by Selectivity
| # | Rating | College | Category | Overall Admit | Early Admit | SAT Mid 50% | ACT Mid 50% | Avg GPA | Class Size | Yield | Testing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stanford UniversitySIM Stanford, CA |
🏛️ Elite Private | 3.6% | 7.2% REA | 1500–1570 | 34–36 | 3.96 | 1,700 | 80% | Test_Optional | Does not officially publish EA vs RD breakdowns. Extremely low acceptance rate across all rounds. | |
| 2 | Massachusetts Institute of TechnologySIM Cambridge, MA |
🔬 STEM-Focused Elite | 3.9% | 5.5% EA | 1510–1580 | 35–36 | 3.96 | 1,100 | 87% | Required | No legacy preference. Need-blind for all applicants including internationals. Strongest STEM hook. | |
| 3 | University of ChicagoSIM Chicago, IL |
🏛️ Elite Private | 4.5% | 17.9% EA_and_ED | 1510–1560 | 34–36 | 3.95 | 1,800 | 86% | Test_Optional | Does not officially publish ED/EA rates. Has both EA and ED/EDII options. Known for quirky essay prompts. Intellectual rigor culture. | |
| 4 | Harvard UniversitySIM Cambridge, MA |
🏛️ Elite Private | 3.6% | 9.1% REA | 1480–1580 | 34–36 | 3.95 | 1,650 | 84% | Required | Most selective Ivy. Legacy and ALDC (athletes, legacies, dean's list, children of staff) comprise ~43% of white admits. | |
| 5 | Princeton UniversitySIM Princeton, NJ |
🏛️ Elite Private | 4.5% | 10.5% SCEA | 1500–1570 | 34–36 | 3.95 | 1,500 | 75% | Required | No longer publishes early action acceptance rates separately. | |
| 6 | Yale UniversitySIM New Haven, CT |
🏛️ Elite Private | 3.7% | 9.3% SCEA | 1470–1580 | 34–36 | 3.95 | 1,550 | 70% | Test_Flexible | Test-flexible policy allows AP/IB in lieu of SAT/ACT. | |
| 7 | University of PennsylvaniaSIM Philadelphia, PA |
🏛️ Elite Private | 4.9% | 14.0% ED | 1490–1570 | 34–36 | 3.93 | 2,400 | 68% | Required_Starting_2030 | Will require standardized tests starting Class of 2030. Wharton business school is most competitive division. | |
| 8 | Columbia UniversitySIM New York, NY |
🏛️ Elite Private | 3.9% | 16.7% ED | 1480–1570 | 34–36 | 3.93 | 1,600 | 65% | Test_Optional | No longer publishes specific ED acceptance rates. Located in NYC, strong pre-professional culture. | |
| 9 | Brown UniversitySIM Providence, RI |
🏛️ Elite Private | 4.5% | 14.6% ED | 1480–1570 | 34–35 | 3.93 | 1,700 | 67% | Required | Open curriculum. Recruited athletes account for ~1/3 of ED acceptances. Known for flexible academics. | |
| 10 | Cornell UniversitySIM Ithaca, NY |
🏛️ Elite Private | 7.9% | 16.5% ED | 1470–1560 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 3,500 | 68% | Required | Largest Ivy. Has both private and state-funded (contract) colleges. Acceptance rate varies by college from ~4% to ~18%. | |
| 11 | Barnard CollegeWomen's New York, NY |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 9.0% | 23.8% ED | 1480–1540 | 33–35 | 3.94 | 719 | 69% | Optional | Seven Sisters women's college affiliated with Columbia University. Students compete in NCAA Division I athletics through the Columbia Lions. Cross-registration with Columbia, access to shared libraries and facilities. | |
| 12 | Georgetown UniversitySIM Washington, DC |
🏛️ Elite Private | 12.0% | 12.9% EA | 1400–1540 | 32–35 | 3.90 | 1,600 | 79% | Required | Requires SAT/ACT. EA rate actually LOWER than RD rate (unusual). Catholic Jesuit university. Strong for policy/government. | |
| 13 | Vanderbilt UniversitySIM Nashville, TN |
🏛️ Elite Private | 4.7% | 18.8% ED | 1510–1560 | 34–36 | 3.89 | 1,650 | 61% | Test_Optional | Record-low 4.7% overall rate for Class of 2029. RD rate only 3.3%. ED I + ED II offered. | |
| 14 | Dartmouth CollegeSIM Hanover, NH |
🏛️ Elite Private | 5.5% | 18.9% ED | 1470–1560 | 33–35 | 3.91 | 1,150 | 64% | Required | Smallest Ivy. Strong Greek life and outdoors culture. ED acceptance rate 3x+ overall rate. | |
| 15 | University of Notre DameSIM Notre Dame, IN |
🏛️ Elite Private | 9.0% | 13.5% REA | 1470–1540 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 2,100 | 62% | Test_Optional | Catholic university. Strong legacy preference. Athletic tradition. REA program with 12.9% rate. | |
| 16 | Duke UniversitySIM Durham, NC |
🏛️ Elite Private | 5.0% | 21.1% ED | 1500–1570 | 34–35 | 3.94 | 1,750 | 53% | Test_Optional | ED fills ~50% of class. Strong athletics recruitment. Southern elite culture. | |
| 17 | Northwestern UniversitySIM Evanston, IL |
🏛️ Elite Private | 7.0% | 29.2% ED | 1440–1550 | 33–35 | 3.92 | 2,100 | 57% | Test_Optional | ED acceptance rate is ~3x overall rate. Strong for journalism (Medill) and performing arts. | |
| 18 | New York University New York, NY |
🏛️ Elite Private | 7.7% | 16.0% ED | 1480–1550 | 34–35 | 3.81 | 6,500 | 60% | Optional | Largest private university in the US. Offers ED I and ED II (no EA). Over 50% of class admitted via early decision. Record 120K+ applicants. Global campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai. Three schools (CAS, Stern, Nursin… | |
| 19 | California Institute of TechnologySIM Pasadena, CA |
🔬 STEM-Focused Elite | 2.6% | 6.0% EA | 1530–1570 | 35–36 | 3.97 | 235 | 43% | Test_Free | Smallest elite university. Test-free policy. Most STEM-focused school. No legacy preference. | |
| 20 | Bowdoin College Brunswick, ME |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 6.8% | 14.8% ED | 1470–1540 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 515 | 54% | Optional | Test-optional since 1969; NESCAC founding member; 31 varsity sports with 44% of students as athletes. | |
| 21 | Pomona College Claremont, CA |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 6.9% | 13.0% ED | 1490–1560 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 440 | 50% | Optional | Most selective LAC after Amherst. Part of Claremont Colleges consortium (cross-registration). Meets 100% of demonstrated need. QuestBridge partner. | |
| 22 | Claremont McKenna College Claremont, CA |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 9.4% | 22.0% ED | 1470–1560 | 33–35 | 3.87 | 335 | 52% | Optional | Strong finance/econ/government focus. Part of Claremont Colleges consortium. CMS athletics with Harvey Mudd and Scripps. Robert Day Scholars program. | |
| 23 | Rice UniversitySIM Houston, TX |
🏛️ Elite Private | 6.8% | 13.2% ED | 1510–1560 | 34–36 | 3.96 | 1,050 | 44% | Test_Optional | ED I rate 13.2%, ED II rate 6.0%. Residential college system. Smaller campus feel. | |
| 24 | Colby College Waterville, ME |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 7.0% | 20.0% ED | 1440–1550 | 32–35 | 3.88 | 530 | 49% | Optional | Major endowment expansion; DavisConnects career program; 32 varsity NESCAC sports with skiing in Division I. | |
| 25 | Williams CollegeSIM Williamstown, MA |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 8.3% | 26.6% ED | 1500–1560 | 34–35 | 3.93 | 540 | 43% | Test_Optional | #1 LAC. ED rate 26.6% vs 7.3% RD. Small classes, tutorial system. | |
| 26 | United States Naval Academy Annapolis, MD |
🎖️ Military Academies | 9.4% | — | 1210–1410 | 25–31 | 3.85 | 1,201 | 85% | Required | Federal service academy requiring congressional nomination. 5-year active duty obligation. 33 varsity sports (NCAA Division I, Patriot League). All midshipmen participate in athletics. Free tuition, room, board, and m… | |
| 27 | United States Air Force Academy Colorado Springs, CO |
🎖️ Military Academies | 11.6% | — | 1265–1440 | 28–33 | 3.86 | 1,112 | 76% | Required | Federal service academy requiring congressional nomination. 5-year active duty Air Force/Space Force obligation. 27 NCAA Division I varsity sports (Mountain West). 96% of Class of 2029 played a varsity sport in high s… | |
| 28 | Carnegie Mellon UniversitySIM Pittsburgh, PA |
🏛️ Elite Private | 11.7% | 22.0% ED | 1510–1560 | 34–36 | 3.91 | 1,700 | 47% | Test_Optional | Top for CS/Engineering/Fine Arts. Acceptance rate varies dramatically by school (SCS ~3%, CFA ~8%, etc.). | |
| 29 | Northeastern University Boston, MA |
🏛️ Elite Private | 5.6% | 43.0% ED | 1450–1520 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 2,760 | 47% | Optional | Co-op program leader; 105K apps make it one of the most applied-to universities in the US. ED acceptance rate (~43%) vastly exceeds RD (~3.8%). Only ~24% of enrollees submitted SAT scores. | |
| 30 | Johns Hopkins UniversitySIM Baltimore, MD |
🏛️ Elite Private | 6.4% | 10.5% ED | 1530–1560 | 34–36 | 3.94 | 1,350 | 36% | Test_Optional | Offers ED I and ED II. Combined ED acceptance rate ~10.5%. Top pre-med reputation. | |
| 31 | Swarthmore College Swarthmore, PA |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 7.4% | 18.0% ED | 1460–1560 | 33–35 | 3.93 | 430 | 44% | Optional | Quaker LAC with one of highest endowments per student (~$2M). Offers both ED I (Nov 15) and ED II (Jan 4). Engineering program rare for LACs. Centennial Conference (D3). | |
| 32 | Amherst CollegeSIM Amherst, MA |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 9.0% | 25.0% ED | 1500–1560 | 33–35 | 3.92 | 470 | 40% | Test_Optional | Open curriculum. Need-blind admissions. One of top 3 LACs. ED fills ~40% of class. | |
| 33 | United States Military Academy West Point, NY |
🎖️ Military Academies | 12.5% | — | 1200–1430 | 27–33 | 3.84 | 1,244 | 80% | Required | Federal service academy requiring congressional nomination. 5-year active duty Army obligation. 27 NCAA Division I varsity sports (Patriot League). Free tuition, room, board, and monthly stipend. | |
| 34 | Wellesley College Wellesley, MA |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 13.7% | 29.8% ED | 1470–1550 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 573 | 50% | Optional | Seven Sisters women's college; admits women, trans, and non-binary students; offers ED I (Nov 1) and ED II (Jan 5); test-optional since 2020; NEWMAC DIII athletics. | |
| 35 | Tufts UniversitySIM Medford, MA |
🏛️ Elite Private | 10.5% | 30.0% ED | 1480–1550 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 1,400 | 37% | Test_Optional | ED I and ED II offered. Known for 'demonstrated interest' factor. International relations strength. | |
| 36 | Harvey Mudd College Claremont, CA |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 12.3% | 27.0% ED | 1480–1560 | 34–36 | 3.96 | 229 | 40% | Optional | STEM-focused Claremont Consortium member. Offers ED I (Nov 15) and ED II (Jan 5). Athletics via combined CMS (Claremont-Mudd-Scripps) D3 program. Highest median mid-career salary among all LACs. | |
| 37 | Cooper Union New York, NY |
🔬 STEM-Focused Elite | 13.0% | — ED | 1400–1520 | 33–35 | 3.85 | 196 | 52% | Optional | Historically tuition-free institution in NYC focused on engineering, art, and architecture. All admitted students receive half-tuition scholarships minimum. Acceptance rates vary by school: 4% architecture, 9% art, 23… | |
| 38 | University of Southern California Los Angeles, CA |
🏛️ Elite Private | 11.2% | 8.4% EA | 1450–1550 | 33–35 | 3.80 | 3,759 | 40% | Optional | 83K applicants; EA non-binding with 8.4% admit rate (42,119 EA applicants, 3,524 EA admits). Pilot ED for Marshall School of Business starting Fall 2026. 21% first-generation. 44% of enrolled submitted test scores. | |
| 39 | Washington University in St. LouisSIM St. Louis, MO |
🏛️ Elite Private | 12.1% | 30.0% ED | 1500–1570 | 33–35 | 3.92 | 1,850 | 35% | Test_Optional | ED I and ED II offered. Strong pre-med and research. Generous financial aid. | |
| 40 | Georgia Institute of Technology Atlanta, GA |
🏫 Public Elite | 12.7% | 11.0% EA | 1400–1550 | 31–35 | 3.90 | 4,000 | 46% | Required | Top public STEM university. EA split into EA1 (in-state, ~30% admit) and EA2 (out-of-state, ~9% admit). Strong engineering and CS programs. 12% first-gen students. | |
| 41 | Haverford College Haverford, PA |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 13.3% | 33.1% ED | 1440–1540 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 374 | 45% | Optional | Quaker honor code; Tri-College Consortium with Bryn Mawr and Swarthmore; only U.S. varsity cricket team; Centennial Conference. | |
| 42 | Middlebury CollegeSIM Middlebury, VT |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 10.7% | 30.0% ED | 1440–1550 | 33–35 | 3.88 | 700 | 34% | Test_Optional | ED I + ED II. ED rate ~30% vs ~5% RD - one of biggest ED advantages. Known for languages and environmental studies. | |
| 43 | University of California, Berkeley Berkeley, CA |
🏫 Public Elite | 11.4% | — | 1310–1530 | 30–35 | 3.89 | 6,724 | 46% | Free | Top public university; UC system was test-blind but reinstating SAT/ACT for 2025-26. No early rounds — all UC apps due Nov 30. 127K applicants make it one of the most applied-to schools in the US. | |
| 44 | Davidson College Davidson, NC |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 12.6% | 30.2% ED | 1360–1510 | 31–34 | 3.86 | 510 | 47% | Optional | Known for strict honor code and NCAA D1 athletics; Steph Curry's alma mater; permanently test-optional since 2022. | |
| 45 | Hamilton College Clinton, NY |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 13.5% | 30.0% ED | 1450–1550 | 33–35 | 3.88 | 473 | 39% | Optional | Open curriculum with no distribution requirements; NESCAC D-III member; 29 varsity teams with 35% of students as athletes. | |
| 46 | Washington and Lee University Lexington, VA |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 13.5% | 34.0% ED | 1450–1510 | 33–34 | 3.85 | 499 | 41% | Optional | Famous honor system since 1842; W&L Promise covers full tuition for families under $150K; historically Southern character with strong Greek life. 58% of Class of 2029 enrolled via ED. | |
| 47 | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Chapel Hill, NC |
🏫 Public Elite | 15.3% | 20.0% EA | 1400–1520 | 29–34 | 3.90 | 5,094 | 45% | Optional | Carolina Covenant covers full need debt-free for low-income students. Mandated 82% in-state enrollment cap makes OOS admission (~8%) extremely competitive. Largest first-year class ever in fall 2025. | |
| 48 | Rhode Island School of Design Providence, RI |
🎨 Art & Design | 17.0% | 27.0% ED | 1395–1520 | 31–34 | 3.80 | 480 | 51% | Optional | Premier art and design school. Portfolio required for admission. Cross-registration with Brown University. Very high international enrollment (35%). ED yield is exceptionally high. | |
| 49 | Olin College of Engineering Needham, MA |
🔬 STEM-Focused Elite | 22.0% | — | 1490–1560 | 34–36 | 3.95 | 85 | 48% | Optional | Extremely small (350 total students) engineering-only college. Unique two-stage admissions with Candidates' Weekend interview. Every admitted student receives a half-tuition scholarship. No NCAA athletics. Cross-regis… | |
| 50 | Emory UniversitySIM Atlanta, GA |
🏛️ Elite Private | 10.3% | 20.0% ED | 1480–1540 | 33–35 | 3.88 | 1,400 | 25% | Test_Optional | ED I and ED II offered. Strong pre-med. Two campuses (Emory College and Oxford College). | |
| 51 | Boston University Boston, MA |
🏛️ Elite Private | 12.8% | 29.5% ED | 1430–1510 | 32–34 | 3.87 | 3,450 | 35% | Optional | Offers ED I and ED II (no EA). 59% of enrolled class came via ED. Meets 100% demonstrated need without loans for domestic first-years. | |
| 52 | Boston CollegeSIM Chestnut Hill, MA |
🏛️ Elite Private | 13.9% | 30.0% EA | 1460–1520 | 33–35 | 3.87 | 2,350 | 30% | Test_Optional | Catholic Jesuit university. EA rate ~30% vs 10% RD. Strong for business and pre-law. | |
| 53 | Wesleyan University Middletown, CT |
🌿 Selective Liberal Arts | 16.1% | 38.3% ED | 1420–1530 | 32–35 | 3.90 | 810 | 36% | Optional | Part of 'Little Three' with Williams and Amherst; NESCAC member with 28 varsity teams; ~60% of Class of 2029 from ED; test-optional since 2014; strong film, music, and social sciences programs. | |
| 54 | Tulane University New Orleans, LA |
🏛️ Elite Private | 14.7% | 59.4% ED | 1430–1500 | 32–34 | 3.67 | 1,850 | 39% | Optional | Massive ED advantage (59% ED vs 14.7% overall). Offers ED I, ED II, and EA. Strong post-Katrina growth. AAC member. | |
| 55 | Bates College Lewiston, ME |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 14.8% | 46.0% ED | 1430–1510 | 32–34 | 3.85 | 496 | 34% | Optional | First major college to go test-optional (1984); NESCAC founding member; smallest college in conference. | |
| 56 | Grinnell College Grinnell, IA |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 16.0% | 48.0% ED | 1420–1550 | 31–34 | 3.89 | 450 | 32% | Optional | Self-governance tradition; no-loan financial aid policy; need-blind admissions meeting 100% of need; 20% international students. ED I rate 48%, ED II rate 18%. | |
| 57 | University of Florida Gainesville, FL |
🏫 Public Elite | 19.8% | — EA | 1380–1510 | 31–34 | 3.92 | 7,500 | 43% | Required | Consistently ranked top-5 US public university; introduced EA in 2024-25 cycle (10,510 EA admits, 7,659 RD admits); SEC powerhouse with 21 varsity sports. First-generation admits: 2,501. | |
| 58 | Carleton College Northfield, MN |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 20.0% | 30.0% ED | 1450–1560 | 32–35 | 3.90 | 518 | 35% | Optional | Strong STEM and liberal arts in rural Minnesota; trimester system; 506 varsity athletes across 18 D-III sports. | |
| 59 | Vassar College Poughkeepsie, NY |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 18.6% | 31.2% ED | 1448–1550 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 665 | 29% | Optional | Founded 1861 as pioneering women's college; coeducational since 1969; test-optional since 2020 (permanent 2023); Liberty League member. | |
| 60 | Wake Forest University Winston-Salem, NC |
🏛️ Elite Private | 20.8% | 34.0% ED | 1410–1520 | 32–34 | 3.90 | 1,545 | 38% | Optional | Test-optional pioneer since 2008. ACC member. Does not publish recent ED acceptance rates; 34% ED rate is historical (Class of 2024). Class of 2029 is largest ever. | |
| 61 | University of VirginiaSIM Charlottesville, VA |
🏫 Public Elite | 16.9% | 24.0% EA | 1410–1520 | 33–35 | 3.88 | 3,900 | 26% | Test_Optional | Public flagship. In-state advantage (~23% vs ~12.5% OOS). Strong liberal arts within a public university. | |
| 62 | Colgate University Hamilton, NY |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 17.4% | 35.3% ED | 1450–1510 | 33–35 | 3.86 | 834 | 28% | Optional | Patriot League D-I school; offers both ED I and ED II; 25 varsity teams with 25% of students as athletes; 47% from private high schools. | |
| 63 | United States Coast Guard Academy New London, CT |
🎖️ Military Academies | 22.0% | — | 1210–1380 | 26–31 | 3.79 | 300 | 66% | Optional | Smallest federal service academy. No congressional nomination required (direct application). 5-year active duty Coast Guard obligation. NCAA Division III (NEWMAC). Free tuition, room, board, and monthly stipend. | |
| 64 | Smith College Northampton, MA |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 22.0% | 33.0% ED | 1450–1520 | 32–35 | 3.88 | 703 | 35% | Optional | Seven Sisters women's college; first women's college to join NCAA (1981); offers ED I and ED II; test-optional since 2009; open curriculum (no distribution requirements). | |
| 65 | Pitzer College Claremont, CA |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 25.0% | 42.0% ED | 1370–1460 | 30–33 | 3.96 | 286 | 45% | Free | Test-free LAC in Claremont Colleges consortium. Known for social justice focus and environmental studies. Competes athletically as Pomona-Pitzer Sagehens. Cross-registration across all 5 Claremont Colleges. 44% from C… | |
| 66 | University of California, Los AngelesSIM Los Angeles, CA |
🏫 Public Elite | 8.6% | — | 1290–1510 | 30–34 | 3.90 | 6,600 | 18% | Test_Blind | Test-blind - does not consider SAT/ACT at all. UC system application. Most applied-to university in the US. No early round. | |
| 67 | Mills College at Northeastern UniversityWomen's Oakland, CA |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 17.0% | — | 1390–1520 | 31–34 | 3.75 | 160 | 28% | Optional | Historic women's college merged with Northeastern University in 2022. Undergraduate program remains women-only. Located on 135-acre campus in Oakland hills. Now operates as Mills College at Northeastern University wit… | |
| 68 | Colorado College Colorado Springs, CO |
🌿 Selective Liberal Arts | 22.0% | 35.0% ED | 1370–1520 | 31–34 | 3.90 | 517 | 34% | Optional | Unique Block Plan schedule where students take one course at a time for 3.5 weeks; NCAA D3 in most sports but D1 in men's ice hockey (NCHC) and women's soccer (MWC); located at the base of Pikes Peak with strong outdo… | |
| 69 | University of Texas at Austin Austin, TX |
🏫 Public Elite | 22.2% | — ea | 1270–1470 | 27–33 | 3.83 | 9,900 | 47% | Required | Record 90,690 applications for Fall 2025 (up 24.4% YoY, 51% since 2022). Texas Top 6% auto-admit (top 5% for 2026 entry). SEC member. EA deadline Oct 15 but non-binding and no advantage in review. 80.5% in-state. | |
| 70 | University of MichiganSIM Ann Arbor, MI |
🏫 Public Elite | 15.6% | 30.0% EA | 1350–1530 | 32–35 | 3.90 | 7,200 | 20% | Test_Optional | Huge in-state advantage (39% vs 16% OOS). EA round is de facto binding for competitive applicants. Rolling admissions after EA. | |
| 71 | College of the Holy Cross Worcester, MA |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 17.0% | — ED | 1250–1410 | 27–32 | 3.60 | 830 | 45% | Optional | Highly selective Jesuit liberal arts college. Only offers ED (binding) and RD. 27 varsity sports with ~25% of students as athletes. NCAA Division I (Patriot League). Strong alumni network in law and finance. | |
| 72 | University of Richmond Richmond, VA |
⭐ Selective Private | 22.0% | 33.8% ED | 1450–1520 | 33–35 | 3.90 | 864 | 23% | Optional | Highly selective LAC-style university. Meets 100% of demonstrated need. ED students comprise 46% of enrolled class. A10 Conference (sports). Robins School of Business is top-ranked. 12% international students. Beautif… | |
| 73 | Babson College Wellesley, MA |
⭐ Selective Private | 17.0% | 35.0% ED | 1380–1500 | 30–33 | 3.75 | 625 | 22% | Optional | #1 in entrepreneurship for 30+ consecutive years (US News). All students major in business. Offers ED I, ED II, and EA. NCAA Division III with 23 varsity sports. Students from 80+ countries. Signature Foundations of M… | |
| 74 | Denison University Granville, OH |
🌿 Selective Liberal Arts | 17.0% | 22.0% ED | 1320–1490 | 30–33 | 3.80 | 600 | 26% | Optional | One of the most selective liberal arts colleges in the Midwest; strong sciences and economics programs; 350-acre hilltop campus in Granville, OH; member of the NCAC; offers both ED I and ED II rounds. | |
| 75 | Villanova University Villanova, PA |
⭐ Selective Private | 27.0% | 56.0% ED | 1450–1520 | 32–34 | 3.87 | 1,770 | 28% | Optional | Augustinian Catholic university (not Jesuit) on Philadelphia's Main Line. Offers EA, ED I, and ED II. Strong business school (Villanova School of Business). NCAA Division I-FCS with 24 varsity sports. 2018 and 2016 NC… | |
| 76 | Skidmore College Saratoga Springs, NY |
🌿 Selective Liberal Arts | 21.0% | 41.0% ED | 1330–1470 | 30–33 | 3.70 | 692 | 27% | Optional | Founded 1903; Liberty League member with 19 varsity teams; known for creative arts and creative thought motto; students from 44 states and 59 countries; strong studio art, business, and science programs. | |
| 77 | University of Miami Coral Gables, Florida |
⭐ Selective Private | 0.2% | 0.5% ED | 1320–1480 | 30–33 | 3.80 | 2,328 | 0% | Optional | Top private research university in South Florida; strong marine science, pre-med, and music programs; ACC athletics | |
| 78 | Macalester College Saint Paul, MN |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 28.0% | 41.0% ED | 1390–1520 | 31–34 | 3.80 | 527 | 22% | Optional | Strongest international student body among LACs (17% international, 59 countries); offers ED1, ED2, and EA; full-tuition scholarship for families under $100K income. | |
| 79 | Lehigh University Bethlehem, PA |
🏛️ Elite Private | 29.0% | 47.4% ED | 1350–1490 | 32–35 | 3.90 | 1,500 | 28% | Optional | Strong engineering and business programs. Patriot League member (NCAA Division I). ED fills ~57% of class. Offers ED I and ED II. | |
| 80 | Florida State University Tallahassee, Florida |
🏟️ Large Public | 0.2% | — | 1290–1400 | 29–32 | 3.85 | 6,800 | 0% | Required | Top public university in Florida; strong business, film, and music programs; major ACC athletics | |
| 81 | Bucknell University Lewisburg, PA |
🌿 Selective Liberal Arts | 28.9% | 55.4% ED | 1340–1500 | 31–34 | 3.70 | 994 | 30% | Optional | Patriot League (D-I); strong engineering and liberal arts; 27 varsity sports; record enrollment in 2024-25; high student-athlete graduation rate (98%). | |
| 82 | Bryn Mawr College Bryn Mawr, PA |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 29.4% | 37.0% ED | 1280–1490 | 29–33 | 3.88 | 380 | 32% | Optional | Seven Sisters women's college. Part of Tri-College Consortium with Haverford and Swarthmore; cross-registration with UPenn. First women's college to offer PhD programs. | |
| 83 | University of Georgia Athens, GA |
🎓 Flagship Public | 34.0% | 31.0% EA | 1300–1470 | 30–34 | 3.85 | 6,200 | 38% | Required | Georgia flagship; top-20 public university; strong honors program (CURO); 80% in-state enrollment target. EA: 30,490 applicants, ~9,500 admitted (42% in-state, 23% out-of-state). | |
| 84 | Clemson University Clemson, South Carolina |
🏟️ Large Public | 0.4% | 0.3% EA | 1240–1410 | 28–32 | 3.80 | 4,880 | 0% | Optional | ACC member; top-ranked public university in South Carolina; nationally renowned engineering and architecture programs | |
| 85 | Reed College Portland, OR |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 24.6% | 40.0% ED | 1290–1520 | 29–34 | 3.90 | 303 | 13% | Optional | Highest PhD production rate per capita of any US college; honor principle governs academic and social life; no varsity athletics; intellectual rigor-focused curriculum with mandatory freshman humanities course. | |
| 86 | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Champaign, IL |
🎓 Flagship Public | 36.6% | — EA | 1420–1540 | 31–35 | 3.70 | 9,207 | 27% | Optional | Top-5 CS program (~7% admit rate) is dramatically more selective than the university overall. Strong engineering across the board. Illinois Commitment covers tuition for qualifying in-state families. Record 60,848 tot… | |
| 87 | College of William & Mary Williamsburg, VA |
🏫 Public Elite | 37.0% | 49.7% ED | 1390–1520 | 32–34 | 3.90 | 1,642 | 27% | Optional | Second-oldest US college (1693). Covers full tuition/fees for in-state Pell recipients. Strong liberal arts identity within a public university framework. | |
| 88 | Scripps College Claremont, CA |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 38.0% | 47.0% ED | 1450–1520 | 31–34 | 3.90 | 313 | 25% | Optional | All-women's LAC in Claremont Colleges consortium. Competes athletically as CMS (Claremont-Mudd-Scripps). Cross-registration across all 5 Claremont Colleges. Meets 100% of demonstrated need. | |
| 89 | Mount Holyoke College South Hadley, MA |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 38.4% | 50.0% ED | 1380–1510 | 32–35 | 3.88 | 546 | 31% | Optional | Oldest of the Seven Sisters (founded 1837). Part of Five College Consortium with UMass Amherst, Amherst, Smith, and Hampshire. Most globally diverse LAC in the US with students from 44 countries. | |
| 90 | University of California San Diego La Jolla, CA |
🏫 Public Elite | 28.4% | — | 1280–1460 | 26–33 | 3.90 | 7,341 | 20% | Blind | Top-ranked public university and UC system flagship for STEM. Test-blind admissions (entire UC system). 136K+ freshman applicants. Recently transitioned to NCAA Division I. Strong in biological sciences, engineering, … | |
| 91 | Trinity College Hartford, CT |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 29.0% | 45.0% ED | 1340–1453 | 30–33 | 3.70 | 482 | 25% | Optional | Founded 1823; NESCAC member with 27 varsity teams; 50% of Class of 2029 admitted via ED; historic campus along Hartford's 'Long Walk'. | |
| 92 | Kenyon College Gambier, OH |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 31.0% | 55.0% ED | 1358–1503 | 31–33 | 3.90 | 435 | 18% | Optional | Home of the Kenyon Review, one of America's premier literary magazines; NCAA D-III swimming dynasty with 50+ national titles; 100% residential campus; strong creative writing program. | |
| 93 | United States Merchant Marine Academy Kings Point, NY |
🎖️ Military Academies | 34.0% | — | 1110–1300 | 22–29 | 3.60 | 300 | 64% | Required | Federal service academy requiring congressional nomination. Midshipmen spend a year at sea during training. 5-year service obligation (active duty or reserve + merchant marine). NCAA Division III (Skyline Conference).… | |
| 94 | Fairfield University Fairfield, CT |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 25.0% | — ED | 1310–1420 | 27–31 | 3.60 | 1,450 | 21% | Optional | Jesuit university in coastal Connecticut. Record-setting selectivity for Class of 2029 (25% admit rate, 21K applications). Strong in nursing, business, and engineering. NCAA Division I (MAAC). Offers EA, ED I, and ED II. | |
| 95 | Lafayette College Easton, PA |
🌿 Selective Liberal Arts | 31.4% | 43.6% ED | 1370–1490 | 31–34 | 3.55 | 700 | 22% | Optional | Patriot League (D-I); strong engineering program within a liberal arts college; 23 varsity sports; rival of Lehigh (The Rivalry is longest-running in college football). | |
| 96 | Oberlin College Oberlin, OH |
📖 Top Liberal Arts | 34.0% | 40.0% ED | 1390–1530 | 31–34 | 3.74 | 769 | 19% | Optional | Home to the oldest conservatory of music in the US; first college to regularly admit Black students (1835) and women (1837); 37% of A&S enrolling class admitted via ED. Combined A&S + Conservatory enrollment. | |
| 97 | Case Western Reserve University Cleveland, OH |
🏛️ Elite Private | 35.3% | 37.0% ED | 1450–1530 | 32–34 | 3.78 | 1,650 | 12% | Optional | Offers ED I, EA, ED II, and RD. Strong STEM and pre-med (affiliated with Cleveland Clinic). D3 athletics (UAA). Very low yield (11%) suggests heavy safety-school usage. 16% international. | |
| 98 | University of Wisconsin-Madison Madison, WI |
🎓 Flagship Public | 41.0% | — EA | 1370–1490 | 29–33 | 3.90 | 8,465 | 28% | Optional | Record 65,913 applications for Fall 2025 (up 43% from prior year). EA non-binding (Nov 1 deadline, decisions by end of January). Top 5% Wisconsin students guaranteed admission starting 2025-26. Big Ten powerhouse with… | |
| 99 | Franklin & Marshall College Lancaster, PA |
🌿 Selective Liberal Arts | 28.2% | 52.0% ED | 1310–1460 | 30–33 | 3.60 | 524 | 19% | Optional | Centennial Conference (D-III); 28 varsity sports — most in conference; D-I wrestling and women's squash; 40% of students are varsity athletes; strong pre-med. | |
| 100 | University of California, Irvine Irvine, CA |
🎓 Flagship Public | 28.9% | — | 1230–1430 | 26–33 | 3.84 | 6,736 | 19% | Blind | UC system test-blind admissions. 124K freshman applications (3rd most in UC system). Strong CS and engineering. Big West / NCAA Division I with 18 varsity sports. Unweighted GPA median 3.95 for admits. | |
| 101 | California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo San Luis Obispo, CA |
📚 Regional Public | 31.3% | — | 1220–1440 | 26–32 | 3.80 | 5,545 | 25% | Free | Most selective CSU campus. 'Learn by Doing' polytechnic philosophy. Top programs in engineering, architecture, agriculture, and computer science. CSU system is permanently test-blind for admissions. | |
| 102 | University of Washington Seattle, WA |
🎓 Flagship Public | 39.0% | — | 1330–1500 | 28–33 | 3.83 | 7,120 | 27% | Optional | 69K applicants; single deadline Nov 15 (no early rounds). Returning to test-required for 2025-26 cycle. Direct-to-major system for CS and engineering is highly competitive. Strong CS, engineering, and health sciences.… | |
| 103 | University of Rochester Rochester, NY |
🏛️ Elite Private | 40.0% | 38.0% ED | 1420–1540 | 32–35 | 3.86 | 1,179 | 15% | Optional | Offers ED I, ED II, and RD (no EA). Unique 'Take Five' scholars program for tuition-free 5th year. Open curriculum (no core requirements). D3 athletics (UAA). ~24% international. About 42% of class enters via ED. | |
| 104 | University of Maryland, College Park College Park, MD |
🎓 Flagship Public | 44.8% | 39.0% EA | 1390–1530 | 32–35 | 3.90 | 5,800 | 22% | Optional | Top public university near Washington DC with strong CS, engineering, and business programs. Big Ten member since 2014. 70% of incoming class are Maryland residents. Proximity to federal agencies and labs drives stron… | |
| 105 | Yeshiva University New York, NY |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 55.6% | — ED | 1320–1500 | 28–33 | 3.50 | 566 | 61% | Required | Jewish-affiliated research university. Strong pre-med, pre-law, and Jewish studies programs. NCAA Division III athletics. High yield rate reflects dedicated applicant pool. | |
| 106 | Brigham Young University Provo, UT |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 67.8% | — | 1290–1450 | 28–32 | 3.82 | 6,147 | 78% | Optional | LDS Church-affiliated university with one of the highest yield rates in the nation (78%, top 5 nationally). Honor code requires adherence to Church standards. Extremely low tuition for LDS members (~$6,500/yr). Big 12… | |
| 107 | Mississippi State University Starkville, Mississippi |
🏟️ Large Public | 0.8% | — | 1100–1340 | 21–29 | 3.60 | 3,750 | 0% | Optional | SEC member; strong engineering and agriculture programs; highest research expenditure in Mississippi | |
| 108 | University of Tennessee Knoxville, TN |
🏟️ Large Public | 34.0% | — EA | 1210–1360 | 25–31 | 3.80 | 6,804 | 27% | Optional | Record-low acceptance rate in 2024. All 20 varsity sports reached postseason in 2024-25. Strong engineering, business, and supply chain programs. 65% in-state admission rate vs 27% out-of-state. | |
| 109 | Connecticut College New London, CT |
🌿 Selective Liberal Arts | 37.0% | 55.0% ED | 1350–1500 | 31–34 | 3.70 | 451 | 15% | Optional | Founded 1911; NESCAC member with 28 varsity teams; ~50% of class enrolled via ED; 756 student-athletes across 28 sports; scenic hilltop campus overlooking Thames River. | |
| 110 | Occidental College Los Angeles, CA |
🌿 Selective Liberal Arts | 39.4% | 59.2% ED | 1400–1495 | 31–34 | 3.61 | 531 | 20% | Optional | Urban LAC in Eagle Rock, Los Angeles; alma mater of President Obama (first two years); Barack Obama Scholars Program; strong emphasis on diversity, global literacy, and civic engagement; frequently used as film/TV loc… | |
| 111 | North Carolina State University Raleigh, NC |
🎓 Flagship Public | 42.0% | 48.0% EA | 1300–1460 | 28–32 | 3.83 | 5,412 | 29% | Optional | Top-5 undergraduate engineering among publics. ACC member. Centennial Campus is a major research park. Largest freshman class in NC. Strong CS and textiles programs. | |
| 112 | Spelman CollegeWomen's Atlanta, GA |
✊ HBCUs | 25.0% | — ED | 1128–1303 | 24–29 | 3.75 | 700 | 20% | Optional | Most selective HBCU and top women's HBCU. Part of Atlanta University Center consortium with Morehouse and Clark Atlanta. Strong STEM pipeline. | |
| 113 | Binghamton University Vestal, NY |
🏟️ Large Public | 39.0% | — EA | 1340–1490 | 29–34 | 3.70 | 3,248 | 16% | Optional | Most selective SUNY campus (~39% acceptance rate). Known as a 'Public Ivy' with strong accounting, CS, and pre-med programs. EA deadline November 1 with January 15 decisions. 21 Division I varsity sports in America Ea… | |
| 114 | Purdue University West Lafayette, IN |
🎓 Flagship Public | 43.4% | 54.0% EA | 1220–1480 | 28–34 | 3.81 | 9,580 | 29% | Required | Top-10 engineering school. Frozen tuition since 2012-13. Engineering admits at 35% vs 43% overall. Strong CS, aerospace, and Krannert business. | |
| 115 | California Institute of the Arts Valencia, CA |
🎨 Art & Design | 32.0% | — | — | — | 3.30 | 163 | 28% | Free | Founded by Walt Disney. Highly selective arts conservatory — test-blind, portfolio/audition-based. Six schools: Art, Critical Studies, Dance, Film/Video, Music, Theater. Small enrollment (~1,200 total). 27% internatio… | |
| 116 | Whitman College Walla Walla, WA |
🌿 Selective Liberal Arts | 38.1% | — ED | 1310–1480 | 29–33 | 3.69 | 385 | 14% | Optional | Strong liberal arts with required first-year 'Encounters' seminar; high PhD production rate; collaborative campus culture in Walla Walla wine country; NCAA D3 with 17 varsity sports; 9:1 student-faculty ratio. | |
| 117 | University of Central Florida Orlando, FL |
🏟️ Large Public | 44.7% | — EA | 1270–1400 | 25–29 | 3.72 | 8,259 | 34% | Optional | Largest university in Florida by enrollment (70,000+). Big 12 member since 2023. Strong engineering, computer science, and hospitality programs. Known for space research partnerships with nearby Kennedy Space Center. | |
| 118 | Brandeis University Waltham, MA |
🏛️ Elite Private | 45.0% | 42.0% ED | 1380–1480 | 31–34 | 3.87 | 761 | 17% | Optional | Research-intensive university near Boston. Strong in social sciences, sciences, and humanities. NCAA Division III (no athletic scholarships). Offers ED I and ED II. | |
| 119 | Stevens Institute of Technology Hoboken, NJ |
🔬 STEM-Focused Elite | 48.0% | 72.0% ED | 1380–1505 | 31–34 | 3.86 | 1,054 | 21% | Optional | Overlooking NYC skyline from Hoboken. Strong co-op and career placement (97% outcomes rate within 6 months). ED acceptance rate significantly higher at 72%. Starting Fall 2026: full tuition for families earning under … | |
| 120 | University of Arkansas Fayetteville, Arkansas |
🏟️ Large Public | 0.7% | — | 1030–1220 | 22–28 | 3.62 | 6,614 | 0% | Optional | SEC powerhouse; strong engineering and business programs; nationally ranked track & field | |
| 121 | University of California Santa Barbara Santa Barbara, CA |
🏫 Public Elite | 38.3% | — | 1230–1440 | 26–33 | 3.87 | 5,008 | 14% | Blind | Top-ranked public university and Hispanic-Serving Institution. Test-blind admissions (entire UC system). 110K+ freshman applicants. Strong in physics, materials science, and engineering. Beachside campus in Santa Barb… | |
| 122 | Gettysburg College Gettysburg, PA |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 38.9% | 64.0% ED | 1270–1460 | 29–33 | 3.60 | 580 | 18% | Optional | Civil War heritage campus; Centennial Conference (D-III); Eisenhower Institute for public policy; 40% of class enrolls via ED; 25 varsity sports. | |
| 123 | University of South Florida Tampa, FL |
🏟️ Large Public | 41.0% | — | 1230–1370 | 24–29 | 3.72 | 6,900 | 23% | Required | Florida's largest metropolitan research university; AAU member since 2023; strong engineering and health sciences. 20 varsity sports competing in the American Athletic Conference. | |
| 124 | Dickinson College Carlisle, PA |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 42.1% | 65.0% ED | 1310–1460 | 30–33 | 3.60 | 580 | 17% | Optional | Strong global education focus with study-abroad emphasis; Centennial Conference (D-III); about half of incoming class enrolls via ED; 25 varsity sports. | |
| 125 | Bentley University Waltham, MA |
⭐ Selective Private | 45.0% | 55.0% ED | 1290–1410 | 29–32 | 3.75 | 1,054 | 22% | Optional | Business-focused university with integrated liberal arts. Offers ED I, ED II, EA I, and EA II. NCAA Division II (men's hockey Division I). CPA pass rate among highest nationally. Bloomberg terminals and trading room o… | |
| 126 | George Washington University Washington, DC |
⭐ Selective Private | 47.1% | 66.3% ED | 1360–1470 | 30–33 | 3.66 | 2,459 | 19% | Optional | Prime DC location near State Dept, World Bank, and K Street; strong pipeline to government, policy, and international affairs careers. Offers ED I (Nov 1) and ED II (Jan 5), no EA. | |
| 127 | Santa Clara University Santa Clara, CA |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 48.0% | 69.0% ED | 1340–1500 | 30–33 | 3.75 | 1,610 | 18% | Optional | Jesuit university in Silicon Valley. Strong engineering (particularly CS), business, and pre-law programs. Offers EA, ED I, and ED II. NCAA Division I in the West Coast Conference with 20 varsity sports. 40% students … | |
| 128 | St. Olaf College Northfield, MN |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 48.0% | 55.0% ED | 1260–1470 | 28–32 | 3.70 | 770 | 27% | Optional | Norwegian Lutheran heritage; one of the top college music programs in the country (St. Olaf Choir is world-renowned); offers ED1, ED2, and EA; strong sciences and math; 25% of class enrolls via ED. | |
| 129 | West Virginia University Morgantown, West Virginia |
🏟️ Large Public | 0.9% | — | 1010–1220 | 20–26 | 3.42 | 4,400 | 0% | Optional | Big 12 member; flagship university of West Virginia; strong forensics, engineering, and energy programs | |
| 130 | University of Mississippi Oxford, Mississippi |
🏟️ Large Public | 1.0% | — | 1000–1200 | 21–29 | 3.55 | 5,973 | 0% | Optional | SEC member; strong accountancy and pharmacy programs; historic campus in Oxford literary tradition | |
| 131 | San Diego State University San Diego, CA |
📚 Regional Public | 36.2% | — | 1130–1340 | 22–29 | 3.65 | 6,629 | 22% | Free | Mountain West Conference member moving to Pac-12 in 2026. CSU system school — test-blind admissions. Hispanic-Serving Institution with 57% students of color. Record 94,000+ applications for Class of 2029. Strong busin… | |
| 132 | Baylor University Waco, TX |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 38.9% | 85.5% ED | 1160–1340 | 25–31 | 3.74 | 3,320 | 21% | Optional | Baptist university with record-low 38.9% acceptance rate for Class of 2028. 31% of freshmen report legacy connections. ED acceptance rate (85.5%) vastly exceeds RD. Largest private university in Texas. Strong pre-med … | |
| 133 | Berklee College of Music Boston, MA |
🎨 Art & Design | 44.0% | — | — | — | 3.20 | 1,707 | 45% | Free | Premier contemporary music college. Test-blind admission — audition-based. Over 100 countries represented (25% international). 7,600+ undergraduates. Programs in performance, songwriting, film scoring, music productio… | |
| 134 | Union College Schenectady, NY |
🌿 Selective Liberal Arts | 44.0% | 42.0% ED | 1310–1480 | 29–33 | 3.60 | 500 | 14% | Optional | Liberal arts college in upstate New York. NCAA Division III for most sports, Division I for ice hockey. Member of the Liberty League. Strong in engineering and liberal arts. Offers ED I, ED II, and EA. | |
| 135 | Texas Christian University Fort Worth, TX |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 44.5% | 67.0% ED | 1240–1340 | 29–31 | 3.65 | 2,488 | 28% | Optional | Disciples of Christ-affiliated but broadly inclusive. ED acceptance rate (~67%) far exceeds overall. Strong business (Neeley) and communications programs. 61% female enrollment. Big 12 athletics powerhouse (football, … | |
| 136 | Auburn University Auburn, AL |
🏟️ Large Public | 45.0% | — EA | 1240–1380 | 25–31 | 3.75 | 6,103 | 24% | Optional | Strong engineering and veterinary programs. War Eagle tradition and competitive SEC athletics. 21 varsity teams. 60% out-of-state enrollment growing. | |
| 137 | Southern Methodist University Dallas, TX |
🏛️ Elite Private | 47.6% | 74.0% ED | 1340–1480 | 31–34 | 3.68 | 1,715 | 15% | Optional | Applications surged 56% after joining ACC. ED acceptance rate (74%) far exceeds overall (47.6%). Strong business (Cox) and engineering programs. 42% from Texas. | |
| 138 | Furman University Greenville, SC |
🌿 Selective Liberal Arts | 43.0% | 69.2% ED | 1280–1418 | 28–32 | 3.66 | 620 | 14% | Optional | NCAA Division I school with just 2,600 undergrads; strong music and sustainability programs; located in Greenville, SC, one of the South's fastest-growing cities. | |
| 139 | Loyola Marymount University Los Angeles, CA |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 45.0% | 55.0% EA | 1280–1400 | 29–33 | 3.67 | 1,644 | 15% | Optional | Jesuit university in Los Angeles with strong film, business, and engineering programs. NCAA Division I (West Coast Conference). Offers EA, ED I, and ED II. 12% Pell Grant recipients. | |
| 140 | Stony Brook University Stony Brook, NY |
🎓 Flagship Public | 49.0% | 70.5% EA | 1330–1470 | 28–33 | 3.60 | 4,040 | 15% | Optional | SUNY flagship for STEM and healthcare with AAU membership. Majority-minority campus (36% Asian, highest among NY publics). Strong CS, biology, and pre-med. Home to Brookhaven National Lab partnership. 18 Division I va… | |
| 141 | Rhodes College Memphis, TN |
🌿 Selective Liberal Arts | 50.0% | — ED | 1330–1500 | 29–33 | 3.72 | 390 | 12% | Optional | Gothic-style campus in midtown Memphis; strong pre-med and pre-law pipeline; NCAA D3 with 34% student-athletes; 47% of incoming class are students of color or international. | |
| 142 | University of California, Davis Davis, CA |
🎓 Flagship Public | 44.6% | — | 1160–1400 | 25–32 | 3.82 | 6,767 | 16% | Blind | UC system test-blind admissions. HSI-eligible (25% Hispanic). Record 41,239 total enrollment fall 2024. Strong STEM and agriculture programs. Big West / NCAA Division I with 25 varsity sports. | |
| 143 | Sarah Lawrence College Bronxville, NY |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 50.0% | 65.0% ED | 1270–1440 | 28–33 | 3.75 | 380 | 15% | Optional | Founded 1926; known for seminar-conference system and individualized curricula; test-optional for decades; strong writing, performing arts, and humanities programs; Skyline Conference NCAA DIII. | |
| 144 | The Ohio State University Columbus, OH |
🎓 Flagship Public | 53.0% | 60.4% EA | 1280–1430 | 26–32 | 3.76 | 8,210 | 22% | Optional | Largest campus in the Big Ten with 36 varsity sports. Top public research university with strong engineering, business, and medical programs. First incoming class required to take AI courses. 68% from Ohio. | |
| 145 | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Blacksburg, VA |
🎓 Flagship Public | 54.6% | 64.0% EA | 1280–1450 | 28–32 | 3.80 | 7,088 | 23% | Optional | Top-20 public university. #6 undergraduate engineering (no PhD). ACC member. Strong Corps of Cadets tradition. 13% first-generation students in Class of 2029. | |
| 146 | Texas A&M University College Station, TX |
🎓 Flagship Public | 57.3% | — | 1160–1390 | 25–31 | 3.78 | 12,498 | 40% | Optional | Texas Top 6% automatic admission rule applies. SEC member. Rolling admissions with Dec 1 priority deadline. Engineering EA deadline Oct 15. Largest freshman class among Texas publics. | |
| 147 | Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Troy, NY |
🔬 STEM-Focused Elite | 58.0% | 70.0% ED | 1375–1510 | 30–34 | 3.80 | 1,580 | 16% | Test_Optional | Historic STEM school (founded 1824). Low yield rate (~16%) despite strong academics. Offers ED I (Nov 1) and ED II (Dec 15). Rensselaer Medal merit scholarship program. | |
| 148 | Howard University Washington, DC |
✊ HBCUs | 41.3% | — EA | 1120–1320 | 22–28 | 3.60 | 2,800 | 21% | Optional | Most prominent HBCU. Located in DC. Strong in law, medicine, business, and communications. Significant alumni network in politics and media. | |
| 149 | University of Massachusetts Amherst Amherst, MA |
🎓 Flagship Public | 57.0% | 61.0% EA | 1330–1480 | 30–33 | 3.80 | 5,388 | 18% | Optional | Rising flagship known as 'ZooMass' for spirited campus life. Strong computer science, engineering, and linguistics programs. Most diverse class in university history for Class of 2029. Member of Five College Consortiu… | |
| 150 | Rutgers University-New Brunswick New Brunswick, NJ |
🎓 Flagship Public | 58.0% | — EA | 1270–1480 | 28–33 | 3.80 | 7,100 | 21% | Optional | New Jersey's flagship public university and Big Ten member since 2024. Strong programs in pharmacy, engineering, and business. Increasingly selective with declining acceptance rates. 58% BIPOC enrollment reflects New … | |
| 151 | Colorado School of Mines Golden, CO |
🔬 STEM-Focused Elite | 60.0% | — EA | 1330–1460 | 29–33 | 3.80 | 1,500 | 25% | Required | Public STEM university focused on engineering, earth sciences, and energy. Top 3 public university for 40-year ROI. NCAA D-II with 18 varsity sports. Non-binding EA with Nov 1 deadline, decisions by Dec 15. | |
| 152 | Millsaps College Jackson, MS |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 43.1% | — EA | 1130–1360 | 21–28 | 3.60 | 179 | 18% | Optional | United Methodist-affiliated liberal arts college; strong pre-med and business programs; Else School of Management; NCAA D-III with football; small campus in Mississippi's capital city. | |
| 153 | Providence College Providence, RI |
⭐ Selective Private | 51.0% | 54.0% ED | 1250–1400 | 29–33 | 3.60 | 1,222 | 19% | Optional | Dominican Catholic college (not Jesuit) in Providence. Known for strong liberal arts curriculum with unique Development of Western Civilization (DWC) seminar. Offers EA, ED I, and ED II. NCAA Division I in the Big Eas… | |
| 154 | Bard College Annandale-on-Hudson, NY |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 52.0% | — ED | 1290–1440 | 30–32 | 3.70 | 500 | 13% | Free | Founded 1860; no SAT/ACT required; offers unique Immediate Decision Plan and written essay-based admission; Liberty League NCAA DIII; strong programs in arts, humanities, and social sciences; 18 varsity sports. | |
| 155 | University of Connecticut Storrs, CT |
🎓 Flagship Public | 52.0% | 60.0% EA | 1220–1420 | 28–33 | 3.79 | 4,800 | 15% | Optional | Big East powerhouse with record 62K+ applications for Class of 2029. Launched ED program in 2024. Back-to-back NCAA men's basketball championships (2023-24). Strong engineering, business, and health sciences. 21 varsi… | |
| 156 | Worcester Polytechnic Institute Worcester, MA |
🔬 STEM-Focused Elite | 60.0% | 65.0% ED | 1300–1460 | 30–34 | 3.90 | 1,250 | 18% | Optional | Pioneer of test-optional policy (since 2007). Project-based STEM curriculum with 7-week terms. Offers both ED and EA. NCAA D-III with 20 varsity teams. Strong engineering and CS programs. | |
| 157 | Illinois Wesleyan University Bloomington, IL |
🌿 Selective Liberal Arts | 45.0% | 70.0% EA | 1120–1340 | 25–30 | 3.65 | 395 | 18% | Optional | Strong pre-professional programs (nursing, business, fine arts) within a liberal arts framework; 11:1 student-faculty ratio; EA deadline November 15; not affiliated with Wesleyan University in CT. | |
| 158 | Centre College Danville, KY |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 54.4% | — ED | 1230–1423 | 27–32 | 3.62 | 396 | 19% | Optional | Hosted a 2000 VP debate and a 2012 VP debate; Colleges That Change Lives member; NCAA D3 with over 45% of students competing in varsity athletics. | |
| 159 | Southwestern University Georgetown, TX |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 43.1% | — ED | 1140–1290 | 26–30 | 3.50 | 374 | 14% | Optional | Oldest university in Texas (founded 1840); United Methodist-affiliated; Paideia interdisciplinary curriculum; strong sciences and education; NCAA D-III with football; near Austin metro area. | |
| 160 | Rollins College Winter Park, FL |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 47.5% | — ED | 1210–1360 | 26–31 | 3.46 | 583 | 14% | Optional | Oldest college in Florida (founded 1885); lakefront campus in Winter Park near Orlando; NCAA D2 with 21 varsity teams; strong business and international relations programs. | |
| 161 | Wofford College Spartanburg, SC |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 52.0% | — ED | 1200–1350 | 27–31 | 3.65 | 427 | 18% | Optional | One of the nation's top Phi Beta Kappa chapters; NCAA D1 (Southern Conference) despite small size (~1,800 students); strong liberal arts focus with an innovative Interim term in January. | |
| 162 | Pratt Institute Brooklyn, NY |
🎨 Art & Design | 53.0% | — EA | 1160–1380 | 26–32 | 3.60 | 900 | 20% | Optional | Top art, design, and architecture school in Brooklyn. Portfolio required. Joined Atlantic East Conference (NCAA D-III) in 2024-25. Very high international enrollment (36%). Non-binding early action with Nov 15 deadline. | |
| 163 | Sewanee: The University of the South Sewanee, TN |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 56.9% | — ED | 1236–1398 | 27–32 | 3.78 | 465 | 18% | Optional | 13,000-acre mountaintop campus (The Domain) on the Cumberland Plateau; affiliated with the Episcopal Church; NCAA D3 with 24 varsity sports and over 30% athlete participation. | |
| 164 | Fordham University Bronx, NY |
⭐ Selective Private | 58.0% | 52.0% ED | 1350–1480 | 30–34 | 3.61 | 2,478 | 10% | Optional | Jesuit university in NYC with campuses in the Bronx (Rose Hill) and Manhattan (Lincoln Center). Offers EA, ED I, and ED II. 26% first-gen students. NCAA Division I athletics (Atlantic 10 / Patriot League football). | |
| 165 | University of Tulsa Tulsa, OK |
⭐ Selective Private | 61.5% | — ED | 1220–1530 | 25–34 | 3.56 | 733 | 23% | Optional | Small private research university in Tulsa. Strong petroleum engineering and cybersecurity programs. NCAA Division I (AAC). Offers ED and two EA rounds. Generous merit aid brings net cost down significantly for lower-… | |
| 166 | University of San Diego San Diego, CA |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 52.0% | — EA | 1210–1350 | 27–31 | 3.62 | 1,100 | 12% | Optional | Catholic university (Diocese of San Diego) overlooking Mission Bay. Strong business, nursing, and engineering programs. NCAA Division I (WCC, PFL football). 17 varsity sports. | |
| 167 | University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh, PA |
🏟️ Large Public | 59.0% | — | 1270–1450 | 29–33 | 3.72 | 4,596 | 12% | Optional | Rolling admissions with no EA/ED. Major AAU research university and ACC member. Strong programs in health sciences, engineering, and philosophy. Consistently ranks among top public universities. Record 64K+ applicants… | |
| 168 | University of South Carolina Columbia, SC |
🏟️ Large Public | 61.0% | — EA | 1200–1380 | 26–32 | 3.69 | 7,290 | 26% | Optional | Record 52,708 applicants in 2024. Top-ranked international business program (Darla Moore School). Strong Honors College. Nationally ranked women's basketball and baseball programs. | |
| 169 | Rochester Institute of Technology Rochester, NY |
🔬 STEM-Focused Elite | 67.0% | 78.0% ED | 1300–1460 | 29–34 | 3.70 | 3,042 | 21% | Optional | Large tech university with co-op program. Home to National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID). NCAA D-I hockey, D-III for 22 other sports. ED I (Nov 1) and ED II (Jan 1). About 25% of class enters via ED. | |
| 170 | Hendrix College Conway, AR |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 55.6% | — EA | 1120–1330 | 23–31 | 3.79 | 318 | 18% | Optional | United Methodist-affiliated liberal arts college; known for Odyssey experiential learning program; strong sciences and pre-med; NCAA D-III with football; Colleges That Change Lives member. | |
| 171 | Marist College Poughkeepsie, NY |
⭐ Selective Private | 56.5% | — EA | 1190–1340 | 25–31 | 3.50 | 1,267 | 20% | Optional | Private college along the Hudson River in Poughkeepsie, NY. Strong business, communications, and fashion programs. Study-abroad program in Florence. NCAA Division I (MAAC) with 23 varsity teams. EA only (no ED). Legac… | |
| 172 | DePauw University Greencastle, IN |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 57.0% | — EA | 1200–1410 | 28–32 | 3.70 | 510 | 13% | Optional | Home of the Monon Bell rivalry (oldest college football rivalry west of the Alleghenies vs. Wabash); strong music school and media fellows program; 23 Division III varsity teams; notable alumni include journalists and… | |
| 173 | College of Wooster Wooster, OH |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 60.0% | 63.0% ED | 1220–1460 | 27–33 | 3.69 | 372 | 11% | Optional | Known for its unique Independent Study (IS) program requiring all seniors to complete a year-long thesis; member of the Five Colleges of Ohio consortium and NCAC; 23 varsity sports. | |
| 174 | Pennsylvania State University (University Park) University Park, PA |
🎓 Flagship Public | 61.0% | — Rolling | 1250–1410 | 27–32 | 3.60 | 9,148 | 17% | Optional | Rolling admissions with priority deadline. Major Big Ten research university with 31 varsity sports and strong engineering, business, and meteorology programs. Record 145K+ system-wide applications. Third-largest inco… | |
| 175 | Pepperdine University Malibu, CA |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 63.0% | — EA | 1330–1420 | 30–33 | 3.70 | 843 | 12% | Optional | Church of Christ-affiliated university in Malibu with strong business, communications, and international programs. NCAA Division I (WCC). ED applicants receive additional $2,000/year scholarship. | |
| 176 | Wheaton College Norton, MA |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 63.0% | 84.0% ED | 1250–1420 | 29–33 | 3.72 | 470 | 18% | Optional | Founded 1834; NEWMAC conference NCAA DIII with 21 varsity teams; named after founding consultant Mary Lyon; strong connections to nearby Boston; originally a women's seminary, coeducational since 1988. | |
| 177 | Allegheny College Meadville, PA |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 55.0% | 31.0% ED | 1173–1358 | 25–30 | 3.60 | 289 | 10% | Optional | Requires a double major or major-minor in different divisions; member of the Presidents' Athletic Conference; investing $60M in a new NCAA Division III athletic center; founded in 1815, one of the oldest colleges west… | |
| 178 | Lawrence University Appleton, WI |
🌿 Selective Liberal Arts | 63.0% | — ED | 1200–1430 | 27–32 | 3.60 | 364 | 17% | Optional | Unique combined liberal arts college and conservatory of music (25% study in conservatory); 8:1 student-faculty ratio; Freshman Studies signature program; offers ED and EA with November 1 deadlines. | |
| 179 | Chapman University Orange, CA |
⭐ Selective Private | 65.0% | 74.0% EA | 1280–1410 | 29–33 | 3.65 | 1,631 | 16% | Optional | Private university in Orange County known for Dodge College of Film and Media Arts (top 10 film school). NCAA Division III (SCIAC). 21 varsity sports. Offers EA and ED. | |
| 180 | University of Vermont Burlington, VT |
📚 Regional Public | 65.0% | — EA | 1250–1420 | 28–32 | 3.65 | 2,800 | 17% | Optional | Small flagship in Burlington with strong environmental science, pre-med, and food systems programs. Draws heavily from out-of-state (75%+). Known for outdoors culture and skiing. 18 Division I varsity teams in America… | |
| 181 | American University Washington, DC |
⭐ Selective Private | 65.5% | 79.8% ED | 1300–1430 | 29–32 | 3.77 | 1,660 | 11% | Optional | DC location with strong political science, international relations, and public affairs programs. Patriot League athletics. Offers ED I, ED II, and non-restrictive EA. | |
| 182 | Morehouse CollegeMen's Atlanta, GA |
✊ HBCUs | 44.0% | — ED | 950–1160 | 19–25 | 3.40 | 684 | 24% | Optional | Premier men's HBCU. Part of Atlanta University Center. Notable alumni include MLK Jr., Spike Lee, Samuel L. Jackson. Strong in business and STEM. | |
| 183 | Florida Atlantic University Boca Raton, FL |
🏟️ Large Public | 51.0% | — | 1040–1210 | 20–26 | 3.60 | 4,200 | 20% | Required | Record 47K+ applicants for Fall 2024; gained national visibility from 2023 Final Four basketball run. NCAA Division I in the American Athletic Conference; 18 varsity sports. | |
| 184 | Ohio Wesleyan University Delaware, OH |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 56.0% | 77.0% EA | 1105–1350 | 24–30 | 3.60 | 428 | 15% | Optional | Founded in 1842; strong botany and zoology programs with the Perkins Observatory; member of the NCAC and Five Colleges of Ohio consortium; 24 varsity sports; historic connections to several US presidents. | |
| 185 | Gustavus Adolphus College Saint Peter, MN |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 62.0% | — EA | 1160–1370 | 25–31 | 3.69 | 571 | 18% | Optional | Swedish Lutheran heritage; strong sciences (Nobel Conference is oldest undergraduate science conference in the US); MIAC conference athletics powerhouse; EA deadline November 1. | |
| 186 | Virginia Military Institute Lexington, VA |
🎖️ Military Academies | 72.0% | — | 1090–1270 | 24–31 | 3.65 | 480 | 49% | Required | State-funded public military college (not a federal academy). All students are cadets in the Corps. No service obligation. NCAA Division I (Southern Conference). 17 varsity sports with 644 athletes. Strong ROTC commis… | |
| 187 | University of Minnesota Twin Cities Minneapolis, MN |
🎓 Flagship Public | 77.0% | — EA | 1320–1470 | 27–32 | 3.72 | 7,300 | 22% | Optional | Top-ranked public research university and Big Ten member. Strong programs in engineering, business (Carlson), and health sciences. Urban campus in Minneapolis with proximity to major corporate headquarters. Only 40% o… | |
| 188 | North Carolina A&T State University Greensboro, NC |
✊ HBCUs | 46.0% | — EA | 960–1190 | 17–23 | 3.40 | 2,755 | 19% | Optional | Largest HBCU in the nation by enrollment. NCAA Division I (CAA). Top producer of Black engineers and Black STEM graduates in the U.S. Carnegie R2 research university. Strong nursing and business programs. | |
| 189 | Florida International University Miami, FL |
🏟️ Large Public | 55.0% | — | 1060–1250 | 20–26 | 3.60 | 3,510 | 20% | Required | Largest Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) in the continental US; 64% Hispanic enrollment. Strong international business and hospitality programs. NCAA Division I in Conference USA. | |
| 190 | Beloit College Beloit, WI |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 57.0% | 71.0% EA | 1200–1360 | 25–31 | 3.33 | 224 | 10% | Optional | Progressive tradition; Colleges That Change Lives member; renowned anthropology program with on-campus museum (Logan Museum); strong environmental studies; EA deadline November 1. | |
| 191 | Parsons School of Design New York, NY |
🎨 Art & Design | 57.0% | — ED | 1100–1320 | 24–30 | 3.47 | 900 | 20% | Optional | Part of The New School. Top-ranked design school globally. Programs in fashion, communication, product, and architectural design. 32% international enrollment. Manhattan Greenwich Village location. No preference given… | |
| 192 | Agnes Scott CollegeWomen's Decatur, GA |
🌿 Selective Liberal Arts | 62.0% | — EA | 1160–1330 | 25–31 | 3.71 | 210 | 16% | Optional | Women's college near Atlanta. Known for SUMMIT experiential learning curriculum. NCAA Division III member in Collegiate Conference of the South. Strong STEM programs with 62% students of color. | |
| 193 | University of San Francisco San Francisco, CA |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 62.0% | — EA | 1200–1380 | 25–30 | 3.65 | 920 | 9% | Optional | Jesuit university in San Francisco. NCAA Division I in the West Coast Conference. Highly diverse student body with strong international enrollment. Offers EA and ED. | |
| 194 | SUNY Geneseo Geneseo, NY |
📚 Regional Public | 64.0% | — ED | 1200–1380 | 26–31 | 3.72 | 900 | 11% | Optional | Offers ED and EA. Often called the 'Public Ivy' of SUNY. Small selective public honors college known for strong liberal arts education. Average class size of 23. NCAA Division III (Empire 8 Conference). 19 varsity teams. | |
| 195 | Georgia State University Atlanta, GA |
🏟️ Large Public | 55.0% | — | 1040–1280 | 19–26 | 3.20 | 4,200 | 23% | Optional | Urban research university in downtown Atlanta; one of the most diverse campuses in the US with 39% Black enrollment. National leader in eliminating equity gaps in graduation rates. NCAA Division I (FBS) in the Sun Bel… | |
| 196 | College of Charleston Charleston, SC |
📚 Regional Public | 60.0% | — ED | 1130–1300 | 24–29 | 3.70 | 2,344 | 12% | Optional | Founded 1770, one of America's oldest colleges. Located in historic downtown Charleston. Offers ED I, ED II, and EA. Strong marine biology and historic preservation programs. CAA Conference member. 41% out-of-state en… | |
| 197 | University of Dayton Dayton, OH |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 65.0% | 63.0% EA | 1200–1380 | 26–31 | 3.60 | 1,680 | 12% | Optional | Catholic (Marianist) university in Dayton, OH. Strong in engineering, business, and law. NCAA Division I (Atlantic 10). Known for strong campus community and residential life. | |
| 198 | Hampton University Hampton, VA |
✊ HBCUs | 48.0% | 71.5% EA | 940–1130 | 18–24 | 3.40 | 1,207 | 21% | Optional | Historic HBCU on the Virginia coast. Strong in nursing, business, and architecture. Known for strict dress code and traditional campus culture. | |
| 199 | Augustana College Rock Island, IL |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 65.0% | 83.0% ED | 1130–1380 | 23–29 | 3.55 | 600 | 14% | Optional | Swedish Lutheran heritage in Quad Cities; strong pre-med and biology programs; offers ED and EA with November 15 deadlines; 12:1 student-faculty ratio; 25 varsity sports with high athlete participation. | |
| 200 | Simmons UniversityWomen's Boston, MA |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 66.0% | — EA | 1200–1380 | 27–31 | 3.60 | 380 | 11% | Optional | Women-centered university in Boston's Fenway neighborhood. Undergraduate programs women-only; graduate programs coeducational. NCAA Division III Sharks compete in Great Northeast Athletic Conference. Strong nursing an… | |
| 201 | University of Delaware Newark, DE |
🏟️ Large Public | 70.0% | — EA | 1200–1360 | 26–31 | 3.60 | 4,190 | 19% | Optional | Mid-Atlantic flagship moving to Conference USA for FBS football. Strong chemical engineering, business, and physical therapy programs. Biden's alma mater. Draws 60%+ from out of state. 21 Division I varsity sports wit… | |
| 202 | Gonzaga University Spokane, WA |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 76.0% | — EA | 1280–1410 | 29–32 | 3.70 | 1,280 | 17% | Optional | Jesuit university in Spokane known for elite men's basketball program (perennial March Madness contender). Strong nursing and engineering programs. NCAA Division I in the West Coast Conference. 12:1 student-faculty ra… | |
| 203 | Drake University Des Moines, IA |
⭐ Selective Private | 63.9% | — | 1110–1350 | 24–29 | 3.69 | 618 | 10% | Optional | Private university in Des Moines known for pharmacy, actuarial science, and journalism. Host of the Drake Relays, one of America's premier track and field events. NCAA Division I (Missouri Valley Conference). EA deadl… | |
| 204 | University of California, Santa Cruz Santa Cruz, CA |
🏟️ Large Public | 65.6% | — | 1160–1360 | 24–31 | 3.63 | 4,370 | 9% | Free | UC campus known for research in astrophysics, marine biology, and computer science. Banana Slugs mascot. Redwood-forested campus overlooking Monterey Bay. UC system test-blind through 2025-26. | |
| 205 | Elon University Elon, NC |
📋 Other | 66.0% | — ED | 1130–1320 | 25–30 | 3.70 | 1,800 | 13% | Optional | Known for experiential learning and study abroad (>80% participation). CAA Conference member. U.S. News #1 for undergraduate teaching among national universities. ED deadline Nov 1, EA deadline Dec 1. 96% graduation s… | |
| 206 | Ithaca College Ithaca, NY |
⭐ Selective Private | 69.0% | — ED | 1230–1390 | 27–30 | 3.50 | 1,050 | 12% | Optional | Private college in Ithaca, NY known for communications (Park School), music, physical therapy, and performing arts. NCAA Division III with 28 varsity teams. Offers binding ED (Nov 1) and non-binding EA (Dec 15). Music… | |
| 207 | James Madison University Harrisonburg, VA |
📚 Regional Public | 71.5% | — EA | 1190–1330 | 25–29 | 3.65 | 4,984 | 18% | Optional | Largest public university in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. Sun Belt Conference member. Strong business and health sciences programs. 44,782 applications for Class of 2029, a record. Students from 32 states and 20 coun… | |
| 208 | Muhlenberg College Allentown, PA |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 72.0% | 78.6% ED | 1250–1410 | 29–33 | 3.48 | 466 | 15% | Optional | Test-optional since 1996; Centennial Conference (D-III); strong pre-med and theater programs; 22 varsity sports; 25% of class enrolls via ED. | |
| 209 | University of Houston Houston, TX |
🏟️ Large Public | 73.9% | — | 1160–1340 | 23–29 | 3.58 | 6,218 | 27% | Optional | Big 12 member since 2023. One of the most ethnically diverse major research universities in the U.S. — designated Hispanic-Serving Institution. Strong engineering (Cullen) and business (Bauer) programs. 45% Pell Grant… | |
| 210 | University at Buffalo Buffalo, NY |
🏟️ Large Public | 74.0% | — EA | 1210–1380 | 27–32 | 3.70 | 4,146 | 16% | Optional | Largest and most comprehensive SUNY campus with AAU membership. Strong engineering, pharmacy, dental, and management programs. 16 Division I varsity sports in MAC conference. Large international student population (~2… | |
| 211 | University of Oklahoma Norman, OK |
🏟️ Large Public | 76.6% | — EA | 1140–1330 | 23–29 | 3.62 | 5,593 | 30% | Optional | Largest freshman class in school history (5,593). Recently joined SEC from Big 12. Strong petroleum engineering, meteorology, and dance programs. 49.7% out-of-state freshmen. 537 student-athletes earned record 3.27 cu… | |
| 212 | Creighton University Omaha, NE |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 80.0% | — EA | 1250–1410 | 24–30 | 3.70 | 1,100 | 20% | Optional | Jesuit university in Omaha known for health sciences, business, and law. NCAA Division I (Big East). 82% of students are from out of state. | |
| 213 | Wheaton College Wheaton, IL |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 87.4% | — EA | 1260–1470 | 28–32 | 3.75 | 533 | 30% | Optional | Evangelical Christian liberal arts college; Billy Graham alma mater; requires faith statement for admission; strong sciences and music conservatory; NCAA D-III athletics. | |
| 214 | Tuskegee University Tuskegee, AL |
✊ HBCUs | 48.7% | — | 970–1215 | 18–26 | 3.00 | 787 | 14% | Optional | Historically Black university founded by Booker T. Washington in 1881. NCAA Division II (SIAC). Top-ranked HBCU for engineering and veterinary medicine. Home of the famed Tuskegee Airmen legacy. | |
| 215 | Fisk University Nashville, TN |
✊ HBCUs | 58.0% | — EA | 1060–1360 | 19–25 | 3.30 | 350 | 7% | Optional | Historic HBCU in Nashville. First HBCU admitted to Phi Beta Kappa. Recently transitioned to NAIA D1. Known for arts, sciences, and the Jubilee Singers. | |
| 216 | Wabash CollegeMen's Crawfordsville, IN |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 63.0% | 62.0% EA | 1060–1270 | 23–28 | 3.50 | 229 | 19% | Optional | One of only three remaining all-male liberal arts colleges in the US; known for the Gentleman's Rule honor code; Monon Bell rivalry with DePauw; 13 varsity sports; ~50% of students are varsity athletes. | |
| 217 | Kennesaw State University Kennesaw, GA |
🏟️ Large Public | 69.0% | — | 1030–1220 | 19–25 | 3.30 | 9,117 | 38% | Optional | Third-largest university in Georgia with ~48K students; rapidly growing suburban campus northwest of Atlanta. Transitioned to NCAA Division I FBS in Conference USA in 2024. 18 varsity sports. | |
| 218 | Hollins UniversityWomen's Roanoke, VA |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 70.0% | — EA | 1160–1360 | 24–30 | 3.66 | 180 | 9% | Optional | Women's university in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. NCAA Division III member of Old Dominion Athletic Conference. Renowned creative writing MFA program. Undergraduate women-only; graduate programs coeducational. | |
| 219 | Louisiana State University Baton Rouge, LA |
🏟️ Large Public | 74.0% | — EA | 1150–1330 | 24–30 | 3.65 | 7,925 | 23% | Optional | Flagship Louisiana university with 42,000+ enrollment. Strong petroleum engineering, agriculture, and business programs. Death Valley is one of college football's most iconic stadiums. | |
| 220 | Lewis & Clark College Portland, OR |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 74.2% | 75.0% ED | 1230–1390 | 28–31 | 3.60 | 677 | 12% | Optional | Located on a 137-acre estate in Portland's southwest hills; strong international affairs and environmental studies programs; includes graduate schools of law and education; NCAA D3 with 19 varsity sports in the Northw… | |
| 221 | University of Nebraska-Lincoln Lincoln, NE |
🏟️ Large Public | 77.0% | — Rolling | 1090–1330 | 22–28 | 3.54 | 4,734 | 33% | Optional | Big Ten member since 2011 with storied football tradition. Strong programs in agricultural sciences, engineering, and business. Rolling admissions with priority deadline. 85% of undergrads receive grants or scholarshi… | |
| 222 | Oregon State University Corvallis, OR |
🏟️ Large Public | 77.3% | — | 1160–1390 | 24–31 | 3.70 | 4,778 | 20% | Optional | Land-grant R1 research university. Top programs in forestry, oceanography, nuclear engineering, and ecology. One of only two US universities operating a nuclear reactor for education. Near-equal gender split. | |
| 223 | Indiana University Bloomington Bloomington, IN |
🎓 Flagship Public | 78.0% | — EA | 1180–1390 | 27–32 | 3.60 | 9,600 | 22% | Optional | Flagship Big Ten university with top-ranked Kelley School of Business, Jacobs School of Music, and School of Public Health. Record enrollment of 48,424 in fall 2024. 45% of admitted students applied test-optional. Str… | |
| 224 | University of Missouri Columbia, MO |
🏟️ Large Public | 78.0% | — EA | 1150–1330 | 23–30 | 3.60 | 5,983 | 31% | Optional | First public university west of the Mississippi. Home to the oldest journalism school in the US. Freshman enrollment surged 16% in 2024. Strong journalism, agriculture, and health sciences programs. | |
| 225 | Southern University and A&M College Baton Rouge, LA |
✊ HBCUs | 35.1% | — | 790–1020 | 15–19 | 2.80 | 1,714 | 20% | Required | Flagship of the only HBCU university system in the U.S. NCAA Division I (SWAC). Famous for the 'Human Jukebox' marching band. Strong nursing, engineering, and public policy programs. | |
| 226 | Seton Hall University South Orange, NJ |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 73.0% | — EA | 1220–1390 | 27–31 | 3.50 | 1,601 | 9% | Optional | Catholic (Diocesan) university near NYC in South Orange, NJ. Strong in diplomacy, business, and nursing. NCAA Division I (Big East). Two EA rounds with priority review. | |
| 227 | University of Alabama Tuscaloosa, AL |
🏟️ Large Public | 76.0% | — EA | 1110–1360 | 23–32 | 3.86 | 7,970 | 18% | Optional | Home to a record 362 National Merit Scholars in Class of 2028. Top SEC football program. Strong business, engineering, and nursing programs. 55% out-of-state enrollment. | |
| 228 | Kalamazoo College Kalamazoo, MI |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 76.2% | — ED | 1208–1370 | 26–31 | 3.73 | 370 | 13% | Optional | Known for the K-Plan integrating rigorous academics, career internships, study abroad (85%+ participation), and a Senior Individualized Project; NCAA D-III; strong sciences and international focus. | |
| 229 | University of Denver Denver, CO |
⭐ Selective Private | 77.3% | — ED | 1230–1410 | 28–33 | 3.65 | 1,458 | 11% | Optional | Oldest private university in the Rocky Mountain region. NCAA Division I with 35 national titles (24 skiing, 10 hockey, 1 lacrosse). Offers ED I, ED II, and EA. ED admits receive additional $5K merit aid. Strong intern… | |
| 230 | Drexel University Philadelphia, PA |
📋 Other | 79.0% | 92.0% ED | 1230–1430 | 27–33 | 3.55 | 3,353 | 13% | Optional | Offers ED and EA. Known for its co-op program, one of the oldest and largest in the nation. Five-year bachelor's programs with three six-month co-op placements. Strong engineering, business, and health sciences. NCAA … | |
| 231 | Willamette University Salem, OR |
📋 Other | 79.0% | — EA | 1220–1430 | 27–32 | 3.60 | 420 | 14% | Optional | Oldest university in the West (1842), adjacent to Oregon State Capitol. Strong liberal arts with data science and sustainability programs. NCAA Division III (Northwest Conference). 24% scholar-athletes. EA/ED applican… | |
| 232 | Stonehill College Easton, MA |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 66.0% | 75.0% EA | 1130–1280 | 24–29 | 3.32 | 768 | 14% | Optional | Catholic college (Holy Cross Fathers) near Boston. Recently transitioned to NCAA Division I (Northeast Conference). Offers EA, ED, and rolling admission. Known for strong alumni network in Boston area. | |
| 233 | Siena College Loudonville, NY |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 70.0% | — EA | 1110–1340 | 27–33 | 3.53 | 759 | 13% | Optional | Franciscan Catholic college near Albany, NY. NCAA Division I athletics (MAAC). Offers EA, binding ED, and regular admission. Known for strong business and science programs. | |
| 234 | University of North Florida Jacksonville, FL |
📚 Regional Public | 71.0% | — | 1070–1260 | 20–26 | 3.55 | 2,800 | 21% | Optional | Mid-size regional university in Jacksonville; strong nursing and business programs. NCAA Division I in the ASUN Conference with 19 varsity sports. 1,381-acre nature preserve campus. | |
| 235 | Austin College Sherman, TX |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 71.1% | — ED | 1110–1300 | 23–29 | 3.50 | 357 | 15% | Optional | Presbyterian-affiliated liberal arts college north of Dallas; strong pre-med and international studies programs; 85% of students study abroad; NCAA D-III with football. | |
| 236 | Luther College Decorah, IA |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 73.0% | — EA | 1100–1320 | 22–29 | 3.55 | 345 | 20% | Optional | Norwegian Lutheran liberal arts tradition in the scenic Driftless Area; nationally recognized music program; strong study-abroad participation (70%+); rolling admissions begin October with EA deadline January 1. | |
| 237 | Oklahoma State University Stillwater, OK |
🏟️ Large Public | 75.0% | — | 1030–1240 | 20–27 | 3.55 | 5,030 | 34% | Optional | Big 12 athletics power with dominant wrestling program (34 NCAA titles). Strong agriculture, veterinary medicine, and engineering programs. 94% of beginning undergrads receive grant/scholarship aid. 10.4% multiracial … | |
| 238 | University of Colorado Boulder Boulder, CO |
🏟️ Large Public | 76.0% | — EA | 1190–1400 | 27–33 | 3.50 | 7,432 | 14% | Optional | Flagship Colorado public university. Big 12 member since 2024 (formerly Pac-12). Strong aerospace engineering, physics, and environmental science programs. Located in one of the most desirable college towns in the U.S… | |
| 239 | Loyola University Maryland Baltimore, MD |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 76.0% | — EA | 1210–1370 | 27–31 | 3.55 | 1,100 | 11% | Optional | Offers ED and EA. Jesuit university in Baltimore's Evergreen neighborhood. Strong liberal arts core with two required theology courses. 99% of students receive financial aid. NCAA Division I (Patriot League). Known fo… | |
| 240 | University of Puget Sound Tacoma, WA |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 76.0% | 83.6% ED | 1170–1380 | 27–31 | 3.60 | 409 | 11% | Optional | Test-optional since 2015, an early adopter; strong music conservatory and business programs; 23 NCAA D3 varsity sports in the Northwest Conference; residential campus near Puget Sound waterfront in Tacoma's North End. | |
| 241 | Saint Louis University St. Louis, MO |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 81.0% | — EA | 1210–1430 | 26–31 | 3.70 | 1,700 | 14% | Optional | Jesuit research university in St. Louis. Strong in health sciences, aviation, and public health. NCAA Division I (Atlantic 10). Offers EA with Dec 1 deadline. | |
| 242 | Quinnipiac University Hamden, CT |
📋 Other | 72.2% | — ED | 1150–1320 | 25–30 | 3.50 | 1,917 | 11% | Optional | Private university in Hamden, CT known for health sciences, nursing, PA, and communications programs. Strong ice hockey tradition. NCAA Division I (MAAC). Offers binding ED (Nov 1) and non-binding EA (Nov 15). | |
| 243 | Seattle University Seattle, WA |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 77.0% | — EA | 1160–1360 | 25–31 | 3.55 | 968 | 14% | Optional | Jesuit university in Capitol Hill, Seattle. Strong nursing, computer science, and business programs. NCAA Division I (WAC, rejoining WCC July 2025). 55% BIPOC enrollment. 25% Pell Grant recipients. | |
| 244 | Marquette University Milwaukee, WI |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 81.0% | — EA | 1200–1360 | 26–31 | 3.60 | 2,149 | 14% | Optional | Jesuit university in downtown Milwaukee. Strong nursing, business, and engineering programs. NCAA Division I in the Big East Conference. 31% students of color. 11:1 student-faculty ratio. | |
| 245 | Kansas State University Manhattan, KS |
🏟️ Large Public | 81.9% | — | 1060–1255 | 20–27 | 3.78 | 3,493 | 30% | Optional | Enrollment growing after decade of decline, largest freshman class since 2018. Strong agriculture, veterinary medicine, and architecture programs. Freshmen from 43 states. Big 12 athletics with competitive football un… | |
| 246 | University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT |
🏟️ Large Public | 86.1% | — EA | 1200–1370 | 22–29 | 3.40 | 5,546 | 28% | Optional | Big 12 member since 2024 (formerly Pac-12). Carnegie R1 research university. Strong engineering, computer science, and health sciences programs. Rapidly growing enrollment — 24% surge in first-year students in 2023. L… | |
| 247 | Grambling State University Grambling, LA |
✊ HBCUs | 44.9% | — | 860–1060 | 17–23 | 2.80 | 1,047 | 18% | Optional | Known as 'The World Famed' for its marching band, the Tiger Marching Band. NCAA Division I (SWAC). Legendary football program under Coach Eddie Robinson. Strong mass communications and criminal justice programs. | |
| 248 | Stetson University DeLand, FL |
📋 Other | 72.0% | — ED | 1090–1280 | 21–28 | 3.66 | 700 | 8% | Optional | Private university in central Florida. NCAA Division I in the ASUN Conference and Pioneer Football League. 20 varsity sports. Strong in music, business, and law. Offers ED and EA. | |
| 249 | Sweet Briar CollegeWomen's Sweet Briar, VA |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 72.0% | — EA | 1020–1310 | 21–28 | 3.55 | 130 | 15% | Optional | Women's college on 3,250-acre campus in rural Virginia. NCAA Division III member of ODAC. Nationally recognized equestrian and riding program. Survived near-closure in 2015 through alumnae fundraising campaign. | |
| 250 | Earlham College Richmond, IN |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 73.0% | 84.0% EA | 1110–1290 | 24–33 | 3.50 | 180 | 14% | Optional | Founded by Quakers in 1847; known for consensus-based decision-making and social justice commitment; 19% international students; strong sciences producing more PhD graduates per capita than most peers; member of the H… | |
| 251 | High Point University High Point, NC |
📋 Other | 75.0% | 84.6% ED | 1110–1320 | 23–29 | 3.55 | 1,528 | 12% | Optional | Known as the 'Premier Life Skills University.' Massive campus investment — $3B+ since 2005. ED deadline Nov 1, ED II Feb 1, EA deadline Nov 15. Big South Conference member. 95% of first-time students receive grant/sch… | |
| 252 | University of California, Riverside Riverside, CA |
🏟️ Large Public | 76.4% | — | 1080–1280 | 24–30 | 3.84 | 5,422 | 12% | Free | Most diverse UC campus with 85% students of color. Hispanic-Serving Institution. Strong in entomology, plant sciences, and engineering. #1 in social mobility among R1 universities. | |
| 253 | Eckerd College St. Petersburg, FL |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 78.7% | — EA | 1150–1336 | 24–29 | 3.60 | 450 | 15% | Optional | Waterfront campus on Boca Ciega Bay; strong marine science and environmental studies programs; NCAA D2; known for outdoor learning and study-abroad participation. | |
| 254 | University of Redlands Redlands, CA |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 81.0% | — EA | 1100–1330 | 25–30 | 3.75 | 500 | 16% | Optional | Johnston Center for Integrative Studies offers self-designed majors with contract-based grading; NCAA D3 with 21 varsity sports in SCIAC; Hispanic-Serving Institution; located in the Inland Empire near San Bernardino … | |
| 255 | Samford University Homewood, AL |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 82.0% | — | 1080–1240 | 22–28 | 3.72 | 1,087 | 29% | Optional | Baptist-affiliated university in suburban Birmingham. NCAA Division I in the Southern Conference with 17 varsity sports. 98% graduation success rate (2nd nationally). Known for pharmacy, nursing, and law programs. Rol… | |
| 256 | Iowa State University Ames, IA |
🏟️ Large Public | 88.7% | — | 1120–1360 | 22–28 | 3.75 | 5,906 | 29% | Optional | Leading STEM university with 60.6% of students in STEM majors. Strong engineering and agriculture programs. 9.5% international enrollment. Big 12 athletics with competitive basketball and wrestling programs. | |
| 257 | Arizona State University Tempe, AZ |
🏟️ Large Public | 90.0% | — | 1130–1360 | 22–29 | 3.54 | 17,900 | 34% | Optional | Largest public university by enrollment in the US. #1 in innovation by US News for 9 consecutive years. Strong engineering, business, and sustainability programs. Hispanic-Serving Institution. | |
| 258 | University of Rhode Island Kingston, RI |
📚 Regional Public | 72.0% | 72.0% EA | 1020–1280 | 22–28 | 3.40 | 3,300 | 16% | Optional | Offers EA (non-restrictive). Rhode Island's flagship public university with a coastal campus. Strong programs in pharmacy, ocean engineering, and marine biology. NCAA Division I (Atlantic 10 Conference). 49% of freshm… | |
| 259 | Saint Anselm College Manchester, NH |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 78.0% | — EA | 1110–1280 | 25–27 | 3.48 | 572 | 18% | Optional | Benedictine Catholic liberal arts college in NH. NCAA Division II athletics (Northeast-10 Conference). Hosts the NH Institute of Politics, prominent in presidential primary debates. Offers EA and binding ED. | |
| 260 | Hope College Holland, MI |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 79.2% | — EA | 1120–1330 | 25–32 | 3.75 | 821 | 10% | Optional | Reformed Church in America affiliated; strong STEM and pre-med programs; vibrant campus life with annual Pull tug-of-war and Nykerk traditions; NCAA D-III with 22 varsity sports. | |
| 261 | Temple University Philadelphia, PA |
🏟️ Large Public | 81.0% | 92.0% EA | 1150–1370 | 25–31 | 3.46 | 4,700 | 14% | Optional | Offers EA (non-restrictive). Urban research university in North Philadelphia with strong ties to the city. Record 45K+ applicants for Class of 2029. 62% students of color in Class of 2028. 26% first-generation. NCAA D… | |
| 262 | Savannah College of Art and Design Savannah, GA |
🎨 Art & Design | 83.0% | — | 1050–1280 | 21–28 | 3.56 | 3,650 | 29% | Optional | Largest art and design university in the US with 17K+ students across Savannah, Atlanta, and online. Rolling admissions (no ED/EA). Portfolio-focused admission (70-80% weight). NAIA athletics. 25% international studen… | |
| 263 | University of Iowa Iowa City, IA |
🎓 Flagship Public | 84.0% | — EA | 1130–1320 | 22–28 | 3.55 | 5,561 | 23% | Optional | Top public university known for the Iowa Writers' Workshop, strong healthcare and nursing programs, and the Tippie College of Business. 'No harm' testing policy uses scores only if they help. 52% of first-year student… | |
| 264 | University of Arizona Tucson, AZ |
🏟️ Large Public | 86.1% | — | 1160–1420 | 21–28 | 3.47 | 9,240 | 18% | Optional | R1 research university and land-grant institution. Top programs in astronomy, optics, and planetary sciences. Steward Observatory operates telescopes worldwide. 55% women enrollment. | |
| 265 | University of Hawaii at Manoa Honolulu, HI |
🏟️ Large Public | 86.6% | — | 1130–1350 | 21–29 | 3.69 | 3,123 | 21% | Optional | Flagship university of Hawaii. R1 research institution with strengths in marine biology, astronomy, and Pacific/Asian studies. One of the most ethnically diverse campuses in the US with Asian-majority enrollment. 58% … | |
| 266 | New College of Florida Sarasota, FL |
📚 Regional Public | 74.0% | 50.0% | 1030–1250 | 20–27 | 3.55 | 200 | 14% | Optional | Florida's designated public honors college; small liberal arts model (~880 students). Contract-based curriculum with no traditional grades. Launched NAIA athletics in 2023 with 17 varsity sports (Mighty Banyans). Unde… | |
| 267 | DePaul University Chicago, IL |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 76.0% | — EA | 1090–1300 | 26–31 | 3.50 | 2,566 | 11% | Optional | Largest Catholic university in the US. Jesuit, located in Chicago's Lincoln Park and Loop. Strong in business, communications, and computing. NCAA Division I (Big East). | |
| 268 | The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina Charleston, SC |
🎖️ Military Academies | 80.0% | — | 1080–1250 | 21–27 | 3.50 | 660 | 23% | Optional | State-funded public military college (not a federal academy). South Carolina Corps of Cadets ~2,226. No service obligation. NCAA Division I (Southern Conference). 16 varsity sports. ROTC commissioning available. | |
| 269 | Loyola University Chicago Chicago, IL |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 82.0% | — | 1160–1340 | 27–31 | 3.55 | 2,763 | 9% | Optional | Largest Jesuit university in the US with campuses along Lake Michigan. Known for nursing, social work, and law. Rolling admissions with no EA/ED. NCAA Division I in the Missouri Valley Conference. Famous 2018 Final Fo… | |
| 270 | Butler University Indianapolis, IN |
📋 Other | 85.0% | — EA | 1160–1330 | 25–31 | 3.70 | 1,259 | 14% | Optional | Mid-size private in Indianapolis. Big East Conference member. Known for pharmacy (top-20) and performing arts (Jordan College). ED only for Nursing program. EA deadline Nov 1 with rolling decisions Oct-Dec. Hinkle Fie… | |
| 271 | Manhattan College Bronx, NY |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 79.0% | — ED | 1140–1330 | 22–31 | 3.40 | 626 | 8% | Optional | Lasallian Catholic college in Riverdale, Bronx. NCAA Division I athletics (MAAC). Offers binding ED and rolling admission. Strong engineering school. Recently rebranded as Manhattan University. | |
| 272 | St. John's University Queens, NY |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 83.4% | — | 1150–1340 | 24–30 | 3.50 | 2,350 | 12% | Optional | Catholic (Vincentian) university in Queens, NYC. One of the most ethnically diverse large private universities in the US. Strong pharmacy, education, and business programs. NCAA Division I (Big East). EA deadline Dec … | |
| 273 | Catholic University of America Washington, DC |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 84.0% | — EA | 1110–1340 | 24–30 | 3.45 | 700 | 18% | Optional | Only university founded by U.S. Catholic bishops. Located in northeast DC near Basilica of the National Shrine. Strong architecture and nursing programs. NCAA Division III with 25 sports. 54% women enrollment. | |
| 274 | Michigan State University East Lansing, MI |
🏟️ Large Public | 84.0% | — Rolling | 1100–1310 | 24–30 | 3.55 | 9,700 | 18% | Optional | Major Big Ten research university with top-ranked programs in supply chain, hospitality, education, and nuclear physics. Rolling admissions with priority deadline. One of the nation's largest residence hall systems. S… | |
| 275 | Ursinus College Collegeville, PA |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 87.0% | 95.8% ED | 1160–1360 | 25–31 | 3.48 | 410 | 14% | Optional | Common Intellectual Experience (CIE) first-year seminar; Centennial Conference (D-III); 26 varsity sports; 85% of students participate in athletics; open curriculum with no required major courses. | |
| 276 | University of Oregon Eugene, OR |
🏟️ Large Public | 88.3% | — | 1130–1360 | 22–30 | 3.76 | 5,057 | 14% | Optional | Pac-12 flagship with iconic Phil Knight-funded athletics. Strong in journalism, environmental science, and sports business. Nike co-founded by UO track coach Bill Bowerman. 56% women enrollment. | |
| 277 | University of Kansas Lawrence, KS |
🏟️ Large Public | 93.5% | — | 1090–1280 | 22–28 | 3.68 | 5,323 | 31% | Optional | Record-setting enrollment of 30,770 in fall 2024. Record-high 45% out-of-state freshmen. Storied basketball program (6 national championships). Strong pharmacy, journalism, and aerospace engineering programs. | |
| 278 | Le Moyne College Syracuse, NY |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 83.0% | 76.0% EA | 1140–1300 | 25–30 | 3.40 | 619 | 12% | Optional | Jesuit college in Syracuse, NY. Recently transitioned to NCAA Division I (Northeast Conference). Offers EA and regular admission (no ED). Known for nursing, business, and education programs. | |
| 279 | Saint Joseph's University Philadelphia, PA |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 89.0% | — EA | 1180–1330 | 28–31 | 3.50 | 1,332 | 14% | Optional | Jesuit university in Philadelphia. NCAA Division I athletics (Atlantic 10 Conference). Offers EA and binding ED. Merged with University of the Sciences in 2022. Known for Haub School of Business and strong health scie… | |
| 280 | University of Idaho Moscow, ID |
📚 Regional Public | 79.1% | — | 950–1200 | 20–29 | 3.47 | 1,656 | 19% | Optional | Idaho's land-grant and flagship university. Big Sky Conference athletics. Strong programs in engineering, natural resources, and agriculture. Located in the Palouse region near Washington State University. 51% women. | |
| 281 | Assumption University Worcester, MA |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 83.0% | 92.0% EA | 1110–1250 | 23–28 | 3.48 | 497 | 10% | Optional | Catholic university (Augustinians of the Assumption) in Worcester, MA. NCAA Division II athletics (Northeast-10 Conference). Offers EA and binding ED. Known for strong pre-health and business programs. | |
| 282 | University of Portland Portland, OR |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 89.0% | — EA | 1160–1340 | 25–31 | 3.58 | 710 | 10% | Optional | Holy Cross-affiliated Catholic university in Portland. Strong nursing, engineering, and education programs. NCAA Division I (WCC). Small campus (4,000 students). 65% out-of-state students. | |
| 283 | Belmont University Nashville, TN |
📋 Other | 95.3% | — | 1160–1350 | 24–30 | 3.69 | 1,547 | 18% | Optional | Christian university in Nashville known for music business, songwriting, and entertainment industry programs. Two EA rounds (Nov 1, Dec 1). NCAA Division I (Missouri Valley Conference). 95% acceptance rate but strong … | |
| 284 | Xavier University Cincinnati, OH |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 87.0% | — EA | 1105–1290 | 22–29 | 3.55 | 1,100 | 8% | Optional | Jesuit university in Cincinnati. Strong business, nursing, and education programs. NCAA Division I in the Big East Conference. 11:1 student-faculty ratio. 57% of first-year students receive need-based aid. | |
| 285 | University of New Hampshire Durham, NH |
📚 Regional Public | 88.0% | — EA | 1100–1320 | 26–30 | 3.42 | 2,700 | 14% | Optional | Offers EA (non-restrictive). New Hampshire's flagship public university on a 2,600-acre campus. Strong programs in business, engineering, and marine science. NCAA Division I (America East Conference, football in CAA).… | |
| 286 | University of Kentucky Lexington, KY |
🏟️ Large Public | 92.0% | — EA | 1080–1290 | 21–28 | 3.54 | 6,571 | 22% | Optional | Record enrollment of 36,141 in Fall 2024. 25 varsity athletic teams including storied basketball program. Strong pharmacy, engineering, and nursing programs. | |
| 287 | Clark Atlanta University Atlanta, GA |
✊ HBCUs | 65.0% | — EA | 880–1120 | 16–20 | 3.20 | 1,100 | 6% | Optional | Part of Atlanta University Center consortium with Spelman and Morehouse. NCAA Division II member (SIAC). Strong in mass media arts, business, and education. | |
| 288 | Xavier University of Louisiana New Orleans, LA |
✊ HBCUs | 74.0% | — EA | 930–1130 | 19–25 | 3.50 | 690 | 10% | Optional | Only historically Black and Catholic university in the US. #1 in placing Black students into medical school. Strong pre-pharmacy and STEM programs. | |
| 289 | Linfield University McMinnville, OR |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 88.0% | — EA | 1020–1200 | 20–27 | 3.60 | 454 | 20% | Optional | Small-town Oregon LAC in Willamette Valley wine country; strong NCAA D3 athletics with 21 varsity teams and nationally competitive football program; most diverse incoming class in school history (2024); January term f… | |
| 290 | University of Wyoming Laramie, WY |
📚 Regional Public | 96.9% | — | 1040–1280 | 21–28 | 3.55 | 1,463 | 27% | Optional | Only four-year university in Wyoming. Mountain West Conference athletics with 17 NCAA Division I sports. Strong programs in energy, geology, and atmospheric science. At 7,220 ft, one of the highest-elevation universit… | |
| 291 | Bellarmine University Louisville, KY |
📋 Other | 88.0% | — EA | 1030–1225 | 19–26 | 3.49 | 548 | 16% | Optional | Catholic university in Louisville. NCAA Division I in the ASUN Conference with 25 varsity sports. Recently transitioned from Division II. Strong in nursing, business, and education. Offers EA. | |
| 292 | Northern Arizona University Flagstaff, AZ |
📚 Regional Public | 89.6% | — | 1010–1280 | 20–26 | 3.50 | 4,975 | 16% | Free | Public university in Flagstaff at 7,000 ft elevation. Big Sky Conference athletics with nationally ranked cross-country program. Strong forestry, education, and hospitality programs. 62% women enrollment. | |
| 293 | Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, VA |
📚 Regional Public | 92.6% | — | 1030–1270 | 22–30 | 3.50 | 4,084 | 21% | Optional | Major urban research university in downtown Richmond. Top-ranked arts program (VCUarts). Strong health sciences via VCU Health System. Highly diverse student body — 56% students of color. Atlantic 10 Conference member. | |
| 294 | Loyola University New Orleans New Orleans, LA |
✝️ Jesuit & Catholic | 93.0% | — EA | 1030–1230 | 20–26 | 3.50 | 579 | 12% | Optional | Jesuit university in New Orleans. NAIA Division I member of the Southern States Athletic Conference with 21 varsity sports. Known for music industry studies and law school. Offers EA only (no ED). | |
| 295 | University of New Mexico Albuquerque, NM |
🏟️ Large Public | 95.2% | — | 900–1160 | 19–26 | 3.35 | 3,642 | 31% | Optional | R1 research university and flagship of New Mexico. Hispanic-serving institution with 54% Hispanic enrollment. Strong programs in engineering, health sciences, and Native American studies. Mountain West Conference athl… | |
| 296 | Prairie View A&M University Prairie View, TX |
✊ HBCUs | 79.3% | — | 860–1080 | 16–21 | 2.90 | 1,885 | 18% | Optional | Second-oldest public institution in Texas and member of the Texas A&M University System. NCAA Division I (SWAC). Strong engineering, nursing, and architecture programs. Designated as a national resource. | |
| 297 | Morgan State University Baltimore, MD |
✊ HBCUs | 82.2% | — | 920–1100 | 17–22 | 3.00 | 2,377 | 12% | Optional | Maryland's preeminent public urban research university and largest HBCU in the state. NCAA Division I (MEAC). Carnegie R2 designation. Strong programs in engineering, business, and architecture. | |
| 298 | Randolph CollegeWomen's Lynchburg, VA |
🌱 Mid-Tier Liberal Arts | 95.0% | — EA | 960–1210 | 20–24 | 3.45 | 150 | 10% | Optional | Founded in 1891 as Randolph-Macon Woman's College, became coeducational in 2007 and renamed Randolph College. NCAA Division III member of Old Dominion Athletic Conference. Now 62% women, 38% men. Known for strong scie… | |
| 299 | School of Visual Arts New York, NY |
🎨 Art & Design | 93.0% | — EA | — | — | 3.30 | 604 | 21% | Optional | NYC-based visual arts college with 52% international students from 57 countries. Portfolio-based admission. Programs in illustration, animation, computer art, photography, film, and fine arts. EA applicants get guaran… | |
| 300 | Bethune-Cookman University Daytona Beach, FL |
✊ HBCUs | 89.5% | — | 830–1000 | 15–20 | 2.80 | 702 | 10% | Optional | Founded by Mary McLeod Bethune in 1904. NCAA Division I (SWAC). Known for its marching band 'The Marching Wildcats.' Strong programs in education, nursing, and criminal justice. |