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 colleges, avg accept 12.9% · avg rating 8.7)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
1 9.8
 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 9.8
 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 9.7
 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 9.6
 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 9.5
 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 9.5
 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 9.4
 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 9.4
 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 9.4
 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 9.4
 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 9.3
 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 9.3
 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 9.2
 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 9.1
 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 9.1
 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 9.1
 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 8.9
 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 8.9
 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 8.8
 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 8.8
 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 8.7
 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 8.6
 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 8.6
 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 8.4
 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 8.4
 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 8.3
 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 8.2
 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 8.1
 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 7.4
 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 7.0
 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 6.8
 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 6.5
 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 6.2
 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 (9 colleges, avg accept 37.2% · avg rating 7.3)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
2 9.8
 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 9.0
 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 8.7
 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 8.5
 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 6.5
 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 6.0
 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 5.9
 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 5.8
 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 5.5
 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 (11 colleges, avg accept 20.6% · avg rating 7.8)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
40 8.6
 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 8.5
 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 8.5
 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 8.2
 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 8.0
 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 7.9
 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 7.9
 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 7.8
 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 7.2
 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 7.1
 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 6.4
 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 (20 colleges, avg accept 51.8% · avg rating 6.1)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
83 7.3
 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 7.2
 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 7.0
 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 6.9
 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 6.9
 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 6.8
 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 6.7
 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 6.6
 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 6.1
 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 6.0
 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 6.0
 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 6.0
 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 6.0
 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 5.9
 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 5.9
 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 5.8
 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 5.4
 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 5.2
 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 4.7
 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 4.2
 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 (42 colleges, avg accept 61.4% · avg rating 5.1)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
80 7.3
 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 7.2
 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 6.7
 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 6.7
 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 6.6
 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 6.5
 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 6.4
 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 6.3
 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 6.2
 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 6.2
 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 6.2
 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 5.5
 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 5.5
 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 5.2
 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 5.1
 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 5.0
 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 4.9
 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 4.8
 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 4.8
 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 4.8
 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 4.8
 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 4.7
 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 4.7
 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 4.7
 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 4.7
 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 4.7
 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 4.6
 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 4.5
 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 4.5
 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 4.4
 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 4.4
 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 4.3
 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 4.3
 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 4.3
 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 4.2
 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 4.2
 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 4.2
 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 4.0
 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 4.0
 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 4.0
 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 3.7
 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 3.2
 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 (14 colleges, avg accept 70.8% · avg rating 4.6)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
101 6.9
 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 6.2
 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 5.3
 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 5.1
 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 5.0
 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 4.8
 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 4.5
 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 4.2
 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 4.1
 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 3.8
 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 3.7
 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 3.6
 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 3.5
 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 3.5
 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 (15 colleges, avg accept 48.4% · avg rating 6.0)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
72 7.8
 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 7.7
 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 7.7
 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 7.4
 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 6.3
 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 6.3
 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 5.8
 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 5.6
 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 5.6
 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 5.4
 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 5.3
 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 5.3
 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 4.8
 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 4.8
 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 4.6
 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 (35 colleges, avg accept 69.7% · avg rating 4.9)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
71 7.8
 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 7.0
 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 6.8
 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 6.8
 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 6.3
 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 6.2
 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 6.2
 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 6.1
 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 5.5
 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 5.4
 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 5.1
 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 5.0
 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 4.9
 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 4.8
 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 4.8
 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 4.6
 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 4.5
 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 4.5
 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 4.5
 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 4.5
 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 4.4
 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 4.4
 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 4.3
 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 4.2
 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 4.1
 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 4.1
 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 4.0
 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 4.0
 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 4.0
 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 3.9
 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 3.9
 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 3.8
 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 3.8
 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 3.7
 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 3.3
 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 (29 colleges, avg accept 17.6% · avg rating 8.2)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
11 9.4
 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 9.0
 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 9.0
 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 9.0
 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 8.9
 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 8.9
 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 8.8
 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 8.8
 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 8.8
 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 8.7
 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 8.6
 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 8.5
 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 8.5
 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 8.5
 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 8.5
 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 8.2
 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 8.2
 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 8.2
 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 8.1
 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 8.0
 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 8.0
 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 8.0
 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 7.4
 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 7.3
 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 7.2
 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 7.2
 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 7.2
 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 7.1
 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 7.0
 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 (16 colleges, avg accept 36.6% · avg rating 6.7)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
53 8.3
 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 7.9
 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 7.7
 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 7.5
 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 7.3
 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 7.0
 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 6.9
 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 6.7
 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 6.7
 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 6.5
 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 6.2
 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 6.1
 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 6.1
 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 5.7
 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 5.3
 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 5.1
 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 (39 colleges, avg accept 61.5% · avg rating 5.2)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
67 7.9
 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 7.1
 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 6.4
 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 6.3
 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 6.3
 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 6.0
 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 5.8
 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 5.8
 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 5.7
 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 5.6
 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 5.6
 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 5.6
 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 5.6
 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 5.4
 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 5.4
 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 5.4
 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 5.4
 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 5.3
 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 5.2
 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 5.2
 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 5.1
 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 4.9
 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 4.9
 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 4.8
 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 4.7
 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 4.7
 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 4.7
 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 4.6
 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 4.5
 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 4.5
 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 4.5
 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 4.3
 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 4.3
 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 4.3
 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 4.3
 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 4.2
 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 4.0
 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 3.6
 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 3.0
 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 (14 colleges, avg accept 55.8% · avg rating 4.4)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
112 6.6
 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 5.9
 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 5.2
 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 5.1
 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 4.9
 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 4.7
 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 4.7
 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 4.6
 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 4.3
 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 3.6
 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 3.6
 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 3.0
 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 3.0
 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 2.2
 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 (7 colleges, avg accept 34.5% · avg rating 7.3)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
26 8.9
 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 8.9
 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 8.8
 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 8.0
 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 7.1
 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 5.2
 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 4.1
 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 (7 colleges, avg accept 54.1% · avg rating 5.6)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
48 8.5
 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 6.5
 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 6.2
 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 5.6
 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 5.1
 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 4.2
 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 2.8
 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 (9 colleges, avg accept 79.1% · avg rating 4.3)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
205 4.8
 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 4.6
 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 4.6
 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 4.4
 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 4.3
 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 4.3
 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 4.1
 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 3.8
 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 3.5
 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 9.8
 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 9.8
 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 9.8
 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 9.7
 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 9.6
 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 9.5
 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 9.5
 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 9.4
 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 9.4
 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 9.4
 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 9.4
 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 9.4
 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 9.3
 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 9.3
 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 9.2
 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 9.1
 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 9.1
 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 9.1
 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 9.0
 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 9.0
 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 9.0
 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 9.0
 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 8.9
 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 8.9
 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 8.9
 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 8.9
 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 8.9
 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 8.9
 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 8.8
 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 8.8
 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 8.8
 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 8.8
 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 8.8
 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 8.8
 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 8.7
 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 8.7
 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 8.7
 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 8.6
 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 8.6
 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 8.6
 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 8.6
 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 8.5
 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 8.5
 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 8.5
 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 8.5
 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 8.5
 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 8.5
 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 8.5
 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 8.5
 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 8.4
 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 8.4
 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 8.3
 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 8.3
 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 8.2
 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 8.2
 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 8.2
 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 8.2
 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 8.2
 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 8.1
 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 8.1
 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 8.0
 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 8.0
 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 8.0
 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 8.0
 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 8.0
 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 7.9
 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 7.9
 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 7.9
 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 7.9
 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 7.8
 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 7.8
 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 7.8
 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 7.7
 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 7.7
 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 7.7
 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 7.5
 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 7.4
 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 7.4
 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 7.4
 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 7.3
 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 7.3
 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 7.3
 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 7.3
 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 7.2
 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 7.2
 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 7.2
 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 7.2
 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 7.2
 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 7.2
 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 7.1
 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 7.1
 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 7.1
 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 7.1
 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 7.0
 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 7.0
 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 7.0
 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 7.0
 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 7.0
 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 6.9
 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 6.9
 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 6.9
 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 6.9
 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 6.8
 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 6.8
 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 6.8
 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 6.8
 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 6.7
 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 6.7
 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 6.7
 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 6.7
 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 6.7
 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 6.6
 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 6.6
 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 6.6
 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 6.5
 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 6.5
 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 6.5
 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 6.5
 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 6.5
 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 6.4
 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 6.4
 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 6.4
 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 6.3
 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 6.3
 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 6.3
 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 6.3
 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 6.3
 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 6.3
 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 6.2
 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 6.2
 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 6.2
 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 6.2
 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 6.2
 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 6.2
 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 6.2
 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 6.2
 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 6.2
 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 6.1
 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 6.1
 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 6.1
 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 6.1
 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 6.0
 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 6.0
 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 6.0
 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 6.0
 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 6.0
 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 6.0
 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 5.9
 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 5.9
 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 5.9
 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 5.9
 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 5.8
 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 5.8
 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 5.8
 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 5.8
 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 5.8
 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 5.7
 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 5.7
 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 5.6
 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 5.6
 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 5.6
 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 5.6
 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 5.6
 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 5.6
 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 5.6
 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 5.5
 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 5.5
 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 5.5
 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 5.5
 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 5.4
 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 5.4
 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 5.4
 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 5.4
 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 5.4
 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 5.4
 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 5.4
 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 5.3
 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 5.3
 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 5.3
 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 5.3
 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 5.3
 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 5.2
 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 5.2
 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 5.2
 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 5.2
 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 5.2
 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 5.2
 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 5.1
 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 5.1
 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 5.1
 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 5.1
 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 5.1
 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 5.1
 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 5.1
 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 5.0
 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 5.0
 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 5.0
 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 4.9
 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 4.9
 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 4.9
 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 4.9
 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 4.9
 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 4.8
 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 4.8
 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 4.8
 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 4.8
 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 4.8
 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 4.8
 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 4.8
 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 4.8
 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 4.8
 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 4.8
 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 4.8
 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 4.7
 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 4.7
 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 4.7
 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 4.7
 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 4.7
 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 4.7
 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 4.7
 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 4.7
 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 4.7
 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 4.7
 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 4.7
 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 4.6
 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 4.6
 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 4.6
 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 4.6
 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 4.6
 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 4.6
 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 4.6
 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 4.5
 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 4.5
 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 4.5
 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 4.5
 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 4.5
 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 4.5
 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 4.5
 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 4.5
 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 4.5
 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 4.5
 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 4.4
 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 4.4
 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 4.4
 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 4.4
 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 4.4
 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 4.3
 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 4.3
 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 4.3
 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 4.3
 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 4.3
 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 4.3
 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 4.3
 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 4.3
 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 4.3
 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 4.3
 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 4.3
 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 4.2
 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 4.2
 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 4.2
 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 4.2
 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 4.2
 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 4.2
 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 4.2
 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 4.2
 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 4.1
 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 4.1
 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 4.1
 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 4.1
 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 4.1
 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 4.0
 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 4.0
 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 4.0
 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 4.0
 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 4.0
 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 4.0
 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 4.0
 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 3.9
 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 3.9
 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 3.8
 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 3.8
 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 3.8
 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 3.8
 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 3.7
 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 3.7
 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 3.7
 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 3.6
 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 3.6
 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 3.6
 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 3.6
 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 3.5
 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 3.5
 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 3.5
 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 3.3
 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 3.2
 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 3.0
 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 3.0
 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 3.0
 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 2.8
 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 2.2
 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.