Library › College Overview

College Overview

Selectivity ratings, admit rates, SAT/GPA, yield, and testing policy for every college in the research dataset · Class of 2029 data · Compiled 2026-03.

342
Total Colleges
192
In Simulation
150
Research-Only
14
Categories
49.8%
Avg Accept Rate
Elite Private (34)STEM-Focused Elite (2)Public Elite (5)Flagship Public (1)Large Public (16)Regional Public (13)Selective Private (20)Jesuit & Catholic (25)Top Liberal Arts (37)Selective Liberal Arts (7)Mid-Tier Liberal Arts (31)HBCUs (13)Military Academies (7)Art & Design (7)Other (124)

Elite Private (34 colleges, avg accept 9.8% · avg rating 8.9)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
2 9.8
 Harvard UniversitySIM
Cambridge, MA
 4.2% 8.7% REA 1510–1580 33–35 3.95 1,675 84% Test_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
 4.4% 10.5% REA 1470–1560 33–35 3.95 1,408 75% Test_Optional No longer publishes early action acceptance rates separately. Test-optional through 2026-27 cycle; will require SAT/ACT starting 2027-28 (Class of 2032+).
6 9.5
 University of PennsylvaniaSIM
Philadelphia, PA
 4.9% 13.3% ED 1510–1570 34–35 3.93 2,420 68% Test_Required Will require standardized tests starting Class of 2030. Wharton business school is most competitive division.
7 9.5
 Brown UniversitySIM
Providence, RI
 5.6% 16.5% ED 1480–1560 33–35 3.93 1,742 73% Test_Required Open curriculum. Reinstated testing requirement for C/O 2029. Recruited athletes account for ~1/3 of ED acceptances.
8 9.4
 Yale UniversitySIM
New Haven, CT
 4.2% 10.9% REA 1480–1560 33–35 3.95 1,633 68% Test_Flexible Now requires standardized testing (reinstated for C/O 2029). Open curriculum within Yale College.
9 9.4
 Dartmouth CollegeSIM
Hanover, NH
 5.8% 17.0% ED 1440–1560 33–35 3.91 1,175 71% Test_Required Smallest Ivy. Strong Greek life and outdoors culture. ED acceptance rate 3x+ overall rate.
12 9.3
 Columbia UniversitySIM
New York, NY
 4.2% 13.2% ED 1510–1560 34–36 3.93 1,483 61% Test_Optional No longer publishes specific ED acceptance rates. Located in NYC, strong pre-professional culture.
15 9.3
 Cornell UniversitySIM
Ithaca, NY
 8.4% 18.8% ED 1490–1550 33–35 3.90 3,827 63% Test_Required Largest Ivy. Has both private and state-funded (contract) colleges. Acceptance rate varies by college from ~4% to ~18%.
16 9.2
 Northwestern UniversitySIM
Evanston, IL
 7.4% 20.0% ED 1510–1560 34–35 3.92 2,139 58% Test_Optional ED acceptance rate is ~3x overall rate. Strong for journalism (Medill) and performing arts.
17 9.2
 University of Notre DameSIM
Notre Dame, IN
 9.0% 12.9% 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.
18 9.2
 New York UniversitySIM
New York, NY
 9.2% 16.0% ED 1470–1570 33–35 3.87 5,723 60% Test_Optional Global university with campuses in NYC, Abu Dhabi, and Shanghai. ED fills large portion of class. Strong for business and arts.
20 9.1
 Bowdoin CollegeSIM
Brunswick, ME
 6.5% 13.1% ED 1470–1540 33–35 3.90 557 58% Test_Optional Test-optional pioneer (since 1969). Strong commitment to need-blind admissions. Coastal Maine campus.
21 9.0
 Pomona CollegeSIM
Claremont, CA
 7.1% 13.0% ED 1500–1550 33–35 3.92 420 50% Test_Optional Top LAC in Claremont Consortium. Access to classes at all 5 Claremont colleges. Strong sciences and humanities.
22 9.0
 Claremont McKenna CollegeSIM
Claremont, CA
 9.4% 22.1% ED 1480–1540 33–35 3.90 335 51% Test_Optional Part of Claremont Consortium. Known for economics, government, and finance. Small class sizes.
24 8.9
 Colby CollegeSIM
Waterville, ME
 8.0% 32.0% ED 1470–1530 32–34 3.88 630 49% Test_Optional Small LAC in Maine. Recently eliminated loans from financial aid packages. Strong sciences.
25 8.9
 Rice UniversitySIM
Houston, TX
 8.0% 11.3% ED 1510–1560 34–36 3.96 1,263 43% Test_Optional ED I rate 13.2%, ED II rate 6.0%. Residential college system. Smaller campus feel.
27 8.9
 Carnegie Mellon UniversitySIM
Pittsburgh, PA
 11.1% 20.6% ED 1500–1560 34–36 3.91 1,804 47% Test_Required Top for CS/Engineering/Fine Arts. Acceptance rate varies dramatically by school (SCS ~3%, CFA ~8%, etc.).
29 8.9
 Washington University in St. LouisSIM
St. Louis, MO
 12.0% 25.3% ED_EA 1490–1550 33–35 3.95 1,963 47% Test_Optional ED I and ED II offered. Strong pre-med and research. Generous financial aid.
30 8.8
 Amherst CollegeSIM
Amherst, MA
 6.8% 22.2% ED 1500–1560 33–35 3.92 480 40% Test_Optional Open curriculum. Need-blind admissions. One of top 3 LACs. ED fills ~40% of class.
31 8.8
 Swarthmore CollegeSIM
Swarthmore, PA
 7.5% 17.8% ED 1480–1550 33–35 3.90 426 44% Test_Optional Rigorous academics. Honors program with seminar-style learning. Engineering program rare for a LAC.
32 8.8
 Williams CollegeSIM
Williamstown, MA
 8.6% 26.6% ED 1490–1550 33–35 3.93 567 42% Test_Optional #1 LAC. ED rate 26.6% vs 7.3% RD. Small classes, tutorial system.
34 8.8
 Tufts UniversitySIM
Medford, MA
 10.8% 32.0% ED 1460–1520 33–35 3.90 1,765 49% Test_Optional ED I and ED II offered. Known for 'demonstrated interest' factor. International relations strength.
40 8.6
 Emory UniversitySIM
Atlanta, GA
 10.3% 31.0% ED 1480–1540 33–35 3.88 1,443 37% Test_Optional ED I and ED II offered. Strong pre-med. Two campuses (Emory College and Oxford College).
41 8.6
 University of Southern CaliforniaSIM
Los Angeles, CA
 11.2% 8.4% ED_EA 1470–1540 32–35 3.86 3,759 40% Test_Optional Large private research university. Strong film school (SCA). Urban LA campus. Good alumni network.
42 8.6
 Davidson CollegeSIM
Davidson, NC
 12.6% 29.1% ED 1410–1500 32–34 3.86 531 47% Test_Optional Small LAC in North Carolina. Honor code tradition. Strong pre-med and sciences.
43 8.6
 Boston CollegeSIM
Chestnut Hill, MA
 12.7% 30.0% ED 1440–1520 33–35 3.87 2,350 45% Test_Optional Catholic Jesuit university. EA rate ~30% vs 10% RD. Strong for business and pre-law.
45 8.6
 Wellesley CollegeSIM
Wellesley, MA
 14.8% 29.4% ED 1460–1540 33–35 3.92 576 46% Test_Optional Premier women's college. Cross-registration with MIT. Strong alumnae network.
46 8.5
 Georgetown UniversitySIM
Washington, DC
 13.5% 10.0% EA 1405–1530 32–35 3.90 1,589 44% Test_Required Requires SAT/ACT. EA rate actually LOWER than RD rate (unusual). Catholic Jesuit university. Strong for policy/government.
48 8.5
 Hamilton CollegeSIM
Clinton, NY
 13.6% 28.1% ED 1440–1510 33–35 3.90 478 40% Test_Optional Open curriculum. Strong writing program. Rural upstate New York campus.
54 8.4
 Middlebury CollegeSIM
Middlebury, VT
 18.0% 30.0% ED 1460–1530 33–34 3.88 640 42% Test_Optional ED I + ED II. ED rate ~30% vs ~5% RD - one of biggest ED advantages. Known for languages and environmental studies.
55 8.3
 Tulane UniversitySIM
New Orleans, LA
 14.0% 59.0% ED_EA 1430–1500 32–34 3.78 1,838 40% Test_Optional Known for public health and Latin American studies. EA rate very high (~59%) but RD very competitive (~6%).
56 8.3
 Babson CollegeSIM
Wellesley, MA
 16.0% 27.5% ED_EA 1410–1500 31–34 3.90 692 39% Test_Optional #1 in entrepreneurship for 30+ consecutive years. All students take the signature Foundations of Management and Entrepreneurship course where they create and run a real business.
58 8.2
 Boston UniversitySIM
Boston, MA
 12.8% 31.3% ED 1420–1510 33–34 3.70 3,449 35% Test_Optional Major private research university in Boston. Returning to test-required for 2025-26 cycle. Strong in communications, business, and health sciences. Median SAT 1470.
77 7.6
 University of RichmondSIM
Richmond, VA
 22.2% 33.0% ED_EA 1420–1490 33–34 3.80 857 23% Test_Optional Highly selective university combining liberal arts with business and leadership studies. Full-ride scholarship program (Richmond Scholars) and one of the largest endowments per student among non-Ivy schools.

STEM-Focused Elite (2 colleges, avg accept 17.5% · avg rating 8.6)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
39 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…
52 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…

Public Elite (5 colleges, avg accept 27.8% · avg rating 7.5)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
49 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.
60 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.
92 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.
95 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, …
126 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 (1 colleges, avg accept 34.0% · avg rating 7.3)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
87 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).

Large Public (16 colleges, avg accept 55.3% · avg rating 5.2)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
112 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
120 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…
125 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
133 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.
138 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
186 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…
200 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.
216 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…
230 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…
239 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…
247 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.
265 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 …
276 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…
277 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…
298 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% …
335 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 (13 colleges, avg accept 71.2% · avg rating 4.5)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
106 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.
139 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…
212 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.
217 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…
237 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…
262 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.
293 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…
299 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…
314 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.
324 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).…
329 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…
331 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.
332 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 (20 colleges, avg accept 41.9% · avg rating 6.4)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
64 8.0
 Wesleyan UniversitySIM
Middletown, CT
 16.4% 42.8% ED 1350–1510 32–35 3.85 825 34% Test_Optional Progressive LAC. Film and music programs. Open curriculum. Known for intellectual diversity.
66 8.0
 Colgate UniversitySIM
Hamilton, NY
 17.5% 19.5% ED 1450–1510 33–35 3.86 805 27% Test_Optional Rural upstate NY. Strong alumni network. Known for liberal arts and business.
68 8.0
 Wake Forest UniversitySIM
Winston-Salem, NC
 20.8% 35.0% ED 1420–1490 32–34 3.82 1,544 38% Test_Optional Mid-size private in North Carolina. Strong business program. Test-optional since 2008. Early Action is offered only to first-generation college students.
75 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…
76 7.7
 Villanova UniversitySIM
Villanova, PA
 27.4% 59.8% ED_EA 1410–1500 32–34 3.93 1,779 32% Test_Optional Selective Catholic university outside Philadelphia. 87% of admits from top 10% of HS class. Known for business (VSB), engineering, and nursing. Test-optional through Class of 2031.
79 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
80 7.4
 University of MiamiSIM
Coral Gables, FL
 22.0% 44.0% ED_EA 1340–1450 31–34 3.70 2,400 26% Test_Required Top private research university in Coral Gables, FL. Strong marine science, business, and pre-med programs. ~60% of admits submitted test scores under test-optional policy.
86 7.3
 Lehigh UniversitySIM
Bethlehem, PA
 29.0% 47.4% ED 1380–1480 31–34 3.70 1,535 27% Test_Optional Private university in Bethlehem, PA known for strong engineering and business programs. 26% acceptance rate with growing selectivity. Integrated business and engineering (IBE) program is distinctive.
107 6.9
 Case Western Reserve UniversitySIM
Cleveland, OH
 35.3% 25.0% ED_EA 1440–1530 32–34 3.70 1,663 12% Test_Optional Elite private research university in Cleveland. Top-ranked biomedical engineering, nursing, and medical programs adjacent to University Hospitals and Cleveland Clinic.
136 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…
137 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.
168 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…
174 5.6
 Howard UniversitySIM
Washington, DC
 42.2% 51.0% ED_EA 1050–1270 20–26 3.66 2,490 16% Test_Optional Preeminent HBCU and R1 research university. Produced more African-American PhDs than any other university. Strong in communications, political science, and health sciences.
183 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-…
190 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…
197 5.3
 American University
Washington, DC
 65.5% 79.8% ED 1300–1430 29–32 3.77 1,662 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.
221 5.0
 Pepperdine UniversitySIM
Malibu, CA
 69.4% 49.9% ED_EA 1240–1410 28–32 3.70 999 11% Test_Optional Christian university in Malibu, CA with stunning coastal campus. Known for Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution (top law program) and strong business school. Test-optional.
234 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…
235 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…
257 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 (25 colleges, avg accept 70.8% · avg rating 4.7)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
74 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.
98 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.
110 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.
152 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.
185 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.
211 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.
219 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.
253 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.
259 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.
261 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.
266 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…
271 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.
274 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.
288 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…
294 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.
300 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).
307 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.
308 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 …
309 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.
312 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.
313 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…
315 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.
318 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.
323 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.
334 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 (37 colleges, avg accept 33.0% · avg rating 7.1)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
10 9.4
 Barnard CollegeSIM
New York, NY
 10.1% 33.1% ED 1480–1540 32–35 3.95 702 67% Test_Optional Premier women's college affiliated with Columbia University. Students can cross-register at Columbia and access shared campus resources while benefiting from small-college community.
37 8.7
 Harvey Mudd CollegeSIM
Claremont, CA
 12.3% 18.4% ED 1500–1560 35–36 3.95 236 37% Test_Optional Ultra-selective STEM-focused college within the Claremont Consortium. Produces the highest percentage of STEM PhDs of any undergraduate institution. Graduates earn top starting salaries.
38 8.7
 Haverford CollegeSIM
Haverford, PA
 12.4% 29.0% ED 1470–1540 33–35 3.93 387 43% Test_Optional Quaker-founded college known for its academic Honor Code (students self-schedule unproctored exams). Part of the Tri-College Consortium with Bryn Mawr and Swarthmore. Exceptionally close faculty-student relationships.
47 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.
59 8.2
 Grinnell CollegeSIM
Grinnell, IA
 14.5% 34.7% ED 1410–1530 32–35 3.88 438 31% Test_Optional Self-governance tradition and open curriculum with no distribution requirements. One of the wealthiest LACs per student ($2B+ endowment for ~1,700 students), enabling generous need-blind aid.
61 8.1
 Bates CollegeSIM
Lewiston, ME
 14.8% 33.5% ED 1325–1510 31–34 3.88 493 34% Test_Optional Pioneer of test-optional admissions (since 1984). Known for rigorous academics, strong sense of community, and the annual Bates-Bowdoin-Colby rivalry (CBB consortium).
62 8.1
 Vassar CollegeSIM
Poughkeepsie, NY
 18.6% 31.0% ED 1450–1540 32–35 3.90 665 29% Test_Optional Former elite women's college (went co-ed 1969) known for eclectic, independent student body and interdisciplinary academics. Strong film, drama, and cognitive science programs. Meryl Streep's alma mater.
63 8.1
 Carleton CollegeSIM
Northfield, MN
 21.8% 34.6% ED 1460–1530 32–35 3.90 518 35% Test_Optional Elite liberal arts college with the highest rate of PhD production per capita among U.S. colleges. Known for trimester system and exceptionally strong STEM and social science programs.
65 8.0
 College of the Holy CrossSIM
Worcester, MA
 17.0% 55.0% ED 1250–1410 28–33 3.81 835 49% Test_Optional Oldest Catholic college in New England and the only exclusively undergraduate Jesuit school. Strong alumni network (Justice Clarence Thomas, Dr. Anthony Fauci) and Division I athletics.
70 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).
71 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 7.5
 Denison UniversitySIM
Granville, OH
 19.5% 24.8% ED 1270–1420 28–33 3.85 623 26% Test_Optional Liberal arts college with exceptional career outcomes and alumni network. Known for strong communication, cinema, and data analytics programs in a quintessential college town.
81 7.4
 Colorado CollegeSIM
Colorado Springs, CO
 22.1% 35.6% ED_EA 1240–1430 28–34 3.95 510 26% Test_Optional Distinctive Block Plan where students take one course at a time for 3.5 weeks, allowing deep immersion and field research. Located at the base of Pikes Peak.
82 7.4
 Skidmore CollegeSIM
Saratoga Springs, NY
 23.8% 42.4% ED 1360–1460 31–34 3.80 692 24% Test_Optional 'Creative Thought Matters' motto reflects the integration of arts, sciences, and social sciences. Known for strong studio art, dance, and business programs in a charming Adirondack-adjacent town.
84 7.3
 Macalester CollegeSIM
Saint Paul, MN
 26.0% 40.0% ED_EA 1350–1480 30–33 3.85 534 22% Test_Optional Distinctively international liberal arts college — roughly 15% international students from 90+ countries. Known for civic engagement, strong economics program, and urban Twin Cities location.
85 7.3
 Bryn Mawr CollegeSIM
Bryn Mawr, PA
 28.1% 41.3% ED 1300–1470 29–33 3.82 329 27% Test_Optional Prestigious women's college in the Tri-College Consortium with Haverford and Swarthmore. Known for academic rigor, honor code, and strong STEM programs unusual for a women's college.
88 7.2
 Trinity CollegeSIM
Hartford, CT
 29.0% 45.0% ED 1310–1450 29–33 3.80 547 27% Test_Optional Second-oldest college in Connecticut (1823). Known for urban liberal arts education, strong alumni network in finance and government, and distinctive Long Walk Gothic campus.
90 7.2
 Kenyon CollegeSIM
Gambier, OH
 30.2% 34.8% ED 1400–1495 31–34 3.84 412 19% Test_Optional Literary powerhouse home to the Kenyon Review, one of the world's most prestigious literary journals. Alumni include Paul Newman, Allison Janney, and John Green. Swimming dynasty with 30+ NCAA titles.
93 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.
94 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.
96 7.1
 Lafayette CollegeSIM
Easton, PA
 31.2% 38.0% ED 1360–1490 30–33 3.80 696 21% Test_Optional Known for combining liberal arts with engineering. Hosts the longest-running rivalry in college football (vs. Lehigh since 1884). Strong alumni network in finance and engineering.
99 7.0
 Reed CollegeSIM
Portland, OR
 29.2% 15.2% ED_EA 1320–1490 29–34 3.88 342 12% Test_Blind Intensely academic college famous for its required year-long humanities course and mandatory senior thesis. Steve Jobs attended briefly. Produces more future PhDs per capita than all but Caltech and Harvey Mudd.
100 7.0
 Oberlin CollegeSIM
Oberlin, OH
 34.0% 38.7% ED_EA 1360–1530 30–34 3.70 701 19% Test_Optional First coeducational college in the U.S. and first to regularly admit Black students (1835). World-class Conservatory of Music integrated with liberal arts. Strong progressive tradition.
118 6.6
 Bucknell UniversitySIM
Lewisburg, PA
 32.2% 54.7% ED 1170–1360 25–32 3.62 1,037 28% Test_Optional Distinctive combination of liberal arts and strong engineering/management programs. Known for beautiful campus along the Susquehanna River and close-knit community.
121 6.6
 Dickinson CollegeSIM
Carlisle, PA
 41.5% 56.8% ED 1340–1440 29–32 3.80 485 20% Test_Optional Founded by Benjamin Rush, signer of the Declaration of Independence. Known for global education with study-abroad programs in every continent and strong sustainability commitment.
124 6.5
 St. Olaf CollegeSIM
Northfield, MN
 43.4% 55.0% ED_EA 1320–1440 28–32 3.73 794 25% Test_Optional Lutheran-affiliated college renowned for its music program (the St. Olaf Choir is world-famous). Strong STEM and study-abroad participation (one of the highest rates in the country).
127 6.4
 Gettysburg CollegeSIM
Gettysburg, PA
 40.1% 37.7% ED_EA 1270–1460 27–32 3.82 497 16% Test_Optional Historic liberal arts college on the site of the Civil War's turning point. Known for strong alumni network, engaged learning, and high percentage of students doing undergraduate research.
128 6.4
 Whitman CollegeSIM
Walla Walla, WA
 40.2% 21.0% ED_EA 1330–1470 29–33 3.69 373 13% Test_Optional Pacific Northwest liberal arts college known for debate, outdoor culture, and strong sciences. Known for close faculty mentoring and the annual tradition of climbing nearby Whitman Monument.
135 6.3
 Union CollegeSIM
Schenectady, NY
 43.4% 48.9% ED 1320–1470 30–34 3.70 465 12% Test_Optional First college to offer engineering alongside liberal arts (1845). Known for its Minerva House residential system, trimester calendar, and strong alumni loyalty. Beautiful Jackson's Garden campus.
147 6.2
 Rhodes CollegeSIM
Memphis, TN
 51.5% 54.6% ED_EA 1360–1470 28–32 3.82 494 17% Test_Optional Gothic collegiate campus consistently ranked among the most beautiful in America. Strong pre-med program with clinical partnerships at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital across the street.
149 6.1
 Connecticut CollegeSIM
New London, CT
 39.2% 40.7% ED_EA 1160–1370 26–32 3.81 459 16% Test_Optional Known for interdisciplinary pathways linking courses, internships, and study abroad into integrated plans. Beautiful hilltop campus overlooking the Thames River and Long Island Sound.
159 5.9
 Centre CollegeSIM
Danville, KY
 48.2% 61.4% ED_EA 1203–1410 26–31 3.73 357 18% Test_Optional Small liberal arts college producing Rhodes Scholars at a rate rivaling Ivy League schools. Known for the Centre Commitment guaranteeing internship, study abroad, and graduation in 4 years.
160 5.9
 Furman UniversitySIM
Greenville, SC
 48.7% 73.3% ED_EA 1280–1410 29–33 3.70 552 12% Test_Optional Leading liberal arts university in the South with the signature Furman Advantage program integrating research, internships, and mentoring. Beautiful 750-acre campus with a lake and bell tower.
161 5.9
 Bard CollegeSIM
Annandale-on-Hudson, NY
 52.1% 65.0% ED_EA 1300–1412 28–33 3.75 493 16% Test_Optional Progressive liberal arts college known for its individualized curriculum, strong arts programs, and intellectual rigor. Requires a senior project equivalent to a graduate thesis.
182 5.6
 Sewanee: The University of the SouthSIM
Sewanee, TN
 56.9% 69.7% ED_EA 1260–1390 26–32 3.71 470 18% Test_Optional Officially 'The University of the South,' set on a 13,000-acre mountaintop Domain. Known for its honor code, formal academic dress traditions, and environmental stewardship. Rhodes Scholar pipeline.
213 5.1
 Sarah Lawrence CollegeSIM
Bronxville, NY
 66.0% 49.6% ED_EA 1238–1378 28–32 3.75 350 13% Test_Optional Unique tutorial system where students design their own curricula with faculty advisors. No grades on transcripts (narrative evaluations instead). Exceptionally strong writing, theater, and arts programs.
233 4.9
 Wheaton CollegeSIM
Wheaton, IL
 87.0% 94.0% EA 1260–1470 27–33 3.80 533 30% Test_Optional Premier evangelical Christian liberal arts college. Known as the 'Harvard of Christian schools.' Billy Graham's alma mater. Strong programs in biblical studies, music, and communications.

Selective Liberal Arts (7 colleges, avg accept 45.5% · avg rating 6.1)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
104 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.
113 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.
114 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…
141 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.
169 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.
196 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.
210 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 (31 colleges, avg accept 65.4% · avg rating 4.9)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
72 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…
165 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.
175 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.
177 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.
178 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.
189 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.
191 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…
192 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.
193 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.
195 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…
201 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.
202 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.
206 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.
227 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.
228 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…
238 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.
246 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.
248 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.
249 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…
256 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.
263 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.
264 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.
267 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.
281 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.
282 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…
285 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.
287 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 …
295 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.
310 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.
327 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…
338 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 (13 colleges, avg accept 56.9% · avg rating 4.3)

# Rating College Overall Admit Early Admit SAT Mid 50% ACT Mid 50% Avg GPA Class Size Yield Testing Notes
117 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.
199 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.
204 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.
225 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.
244 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.
245 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.
252 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.
279 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.
325 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.
326 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.
336 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.
337 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.
342 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…
28 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…
35 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.
69 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.
97 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).…
203 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…
301 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
51 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.
123 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…
140 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…
180 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.
207 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…
296 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…
341 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 (124 colleges, avg accept 57.6% · avg rating 5.7)

# 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
 3.8% 7.2% REA 1520–1570 34–36 3.96 1,839 80% Test_Required 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 34–35 3.95 1,726 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 9.8
 Massachusetts Institute of TechnologySIM
Cambridge, MA
 4.6% 6.0% EA 1520–1570 34–35 3.96 1,152 86% Test_Required No legacy preference. Need-blind for all applicants including internationals. Strongest STEM hook.
11 9.3
 California Institute of TechnologySIM
Pasadena, CA
 3.8% 6.0% REA 1530–1570 35–36 3.97 218 59% Test_Required Smallest elite university. Reinstated testing requirement for C/O 2029. Most STEM-focused school. No legacy preference.
13 9.3
 Duke UniversitySIM
Durham, NC
 4.7% 13.8% ED 1510–1570 34–35 3.94 1,750 60% Test_Optional ED fills ~50% of class. Strong athletics recruitment. Southern elite culture.
14 9.3
 Vanderbilt UniversitySIM
Nashville, TN
 5.3% 13.2% ED 1500–1570 34–35 3.89 1,600 61% Test_Optional Record-low 4.7% overall rate for Class of 2029. RD rate only 3.3%. ED I + ED II offered.
19 9.1
 Johns Hopkins UniversitySIM
Baltimore, MD
 6.1% 10.9% ED 1530–1570 34–36 3.94 1,297 51% Test_Optional Offers ED I and ED II. Combined ED acceptance rate ~10.5%. Top pre-med reputation.
23 8.9
 Northeastern UniversitySIM
Boston, MA
 5.6% 40.0% ED_EA 1450–1520 33–35 3.90 2,759 53% Test_Optional Co-op program (work experience integrated into degree). Very low acceptance rate driven by application volume.
33 8.8
 University of California, Los AngelesSIM
Los Angeles, CA
 10.8% — — — 3.90 6,553 48% Test_Blind Test-blind - does not consider SAT/ACT at all. UC system application. Most applied-to university in the US. No early round.
36 8.7
 University of California, BerkeleySIM
Berkeley, CA
 11.4% — — — 3.90 6,687 46% Test_Blind Test-blind (UC system). Top public university for CS, engineering, and natural sciences.
44 8.6
 Georgia Institute of TechnologySIM
Atlanta, GA
 12.8% 12.6% EA 1370–1530 31–35 3.95 4,100 46% Test_Required Top engineering and CS school. Strong co-op and internship programs. Urban Atlanta campus.
50 8.5
 University of MichiganSIM
Ann Arbor, MI
 15.6% 22.0% ED_EA 1360–1530 31–35 3.90 7,290 47% Test_Optional Huge in-state advantage (39% vs 16% OOS). EA round is de facto binding for competitive applicants. Rolling admissions after EA.
53 8.4
 University of VirginiaSIM
Charlottesville, VA
 15.6% 16.1% EA 1410–1540 32–35 3.88 3,986 40% Test_Optional Public flagship. In-state advantage (~23% vs ~12.5% OOS). Strong liberal arts within a public university.
57 8.3
 University of North Carolina at Chapel HillSIM
Chapel Hill, NC
 16.7% 16.0% EA 1400–1530 29–34 3.88 5,091 40% Test_Optional Flagship NC public. Strong business (Kenan-Flagler) and journalism schools. In-state advantage.
67 8.0
 University of FloridaSIM
Gainesville, FL
 20.3% 22.0% ED_EA 1330–1490 29–33 3.92 7,619 41% Test_Required Flagship FL public. Large research university. Strong engineering and pre-health programs.
73 7.9
 University of Texas at AustinSIM
Austin, TX
 22.2% 27.0% EA 1230–1480 29–34 3.83 9,900 49% Test_Required Flagship TX public. Top 6% auto-admit for TX residents. Strong engineering and business.
83 7.4
 Florida State UniversitySIM
Tallahassee, FL
 23.8% — ED_EA 1300–1410 29–32 3.70 6,559 32% Test_Required Florida flagship rising rapidly in rankings. EA available only for Florida residents. Strong business, film, and music programs.
89 7.2
 University of GeorgiaSIM
Athens, GA
 29.8% 31.4% EA 1250–1420 27–33 3.70 6,273 38% Test_Required Georgia's flagship and one of the most selective publics (38% overall). EA rate: 42% in-state, 23% out-of-state (31% blended). Known for business (Terry), ecology, and veterinary medicine.
91 7.2
 University of Illinois Urbana-ChampaignSIM
Champaign, IL
 36.6% 39.0% EA 1390–1520 31–34 3.85 9,207 30% Test_Optional Top CS and engineering programs. Large international student population. Strong STEM research.
101 7.0
 College of William & MarySIM
Williamsburg, VA
 37.0% 49.8% ED 1390–1520 32–34 3.70 1,639 26% Test_Optional Second-oldest college in America. Known as a 'Public Ivy' with strong liberal arts tradition and growing data science/CS programs. 77% of freshmen from top 10% of HS class.
102 7.0
 University of Wisconsin-MadisonSIM
Madison, WI
 40.8% 45.0% EA 1400–1490 29–33 3.90 8,495 28% Test_Optional Flagship WI public. Strong STEM, business, and social sciences. Big Ten campus culture.
103 7.0
 Yeshiva UniversitySIM
New York, NY
 55.6% — ED 1340–1500 29–32 3.70 610 61% Test_Required_For_Some Orthodox Jewish university in NYC. Dual religious and secular curriculum. Small undergraduate class with strong pre-med and pre-law pipelines.
105 6.9
 University of California, IrvineSIM
Irvine, CA
 28.9% — 1240–1410 26–33 3.95 6,421 18% Test_Blind Test-blind UC campus. Strong CS, engineering, and game design programs. Located in Orange County tech corridor.
108 6.8
 University of California, San DiegoSIM
La Jolla, CA
 27.2% 27.2% — — 3.70 7,801 20% Test_Blind Test-blind UC campus with top-tier STEM programs, especially bioengineering, CS, and marine biology. Highly selective among UC schools.
109 6.8
 North Carolina State UniversitySIM
Raleigh, NC
 39.5% 48.0% EA 1310–1440 28–32 3.70 5,906 30% Test_Optional North Carolina's STEM flagship. Returning to test-required for 2025-26. Strong engineering, textiles, and computer science. Part of Research Triangle with Duke and UNC.
111 6.8
 Brigham Young UniversitySIM
Provo, UT
 68.6% — 1290–1430 28–32 3.90 6,743 81% Test_Optional LDS Church-affiliated university with extremely low tuition for members. One of the highest yield rates in the nation (over 80%). Honor code governs student conduct.
115 6.7
 University of WashingtonSIM
Seattle, WA
 41.8% — 1320–1502 30–34 3.83 7,129 23% Test_Blind Flagship WA public. Strong CS and engineering. Urban Seattle campus. No early round.
116 6.7
 University of Maryland, College ParkSIM
College Park, MD
 45.0% 45.0% EA 1410–1520 32–35 3.70 6,559 22% Test_Optional Top public university near D.C. with strong CS, engineering, and business programs. Very high median SAT (1465). Strong research connections to federal agencies and tech corridor.
119 6.6
 Binghamton University (SUNY)SIM
Binghamton, NY
 37.3% 41.8% EA 1320–1480 31–34 3.70 3,201 14% Test_Optional Highly selective SUNY campus known as a 'Public Ivy.' Strong business (SOM), engineering, and pre-med programs. Best value among SUNY schools.
122 6.6
 University of RochesterSIM
Rochester, NY
 41.9% 41.8% ED 1400–1510 31–34 3.70 1,231 14% Test_Optional Private research university known for Eastman School of Music, Simon Business School, and optics/engineering. Only 36% of enrolled students submitted test scores (test-optional).
129 6.4
 University of Central FloridaSIM
Orlando, FL
 42.8% — 1220–1350 25–30 3.70 8,103 32% Test_Required One of the largest universities in the US by enrollment. Strong engineering, optics/photonics, and simulation programs near NASA/Kennedy Space Center. Rolling admissions with priority period.
130 6.4
 Purdue UniversitySIM
West Lafayette, IN
 43.4% 54.0% EA 1220–1470 28–34 3.76 9,656 25% Test_Required Top engineering school. Strong CS and aviation programs. Large campus in Indiana.
131 6.4
 University of Tennessee, KnoxvilleSIM
Knoxville, TN
 43.6% 35.7% EA 1280–1380 26–31 3.70 7,143 30% Test_Required Tennessee's flagship with surging selectivity (42% acceptance rate, record applicants). Strong in supply chain, nuclear engineering, and business. SEC university with massive alumni network.
132 6.4
 Brandeis UniversitySIM
Waltham, MA
 45.4% 35.6% ED_EA 1370–1470 31–34 3.70 744 17% Test_Optional Research university founded in 1948 as the only nonsectarian Jewish-sponsored institution. Strong in social policy, neuroscience, and international economics.
134 6.3
 Clemson UniversitySIM
Clemson, SC
 42.4% 35.7% EA 1250–1400 28–32 3.80 5,084 18% Test_Optional Top-ranked public university in South Carolina. Strong engineering, business, and agriculture programs. Competitive admissions (38% rate) with robust school spirit and SEC athletics.
142 6.2
 Syracuse UniversitySIM
Syracuse, NY
 46.0% 66.0% ED_EA 1290–1420 28–32 3.70 3,839 19% Test_Optional Known for Newhouse School of Public Communications (top-ranked). Strong architecture, information studies, and Maxwell School of Citizenship. ED offered with ~60% early rate.
143 6.2
 George Washington UniversitySIM
Washington, DC
 47.1% 66.0% ED 1310–1450 31–34 3.70 2,405 19% Test_Optional Private university in downtown Washington, D.C. Strong political science, international affairs, and public health programs. Unmatched internship access to government and policy organizations.
144 6.2
 Southern Methodist UniversitySIM
Dallas, TX
 47.6% 60.4% ED_EA 1340–1480 30–34 3.70 1,715 15% Test_Optional Dallas-area private university with strong business (Cox), engineering, and data science programs. Now in the ACC. Test-optional through 2025 cycle.
145 6.2
 Santa Clara UniversitySIM
Santa Clara, CA
 47.9% 50.0% ED_EA 1330–1470 29–33 3.70 1,641 17% Test_Optional Silicon Valley Jesuit university with strong engineering and business programs. Exceptional career placement due to proximity to tech industry. Offers ED and EA with ~50% early acceptance rate.
146 6.2
 Stevens Institute of TechnologySIM
Hoboken, NJ
 50.7% 69.8% ED_EA 1370–1470 32–34 3.70 1,104 21% Test_Optional Small STEM-focused university in Hoboken, NJ with Manhattan skyline views. Excellent outcomes in finance, engineering, and CS. 12% of students are varsity athletes.
148 6.1
 San Diego State UniversitySIM
San Diego, CA
 37.4% 36.0% none 1130–1340 23–29 3.70 6,911 19% Test_Blind Test-blind CSU campus with no EA/ED. Strong business, engineering, and health sciences. Largest and most selective CSU campus.
150 6.1
 University of South FloridaSIM
Tampa, FL
 40.7% 43.2% 1160–1340 25–29 3.70 6,730 23% Test_Required Rising Florida research university with no EA/ED. Strong health sciences, engineering, and marine science.
151 6.1
 University of California, Santa BarbaraSIM
Santa Barbara, CA
 44.0% 44.0% 1250–1460 27–33 3.70 5,081 12% Test_Blind Test-blind UC campus. Top physics and materials science programs. Beachfront campus with strong research output.
153 6.1
 Loyola Marymount UniversitySIM
Los Angeles, CA
 45.1% 44.1% EA 1280–1400 29–32 3.70 1,608 18% Test_Optional Jesuit university in Los Angeles with strong film/TV (LMU School of Film), business, and engineering programs. Beautiful campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
154 6.1
 Auburn UniversitySIM
Auburn, AL
 46.9% 44.0% EA 1280–1370 26–31 3.70 6,112 22% Test_Optional Alabama's largest university with record-breaking enrollment growth 7 years running. Strong engineering, agriculture, and veterinary medicine programs.
155 6.1
 Fordham UniversitySIM
New York, NY
 47.0% 51.6% ED_EA 1340–1480 30–33 3.70 2,968 10% Test_Optional Jesuit university with campuses in the Bronx and Lincoln Center, Manhattan. Known for law, business, and media studies. 74% of enrollees did not submit test scores.
156 6.1
 Stony Brook University (SUNY)SIM
Stony Brook, NY
 48.2% 70.5% EA 1350–1470 30–34 3.70 3,964 13% Test_Optional Top SUNY research university and AAU member. Strong STEM programs, especially in physics and computer science. Test-optional with 49% acceptance rate.
157 6.1
 Texas A&M UniversitySIM
College Station, TX
 51.7% — 1160–1390 24–32 3.70 12,484 38% Test_Optional Texas flagship with automatic admission for top 10% Texas residents. Rolling admissions, no formal EA/ED. Massive enrollment and strong engineering.
158 6.1
 Virginia Polytechnic InstituteSIM
Blacksburg, VA
 55.0% 58.0% EA 1280–1450 28–32 3.93 7,289 25% Test_Optional Strong engineering and CS. Large research university. Corps of Cadets tradition.
162 5.9
 Rutgers University, New BrunswickSIM
New Brunswick, NJ
 58.1% 58.1% EA 1310–1500 28–33 3.70 8,191 21% Test_Optional New Jersey flagship public. Offers non-binding EA with Nov 1 deadline. Strong pharmacy, business, and engineering programs.
163 5.9
 University of Massachusetts AmherstSIM
Amherst, MA
 59.9% 61.2% EA 1330–1480 30–34 3.99 5,315 17% Test_Optional Massachusetts flagship with non-binding EA. Strong CS (top-20 nationally), business, and engineering programs.
164 5.9
 Colorado School of MinesSIM
Golden, CO
 60.7% — EA 1320–1480 29–33 3.70 1,602 25% Test_Optional Top-ranked STEM-focused public university specializing in engineering and applied sciences. Only 31% women; strong industry placement in energy, tech, and aerospace.
166 5.8
 University of California, DavisSIM
Davis, CA
 44.6% — — — 3.70 6,804 18% Test_Blind Test-blind UC campus. Strong in agriculture, veterinary science, and biological sciences. Large suburban campus near Sacramento.
167 5.8
 Texas Christian UniversitySIM
Fort Worth, TX
 48.1% 68.1% ED_EA 1110–1330 26–31 3.70 2,754 25% Test_Optional Private university in Fort Worth with strong business (Neeley School) and nursing programs. Known for small class sizes and high student engagement.
170 5.7
 University of ConnecticutSIM
Storrs, CT
 54.4% 46.6% ED 1260–1420 29–32 3.70 4,663 14% Test_Optional Connecticut flagship with binding ED (unusual for a public). Strong business, engineering, and health sciences.
171 5.7
 University of PittsburghSIM
Pittsburgh, PA
 59.5% — none 1280–1470 29–33 3.88 5,876 15% Test_Optional Top public research university with elite medical school and strong engineering. Rolling admissions — no separate early action rate published. $1B+ medical/health research portfolio.
172 5.7
 Ohio State UniversitySIM
Columbus, OH
 60.6% 55.0% EA 1280–1430 26–32 3.70 9,607 23% Test_Required One of the largest and most comprehensive public universities. Strong engineering, business (Fisher), and medical programs. 64% of freshmen from top 10% of HS class.
173 5.7
 Worcester Polytechnic InstituteSIM
Worcester, MA
 61.9% 68.9% ED_EA 1340–1480 29–33 3.70 1,300 17% Test_Optional Test-blind STEM university with distinctive project-based curriculum (no traditional lectures in upper years). Every student completes a Major Qualifying Project. Strong engineering and CS.
176 5.6
 California State University, Long BeachSIM
Long Beach, CA
 45.4% 46.3% none — — 3.70 5,884 15% Test_Blind Test-blind CSU campus with no EA/ED. Impacted campus with competitive admissions. Strong nursing, engineering, film, and arts programs.
179 5.6
 Baylor UniversitySIM
Waco, TX
 52.2% 76.7% ED_EA 1190–1370 26–32 3.64 3,552 15% Test_Optional Baptist university in Waco, TX with record-low 39% acceptance rate. Over 31% of freshmen report legacy connections. Strong pre-med and business. Offers EA and ED.
181 5.6
 University of South CarolinaSIM
Columbia, SC
 56.5% — EA 1200–1360 26–32 3.70 7,818 23% Test_Optional SEC flagship with top-ranked international business program (Darla Moore School). Guarantees admission to top 10% of SC high school classes. Strong Honors College.
184 5.6
 Rensselaer Polytechnic InstituteSIM
Troy, NY
 67.2% 57.9% ED_EA 1380–1500 31–34 3.80 1,394 14% Test_Optional Oldest technological research university in the US (founded 1824). Strong CS, engineering, and game design programs. High ROI for STEM graduates in the Northeast.
187 5.5
 Pennsylvania State University, University ParkSIM
University Park, PA
 60.6% 71.0% EA 1250–1410 26–31 3.84 9,169 15% Test_Optional One of the largest universities in the US with massive alumni network. Strong engineering, business (Smeal), and meteorology programs. $1B+ annual research expenditure.
188 5.4
 Illinois Institute of TechnologySIM
Chicago, IL
 55.4% 68.0% ED_EA 1190–1390 26–32 3.70 519 11% Test_Optional Private STEM-focused university on Chicago's South Side with Mies van der Rohe-designed campus. 27% international students; strong in CS, engineering, and architecture.
194 5.4
 New Jersey Institute of TechnologySIM
Newark, NJ
 65.1% — EA 1235–1460 28–31 3.70 1,700 19% Test_Optional New Jersey's science and technology university. Strong computer science, engineering, and cybersecurity programs. High ROI for STEM graduates in the NYC metro area.
198 5.3
 American UniversitySIM
Washington, DC
 65.6% 80.0% ED_EA 1320–1440 30–33 3.70 1,545 11% Test_Optional Private university in Washington DC with binding ED. ~80% ED acceptance rate. Strong international relations, public policy, and communications.
205 5.1
 University of San DiegoSIM
San Diego, CA
 53.6% — ED_EA — — 3.70 1,300 14% Test_Blind Catholic university overlooking Mission Bay with strong business, nursing, and engineering programs. Test-blind policy since 2023; known for beautiful campus setting.
208 5.1
 Florida International UniversitySIM
Miami, FL
 60.9% — EA 1070–1260 22–27 3.70 5,854 27% Test_Required Largest university in South Florida and top Hispanic-serving institution. Strong in international business, hospitality, and STEM. Rapidly growing research profile.
209 5.1
 University of San FranciscoSIM
San Francisco, CA
 61.7% — ED_EA 1200–1380 26–31 3.70 920 8% Test_Optional Jesuit university in downtown San Francisco. Strong in nursing, business, and CS. Diverse student body with significant international enrollment.
214 5.1
 Rochester Institute of TechnologySIM
Rochester, NY
 71.1% 72.8% ED_EA 1310–1440 30–34 3.70 2,959 13% Test_Optional Top-tier computing, engineering, and design school; home to the National Technical Institute for the Deaf. Strong co-op program with 3,800+ employer partners.
215 5.1
 University of VermontSIM
Burlington, VT
 73.0% 72.6% ED_EA 1300–1430 29–33 3.85 2,810 15% Test_Optional Vermont's flagship public university in Burlington with strong environmental science, health, and liberal arts programs. 72.6% early action acceptance rate vs. 65% overall.
218 5.0
 Elon UniversitySIM
Elon, NC
 63.3% 86.1% ED_EA 1190–1340 25–31 3.70 1,333 11% Test_Optional Private liberal arts-oriented university in NC nationally recognized for undergraduate teaching, engaged learning, and study abroad participation (>75% of students).
220 5.0
 University of Texas at DallasSIM
Richardson, TX
 69.1% — 1170–1390 24–32 3.70 4,948 20% Test_Optional Texas public research university with strong STEM and business programs. Texas top-10% auto-admit law applies. Fast-growing enrollment and rising selectivity.
222 5.0
 Chapman UniversitySIM
Orange, CA
 72.1% 62.0% ED_EA 1255–1420 28–32 3.70 1,727 16% Test_Optional Rising private university in Orange County with a top-ranked Dodge College of Film and Media Arts. Strong student satisfaction and experiential learning emphasis.
223 5.0
 University of Maryland, Baltimore CountySIM
Baltimore, MD
 74.0% 61.1% EA 1250–1400 26–31 3.70 2,271 21% Test_Optional Known for Meyerhoff Scholars program producing top minority STEM PhDs. #1 Most Innovative school by US News multiple times. Strong CS and engineering.
224 5.0
 University of Minnesota, Twin CitiesSIM
Minneapolis, MN
 78.9% — EA 1310–1460 26–32 3.70 7,180 21% Test_Optional Big Ten flagship with EA deadlines. Strong STEM, business (Carlson), and health sciences. Twin Cities metro campus.
226 4.9
 CUNY City CollegeSIM
New York, NY
 58.0% — 1070–1430 22–28 3.20 2,700 14% Test_Optional Historic public college in Harlem, NYC -- 'the poor man's Harvard.' Extremely affordable. Strong engineering and architecture programs.
229 4.9
 Drexel UniversitySIM
Philadelphia, PA
 69.9% 95.5% ED_EA 1260–1430 28–33 3.70 1,948 7% Test_Optional Known for largest co-op program in the US (6-month paid work experiences). Strong engineering, nursing, and information science programs in downtown Philadelphia.
231 4.9
 University of DelawareSIM
Newark, DE
 70.6% 70.0% EA 1180–1370 27–31 3.70 4,424 16% Test_Optional Delaware's flagship public university with strong chemical engineering and finance programs. Test-optional; only 19% of enrollees submitted SAT scores.
232 4.9
 Louisiana State UniversitySIM
Baton Rouge, LA
 73.0% 73.0% N/A 1180–1320 24–30 3.83 7,912 23% Test_Required_For_Some Louisiana's flagship with legendary football culture (Death Valley stadium). Strong petroleum engineering, agriculture, and veterinary medicine programs. Mike the Tiger lives on campus.
236 4.8
 University of AlabamaSIM
Tuscaloosa, AL
 71.2% 77.0% N/A 1100–1360 22–31 3.86 8,127 18% Test_Optional Flagship public university known for generous merit scholarships that attract top out-of-state students. Consistently one of the most popular schools for National Merit Scholars.
240 4.8
 Miami UniversitySIM
Oxford, OH
 75.0% 80.0% ED_EA 1240–1378 25–30 3.85 4,192 14% Test_Optional The 'Cradle of Coaches' — produced more football coaches than any other school. Founded 1809, older than the state of Ohio. Strong Farmer School of Business and a quintessential college town.
241 4.8
 Saint Louis UniversitySIM
St. Louis, MO
 75.0% — ED_EA 1200–1410 23–31 3.80 1,338 14% Test_Optional Jesuit research university in St. Louis with strong health sciences. Net cost notably flat across income brackets due to generous institutional aid.
242 4.8
 Indiana University BloomingtonSIM
Bloomington, IN
 75.9% 85.8% EA 1200–1410 28–33 3.70 10,127 18% Test_Optional Flagship Big Ten university known for Kelley School of Business, Jacobs School of Music, and strong liberal arts. 45% of admits applied test-optional.
243 4.8
 University of MissouriSIM
Columbia, MO
 78.0% — 1140–1340 23–30 3.70 5,953 31% Test_Optional Missouri flagship (Mizzou) with rolling admissions, no EA/ED. Top journalism school in the country. Strong business and health sciences.
250 4.7
 University of Colorado BoulderSIM
Boulder, CO
 75.9% 80.0% EA 1180–1390 26–32 3.70 7,106 16% Test_Optional AAU flagship with top aerospace engineering and physics programs (CU Boulder has more astronaut alumni than most schools). Strong environmental science. Early acceptance rate ~84%.
251 4.7
 University of OklahomaSIM
Norman, OK
 77.6% — EA 1160–1310 23–28 3.70 6,229 27% Test_Optional Oklahoma flagship with non-binding EA for priority scholarship. Strong meteorology, petroleum engineering, and business programs.
254 4.6
 Loyola University ChicagoSIM
Chicago, IL
 75.1% — EA 1220–1390 26–31 3.70 2,605 8% Test_Optional Largest Jesuit university in the US, located in Chicago. Strong nursing, pre-med, and psychology programs.
255 4.6
 University of HoustonSIM
Houston, TX
 75.8% — 1140–1310 22–28 3.49 6,669 25% Test_Optional Tier One public research university in Houston. Strong engineering, business, and optometry. One of the most ethnically diverse research universities in the US.
258 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…
260 4.5
 University at Albany (SUNY)SIM
Albany, NY
 69.1% — EA 1160–1310 24–30 3.30 2,830 13% Test_Optional SUNY research university with SUNY Top 10% Promise auto-admit. Strong in criminal justice, public administration, and nanoscale science. Test-optional.
268 4.5
 Oregon State UniversitySIM
Corvallis, OR
 78.9% 77.0% EA 1128–1360 24–31 3.70 4,452 19% Test_Optional Leading research university for forestry, oceanography, and environmental sciences. Only school in Oregon to hold land-grant, sea-grant, space-grant, and sun-grant designations.
269 4.5
 University of IowaSIM
Iowa City, IA
 79.9% — EA 1130–1320 21–28 3.83 5,561 22% Test_Optional Iowa flagship with non-binding EA. Top creative writing program (Iowa Writers' Workshop). Strong healthcare, business, and liberal arts.
270 4.5
 University at Buffalo (SUNY)SIM
Buffalo, NY
 80.6% 84.2% EA 1210–1380 27–31 3.70 5,155 14% Test_Optional Largest SUNY campus and AAU member. Strong in engineering, pharmacy, and biomedical sciences. Significant research university with urban campus in western New York.
272 4.5
 Gonzaga UniversitySIM
Spokane, WA
 81.7% — EA 1190–1385 26–31 3.70 1,251 17% Test_Optional Jesuit university in Spokane, WA known for basketball. Added Early Action starting 2024-2025. Test-optional since 2020.
273 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).
275 4.4
 Marquette UniversitySIM
Milwaukee, WI
 81.3% — EA 1220–1350 26–31 3.70 2,149 14% Test_Optional Jesuit university in Milwaukee with strong business and engineering programs. Test-optional; offers Early Action only.
278 4.4
 Iowa State UniversitySIM
Ames, IA
 87.9% — 1153–1360 21–28 3.70 6,160 28% Test_Optional Iowa STEM-focused land-grant university with rolling admissions, no EA/ED. Strong engineering, agriculture, and veterinary medicine programs.
280 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.
283 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…
284 4.3
 University of Illinois, ChicagoSIM
Chicago, IL
 75.8% — EA 1030–1300 24–31 3.45 5,405 24% Test_Optional Chicago's largest university and a top research institution. Strong health sciences, engineering, and architecture programs. One of most diverse campuses in the Midwest.
286 4.3
 Thomas Jefferson UniversitySIM
Philadelphia, PA
 81.0% 81.0% EA 1180–1320 25–30 3.73 697 12% Test_Optional Health sciences-focused university in Philadelphia formed from the 2017 merger of Thomas Jefferson University and Philadelphia University. Strong nursing, OT, PT, and design programs.
289 4.3
 George Mason UniversitySIM
Fairfax, VA
 86.5% 89.0% EA 1180–1360 25–31 3.70 4,337 19% Test_Optional Virginia's largest public university, located near Washington DC. Extremely diverse (no racial majority); strong computing, policy, and economics programs. Two Nobel laureates in economics.
290 4.3
 Creighton UniversitySIM
Omaha, NE
 92.2% 86.0% EA 1280–1410 26–31 3.70 1,248 21% Test_Optional Jesuit university in Omaha with highly regarded health sciences programs including pharmacy, nursing, and pre-med. Over 95% of students receive financial aid.
291 4.3
 University of Alabama at BirminghamSIM
Birmingham, AL
 94.2% — none 1250–1420 23–30 3.70 2,519 24% Test_Optional Major public research university and academic medical center in Birmingham, AL. Renowned health sciences and biomedical research.
292 4.2
 Rutgers University, NewarkSIM
Newark, NJ
 71.4% — EA 1030–1270 21–30 3.70 1,857 7% Test_Blind Most diverse national university (U.S. News). Test-blind admissions policy — scores not considered even if submitted. Strong pre-law and criminal justice programs in urban Newark setting.
297 4.2
 Michigan State UniversitySIM
East Lansing, MI
 83.2% — EA 1100–1310 25–31 3.70 9,355 18% Test_Optional Big Ten flagship with $720M+ in research funding. Known for education, engineering, and supply chain management programs. Very large campus with 43K+ undergrads.
302 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…
303 4.1
 University of DenverSIM
Denver, CO
 85.4% 86.5% ED_EA 1160–1360 27–32 3.80 1,174 8% Test_Optional Private research university in Denver. Strong in international studies, business, and engineering. Offers EA and ED with higher EA admit rate (~90%). Test-optional.
304 4.1
 University of ArizonaSIM
Tucson, AZ
 86.0% — 1130–1340 21–29 3.47 7,506 20% Test_Optional Arizona flagship with rolling admissions, no EA/ED. Strong optical sciences, astronomy, and business programs.
305 4.1
 University of Nebraska-LincolnSIM
Lincoln, NE
 87.8% 87.5% N/A 1070–1310 21–28 3.65 4,734 29% Test_Optional Big Ten university with legendary football program and 'Sea of Red' game day tradition. Strong agricultural sciences, engineering, and actuarial science programs.
306 4.0
 Rutgers University, CamdenSIM
Camden, NJ
 77.7% — 1050–1300 18–26 3.70 531 6% Test_Optional Urban Rutgers campus across the river from Philadelphia offering small-school experience with big-university resources. Strong in nursing, business, and criminal justice.
311 4.0
 Arizona State UniversitySIM
Tempe, AZ
 88.4% — N/A 1100–1330 22–29 3.53 13,665 22% Test_Optional Largest public university by enrollment and #1 in innovation (U.S. News, 9 consecutive years). Rolling admissions with priority deadline — no formal EA/ED rounds. Strong online and innovation programs.
316 3.8
 University of OregonSIM
Eugene, OR
 87.4% — EA 1050–1320 22–29 3.70 5,009 14% Test_Optional AAU member and Oregon flagship known for journalism, business, and environmental sciences. Nike co-founder Phil Knight is top donor. 88% acceptance rate; test-optional.
317 3.8
 University of California, RiversideSIM
Riverside, CA
 88.5% 88.5% none 1100–1320 20–27 3.70 6,686 13% Test_Blind Test-blind UC campus. Strong entomology and agricultural sciences. Highest proportion of first-generation students in the UC system.
319 3.8
 University of New HampshireSIM
Durham, NH
 89.1% — EA 1120–1310 26–30 3.70 2,302 12% Test_Optional New Hampshire's flagship public in Durham. Strong marine and environmental science programs. 88% acceptance rate with EA option.
320 3.8
 University of KansasSIM
Lawrence, KS
 92.6% 93.5% N/A 1080–1280 20–28 3.66 5,040 24% Test_Optional Invented basketball (James Naismith was the first coach). Strong journalism, pharmacy, and aerospace engineering programs. Lawrence is consistently rated one of the best college towns in America.
321 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 …
322 3.7
 Temple UniversitySIM
Philadelphia, PA
 86.2% 91.7% EA 1030–1310 23–30 3.42 5,303 14% Test_Optional Large urban public in Philadelphia with non-binding EA. Strong media/communications (Klein College), pharmacy, and arts programs.
328 3.6
 University of KentuckySIM
Lexington, KY
 93.5% 93.0% EA 1058–1270 21–28 3.58 6,960 22% Test_Optional Kentucky's flagship university with a strong pharmacy program (#3 nationally) and prominent Markey Cancer Center. Lexington offers a thriving equestrian and bourbon culture.
330 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.
333 3.3
 University of California, Santa CruzSIM
Santa Cruz, CA
 82.3% 82.3% none — — 3.70 4,596 10% Test_Blind Test-blind UC campus. Top-tier computer science and astrophysics programs. Forested campus overlooking Monterey Bay.
339 3.0
 University of California, MercedSIM
Merced, CA
 96.5% 96.5% none 1010–1230 19–24 3.70 1,982 4% Test_Blind Test-blind UC campus. Newest UC (founded 2005), rapidly growing. Research-focused with small class sizes and high faculty accessibility.
340 3.0
 University of MississippiSIM
Oxford, MS
 97.4% 97.0% N/A 990–1175 21–29 3.52 5,458 15% Test_Required_For_Some Mississippi's flagship university in the literary town of Oxford (home of William Faulkner). Known for accountancy program (#1 CPA pass rate), Southern charm, and passionate SEC athletics.

All 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
 Other 3.8% 7.2% REA 1520–1570 34–36 3.96 1,839 80% Test_Required Does not officially publish EA vs RD breakdowns. Extremely low acceptance rate across all rounds.
2 9.8
 Harvard UniversitySIM
Cambridge, MA
 Elite Private 4.2% 8.7% REA 1510–1580 33–35 3.95 1,675 84% Test_Required Most selective Ivy. Legacy and ALDC (athletes, legacies, dean's list, children of staff) comprise ~43% of white admits.
3 9.8
 University of ChicagoSIM
Chicago, IL
 Other 4.5% 17.9% EA_and_ED 1510–1560 34–35 3.95 1,726 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 9.8
 Massachusetts Institute of TechnologySIM
Cambridge, MA
 Other 4.6% 6.0% EA 1520–1570 34–35 3.96 1,152 86% Test_Required No legacy preference. Need-blind for all applicants including internationals. Strongest STEM hook.
5 9.6
 Princeton UniversitySIM
Princeton, NJ
 Elite Private 4.4% 10.5% REA 1470–1560 33–35 3.95 1,408 75% Test_Optional No longer publishes early action acceptance rates separately. Test-optional through 2026-27 cycle; will require SAT/ACT starting 2027-28 (Class of 2032+).
6 9.5
 University of PennsylvaniaSIM
Philadelphia, PA
 Elite Private 4.9% 13.3% ED 1510–1570 34–35 3.93 2,420 68% Test_Required Will require standardized tests starting Class of 2030. Wharton business school is most competitive division.
7 9.5
 Brown UniversitySIM
Providence, RI
 Elite Private 5.6% 16.5% ED 1480–1560 33–35 3.93 1,742 73% Test_Required Open curriculum. Reinstated testing requirement for C/O 2029. Recruited athletes account for ~1/3 of ED acceptances.
8 9.4
 Yale UniversitySIM
New Haven, CT
 Elite Private 4.2% 10.9% REA 1480–1560 33–35 3.95 1,633 68% Test_Flexible Now requires standardized testing (reinstated for C/O 2029). Open curriculum within Yale College.
9 9.4
 Dartmouth CollegeSIM
Hanover, NH
 Elite Private 5.8% 17.0% ED 1440–1560 33–35 3.91 1,175 71% Test_Required Smallest Ivy. Strong Greek life and outdoors culture. ED acceptance rate 3x+ overall rate.
10 9.4
 Barnard CollegeSIM
New York, NY
 Top Liberal Arts 10.1% 33.1% ED 1480–1540 32–35 3.95 702 67% Test_Optional Premier women's college affiliated with Columbia University. Students can cross-register at Columbia and access shared campus resources while benefiting from small-college community.
11 9.3
 California Institute of TechnologySIM
Pasadena, CA
 Other 3.8% 6.0% REA 1530–1570 35–36 3.97 218 59% Test_Required Smallest elite university. Reinstated testing requirement for C/O 2029. Most STEM-focused school. No legacy preference.
12 9.3
 Columbia UniversitySIM
New York, NY
 Elite Private 4.2% 13.2% ED 1510–1560 34–36 3.93 1,483 61% Test_Optional No longer publishes specific ED acceptance rates. Located in NYC, strong pre-professional culture.
13 9.3
 Duke UniversitySIM
Durham, NC
 Other 4.7% 13.8% ED 1510–1570 34–35 3.94 1,750 60% Test_Optional ED fills ~50% of class. Strong athletics recruitment. Southern elite culture.
14 9.3
 Vanderbilt UniversitySIM
Nashville, TN
 Other 5.3% 13.2% ED 1500–1570 34–35 3.89 1,600 61% Test_Optional Record-low 4.7% overall rate for Class of 2029. RD rate only 3.3%. ED I + ED II offered.
15 9.3
 Cornell UniversitySIM
Ithaca, NY
 Elite Private 8.4% 18.8% ED 1490–1550 33–35 3.90 3,827 63% Test_Required Largest Ivy. Has both private and state-funded (contract) colleges. Acceptance rate varies by college from ~4% to ~18%.
16 9.2
 Northwestern UniversitySIM
Evanston, IL
 Elite Private 7.4% 20.0% ED 1510–1560 34–35 3.92 2,139 58% Test_Optional ED acceptance rate is ~3x overall rate. Strong for journalism (Medill) and performing arts.
17 9.2
 University of Notre DameSIM
Notre Dame, IN
 Elite Private 9.0% 12.9% 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.
18 9.2
 New York UniversitySIM
New York, NY
 Elite Private 9.2% 16.0% ED 1470–1570 33–35 3.87 5,723 60% Test_Optional Global university with campuses in NYC, Abu Dhabi, and Shanghai. ED fills large portion of class. Strong for business and arts.
19 9.1
 Johns Hopkins UniversitySIM
Baltimore, MD
 Other 6.1% 10.9% ED 1530–1570 34–36 3.94 1,297 51% Test_Optional Offers ED I and ED II. Combined ED acceptance rate ~10.5%. Top pre-med reputation.
20 9.1
 Bowdoin CollegeSIM
Brunswick, ME
 Elite Private 6.5% 13.1% ED 1470–1540 33–35 3.90 557 58% Test_Optional Test-optional pioneer (since 1969). Strong commitment to need-blind admissions. Coastal Maine campus.
21 9.0
 Pomona CollegeSIM
Claremont, CA
 Elite Private 7.1% 13.0% ED 1500–1550 33–35 3.92 420 50% Test_Optional Top LAC in Claremont Consortium. Access to classes at all 5 Claremont colleges. Strong sciences and humanities.
22 9.0
 Claremont McKenna CollegeSIM
Claremont, CA
 Elite Private 9.4% 22.1% ED 1480–1540 33–35 3.90 335 51% Test_Optional Part of Claremont Consortium. Known for economics, government, and finance. Small class sizes.
23 8.9
 Northeastern UniversitySIM
Boston, MA
 Other 5.6% 40.0% ED_EA 1450–1520 33–35 3.90 2,759 53% Test_Optional Co-op program (work experience integrated into degree). Very low acceptance rate driven by application volume.
24 8.9
 Colby CollegeSIM
Waterville, ME
 Elite Private 8.0% 32.0% ED 1470–1530 32–34 3.88 630 49% Test_Optional Small LAC in Maine. Recently eliminated loans from financial aid packages. Strong sciences.
25 8.9
 Rice UniversitySIM
Houston, TX
 Elite Private 8.0% 11.3% ED 1510–1560 34–36 3.96 1,263 43% Test_Optional ED I rate 13.2%, ED II rate 6.0%. Residential college system. Smaller campus feel.
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
 Carnegie Mellon UniversitySIM
Pittsburgh, PA
 Elite Private 11.1% 20.6% ED 1500–1560 34–36 3.91 1,804 47% Test_Required Top for CS/Engineering/Fine Arts. Acceptance rate varies dramatically by school (SCS ~3%, CFA ~8%, etc.).
28 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…
29 8.9
 Washington University in St. LouisSIM
St. Louis, MO
 Elite Private 12.0% 25.3% ED_EA 1490–1550 33–35 3.95 1,963 47% Test_Optional ED I and ED II offered. Strong pre-med and research. Generous financial aid.
30 8.8
 Amherst CollegeSIM
Amherst, MA
 Elite Private 6.8% 22.2% ED 1500–1560 33–35 3.92 480 40% Test_Optional Open curriculum. Need-blind admissions. One of top 3 LACs. ED fills ~40% of class.
31 8.8
 Swarthmore CollegeSIM
Swarthmore, PA
 Elite Private 7.5% 17.8% ED 1480–1550 33–35 3.90 426 44% Test_Optional Rigorous academics. Honors program with seminar-style learning. Engineering program rare for a LAC.
32 8.8
 Williams CollegeSIM
Williamstown, MA
 Elite Private 8.6% 26.6% ED 1490–1550 33–35 3.93 567 42% Test_Optional #1 LAC. ED rate 26.6% vs 7.3% RD. Small classes, tutorial system.
33 8.8
 University of California, Los AngelesSIM
Los Angeles, CA
 Other 10.8% — — — 3.90 6,553 48% Test_Blind Test-blind - does not consider SAT/ACT at all. UC system application. Most applied-to university in the US. No early round.
34 8.8
 Tufts UniversitySIM
Medford, MA
 Elite Private 10.8% 32.0% ED 1460–1520 33–35 3.90 1,765 49% Test_Optional ED I and ED II offered. Known for 'demonstrated interest' factor. International relations strength.
35 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.
36 8.7
 University of California, BerkeleySIM
Berkeley, CA
 Other 11.4% — — — 3.90 6,687 46% Test_Blind Test-blind (UC system). Top public university for CS, engineering, and natural sciences.
37 8.7
 Harvey Mudd CollegeSIM
Claremont, CA
 Top Liberal Arts 12.3% 18.4% ED 1500–1560 35–36 3.95 236 37% Test_Optional Ultra-selective STEM-focused college within the Claremont Consortium. Produces the highest percentage of STEM PhDs of any undergraduate institution. Graduates earn top starting salaries.
38 8.7
 Haverford CollegeSIM
Haverford, PA
 Top Liberal Arts 12.4% 29.0% ED 1470–1540 33–35 3.93 387 43% Test_Optional Quaker-founded college known for its academic Honor Code (students self-schedule unproctored exams). Part of the Tri-College Consortium with Bryn Mawr and Swarthmore. Exceptionally close faculty-student relationships.
39 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…
40 8.6
 Emory UniversitySIM
Atlanta, GA
 Elite Private 10.3% 31.0% ED 1480–1540 33–35 3.88 1,443 37% Test_Optional ED I and ED II offered. Strong pre-med. Two campuses (Emory College and Oxford College).
41 8.6
 University of Southern CaliforniaSIM
Los Angeles, CA
 Elite Private 11.2% 8.4% ED_EA 1470–1540 32–35 3.86 3,759 40% Test_Optional Large private research university. Strong film school (SCA). Urban LA campus. Good alumni network.
42 8.6
 Davidson CollegeSIM
Davidson, NC
 Elite Private 12.6% 29.1% ED 1410–1500 32–34 3.86 531 47% Test_Optional Small LAC in North Carolina. Honor code tradition. Strong pre-med and sciences.
43 8.6
 Boston CollegeSIM
Chestnut Hill, MA
 Elite Private 12.7% 30.0% ED 1440–1520 33–35 3.87 2,350 45% Test_Optional Catholic Jesuit university. EA rate ~30% vs 10% RD. Strong for business and pre-law.
44 8.6
 Georgia Institute of TechnologySIM
Atlanta, GA
 Other 12.8% 12.6% EA 1370–1530 31–35 3.95 4,100 46% Test_Required Top engineering and CS school. Strong co-op and internship programs. Urban Atlanta campus.
45 8.6
 Wellesley CollegeSIM
Wellesley, MA
 Elite Private 14.8% 29.4% ED 1460–1540 33–35 3.92 576 46% Test_Optional Premier women's college. Cross-registration with MIT. Strong alumnae network.
46 8.5
 Georgetown UniversitySIM
Washington, DC
 Elite Private 13.5% 10.0% EA 1405–1530 32–35 3.90 1,589 44% Test_Required Requires SAT/ACT. EA rate actually LOWER than RD rate (unusual). Catholic Jesuit university. Strong for policy/government.
47 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.
48 8.5
 Hamilton CollegeSIM
Clinton, NY
 Elite Private 13.6% 28.1% ED 1440–1510 33–35 3.90 478 40% Test_Optional Open curriculum. Strong writing program. Rural upstate New York campus.
49 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.
50 8.5
 University of MichiganSIM
Ann Arbor, MI
 Other 15.6% 22.0% ED_EA 1360–1530 31–35 3.90 7,290 47% Test_Optional Huge in-state advantage (39% vs 16% OOS). EA round is de facto binding for competitive applicants. Rolling admissions after EA.
51 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.
52 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…
53 8.4
 University of VirginiaSIM
Charlottesville, VA
 Other 15.6% 16.1% EA 1410–1540 32–35 3.88 3,986 40% Test_Optional Public flagship. In-state advantage (~23% vs ~12.5% OOS). Strong liberal arts within a public university.
54 8.4
 Middlebury CollegeSIM
Middlebury, VT
 Elite Private 18.0% 30.0% ED 1460–1530 33–34 3.88 640 42% Test_Optional ED I + ED II. ED rate ~30% vs ~5% RD - one of biggest ED advantages. Known for languages and environmental studies.
55 8.3
 Tulane UniversitySIM
New Orleans, LA
 Elite Private 14.0% 59.0% ED_EA 1430–1500 32–34 3.78 1,838 40% Test_Optional Known for public health and Latin American studies. EA rate very high (~59%) but RD very competitive (~6%).
56 8.3
 Babson CollegeSIM
Wellesley, MA
 Elite Private 16.0% 27.5% ED_EA 1410–1500 31–34 3.90 692 39% Test_Optional #1 in entrepreneurship for 30+ consecutive years. All students take the signature Foundations of Management and Entrepreneurship course where they create and run a real business.
57 8.3
 University of North Carolina at Chapel HillSIM
Chapel Hill, NC
 Other 16.7% 16.0% EA 1400–1530 29–34 3.88 5,091 40% Test_Optional Flagship NC public. Strong business (Kenan-Flagler) and journalism schools. In-state advantage.
58 8.2
 Boston UniversitySIM
Boston, MA
 Elite Private 12.8% 31.3% ED 1420–1510 33–34 3.70 3,449 35% Test_Optional Major private research university in Boston. Returning to test-required for 2025-26 cycle. Strong in communications, business, and health sciences. Median SAT 1470.
59 8.2
 Grinnell CollegeSIM
Grinnell, IA
 Top Liberal Arts 14.5% 34.7% ED 1410–1530 32–35 3.88 438 31% Test_Optional Self-governance tradition and open curriculum with no distribution requirements. One of the wealthiest LACs per student ($2B+ endowment for ~1,700 students), enabling generous need-blind aid.
60 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.
61 8.1
 Bates CollegeSIM
Lewiston, ME
 Top Liberal Arts 14.8% 33.5% ED 1325–1510 31–34 3.88 493 34% Test_Optional Pioneer of test-optional admissions (since 1984). Known for rigorous academics, strong sense of community, and the annual Bates-Bowdoin-Colby rivalry (CBB consortium).
62 8.1
 Vassar CollegeSIM
Poughkeepsie, NY
 Top Liberal Arts 18.6% 31.0% ED 1450–1540 32–35 3.90 665 29% Test_Optional Former elite women's college (went co-ed 1969) known for eclectic, independent student body and interdisciplinary academics. Strong film, drama, and cognitive science programs. Meryl Streep's alma mater.
63 8.1
 Carleton CollegeSIM
Northfield, MN
 Top Liberal Arts 21.8% 34.6% ED 1460–1530 32–35 3.90 518 35% Test_Optional Elite liberal arts college with the highest rate of PhD production per capita among U.S. colleges. Known for trimester system and exceptionally strong STEM and social science programs.
64 8.0
 Wesleyan UniversitySIM
Middletown, CT
 Selective Private 16.4% 42.8% ED 1350–1510 32–35 3.85 825 34% Test_Optional Progressive LAC. Film and music programs. Open curriculum. Known for intellectual diversity.
65 8.0
 College of the Holy CrossSIM
Worcester, MA
 Top Liberal Arts 17.0% 55.0% ED 1250–1410 28–33 3.81 835 49% Test_Optional Oldest Catholic college in New England and the only exclusively undergraduate Jesuit school. Strong alumni network (Justice Clarence Thomas, Dr. Anthony Fauci) and Division I athletics.
66 8.0
 Colgate UniversitySIM
Hamilton, NY
 Selective Private 17.5% 19.5% ED 1450–1510 33–35 3.86 805 27% Test_Optional Rural upstate NY. Strong alumni network. Known for liberal arts and business.
67 8.0
 University of FloridaSIM
Gainesville, FL
 Other 20.3% 22.0% ED_EA 1330–1490 29–33 3.92 7,619 41% Test_Required Flagship FL public. Large research university. Strong engineering and pre-health programs.
68 8.0
 Wake Forest UniversitySIM
Winston-Salem, NC
 Selective Private 20.8% 35.0% ED 1420–1490 32–34 3.82 1,544 38% Test_Optional Mid-size private in North Carolina. Strong business program. Test-optional since 2008. Early Action is offered only to first-generation college students.
69 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.
70 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).
71 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…
72 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…
73 7.9
 University of Texas at AustinSIM
Austin, TX
 Other 22.2% 27.0% EA 1230–1480 29–34 3.83 9,900 49% Test_Required Flagship TX public. Top 6% auto-admit for TX residents. Strong engineering and business.
74 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.
75 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…
76 7.7
 Villanova UniversitySIM
Villanova, PA
 Selective Private 27.4% 59.8% ED_EA 1410–1500 32–34 3.93 1,779 32% Test_Optional Selective Catholic university outside Philadelphia. 87% of admits from top 10% of HS class. Known for business (VSB), engineering, and nursing. Test-optional through Class of 2031.
77 7.6
 University of RichmondSIM
Richmond, VA
 Elite Private 22.2% 33.0% ED_EA 1420–1490 33–34 3.80 857 23% Test_Optional Highly selective university combining liberal arts with business and leadership studies. Full-ride scholarship program (Richmond Scholars) and one of the largest endowments per student among non-Ivy schools.
78 7.5
 Denison UniversitySIM
Granville, OH
 Top Liberal Arts 19.5% 24.8% ED 1270–1420 28–33 3.85 623 26% Test_Optional Liberal arts college with exceptional career outcomes and alumni network. Known for strong communication, cinema, and data analytics programs in a quintessential college town.
79 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
80 7.4
 University of MiamiSIM
Coral Gables, FL
 Selective Private 22.0% 44.0% ED_EA 1340–1450 31–34 3.70 2,400 26% Test_Required Top private research university in Coral Gables, FL. Strong marine science, business, and pre-med programs. ~60% of admits submitted test scores under test-optional policy.
81 7.4
 Colorado CollegeSIM
Colorado Springs, CO
 Top Liberal Arts 22.1% 35.6% ED_EA 1240–1430 28–34 3.95 510 26% Test_Optional Distinctive Block Plan where students take one course at a time for 3.5 weeks, allowing deep immersion and field research. Located at the base of Pikes Peak.
82 7.4
 Skidmore CollegeSIM
Saratoga Springs, NY
 Top Liberal Arts 23.8% 42.4% ED 1360–1460 31–34 3.80 692 24% Test_Optional 'Creative Thought Matters' motto reflects the integration of arts, sciences, and social sciences. Known for strong studio art, dance, and business programs in a charming Adirondack-adjacent town.
83 7.4
 Florida State UniversitySIM
Tallahassee, FL
 Other 23.8% — ED_EA 1300–1410 29–32 3.70 6,559 32% Test_Required Florida flagship rising rapidly in rankings. EA available only for Florida residents. Strong business, film, and music programs.
84 7.3
 Macalester CollegeSIM
Saint Paul, MN
 Top Liberal Arts 26.0% 40.0% ED_EA 1350–1480 30–33 3.85 534 22% Test_Optional Distinctively international liberal arts college — roughly 15% international students from 90+ countries. Known for civic engagement, strong economics program, and urban Twin Cities location.
85 7.3
 Bryn Mawr CollegeSIM
Bryn Mawr, PA
 Top Liberal Arts 28.1% 41.3% ED 1300–1470 29–33 3.82 329 27% Test_Optional Prestigious women's college in the Tri-College Consortium with Haverford and Swarthmore. Known for academic rigor, honor code, and strong STEM programs unusual for a women's college.
86 7.3
 Lehigh UniversitySIM
Bethlehem, PA
 Selective Private 29.0% 47.4% ED 1380–1480 31–34 3.70 1,535 27% Test_Optional Private university in Bethlehem, PA known for strong engineering and business programs. 26% acceptance rate with growing selectivity. Integrated business and engineering (IBE) program is distinctive.
87 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).
88 7.2
 Trinity CollegeSIM
Hartford, CT
 Top Liberal Arts 29.0% 45.0% ED 1310–1450 29–33 3.80 547 27% Test_Optional Second-oldest college in Connecticut (1823). Known for urban liberal arts education, strong alumni network in finance and government, and distinctive Long Walk Gothic campus.
89 7.2
 University of GeorgiaSIM
Athens, GA
 Other 29.8% 31.4% EA 1250–1420 27–33 3.70 6,273 38% Test_Required Georgia's flagship and one of the most selective publics (38% overall). EA rate: 42% in-state, 23% out-of-state (31% blended). Known for business (Terry), ecology, and veterinary medicine.
90 7.2
 Kenyon CollegeSIM
Gambier, OH
 Top Liberal Arts 30.2% 34.8% ED 1400–1495 31–34 3.84 412 19% Test_Optional Literary powerhouse home to the Kenyon Review, one of the world's most prestigious literary journals. Alumni include Paul Newman, Allison Janney, and John Green. Swimming dynasty with 30+ NCAA titles.
91 7.2
 University of Illinois Urbana-ChampaignSIM
Champaign, IL
 Other 36.6% 39.0% EA 1390–1520 31–34 3.85 9,207 30% Test_Optional Top CS and engineering programs. Large international student population. Strong STEM research.
92 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.
93 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.
94 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.
95 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, …
96 7.1
 Lafayette CollegeSIM
Easton, PA
 Top Liberal Arts 31.2% 38.0% ED 1360–1490 30–33 3.80 696 21% Test_Optional Known for combining liberal arts with engineering. Hosts the longest-running rivalry in college football (vs. Lehigh since 1884). Strong alumni network in finance and engineering.
97 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).…
98 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.
99 7.0
 Reed CollegeSIM
Portland, OR
 Top Liberal Arts 29.2% 15.2% ED_EA 1320–1490 29–34 3.88 342 12% Test_Blind Intensely academic college famous for its required year-long humanities course and mandatory senior thesis. Steve Jobs attended briefly. Produces more future PhDs per capita than all but Caltech and Harvey Mudd.
100 7.0
 Oberlin CollegeSIM
Oberlin, OH
 Top Liberal Arts 34.0% 38.7% ED_EA 1360–1530 30–34 3.70 701 19% Test_Optional First coeducational college in the U.S. and first to regularly admit Black students (1835). World-class Conservatory of Music integrated with liberal arts. Strong progressive tradition.
101 7.0
 College of William & MarySIM
Williamsburg, VA
 Other 37.0% 49.8% ED 1390–1520 32–34 3.70 1,639 26% Test_Optional Second-oldest college in America. Known as a 'Public Ivy' with strong liberal arts tradition and growing data science/CS programs. 77% of freshmen from top 10% of HS class.
102 7.0
 University of Wisconsin-MadisonSIM
Madison, WI
 Other 40.8% 45.0% EA 1400–1490 29–33 3.90 8,495 28% Test_Optional Flagship WI public. Strong STEM, business, and social sciences. Big Ten campus culture.
103 7.0
 Yeshiva UniversitySIM
New York, NY
 Other 55.6% — ED 1340–1500 29–32 3.70 610 61% Test_Required_For_Some Orthodox Jewish university in NYC. Dual religious and secular curriculum. Small undergraduate class with strong pre-med and pre-law pipelines.
104 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.
105 6.9
 University of California, IrvineSIM
Irvine, CA
 Other 28.9% — 1240–1410 26–33 3.95 6,421 18% Test_Blind Test-blind UC campus. Strong CS, engineering, and game design programs. Located in Orange County tech corridor.
106 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.
107 6.9
 Case Western Reserve UniversitySIM
Cleveland, OH
 Selective Private 35.3% 25.0% ED_EA 1440–1530 32–34 3.70 1,663 12% Test_Optional Elite private research university in Cleveland. Top-ranked biomedical engineering, nursing, and medical programs adjacent to University Hospitals and Cleveland Clinic.
108 6.8
 University of California, San DiegoSIM
La Jolla, CA
 Other 27.2% 27.2% — — 3.70 7,801 20% Test_Blind Test-blind UC campus with top-tier STEM programs, especially bioengineering, CS, and marine biology. Highly selective among UC schools.
109 6.8
 North Carolina State UniversitySIM
Raleigh, NC
 Other 39.5% 48.0% EA 1310–1440 28–32 3.70 5,906 30% Test_Optional North Carolina's STEM flagship. Returning to test-required for 2025-26. Strong engineering, textiles, and computer science. Part of Research Triangle with Duke and UNC.
110 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.
111 6.8
 Brigham Young UniversitySIM
Provo, UT
 Other 68.6% — 1290–1430 28–32 3.90 6,743 81% Test_Optional LDS Church-affiliated university with extremely low tuition for members. One of the highest yield rates in the nation (over 80%). Honor code governs student conduct.
112 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
113 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.
114 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…
115 6.7
 University of WashingtonSIM
Seattle, WA
 Other 41.8% — 1320–1502 30–34 3.83 7,129 23% Test_Blind Flagship WA public. Strong CS and engineering. Urban Seattle campus. No early round.
116 6.7
 University of Maryland, College ParkSIM
College Park, MD
 Other 45.0% 45.0% EA 1410–1520 32–35 3.70 6,559 22% Test_Optional Top public university near D.C. with strong CS, engineering, and business programs. Very high median SAT (1465). Strong research connections to federal agencies and tech corridor.
117 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.
118 6.6
 Bucknell UniversitySIM
Lewisburg, PA
 Top Liberal Arts 32.2% 54.7% ED 1170–1360 25–32 3.62 1,037 28% Test_Optional Distinctive combination of liberal arts and strong engineering/management programs. Known for beautiful campus along the Susquehanna River and close-knit community.
119 6.6
 Binghamton University (SUNY)SIM
Binghamton, NY
 Other 37.3% 41.8% EA 1320–1480 31–34 3.70 3,201 14% Test_Optional Highly selective SUNY campus known as a 'Public Ivy.' Strong business (SOM), engineering, and pre-med programs. Best value among SUNY schools.
120 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…
121 6.6
 Dickinson CollegeSIM
Carlisle, PA
 Top Liberal Arts 41.5% 56.8% ED 1340–1440 29–32 3.80 485 20% Test_Optional Founded by Benjamin Rush, signer of the Declaration of Independence. Known for global education with study-abroad programs in every continent and strong sustainability commitment.
122 6.6
 University of RochesterSIM
Rochester, NY
 Other 41.9% 41.8% ED 1400–1510 31–34 3.70 1,231 14% Test_Optional Private research university known for Eastman School of Music, Simon Business School, and optics/engineering. Only 36% of enrolled students submitted test scores (test-optional).
123 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…
124 6.5
 St. Olaf CollegeSIM
Northfield, MN
 Top Liberal Arts 43.4% 55.0% ED_EA 1320–1440 28–32 3.73 794 25% Test_Optional Lutheran-affiliated college renowned for its music program (the St. Olaf Choir is world-famous). Strong STEM and study-abroad participation (one of the highest rates in the country).
125 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
126 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…
127 6.4
 Gettysburg CollegeSIM
Gettysburg, PA
 Top Liberal Arts 40.1% 37.7% ED_EA 1270–1460 27–32 3.82 497 16% Test_Optional Historic liberal arts college on the site of the Civil War's turning point. Known for strong alumni network, engaged learning, and high percentage of students doing undergraduate research.
128 6.4
 Whitman CollegeSIM
Walla Walla, WA
 Top Liberal Arts 40.2% 21.0% ED_EA 1330–1470 29–33 3.69 373 13% Test_Optional Pacific Northwest liberal arts college known for debate, outdoor culture, and strong sciences. Known for close faculty mentoring and the annual tradition of climbing nearby Whitman Monument.
129 6.4
 University of Central FloridaSIM
Orlando, FL
 Other 42.8% — 1220–1350 25–30 3.70 8,103 32% Test_Required One of the largest universities in the US by enrollment. Strong engineering, optics/photonics, and simulation programs near NASA/Kennedy Space Center. Rolling admissions with priority period.
130 6.4
 Purdue UniversitySIM
West Lafayette, IN
 Other 43.4% 54.0% EA 1220–1470 28–34 3.76 9,656 25% Test_Required Top engineering school. Strong CS and aviation programs. Large campus in Indiana.
131 6.4
 University of Tennessee, KnoxvilleSIM
Knoxville, TN
 Other 43.6% 35.7% EA 1280–1380 26–31 3.70 7,143 30% Test_Required Tennessee's flagship with surging selectivity (42% acceptance rate, record applicants). Strong in supply chain, nuclear engineering, and business. SEC university with massive alumni network.
132 6.4
 Brandeis UniversitySIM
Waltham, MA
 Other 45.4% 35.6% ED_EA 1370–1470 31–34 3.70 744 17% Test_Optional Research university founded in 1948 as the only nonsectarian Jewish-sponsored institution. Strong in social policy, neuroscience, and international economics.
133 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.
134 6.3
 Clemson UniversitySIM
Clemson, SC
 Other 42.4% 35.7% EA 1250–1400 28–32 3.80 5,084 18% Test_Optional Top-ranked public university in South Carolina. Strong engineering, business, and agriculture programs. Competitive admissions (38% rate) with robust school spirit and SEC athletics.
135 6.3
 Union CollegeSIM
Schenectady, NY
 Top Liberal Arts 43.4% 48.9% ED 1320–1470 30–34 3.70 465 12% Test_Optional First college to offer engineering alongside liberal arts (1845). Known for its Minerva House residential system, trimester calendar, and strong alumni loyalty. Beautiful Jackson's Garden campus.
136 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…
137 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.
138 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
139 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…
140 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…
141 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.
142 6.2
 Syracuse UniversitySIM
Syracuse, NY
 Other 46.0% 66.0% ED_EA 1290–1420 28–32 3.70 3,839 19% Test_Optional Known for Newhouse School of Public Communications (top-ranked). Strong architecture, information studies, and Maxwell School of Citizenship. ED offered with ~60% early rate.
143 6.2
 George Washington UniversitySIM
Washington, DC
 Other 47.1% 66.0% ED 1310–1450 31–34 3.70 2,405 19% Test_Optional Private university in downtown Washington, D.C. Strong political science, international affairs, and public health programs. Unmatched internship access to government and policy organizations.
144 6.2
 Southern Methodist UniversitySIM
Dallas, TX
 Other 47.6% 60.4% ED_EA 1340–1480 30–34 3.70 1,715 15% Test_Optional Dallas-area private university with strong business (Cox), engineering, and data science programs. Now in the ACC. Test-optional through 2025 cycle.
145 6.2
 Santa Clara UniversitySIM
Santa Clara, CA
 Other 47.9% 50.0% ED_EA 1330–1470 29–33 3.70 1,641 17% Test_Optional Silicon Valley Jesuit university with strong engineering and business programs. Exceptional career placement due to proximity to tech industry. Offers ED and EA with ~50% early acceptance rate.
146 6.2
 Stevens Institute of TechnologySIM
Hoboken, NJ
 Other 50.7% 69.8% ED_EA 1370–1470 32–34 3.70 1,104 21% Test_Optional Small STEM-focused university in Hoboken, NJ with Manhattan skyline views. Excellent outcomes in finance, engineering, and CS. 12% of students are varsity athletes.
147 6.2
 Rhodes CollegeSIM
Memphis, TN
 Top Liberal Arts 51.5% 54.6% ED_EA 1360–1470 28–32 3.82 494 17% Test_Optional Gothic collegiate campus consistently ranked among the most beautiful in America. Strong pre-med program with clinical partnerships at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital across the street.
148 6.1
 San Diego State UniversitySIM
San Diego, CA
 Other 37.4% 36.0% none 1130–1340 23–29 3.70 6,911 19% Test_Blind Test-blind CSU campus with no EA/ED. Strong business, engineering, and health sciences. Largest and most selective CSU campus.
149 6.1
 Connecticut CollegeSIM
New London, CT
 Top Liberal Arts 39.2% 40.7% ED_EA 1160–1370 26–32 3.81 459 16% Test_Optional Known for interdisciplinary pathways linking courses, internships, and study abroad into integrated plans. Beautiful hilltop campus overlooking the Thames River and Long Island Sound.
150 6.1
 University of South FloridaSIM
Tampa, FL
 Other 40.7% 43.2% 1160–1340 25–29 3.70 6,730 23% Test_Required Rising Florida research university with no EA/ED. Strong health sciences, engineering, and marine science.
151 6.1
 University of California, Santa BarbaraSIM
Santa Barbara, CA
 Other 44.0% 44.0% 1250–1460 27–33 3.70 5,081 12% Test_Blind Test-blind UC campus. Top physics and materials science programs. Beachfront campus with strong research output.
152 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.
153 6.1
 Loyola Marymount UniversitySIM
Los Angeles, CA
 Other 45.1% 44.1% EA 1280–1400 29–32 3.70 1,608 18% Test_Optional Jesuit university in Los Angeles with strong film/TV (LMU School of Film), business, and engineering programs. Beautiful campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
154 6.1
 Auburn UniversitySIM
Auburn, AL
 Other 46.9% 44.0% EA 1280–1370 26–31 3.70 6,112 22% Test_Optional Alabama's largest university with record-breaking enrollment growth 7 years running. Strong engineering, agriculture, and veterinary medicine programs.
155 6.1
 Fordham UniversitySIM
New York, NY
 Other 47.0% 51.6% ED_EA 1340–1480 30–33 3.70 2,968 10% Test_Optional Jesuit university with campuses in the Bronx and Lincoln Center, Manhattan. Known for law, business, and media studies. 74% of enrollees did not submit test scores.
156 6.1
 Stony Brook University (SUNY)SIM
Stony Brook, NY
 Other 48.2% 70.5% EA 1350–1470 30–34 3.70 3,964 13% Test_Optional Top SUNY research university and AAU member. Strong STEM programs, especially in physics and computer science. Test-optional with 49% acceptance rate.
157 6.1
 Texas A&M UniversitySIM
College Station, TX
 Other 51.7% — 1160–1390 24–32 3.70 12,484 38% Test_Optional Texas flagship with automatic admission for top 10% Texas residents. Rolling admissions, no formal EA/ED. Massive enrollment and strong engineering.
158 6.1
 Virginia Polytechnic InstituteSIM
Blacksburg, VA
 Other 55.0% 58.0% EA 1280–1450 28–32 3.93 7,289 25% Test_Optional Strong engineering and CS. Large research university. Corps of Cadets tradition.
159 5.9
 Centre CollegeSIM
Danville, KY
 Top Liberal Arts 48.2% 61.4% ED_EA 1203–1410 26–31 3.73 357 18% Test_Optional Small liberal arts college producing Rhodes Scholars at a rate rivaling Ivy League schools. Known for the Centre Commitment guaranteeing internship, study abroad, and graduation in 4 years.
160 5.9
 Furman UniversitySIM
Greenville, SC
 Top Liberal Arts 48.7% 73.3% ED_EA 1280–1410 29–33 3.70 552 12% Test_Optional Leading liberal arts university in the South with the signature Furman Advantage program integrating research, internships, and mentoring. Beautiful 750-acre campus with a lake and bell tower.
161 5.9
 Bard CollegeSIM
Annandale-on-Hudson, NY
 Top Liberal Arts 52.1% 65.0% ED_EA 1300–1412 28–33 3.75 493 16% Test_Optional Progressive liberal arts college known for its individualized curriculum, strong arts programs, and intellectual rigor. Requires a senior project equivalent to a graduate thesis.
162 5.9
 Rutgers University, New BrunswickSIM
New Brunswick, NJ
 Other 58.1% 58.1% EA 1310–1500 28–33 3.70 8,191 21% Test_Optional New Jersey flagship public. Offers non-binding EA with Nov 1 deadline. Strong pharmacy, business, and engineering programs.
163 5.9
 University of Massachusetts AmherstSIM
Amherst, MA
 Other 59.9% 61.2% EA 1330–1480 30–34 3.99 5,315 17% Test_Optional Massachusetts flagship with non-binding EA. Strong CS (top-20 nationally), business, and engineering programs.
164 5.9
 Colorado School of MinesSIM
Golden, CO
 Other 60.7% — EA 1320–1480 29–33 3.70 1,602 25% Test_Optional Top-ranked STEM-focused public university specializing in engineering and applied sciences. Only 31% women; strong industry placement in energy, tech, and aerospace.
165 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.
166 5.8
 University of California, DavisSIM
Davis, CA
 Other 44.6% — — — 3.70 6,804 18% Test_Blind Test-blind UC campus. Strong in agriculture, veterinary science, and biological sciences. Large suburban campus near Sacramento.
167 5.8
 Texas Christian UniversitySIM
Fort Worth, TX
 Other 48.1% 68.1% ED_EA 1110–1330 26–31 3.70 2,754 25% Test_Optional Private university in Fort Worth with strong business (Neeley School) and nursing programs. Known for small class sizes and high student engagement.
168 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…
169 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.
170 5.7
 University of ConnecticutSIM
Storrs, CT
 Other 54.4% 46.6% ED 1260–1420 29–32 3.70 4,663 14% Test_Optional Connecticut flagship with binding ED (unusual for a public). Strong business, engineering, and health sciences.
171 5.7
 University of PittsburghSIM
Pittsburgh, PA
 Other 59.5% — none 1280–1470 29–33 3.88 5,876 15% Test_Optional Top public research university with elite medical school and strong engineering. Rolling admissions — no separate early action rate published. $1B+ medical/health research portfolio.
172 5.7
 Ohio State UniversitySIM
Columbus, OH
 Other 60.6% 55.0% EA 1280–1430 26–32 3.70 9,607 23% Test_Required One of the largest and most comprehensive public universities. Strong engineering, business (Fisher), and medical programs. 64% of freshmen from top 10% of HS class.
173 5.7
 Worcester Polytechnic InstituteSIM
Worcester, MA
 Other 61.9% 68.9% ED_EA 1340–1480 29–33 3.70 1,300 17% Test_Optional Test-blind STEM university with distinctive project-based curriculum (no traditional lectures in upper years). Every student completes a Major Qualifying Project. Strong engineering and CS.
174 5.6
 Howard UniversitySIM
Washington, DC
 Selective Private 42.2% 51.0% ED_EA 1050–1270 20–26 3.66 2,490 16% Test_Optional Preeminent HBCU and R1 research university. Produced more African-American PhDs than any other university. Strong in communications, political science, and health sciences.
175 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.
176 5.6
 California State University, Long BeachSIM
Long Beach, CA
 Other 45.4% 46.3% none — — 3.70 5,884 15% Test_Blind Test-blind CSU campus with no EA/ED. Impacted campus with competitive admissions. Strong nursing, engineering, film, and arts programs.
177 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.
178 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.
179 5.6
 Baylor UniversitySIM
Waco, TX
 Other 52.2% 76.7% ED_EA 1190–1370 26–32 3.64 3,552 15% Test_Optional Baptist university in Waco, TX with record-low 39% acceptance rate. Over 31% of freshmen report legacy connections. Strong pre-med and business. Offers EA and ED.
180 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.
181 5.6
 University of South CarolinaSIM
Columbia, SC
 Other 56.5% — EA 1200–1360 26–32 3.70 7,818 23% Test_Optional SEC flagship with top-ranked international business program (Darla Moore School). Guarantees admission to top 10% of SC high school classes. Strong Honors College.
182 5.6
 Sewanee: The University of the SouthSIM
Sewanee, TN
 Top Liberal Arts 56.9% 69.7% ED_EA 1260–1390 26–32 3.71 470 18% Test_Optional Officially 'The University of the South,' set on a 13,000-acre mountaintop Domain. Known for its honor code, formal academic dress traditions, and environmental stewardship. Rhodes Scholar pipeline.
183 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-…
184 5.6
 Rensselaer Polytechnic InstituteSIM
Troy, NY
 Other 67.2% 57.9% ED_EA 1380–1500 31–34 3.80 1,394 14% Test_Optional Oldest technological research university in the US (founded 1824). Strong CS, engineering, and game design programs. High ROI for STEM graduates in the Northeast.
185 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.
186 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…
187 5.5
 Pennsylvania State University, University ParkSIM
University Park, PA
 Other 60.6% 71.0% EA 1250–1410 26–31 3.84 9,169 15% Test_Optional One of the largest universities in the US with massive alumni network. Strong engineering, business (Smeal), and meteorology programs. $1B+ annual research expenditure.
188 5.4
 Illinois Institute of TechnologySIM
Chicago, IL
 Other 55.4% 68.0% ED_EA 1190–1390 26–32 3.70 519 11% Test_Optional Private STEM-focused university on Chicago's South Side with Mies van der Rohe-designed campus. 27% international students; strong in CS, engineering, and architecture.
189 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.
190 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…
191 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…
192 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.
193 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.
194 5.4
 New Jersey Institute of TechnologySIM
Newark, NJ
 Other 65.1% — EA 1235–1460 28–31 3.70 1,700 19% Test_Optional New Jersey's science and technology university. Strong computer science, engineering, and cybersecurity programs. High ROI for STEM graduates in the NYC metro area.
195 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…
196 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.
197 5.3
 American University
Washington, DC
 Selective Private 65.5% 79.8% ED 1300–1430 29–32 3.77 1,662 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.
198 5.3
 American UniversitySIM
Washington, DC
 Other 65.6% 80.0% ED_EA 1320–1440 30–33 3.70 1,545 11% Test_Optional Private university in Washington DC with binding ED. ~80% ED acceptance rate. Strong international relations, public policy, and communications.
199 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.
200 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.
201 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.
202 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.
203 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…
204 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.
205 5.1
 University of San DiegoSIM
San Diego, CA
 Other 53.6% — ED_EA — — 3.70 1,300 14% Test_Blind Catholic university overlooking Mission Bay with strong business, nursing, and engineering programs. Test-blind policy since 2023; known for beautiful campus setting.
206 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.
207 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…
208 5.1
 Florida International UniversitySIM
Miami, FL
 Other 60.9% — EA 1070–1260 22–27 3.70 5,854 27% Test_Required Largest university in South Florida and top Hispanic-serving institution. Strong in international business, hospitality, and STEM. Rapidly growing research profile.
209 5.1
 University of San FranciscoSIM
San Francisco, CA
 Other 61.7% — ED_EA 1200–1380 26–31 3.70 920 8% Test_Optional Jesuit university in downtown San Francisco. Strong in nursing, business, and CS. Diverse student body with significant international enrollment.
210 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.
211 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.
212 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.
213 5.1
 Sarah Lawrence CollegeSIM
Bronxville, NY
 Top Liberal Arts 66.0% 49.6% ED_EA 1238–1378 28–32 3.75 350 13% Test_Optional Unique tutorial system where students design their own curricula with faculty advisors. No grades on transcripts (narrative evaluations instead). Exceptionally strong writing, theater, and arts programs.
214 5.1
 Rochester Institute of TechnologySIM
Rochester, NY
 Other 71.1% 72.8% ED_EA 1310–1440 30–34 3.70 2,959 13% Test_Optional Top-tier computing, engineering, and design school; home to the National Technical Institute for the Deaf. Strong co-op program with 3,800+ employer partners.
215 5.1
 University of VermontSIM
Burlington, VT
 Other 73.0% 72.6% ED_EA 1300–1430 29–33 3.85 2,810 15% Test_Optional Vermont's flagship public university in Burlington with strong environmental science, health, and liberal arts programs. 72.6% early action acceptance rate vs. 65% overall.
216 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…
217 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…
218 5.0
 Elon UniversitySIM
Elon, NC
 Other 63.3% 86.1% ED_EA 1190–1340 25–31 3.70 1,333 11% Test_Optional Private liberal arts-oriented university in NC nationally recognized for undergraduate teaching, engaged learning, and study abroad participation (>75% of students).
219 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.
220 5.0
 University of Texas at DallasSIM
Richardson, TX
 Other 69.1% — 1170–1390 24–32 3.70 4,948 20% Test_Optional Texas public research university with strong STEM and business programs. Texas top-10% auto-admit law applies. Fast-growing enrollment and rising selectivity.
221 5.0
 Pepperdine UniversitySIM
Malibu, CA
 Selective Private 69.4% 49.9% ED_EA 1240–1410 28–32 3.70 999 11% Test_Optional Christian university in Malibu, CA with stunning coastal campus. Known for Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution (top law program) and strong business school. Test-optional.
222 5.0
 Chapman UniversitySIM
Orange, CA
 Other 72.1% 62.0% ED_EA 1255–1420 28–32 3.70 1,727 16% Test_Optional Rising private university in Orange County with a top-ranked Dodge College of Film and Media Arts. Strong student satisfaction and experiential learning emphasis.
223 5.0
 University of Maryland, Baltimore CountySIM
Baltimore, MD
 Other 74.0% 61.1% EA 1250–1400 26–31 3.70 2,271 21% Test_Optional Known for Meyerhoff Scholars program producing top minority STEM PhDs. #1 Most Innovative school by US News multiple times. Strong CS and engineering.
224 5.0
 University of Minnesota, Twin CitiesSIM
Minneapolis, MN
 Other 78.9% — EA 1310–1460 26–32 3.70 7,180 21% Test_Optional Big Ten flagship with EA deadlines. Strong STEM, business (Carlson), and health sciences. Twin Cities metro campus.
225 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.
226 4.9
 CUNY City CollegeSIM
New York, NY
 Other 58.0% — 1070–1430 22–28 3.20 2,700 14% Test_Optional Historic public college in Harlem, NYC -- 'the poor man's Harvard.' Extremely affordable. Strong engineering and architecture programs.
227 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.
228 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…
229 4.9
 Drexel UniversitySIM
Philadelphia, PA
 Other 69.9% 95.5% ED_EA 1260–1430 28–33 3.70 1,948 7% Test_Optional Known for largest co-op program in the US (6-month paid work experiences). Strong engineering, nursing, and information science programs in downtown Philadelphia.
230 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…
231 4.9
 University of DelawareSIM
Newark, DE
 Other 70.6% 70.0% EA 1180–1370 27–31 3.70 4,424 16% Test_Optional Delaware's flagship public university with strong chemical engineering and finance programs. Test-optional; only 19% of enrollees submitted SAT scores.
232 4.9
 Louisiana State UniversitySIM
Baton Rouge, LA
 Other 73.0% 73.0% N/A 1180–1320 24–30 3.83 7,912 23% Test_Required_For_Some Louisiana's flagship with legendary football culture (Death Valley stadium). Strong petroleum engineering, agriculture, and veterinary medicine programs. Mike the Tiger lives on campus.
233 4.9
 Wheaton CollegeSIM
Wheaton, IL
 Top Liberal Arts 87.0% 94.0% EA 1260–1470 27–33 3.80 533 30% Test_Optional Premier evangelical Christian liberal arts college. Known as the 'Harvard of Christian schools.' Billy Graham's alma mater. Strong programs in biblical studies, music, and communications.
234 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…
235 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…
236 4.8
 University of AlabamaSIM
Tuscaloosa, AL
 Other 71.2% 77.0% N/A 1100–1360 22–31 3.86 8,127 18% Test_Optional Flagship public university known for generous merit scholarships that attract top out-of-state students. Consistently one of the most popular schools for National Merit Scholars.
237 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…
238 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.
239 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…
240 4.8
 Miami UniversitySIM
Oxford, OH
 Other 75.0% 80.0% ED_EA 1240–1378 25–30 3.85 4,192 14% Test_Optional The 'Cradle of Coaches' — produced more football coaches than any other school. Founded 1809, older than the state of Ohio. Strong Farmer School of Business and a quintessential college town.
241 4.8
 Saint Louis UniversitySIM
St. Louis, MO
 Other 75.0% — ED_EA 1200–1410 23–31 3.80 1,338 14% Test_Optional Jesuit research university in St. Louis with strong health sciences. Net cost notably flat across income brackets due to generous institutional aid.
242 4.8
 Indiana University BloomingtonSIM
Bloomington, IN
 Other 75.9% 85.8% EA 1200–1410 28–33 3.70 10,127 18% Test_Optional Flagship Big Ten university known for Kelley School of Business, Jacobs School of Music, and strong liberal arts. 45% of admits applied test-optional.
243 4.8
 University of MissouriSIM
Columbia, MO
 Other 78.0% — 1140–1340 23–30 3.70 5,953 31% Test_Optional Missouri flagship (Mizzou) with rolling admissions, no EA/ED. Top journalism school in the country. Strong business and health sciences.
244 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.
245 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.
246 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.
247 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.
248 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.
249 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…
250 4.7
 University of Colorado BoulderSIM
Boulder, CO
 Other 75.9% 80.0% EA 1180–1390 26–32 3.70 7,106 16% Test_Optional AAU flagship with top aerospace engineering and physics programs (CU Boulder has more astronaut alumni than most schools). Strong environmental science. Early acceptance rate ~84%.
251 4.7
 University of OklahomaSIM
Norman, OK
 Other 77.6% — EA 1160–1310 23–28 3.70 6,229 27% Test_Optional Oklahoma flagship with non-binding EA for priority scholarship. Strong meteorology, petroleum engineering, and business programs.
252 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.
253 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.
254 4.6
 Loyola University ChicagoSIM
Chicago, IL
 Other 75.1% — EA 1220–1390 26–31 3.70 2,605 8% Test_Optional Largest Jesuit university in the US, located in Chicago. Strong nursing, pre-med, and psychology programs.
255 4.6
 University of HoustonSIM
Houston, TX
 Other 75.8% — 1140–1310 22–28 3.49 6,669 25% Test_Optional Tier One public research university in Houston. Strong engineering, business, and optometry. One of the most ethnically diverse research universities in the US.
256 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.
257 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…
258 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…
259 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.
260 4.5
 University at Albany (SUNY)SIM
Albany, NY
 Other 69.1% — EA 1160–1310 24–30 3.30 2,830 13% Test_Optional SUNY research university with SUNY Top 10% Promise auto-admit. Strong in criminal justice, public administration, and nanoscale science. Test-optional.
261 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.
262 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.
263 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.
264 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.
265 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 …
266 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…
267 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.
268 4.5
 Oregon State UniversitySIM
Corvallis, OR
 Other 78.9% 77.0% EA 1128–1360 24–31 3.70 4,452 19% Test_Optional Leading research university for forestry, oceanography, and environmental sciences. Only school in Oregon to hold land-grant, sea-grant, space-grant, and sun-grant designations.
269 4.5
 University of IowaSIM
Iowa City, IA
 Other 79.9% — EA 1130–1320 21–28 3.83 5,561 22% Test_Optional Iowa flagship with non-binding EA. Top creative writing program (Iowa Writers' Workshop). Strong healthcare, business, and liberal arts.
270 4.5
 University at Buffalo (SUNY)SIM
Buffalo, NY
 Other 80.6% 84.2% EA 1210–1380 27–31 3.70 5,155 14% Test_Optional Largest SUNY campus and AAU member. Strong in engineering, pharmacy, and biomedical sciences. Significant research university with urban campus in western New York.
271 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.
272 4.5
 Gonzaga UniversitySIM
Spokane, WA
 Other 81.7% — EA 1190–1385 26–31 3.70 1,251 17% Test_Optional Jesuit university in Spokane, WA known for basketball. Added Early Action starting 2024-2025. Test-optional since 2020.
273 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).
274 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.
275 4.4
 Marquette UniversitySIM
Milwaukee, WI
 Other 81.3% — EA 1220–1350 26–31 3.70 2,149 14% Test_Optional Jesuit university in Milwaukee with strong business and engineering programs. Test-optional; offers Early Action only.
276 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…
277 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…
278 4.4
 Iowa State UniversitySIM
Ames, IA
 Other 87.9% — 1153–1360 21–28 3.70 6,160 28% Test_Optional Iowa STEM-focused land-grant university with rolling admissions, no EA/ED. Strong engineering, agriculture, and veterinary medicine programs.
279 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.
280 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.
281 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.
282 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…
283 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…
284 4.3
 University of Illinois, ChicagoSIM
Chicago, IL
 Other 75.8% — EA 1030–1300 24–31 3.45 5,405 24% Test_Optional Chicago's largest university and a top research institution. Strong health sciences, engineering, and architecture programs. One of most diverse campuses in the Midwest.
285 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.
286 4.3
 Thomas Jefferson UniversitySIM
Philadelphia, PA
 Other 81.0% 81.0% EA 1180–1320 25–30 3.73 697 12% Test_Optional Health sciences-focused university in Philadelphia formed from the 2017 merger of Thomas Jefferson University and Philadelphia University. Strong nursing, OT, PT, and design programs.
287 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 …
288 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…
289 4.3
 George Mason UniversitySIM
Fairfax, VA
 Other 86.5% 89.0% EA 1180–1360 25–31 3.70 4,337 19% Test_Optional Virginia's largest public university, located near Washington DC. Extremely diverse (no racial majority); strong computing, policy, and economics programs. Two Nobel laureates in economics.
290 4.3
 Creighton UniversitySIM
Omaha, NE
 Other 92.2% 86.0% EA 1280–1410 26–31 3.70 1,248 21% Test_Optional Jesuit university in Omaha with highly regarded health sciences programs including pharmacy, nursing, and pre-med. Over 95% of students receive financial aid.
291 4.3
 University of Alabama at BirminghamSIM
Birmingham, AL
 Other 94.2% — none 1250–1420 23–30 3.70 2,519 24% Test_Optional Major public research university and academic medical center in Birmingham, AL. Renowned health sciences and biomedical research.
292 4.2
 Rutgers University, NewarkSIM
Newark, NJ
 Other 71.4% — EA 1030–1270 21–30 3.70 1,857 7% Test_Blind Most diverse national university (U.S. News). Test-blind admissions policy — scores not considered even if submitted. Strong pre-law and criminal justice programs in urban Newark setting.
293 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…
294 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.
295 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.
296 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…
297 4.2
 Michigan State UniversitySIM
East Lansing, MI
 Other 83.2% — EA 1100–1310 25–31 3.70 9,355 18% Test_Optional Big Ten flagship with $720M+ in research funding. Known for education, engineering, and supply chain management programs. Very large campus with 43K+ undergrads.
298 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% …
299 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…
300 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).
301 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.
302 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…
303 4.1
 University of DenverSIM
Denver, CO
 Other 85.4% 86.5% ED_EA 1160–1360 27–32 3.80 1,174 8% Test_Optional Private research university in Denver. Strong in international studies, business, and engineering. Offers EA and ED with higher EA admit rate (~90%). Test-optional.
304 4.1
 University of ArizonaSIM
Tucson, AZ
 Other 86.0% — 1130–1340 21–29 3.47 7,506 20% Test_Optional Arizona flagship with rolling admissions, no EA/ED. Strong optical sciences, astronomy, and business programs.
305 4.1
 University of Nebraska-LincolnSIM
Lincoln, NE
 Other 87.8% 87.5% N/A 1070–1310 21–28 3.65 4,734 29% Test_Optional Big Ten university with legendary football program and 'Sea of Red' game day tradition. Strong agricultural sciences, engineering, and actuarial science programs.
306 4.0
 Rutgers University, CamdenSIM
Camden, NJ
 Other 77.7% — 1050–1300 18–26 3.70 531 6% Test_Optional Urban Rutgers campus across the river from Philadelphia offering small-school experience with big-university resources. Strong in nursing, business, and criminal justice.
307 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.
308 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 …
309 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.
310 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.
311 4.0
 Arizona State UniversitySIM
Tempe, AZ
 Other 88.4% — N/A 1100–1330 22–29 3.53 13,665 22% Test_Optional Largest public university by enrollment and #1 in innovation (U.S. News, 9 consecutive years). Rolling admissions with priority deadline — no formal EA/ED rounds. Strong online and innovation programs.
312 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.
313 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…
314 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.
315 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.
316 3.8
 University of OregonSIM
Eugene, OR
 Other 87.4% — EA 1050–1320 22–29 3.70 5,009 14% Test_Optional AAU member and Oregon flagship known for journalism, business, and environmental sciences. Nike co-founder Phil Knight is top donor. 88% acceptance rate; test-optional.
317 3.8
 University of California, RiversideSIM
Riverside, CA
 Other 88.5% 88.5% none 1100–1320 20–27 3.70 6,686 13% Test_Blind Test-blind UC campus. Strong entomology and agricultural sciences. Highest proportion of first-generation students in the UC system.
318 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.
319 3.8
 University of New HampshireSIM
Durham, NH
 Other 89.1% — EA 1120–1310 26–30 3.70 2,302 12% Test_Optional New Hampshire's flagship public in Durham. Strong marine and environmental science programs. 88% acceptance rate with EA option.
320 3.8
 University of KansasSIM
Lawrence, KS
 Other 92.6% 93.5% N/A 1080–1280 20–28 3.66 5,040 24% Test_Optional Invented basketball (James Naismith was the first coach). Strong journalism, pharmacy, and aerospace engineering programs. Lawrence is consistently rated one of the best college towns in America.
321 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 …
322 3.7
 Temple UniversitySIM
Philadelphia, PA
 Other 86.2% 91.7% EA 1030–1310 23–30 3.42 5,303 14% Test_Optional Large urban public in Philadelphia with non-binding EA. Strong media/communications (Klein College), pharmacy, and arts programs.
323 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.
324 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).…
325 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.
326 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.
327 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…
328 3.6
 University of KentuckySIM
Lexington, KY
 Other 93.5% 93.0% EA 1058–1270 21–28 3.58 6,960 22% Test_Optional Kentucky's flagship university with a strong pharmacy program (#3 nationally) and prominent Markey Cancer Center. Lexington offers a thriving equestrian and bourbon culture.
329 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…
330 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.
331 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.
332 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.
333 3.3
 University of California, Santa CruzSIM
Santa Cruz, CA
 Other 82.3% 82.3% none — — 3.70 4,596 10% Test_Blind Test-blind UC campus. Top-tier computer science and astrophysics programs. Forested campus overlooking Monterey Bay.
334 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).
335 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…
336 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.
337 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.
338 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…
339 3.0
 University of California, MercedSIM
Merced, CA
 Other 96.5% 96.5% none 1010–1230 19–24 3.70 1,982 4% Test_Blind Test-blind UC campus. Newest UC (founded 2005), rapidly growing. Research-focused with small class sizes and high faculty accessibility.
340 3.0
 University of MississippiSIM
Oxford, MS
 Other 97.4% 97.0% N/A 990–1175 21–29 3.52 5,458 15% Test_Required_For_Some Mississippi's flagship university in the literary town of Oxford (home of William Faulkner). Known for accountancy program (#1 CPA pass rate), Southern charm, and passionate SEC athletics.
341 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…
342 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.