#1 Wellesley College
Location: Wellesley, MA
Overall Grade: A+
Acceptance Rate: 14%
Net Price: $21,362
SAT Range: 1430–1550
Official Link: Visit Wellesley College
Wellesley College, a top-tier liberal arts institution, offers rigorous academics, a close-knit community, and unparalleled opportunities for leadership. Its proximity to Boston allows students to participate in cross-institutional activities at nearby universities like MIT and Harvard. With a stunning campus and an empowering alumnae network, Wellesley inspires students to excel and make a difference in the world.
#2 Tulane University
Location: New Orleans, LA
Overall Grade: A+
Acceptance Rate: 11%
Net Price: $50,263
SAT Range: 1370–1510
Official Link: Visit Tulane University
Tulane combines academic excellence with the vibrant culture of New Orleans. Its unique blend of rigorous coursework, community service, and social engagement makes it an excellent choice for students seeking a well-rounded education. The campus offers a lively social scene while maintaining a strong focus on academics.
#3 Trinity University
Location: San Antonio, TX
Overall Grade: A
Acceptance Rate: 31%
Net Price: $30,038
SAT Range: 1310–1470
Official Link: Visit Trinity University
Trinity University provides a transformative liberal arts education with small class sizes and personalized attention from professors. Located in the heart of San Antonio, the campus offers a wealth of cultural and professional opportunities, preparing students for meaningful careers and lives.
#4 Macalester College
Location: Saint Paul, MN
Overall Grade: A
Acceptance Rate: 28%
Net Price: $36,095
SAT Range: 1340–1500
Official Link: Visit Macalester College
Macalester College stands out for its commitment to global citizenship and diversity. With outstanding faculty and study-abroad opportunities, students enjoy a well-rounded liberal arts education. Located in a bustling urban setting, Macalester provides both academic rigor and a supportive community.
#5 Colby College
Location: Waterville, ME
Overall Grade: A
Acceptance Rate: 8%
Net Price: $16,951
SAT Range: 1430–1540
Official Link: Visit Colby College
Colby College offers an intimate and challenging academic environment. Known for its small classes and active campus life, Colby encourages students to explore their passions. The college emphasizes sustainability and global engagement, making it a leader in environmental initiatives.
#6 Carleton College
Location: Northfield, MN
Overall Grade: A
Acceptance Rate: 17%
Net Price: $31,494
SAT Range: 1430–1550
Official Link: Visit Carleton College
Carleton’s trimester system allows students to deeply focus on fewer courses at a time. Known for its academic rigor and collaborative student body, the college provides numerous opportunities for hands-on learning and community engagement. The picturesque campus fosters creativity and intellectual growth.
#7 Reed College
Location: Portland, OR
Overall Grade: A
Acceptance Rate: 30%
Net Price: $33,106
SAT Range: 1320–1500
Official Link: Visit Reed College
Reed College is renowned for its focus on intellectual curiosity and academic depth. Its close-knit community and unique traditions create a stimulating environment for students who are passionate about learning. Located in Portland, Reed also offers a vibrant urban experience.
#8 Smith College
Location: Northampton, MA
Overall Grade: A
Acceptance Rate: 23%
Net Price: $30,790
SAT Range: 1370–1520
Official Link: Visit Smith College
Smith College empowers women through a robust liberal arts education. The college offers unparalleled housing and dining options, a vibrant campus life, and a commitment to diversity. Its alumnae network is among the strongest in the nation, providing lifelong support and opportunities.
#9 Grinnell College
Location: Grinnell, IA
Overall Grade: A
Acceptance Rate: 11%
Net Price: $33,467
SAT Range: 1380–1530
Official Link: Visit Grinnell College
Grinnell College combines academic rigor with a strong sense of community. The college emphasizes critical thinking, innovation, and social responsibility. Its intimate setting and focus on undergraduate research make it a top choice for those passionate about making a difference.
#10 Colorado College
Location: Colorado Springs, CO
Overall Grade: A
Acceptance Rate: 16%
Net Price: $33,178
SAT Range: 1260–1480
Official Link: Visit Colorado College
Colorado College’s Block Plan allows students to immerse themselves in one subject at a time. Located in a scenic setting near the Rocky Mountains, the college provides both academic challenges and outdoor adventures. Its vibrant campus fosters creativity and collaboration.
#11 Bryn Mawr College
Location: Bryn Mawr, PA
Overall Grade: A
Acceptance Rate: 31%
Net Price: $39,072
SAT Range: 1280–1520
Official Link: Visit Bryn Mawr College
Bryn Mawr is known for its strong academics and commitment to empowering women. Its close-knit community and traditions create a welcoming and enriching environment. Located near Philadelphia, students enjoy access to cultural and professional opportunities.
#12 Wabash College
Location: Crawfordsville, IN
Overall Grade: A
Acceptance Rate: 61%
Net Price: $22,976
SAT Range: 1130–1320
Official Link: Visit Wabash College
Wabash College offers a distinctive all-male liberal arts experience that fosters academic rigor and personal growth. Known for its strong alumni network, Wabash prepares students for leadership and professional success while maintaining a close-knit and supportive community.
#13 New Mexico Tech
Location: Socorro, NM
Overall Grade: A
Acceptance Rate: 74%
Net Price: $10,429
SAT Range: 1110–1320
Official Link: Visit New Mexico Tech
New Mexico Tech excels in STEM fields, offering hands-on research opportunities and proximity to national laboratories. Its small faculty-to-student ratio ensures personalized education, preparing students for advanced careers in science, technology, and engineering.
#14 Michigan Technological University
Location: Houghton, MI
Overall Grade: A
Acceptance Rate: 94%
Net Price: $18,235
SAT Range: 1130–1350
Official Link: Visit Michigan Tech
Michigan Tech is renowned for its engineering and technology programs. Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the university combines academic excellence with a vibrant campus community and access to outdoor recreational activities.
#15 Kenyon College
Location: Gambier, OH
Overall Grade: A
Acceptance Rate: 34%
Net Price: $43,044
SAT Range: 1350–1510
Official Link: Visit Kenyon College
Kenyon College is a premier liberal arts institution known for its exceptional writing programs. The campus fosters close relationships between students and faculty, encouraging collaboration and creativity in an intimate academic setting.
#16 University of Dayton
Location: Dayton, OH
Overall Grade: A
Acceptance Rate: 74%
Net Price: $30,590
SAT Range: 1140–1350
Official Link: Visit University of Dayton
The University of Dayton combines rigorous academics with a supportive and inclusive campus community. Its focus on experiential learning and research opportunities prepares students for successful careers in diverse fields.
#17 Eastern New Mexico University
Location: Portales, NM
Overall Grade: A-
Acceptance Rate: 28%
Net Price: $8,702
SAT Range: 840–1100
Official Link: Visit ENMU
Eastern New Mexico University provides affordable education with a focus on student success. Offering small class sizes and diverse academic programs, ENMU is an excellent choice for students seeking a supportive environment.
#18 College of Saint Mary
Location: Omaha, NE
Overall Grade: A-
Acceptance Rate: 65%
Net Price: $14,984
SAT Range: —
Official Link: Visit College of Saint Mary
As a women’s college, the College of Saint Mary emphasizes leadership and empowerment. Its Omaha location provides access to numerous internships and career opportunities, making it a great choice for aspiring professionals.
#19 Wheaton College – Illinois
Location: Wheaton, IL
Overall Grade: A-
Acceptance Rate: 88%
Net Price: $29,961
SAT Range: 1250–1430
Official Link: Visit Wheaton College
Wheaton College integrates faith and learning, offering a holistic education in a Christian environment. With rigorous academics and a strong sense of community, Wheaton helps students grow intellectually and spiritually.
#20 Denison University
Location: Granville, OH
Overall Grade: A-
Acceptance Rate: 22%
Net Price: $38,267
SAT Range: 1270–1460
Official Link: Visit Denison University
Denison University promotes interdisciplinary learning and critical thinking. Its innovative curriculum and dedicated faculty empower students to explore their passions and prepare for meaningful careers.
#21 Furman University
Location: Greenville, SC
Overall Grade: A-
Acceptance Rate: 67%
Net Price: $33,370
SAT Range: 1260–1430
Official Link: Visit Furman University
Furman University offers personalized education with a focus on research, internships, and study-abroad opportunities. Its picturesque campus and strong emphasis on student engagement make it a standout liberal arts college.
#22 College of the Ozarks
Location: Point Lookout, MO
Overall Grade: A-
Acceptance Rate: 21%
Net Price: $12,611
SAT Range: 1040–1230
Official Link: Visit College of the Ozarks
Known as “Hard Work U,” College of the Ozarks combines rigorous academics with a work-study program that covers tuition. Its commitment to character development and leadership sets it apart as a unique educational institution.
#23 Berea College
Location: Berea, KY
Overall Grade: A
Acceptance Rate: 33%
Net Price: $5,099
SAT Range: 1080–1340
Official Link: Visit Berea College
Berea College offers a tuition-free education to students with limited financial resources. Its unique work-study program allows students to gain professional skills while earning their degree, fostering a strong sense of community and personal growth.
#24 College of the Atlantic
Location: Bar Harbor, ME
Overall Grade: A-
Acceptance Rate: 76%
Net Price: $16,647
SAT Range: 1150–1370
Official Link: Visit College of the Atlantic
College of the Atlantic focuses on human ecology, blending liberal arts and environmental sustainability. Its small size and interdisciplinary curriculum encourage personalized learning and close faculty-student collaboration.
#25 Trinity University
Location: Washington, DC
Overall Grade: B+
Acceptance Rate: 89%
Net Price: $14,730
SAT Range: 870–1080
Official Link: Visit Trinity Washington University
Trinity Washington University serves a diverse student body with a strong emphasis on social justice and community leadership. Its location in the heart of Washington, DC, provides students with access to invaluable internships and career opportunities.
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