This article was originally published on DrGraduate
50. University of Wyoming - Wyoming
Situated in Laramie, the University of Wyoming holds the distinction of being the premier public university in the state. With an impressive 97% acceptance rate, incoming students typically present SAT scores between 1040 and 1240 or ACT scores ranging from 21 to 28. What sets the University of Wyoming apart is its ability to provide students with a unique educational experience that combines academics with good learning and research experiences.
The university offers a lot of undergraduate and graduate programs which has resulted in recognition for its notable commitment to research, across many fields such as natural resources and others.
49. Johnson & Wales University - Rhode Island
Nestled in the heart of Providence, Rhode Island, Johnson & Wales University offers an interesting admission process, with an impressive 93% acceptance rate. Despite its laid-back entry, the university excels in specific fields, which gave it the 13th spot nationally for its culinary arts program. The campus itself adds to the charm of the placewith its picturesque location in Providence. What's noteworthy is the university's unique approach – no need for SAT or ACT scores for admission.
Not having to take an SAT or ACT test in order to gain acceptance into the school is pretty rare in the US. It makes sense that this school would have such a high acceptance rate.
48. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Florida
Founded in 1926, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott in Florida goes beyond mere flight training (despite what you may think with the name) and goes into the science and the business sides of aviation and aerospace. This is one of the reasons it is such as unique option in the academic world. Boasting a reasonable admission rate of 76.5% and an average annual attendance cost of $34,120, Embry-Riddle emerges as an accessible option for students with aspirations in the aerospace field.
Prospective students aiming for an SAT score around 1350 find themselves comfortably within the 75th percentile, which makes this a great and doable option for people looking for a career in aeronautics and aerospace.
47. Minot State University - North Dakota
While you may not have ever heard of Minot State University in North Dakota, and it does not have a top national ranking, it does have a 77% acceptance rate. The university has programs in criminal justice, sports management, and public policy, which rank within the #108-148 range nationally, so it's not all bad. Applicants must submit SAT scores that fall between the 880-1070 mark and ACT scores ranging from 18-24.
Despite its higher acceptance rate, Minot State University has a great educational foundation and many options in the specialized fields side of things.
46. Northwest Nazarene University - Idaho
Established in 1913 as a Bible and elementary school, Northwest Nazarene University has become a prestigious private liberal arts college in Idaho. Despite its smaller campus, it holds the esteemed position of being the top university in the state, having around 2,000 undergraduate and graduate students regularly. With an admission rate of 73.4%, the institution combines the spiritual and secular sides of education. They have really come a long way from Sunday school learning!
Northwest Nazarene University also has a great athletics program and they also offer great things on the extracurricular side, despite what you may jump to believe based on the name of the university.
45. Brigham Young University - Utah
Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, is a private university affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. With an acceptance rate of 64%, BYU attracts academically strong students who align with its values. The university offers a diverse range of programs while they also combine academics with spiritual education. BYU has a beautiful and picturesque campus and also offers a lot on the side of character development.
The SAT score range of 1190-1420 and ACT scores between 26-31 reflect the university's commitment to academic excellence. If you're thinking of going to school in Utah, this could be a good choice!
44. Brigham Young University - Hawaii
Brigham Young University-Hawaii was established in 1955 on the island of Oahu, and it is part of the global expansion of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (there have been a few colleges from them on this list already). This university combines religious values and also has a strong academic focus. With a reasonable net price of attendance at $12,155 and an admission rate of 36.8%, it offers a good balance to students.
This university is perfect for students with SAT scores ranging from 1090 to 1253, placing them within the 25th to 75th percentile.
43. West Virginia University Institute of Technology - West Virginia
In Beckley, West Virginia, the West Virginia University Institute of Technology uniquely blends the liberal arts with the very different technical side of education. With a 66% acceptance rate, students typically have SAT scores between 940 and 1130 or ACT scores of 21 to 27. They have a pretty decent offer for students trying to enter a good college. This university is well-known for its engineering and science programs that are hard to rival anywhere.
This is really an important university in West Virginia. It brings a lot to the state and it also offers a great option to students.
42. Augustana University - South Dakota
Dating back to 1860, Augustana University is located in South Dakota. It stands as a Midwest educational cornerstone. The institution maintains a balanced approach with a 66.01% ensuring accessibility without compromising academic rigor. Incoming students usually boast SAT scores around 1,160 and ACT scores averaging 25. They also offer a wide array of programs, and they like to focus on their dedication to a comprehensive educational experience.
If you're looking to go to school in South Dakota, then you should take a look at Augustana University. While it may be hard to get into, it could be worth the effort.
41. University of Arkansas - Arkansas
Established in 1871, the University of Arkansas holds the title of the most academically rigorous institution in the state, with a 66% admission rate. Despite its reputation as the most difficult school, students still have a fairly high chance of getting admitted. However, the average high school GPA of admitted students in 2018 stood at a commendable 3.69, so you can see that the standards are quite high and difficult to reach.
They offer a lot of different programs, so there is something for anyone looking to study here. There are endless options!
40. University of Alaska Fairbanks - Alaska
Did you know that Alaska has six universities? Of them, the University of Alaska Fairbanks is the most difficult to get into. They also have a unique focus - forestry. And there are other unique options like agriculture, arctic research, and marine sciences. There aren't many universities that offer that. SAT scores ranging from 1030 to 1270 put it at a position as an attainable choice for students looking to study in Alaska.
This university falls within the 25th to 75th percentile for SAT scores. Affordability is also a key feature at the University of Alaska Fairbanks as they have a price of $9,010 per year.
39. University of Delaware - Delaware
What university is situated in Newark, Delaware and also claims the title of the most selective college in the state? The University of Delaware. They got a lot of press as they were the highest-ranking for physical therapy in the U.S. That is not an easy title to get and it makes it a great place to study if physical therapy is your desire. With a 62.9% admission rate and an average annual net cost of $16,286, it is as a good option for students.
Students have to get at least 1130 on their SATs if they want a chance to join the 24,100 students that they host.
38. New Mexico State University - New Mexico
If you are looking to study criminal justice or agriculture, then the New Mexico State University might be a good option for you. Situated at the heart of New Mexico, this university boasts a 63% acceptance rate and requires high SAT/ACT scores. If you ever wanted to study in New Mexico, then New Mexico State University is a great option as it offers a unique blend of accessibility, excellence, and practical learning.
One of the other perks of New Mexico State University is that is also prioritizes affordability for in-state students, so if you're from New Mexico, you're quite possibly in luck!
37. University of Nebraska-Lincoln - Nebraska
Established in 1869, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln has a significant role in the state's educational narrative as it is Nebraska's oldest university. While the oldest isn't always the best, new is not always better and that is the case with UNL as they have a great athletic program along with academics. They boast a 64.4% admission rate and they have over 25,000 enrolled as of fall 2018 with that number likely to stay fairly stable.
The university is known for being a symbol of community in Nebraska while also offering great educational opportunities for the Nebraksa population.
36. Rocky Mountain College - Montana
Founded in 1878 and historically affiliated with various Christian denominations, Rocky Mountain College is Montana's most selective university despite its 64.4% admission rate. As this is a private institution, it has a limited range of majors and post-graduate programs, but they are high quality. They have a focus on accounting and health sciences. So, if you're looking to go to school in Montana with a small amount of students (only about 1,000), take a look here!
Maybe it is the fact that it is so exclusive and has such a small amount of students that makes it such a sought-after school.
35. Whitman College - Washington
Nestled in Walla Walla, Washington, Whitman College has made a name for itself. Of course, the naming doesn't affect the 59% acceptance rate of the school (maybe people like the name of the strange city Walla Walla). Aspiring students also usually present very competitive SAT scores ranging from 1270 to 1440 or ACT scores of 29 to 33, which only highlight the university's rigorous admission process that only a small amount of applicants are able to pass.
This school is a very sought-after choice for students looking for a good education in the area while offering great experiences.
34. University of Tulsa - Oklahoma
The University of Tulsa admits 69% of applicants and this makes it Oklahoma's most difficult college to get into in the state. Prospective applicants usually showcase SAT scores between 1080 and 1330 and ACT scores ranging from 23 to 31. The university is renowned for its Christian foundation and excellence in fields like physical therapy and kinesiology. If you are able to pass the university's high standards, it's a great school and a great option.
Perhaps the biggest downside of this is the location. Being in Oklahoma may not be everyone's dream, but Tulsa is a pretty nice place for it.
33. Sierra Nevada College - Nevada
If you're looking for the most beautiful college on this list, then Sierra Nevada College certainly would win. Founded in 1969 near the picturesque north shore of Lake Tahoe, you cannot get better views from school than this. Sierra Nevada College is also the youngest college on this list, founded only 55 years ago. Due to its location, it also has programs in ski area management. But onto the more boring facts about statistics and details.
Sierra Nevada College has a 69% admission rate, which places it pretty high on the list of most difficult schools to get into.
32. Mississippi College - Mississippi
Mississippi College, renowned for its historical milestone of granting the first U.S. degree to a woman in 1831, stands as a private institution rich in history. While you might nothave expected that from a school in Mississippi in the 1800s, you might also be surprised with the wide array of programs that they offer. The college maintains a selective 39% admission rate and they have on average about 5,000 students every year.
If you want to go to school in a place that made a difference in history, then this would be a great option - if you can get accepted and can afford the affordable $17,098 is costs per year.
31. Southern Wesleyan University - South Carolina
In Central, South Carolina, Southern Wesleyan University stands as the state's most challenging college to enter, with an acceptance rate of 57%. It holds the 75th position among the best Christian colleges in America out of 364, which is quite impressive and it has many different programs that would help it to become more attractive to prospective students. And people looking to apply have a luckily low application fee of just $25.
If you are looking fora combination of spiritual experiences and great education experiences then maybe this is a great fit for you (if you can get in).
30. University of Wisconsin - Wisconsin
The University of Wisconsin, situated in Madison, is a public research university celebrated for many things. One of which is its great campus life. While you might think that might not be hard to get (it is a US campus after all), that is not always the case. Admitted students typically present SAT scores between 1320 and 1500 or ACT scores of 26 to 32, showcasing the institution's high academic standards. If you're looking to go to school in Wisconsin, give the University of Wisconsin a try.
This school has made quite an impact on the social life of the state and also on the academic world in general. This school seems to have a lot to offer.
29. McPherson College - Kansas
Have you ever thought about what it would be like to study at a college with only 700 students? Founded in 1887 by leaders of the Church of the Brethren, McPherson College in McPherson, Kansas, is just that. With a 48.5% admission rate, McPherson College opens doors to various programs, including chemistry and psychology. They also have music and business administration options that are pretty highly renowned and acclaimed across the country.
It is interesting to see how many schools and universities on this list are Christian in origin. They really managed to combine religion with high education very successfully.
28. University of Miami - Florida
Have you ever wanted to study in Miami? Maybe it doesn't seem like the biggest and most common state to go for studies, it actually has a great university...The University of Miami. Ignore the Florida stereotypes and focus on the fact that the university has a 35.7% admission rate. And in 2018, it secured an impressive rank of 46 on the U.S. News & World Report's list of best U.S. colleges. That isn't too shabby even fora Florida school.
Not surprisingly, this school has a strong and exciting campus life on top of its great academic programs.
27. Case Western Reserve University - Ohio
With a 30% acceptance rate, Case Western Reserve University leads the academic landscape in Ohio. The university has some very famous and distinguished faculty members that only add to its renown. That is just part of how it has managed to reach its exceptional standing. Case Western has a lot to offer in many different fields, but some of the top are accounting, finance, and nursing, which offers a wide range.
Case Western Reserve University stands not only as a beacon of academic excellence but also as a testament to its commitment to providing a quality education in diverse disciplines.
26. Berea College - Kentucky
Established in 1855, Berea College stands as the South's first interracial and coeducational institution, which is pretty exciting in the historical aspects. Way to go Kentucky of the mid-1800s. You'd probably also be surprised to hear that it does not charge tuition fees, which is pretty rare and offers great options for lower income students looking for a good school. With a 35.1% admission rate, Berea College is not too easy to get into as they only have about 1,600 students.
If you want to go to a great school that also has a great history and won't cause you to break the bank, then you should definitely consider looking into Berea College.
25. University of West Alabama - Alabama
Dating back to 1835, the University of West Alabama in Livingston, Alabama, is a public institution with a rich historical legacy. Despite its modest size (about 1,8400 students), the university maintains competitiveness with a 28 percent acceptance rate! As a result, students can anticipate an average starting salary of $26,400 post-graduation, which comes without too much surprise. They also have a very good graduation rate of 33%, showing that they value the education and their student's enjoyment and learning process.
While they host less than 2,000 students, they offer a lot of different programs that would be of interest to many different types of people. Diverse and a great school!
24. Grinnell College - Iowa
With a founding date of 1848, Grinnell College in Iowa is a distinguished private liberal arts college boasting a selective 28.9% admission rate. The college's high academic standards are evident, with applicants in the 75th percentile typically scoring around 1510 on the SAT. The commitment to fostering excellence is exemplified by notable alumni like Robert Hodierne who won a Pulitzer Prize (they are pretty proud of this and understandably so).
Grinnell College is on the smaller, more intimate side when compared to other schools, and they have around 1,600 students at a time.
23. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor - Michigan
Founded in 1817, the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor has earned acclaim as a leading institution for educational value with over 275 academic programs. They also have a robust athletics program, which is pretty exciting when a school offers both. It has secured a position in the top ten nationally (which makes sense that they are so selective) and they have a 26.5% admission rate.Good luck getting into this school if you are interested.
People all around the country study and work themselves to the bones for years just so they can have a chance at a school like UMich.
22. Emory University - Georgia
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, Emory University stands out for many reasons. Noteworthy for producing six Pulitzer Prize winners, the university's academic appeal is further enhanced by its rich history of achievement. As the most challenging institution to gain admission to in the state, Emory maintains a selective 22% admission rate which shows how difficult it is to get into. The university requires SAT scores ranging from 1350 to 1520 for the 25th to 75th percentile.
Having 11 colleges and schools, Emory offers many different fields to the students who are able to get into the university. So at least there is a lot available to its students.
21. University of Virginia - Virginia
Established by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University of Virginia is a famous school in Charlottesville, Virginia. After all, could any school founded by Thomas Jefferson not be famous? They maintain a selective acceptance rate (which is understandable) and they require incoming students to showcase SAT scores ranging from 1380 to 1500 and ACT scores between 32 and 35. Good luck if you are trying to get into this university!
This school is a top choice for anyone living in Virginia, but there are also many students that come from out of state due to its prestige.
20. Tulane University - Louisiana
With an admission rate of 21.5%, Tulane University is the top university in Louisiana. They are very well known and they have a very unique history. It all started back in the 1800s when its medical students were trying to fight against a yellow fever outbreak. Ever since they have required community service for the students within their walls. They have kept the tradition going very strong over the years.
If you want to go to a school that also has some integrity, then maybe Tulane University is the school for you.
19. Carleton College - Minnesota
Established in 1866, Carleton College in Minnesota has something that makes it stand out among the state's other universities. They have a unique trimester system which is fairly rare and is the only one similar on this list. The way that they organize it is to have three ten-week terms annually ( along with their admission rate of 21.2%). While this may not be for everyone, this system seems to be something that the students of Carleton College enjoy and thrive with.
While not everyone enjoys having an entirely different structure from most of the other college campuses, they have great success with this method.
18. Washington University in St. Louis - Missouri
With a founding date of 1853, Washington University in St. Louis is renowned for many reasons. Boasting a prestigious legacy, the institution has produced two dozen Nobel laureates, emphasizing its unwavering commitment to academic excellence. Applicants seeking admission face stiff competition, given the university's 16% admission rate, so don't get your heart set on this university if you don't want to put in all the work and effort that will be required.
Applicants seeking admission face stiff competition, given the university's 16% admission rate. This school is often also considered to be an alternative for students with Ivy League-level aspirations.
17. University of Notre Dame - Kentucky
Founded in 1842, the University of Notre Dame in Indiana has earned renown not only for its illustrious college sports but also as the state's most challenging university to gain admission. Neither of these aspects is a secret for anyone who is considering applying to Notre Dame, but the details of just how difficult entry can be are known. This non-profit Catholic institution has an 18.9% admission rate and an annual enrollment of approximately 12,000 students.
Aspiring students should set their sights on an SAT score near 1520 for a competitive edge if they want a chance to get into the school.
16. Colby College - Maine
Established in 1813, Colby College, a private liberal arts institution, began as a literary and theological center. Over time, it was turned into the prestigious school that it is known as today. Despite its smaller size, Colby College provides an expansive study-abroad program, enriching the educational experience for its students. The institution maintains a competitive admission rate of 15.8%, where prospective students typically need a minimum SAT score of 1340 for confidence in acceptance.
Colby College now offers 58 majors and 35 minors, which is a far cry from its humble origins in the 1800s.
15. United States Air Force Academy - Colorado
While most people know about the United States Air Force Academy, they probably don't know that it is located in Colorado and is the state's most difficult school to be accepted into. It has an exceptionally low admission rate of 11.9%; the academy is steadfast in its commitment to developing military personnel. You can also only apply if you recently graduated high school and 23 years is the strict age cut-off.
If you want to study here, you need to be prepared for a long road ahead. You will have at least five years of active duty and an additional three years in the active reserve as an officer.
14. University of Chicago - Illinois
Established in 1890, the University of Chicago is well-known in Illinois. They have an 8.7% admission rate, making it highly competitive both in Illinois and when you look at the general acceptance rates across the country. You would need to achieve a minimum SAT score of 1580 if you wanted to have a chance to get into this school. And be prepared to pay around $34,834 if you do manage to enroll.
This university is famous for many reasons and it is no surprise that students across the country make efforts to be accepted.
13. Rice University - Texas
Situated in Houston, Texas, Rice University has a lot to offer. It may not be as famous as some of the other universities at the bottom of this list, but that doesn't take away from the fact that it is one of the most difficult universities to get into. The university maintains a competitive acceptance rate, evident in the average SAT scores ranging from 1490 to 1570 and ACT scores of 34-35.
There is also a small student body count and a low student-to-faculty ratio, which shows how careful they are with their admissions.
12. Duke University - North Carolina
Most people have heard of Duke University. However, they don't always know just how hard of a school it is to get into. North Carolina's most elite school has a tiny acceptance rate of 8%. Duke is renowned for holding the number one rank in public policy and being recognized as the best Christian college in America, so it makes sense that they have such a low acceptance rate.
Besides being renowned for their academic aspects, they are also quite famous for their athletic programs, making it a popular place for exceptional high school athletes.
11. Middlebury College - Vermont
Nestled in Vermont, Middlebury College has a 13% acceptance rate and is famous for its liberal arts offerings. Not only is it one of the lowest acceptance rates in the country, but it is the lowest in Vermont. If you want a chance at entrance, you should have an SAT score ranging from 1380 to 1530 and an ACT score of 32-34, as that is the average for Middlebury College students.
If you are lucky enough to be accepted then you will have a great selection of major and minor choices along with great cultural opportunities on campus.
10. Johns Hopkins University - Maryland
It seems like John Hopkins is pretty famous is multiple states. Whether it is for incredible hospitals or universities. This school was founded in 1876 and named after American Quaker and philanthropist Johns Hopkins. As everything associated with him is high in excellence it is no surprise that Johns Hopkins University is Maryland's most challenging university to get into (and one of the top schools in the country). They have a 12.5% admission rate and an average of about 24,000 students.
If you have ever wanted to work in the medical field, then there is hardly a chance that you haven't heard about Johns Hopkins University, as it is just that famous. So you would be very lucky to make it among the very distinguished group of people who are admitted here.
9. Dartmouth College - New Hampshire
At this point, the list has gotten to the Ivy League colleges, so it will probably come as no surprise that they are at the top of the list of the most difficult colleges to gain admission to. Established in 1769, Dartmouth is one of the country's oldest universities in the US, and it maintains a highly competitive 10.4% admission rate. You will also need to obtain SAT scores around 1560 for the top 75th percentile.
If you want to study at Dartmouth, then you will have to study and work very hard for a few years to be accepted.
8. Reed College - Oregon
Reed College in Portland, Oregon, is the state's most challenging college to be admitted to, with a 39% acceptance rate. Reed distinguishes itself by not requiring an application fee and promoting a diverse pool of applicants. They also have a very dedicated focus on liberal arts education and a great educational environment. If you are looking to go to school in Oregon, this is going to be the most competitive school that you will try.
They do have a higher acceptance rate than some of the other schools on this list, but you will still need to study hard in order to get accepted.
7. Princeton University - New Jersey
Although the Northeast is famous for many things, New Jersey isn't the most famous of those states. However, there is one pretty famous university to have come out of the state, and that is Princeton, located in Princeton, New Jersey. It was founded in 1746 and is one of the country's most famous Ivy League colleges, with an astoundingly low acceptance rate of 6.4%, showing just how hard it is to be accepted here.
If it is that difficult to get into Princeton, then you can only imagine how difficult the actual studies are and how hard it is for the students to keep up.
6. University of Pennsylvania - Pennsylvania
Ranked as Pennsylvania's most challenging college to enter, the University of Pennsylvania boasts an impressive 8% acceptance rate and requires SAT scores that range between 1460-1570 and ACT scores of 33-35 to even be considered. Most people have heard of UPENN so it makes sense that it would hit the top 10 on this list and almost reach the top 5. It's a great school to study in and hard to get accepted to.
This school is most famous for its business college and they have even ranked as #1. They are high-ranking in their finance, accounting, and nursing programs as well.
5. Vanderbilt University - Tennessee
In the vibrant city of Nashville, Tennessee, Vanderbilt University stands as the state's most highly sought-after institution with a notable 11.6% acceptance rate. Incoming students typically need to achieve an average SAT score between 1480-1570 and ACT scores of 34-35. The name Vanderbilt usually elicits thoughts of grandeur and wealth, so it is no surprise that the university that bears the same name would be exclusive and difficult to enter.
If you are looking to study in Tennessee or at one of the top schools in the US, then this is for you.
4. Yale University - Connecticut
Just about everyone has heard of Yale University. And so, it comes as no surprise to see it appear on this list. Founded in 1701 initially as a theology school, Yale University has emerged as a global bastion of prestige in Connecticut. With a remarkably competitive admission rate of 6.9%, the university establishes a high bar for prospective applicants and creates an even more difficult environment for the students and a level to maintain once they are accepted.
There are rumors that Yale will become even more selective in the future as well. So, if you have your heart set on Yale, then you probably want to apply soon!
3. Harvard University - Massachusetts
As Massachusetts' premier institution among elite colleges, Harvard University boasts a mere 5.2% admission rate. This is one of the lowest on this list, and it is no surprise that Harvard is infamous for the difficulty it is to be accepted. Harvard holds the distinction of being the oldest university in the United States, having been founded in 1636. Prospective applicants vying for admission must demonstrate a minimum of 1460 on the SAT.
It is no surprise that Harvard has produced over 40 Nobel laureates. It is also known as one of the country's wealthiest universities so that usually means high quality as well (you can only hope the money is being put to good use).
2. California Institute of Technology - California
In California, the pinnacle of academic rigor resides at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). With an admission rate as low as 7.7%, the institution sets a formidable academic threshold, complemented by an average annual attendance cost of $24,466. Caltech's commitment to excellence is underscored by its SAT percentile range of 1530 to 1590. That puts it close to schools like Harvard, Oxford, and MIT so you probably hear these schools mentioned together.
Renowned for its emphasis on doctoral research, especially in natural science and engineering, Caltech distinguishes itself in California's fiercely competitive academic arena.
1. Columbia University - New York
Reaching number one on the list of most exclusive US universities, it probably comes as no surprise at all that the university is located in New York, the most exclusive state in the US. And not to mention that New York has intense academic competition. Columbia University has a remarkably low acceptance rate of 7%; SAT scores that range from 1460 to 1570, and ACT scores of 33 to 35.
It is probably not a surprise to anyone that this famous university is on this list, but did you know it would be #1?