2024 Best Catholic Colleges in America

• Washington, DC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,259 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Georgetown University as a Freshman has been phenomenal. The very first month has been the most memorable. Due to how open the community was, I was able to meet new people every single day and also, I was able to find my long-life friends immediately! The community was so diverse that I had never heard a single negative comment. It was purely all just having fun and sharing honest thoughts. Now, throughout the school year, as a Freshman, I went through many obstacles. One of the most common ones is sickness. However, because of the flexibility that the professors had, I was able to succeed in class. Georgetown's flexibility and resources are so great that even though I was sick some days, I still had a smile on my face. Although it's only my first year, I can definitely say that I started off with no regrets.... Read 1,259 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 12%

• Net price $23,049

• SAT range 1410-1550

• Notre Dame, IN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  1,410 reviews

Alum: Best decision I ever made. Extraordinary undergraduate engagement through inspired teaching and mentoring. Lifelong friendships with faculty and peers. A commitment to reasoned discourse. Study abroad encouraged and facilitated even if pre med. Gorgeous campus. Inclusive residential life. Brilliant yet helpful classmates from every state and over 100 countries. I still regularly talk to my roommates 34 years later. Unparalleled sports with far reaching esprit de corps. As an undergraduate English Philosophy Pre Med Major whose now a Pediatric Psychiatrist, I would love to do it all again. When I occasionally go back to campus I love perusing the bookstore stacks to see what kids are reading these days in the disciplines. I remain grateful they have not abandoned their mission to form young people to be a force for good in the world. When I talk to current students, they give me hope.... Read 1,410 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 15%

• Net price $30,513

• SAT range 1410-1550

• Chestnut Hill, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,582 reviews

Niche User: Boston college is a great school! I recently got admitted to Boston College. I applied them through an organization called Quest-bridge that helps students that are minorities and come from low income families. Due to that, I got full tuition from Boston College. I really appreciate that Boston College is giving an opportunity to high achieving successful students since not everyone had the same opportunities growing up. In addition, I have been on Boston College tour before. It was magical there. The campus was the prettiest. More importantly, the admissions counselors were super kind to me when I went there. They answered all of my questions, and I kept in touch with them. I think this may be one of the reasons I was admitted. I think I can best express myself in interviews, since BC doesn't do interviews, it was definitely beneficial for me to show my personality to an admissions officer. The campus environment over all looked so chill, just like a family. See you at BC!... Read 1,582 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 19%

• Net price $30,159

• SAT range 1420-1530

• Villanova, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  1,552 reviews

Alum: Villanova is not a perfect school, but it was a great fit and wonderful experience for me! There are countless opportunities, good communication/posting of opportunities for students to be aware of and get involved in, and a great campus, relational feel to the school. Villanova is small enough to feel homey but large enough to continually meet new people or branch out and try new clubs, activities, etc. A common (and true) complaint is lack of diversity on campus. This is something to take into account but as an alum, I think the school is aware of it and has attempted to make strides to address it. I'd like to have seen the social scene change slightly; as someone who doesn't drink alcohol, it took some time to find like-minded people and find social opportunities that didn't feel centered around college drinking culture. I think this is a reality of many schools, not necessarily Villanova-specific. Overall, I loved Villanova and would choose to attend if I had to do it over again!... Read 1,552 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 25%

• Net price $33,123

• SAT range 1350-1490

• Worcester, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  571 reviews

Alum: Extremely competitive school from day 1. But - that fosters personal growth! Loved how many service-oriented opportunities there were. This was clearly a strong emphasis in the school's Jesuit identity. When HC says that faculty are there to help, it is not just an empty, overly-stated phrase. As an alum, I still reach out to faculty for advice on the job market and graduate school admissions. Truly thankful that HC has invested so much in recruiting and retaining world-class professors.... Read 571 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 43%

• Net price $29,198

• SAT range 1240-1420

• San Diego, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  1,936 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at USD has been positive so far! The campus is so pretty, so it's definitely a nice environment to learn within. I love how unique and consistent the architecture is, even with new buildings, and the view of Mission Bay is fun to see every day. My first-year housing experience (in Camino) was good. The bathrooms were recently renovated, so that was appreciated, and there were a lot of private bathroom spaces. All of my professors were so nice as well!... Read 1,936 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $34,155

• SAT range 1190-1370

• Dayton, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  1,456 reviews

Senior: Oh, my time at the University of Dayton was simply unforgettable! From the moment I stepped foot on campus, I knew I was in for an amazing college experience. Go Flyers! One of the first organizations I got involved with was Phi Chi Theta, the premier business and economics fraternity. Another significant role I held on campus was serving on the University Hearing Board. As a board member, I participated in student conduct hearings, where we strived to create a supportive and educational environment while upholding the university's code of conduct. Academically, the University of Dayton provided an excellent learning environment. The professors were approachable and genuinely invested in their students' success. Overall, my college experience at the University of Dayton was a whirlwind of growth, learning, and camaraderie. The memories I made and the skills I developed during my time there continue to shape my journey beyond graduation.... Read 1,456 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $29,933

• SAT range 1130-1330

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,735 reviews

Senior: This university has contributed to the academic, social, and communal achievements. I have acquired during the course of my stay as a student here. Loyola Marymount University is the positive, namely, cause of not only my own achievements, but my family and siblings to come as well. As a first time generation student who was not exposed to diverse environments, independent environments; LMU has created a comfortable, easily accessible environment for us! I am thrilled that my siblings will be attending LMU next year, and joining the summer program this summer, 2023! Thank you LMU for being extremely welcoming, having positively supporting staff and support groups!... Read 1,735 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $40,180

• SAT range 1250-1420

• Santa Clara, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  1,453 reviews

Alum: I had an amazing time at SCU and am proud to be a BRONCO! There are tons of job opportunities in the Bay Area because there are thousands of successful companies in the area, classes are small, education is impressive, the campus is beautiful, and people are so friendly. Santa Clara is not only a great university; the statistical information speaks for itself, but it is more than the numbers. Everyone is happy and proud to study here. The numbers are just getting better each year.... Read 1,453 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $48,469

• SAT range 1330-1490

• St. Louis, MO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  2,130 reviews

Alum: A great international experience with a lot of access to different courses that enrichened my holistic learning. Not only was I able to get involve in different activities but the environment at SLU was perfect for me to concentrate on my studies but be able to have fun at the same time. Professors are always available to help and students are incredibly open to meeting others and welcoming international students. I had the pleasure to be able to work at the international office and get to meet all students and organize activities. Not only did this help me build relationships for trained me for my current job position. I would say that every event and experience at SLU will prepare you for a successful future. Overall, amazing experience!... Read 2,130 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $30,096

• SAT range 1220-1430

• Omaha, NE•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  1,102 reviews

Freshman: I am currently a freshman at Creighton University. From the short time I have been there, I have seen that the community there is kind and caring. I have met many wonderful people that have made the change from home to college easier. People there truly care about you and will help you with any of your concerns. Aside from the people, the campus is small which helps one get to classes quickly from your dorm. It also allows you to get to know campus better and make stronger and lasting relationships. There are several clubs you can join. Currently I am in the EMT club which has allowed me to meet people who are interested in majoring in Paramedicine, but also get to learn some skills that will benefit you once you start EMT classes. I also work at the library which has given me another chance to meet new people and bond with my co-workers. Overall, my experience at Creighton University has been challenging but also exciting. I cannot wait to make more lasting memories!... Read 1,102 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $31,040

• SAT range 1130-1370

• Omaha, NE•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  216 reviews

Other: Amazing! They truly help you and don’t just write you off. Love the staff! Beautiful campus! Instead of waitlisting me for a program they found one that would be more beneficial for me the long run. They have your best interest in mind and will do everything they can to help you get there!... Read 216 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 38%

• Net price $16,235

• SAT range —

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  1,279 reviews

Alum: UST is an amazing campus with an intuitive layout and stunning buildings! I love how they managed to secure a few sizable grassy quads that make such a difference from the typical concrete jungle of the city. It also has a prestigious reputation academically and the philosophy department in which I spent most of my time was absolutely fantastic. Class size was also not too big so as to make the student feel like a number, but also not too small that participation was lacking. I was less pleased with with some of the renovations completed during my time there that seemed to take away from the original aura of the campus. I also attended the school in large part for its Catholic identity. However, I was saddened to discover such an identity was nominal at best. I would have liked to see the president of the university make a more significant effort to sustain the schools long-held Catholic heritage instead of undermine through various policies and decisions.... Read 1,279 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $30,099

• SAT range 1120-1380

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  1,056 reviews

Sophomore: St. Catherine University honestly feels like my home away from home. It is a homey and calming atmosphere to it especially with the smaller campus size. It is tucked away in a great neighborhood called Highland Park in St. Paul, MN. Instantly on campus you feel welcomed as many people smile and even say "Hi" as you go by. There is a place for everyone on this campus and the professors know you by name. You are not just a number here as faculty know you and teach you how to bloom into the person you would like to become. Overall, I love it here!... Read 1,056 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $19,252

• SAT range 890-1210

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  3,658 reviews

Sophomore: Getting registered can be one of the most frustrating and stressful parts of returning to school. As a non-traditional student, I have had experiences at other schools that made me weary of returning. DePaul’s registration and acceptance process was a breeze! Every person that I have encountered at DePaul University has been extremely helpful and supportive. Attending DePaul University has been the best college experience that I have ever had. The staff are knowledgeable and are genuinely interested in helping the student achieve their goals. Overall my experience has been no less than awesome!... Read 3,658 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $31,872

• SAT range 1050-1260

• Portland, OR•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  971 reviews

Freshman: University of Portland is a very warm and welcoming community. The staff and professors are friendly, knowledgeable, and always eager to help. I have enjoyed the environment and safe campus. Since it is a small school, it caters to those that are looking for a more intimate setting, where counselors, staff, and professors will know your name. I highly recommend University of Portland!... Read 971 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $35,535

• SAT range 1140-1360

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  3,073 reviews

Freshman: I really love how valued as a student I feel here. The esteemed faculty and other students continue to make me feel at home and reaffirm my choice to enroll here at Loyola. The one-on-one instruction that is provided here is unlike any other. Additionally, the opportunities offered are endless! The straight connection to the city of Chicago is immensely helpful for not only internships but the overall college experience. Loyola provides its students with the facilities to travel within the city safely and passes for the train. Loyola's emphasis on diversity inclusion is another feature that I value greatly and makes me proud to be a part of this establishment.... Read 3,073 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $29,371

• SAT range 1160-1360

• San Francisco, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  2,319 reviews

Freshman: I am actually an incoming Freshman, so my review is of the family/student meet and greet weekend. The University of San Francisco pulled out all the stops. The students, staff, tours, mock classes, clubs - everything was amazing and informative. The speeches given were inspiring. The food and opportunities to meet other students were fantastic. There were tours of all the buildings by students who actually live in the dorms. The walkways were filled with clubs to join and prizes to win. And everyone I encountered was extremely knowledgable and supper friendly. They even had therapy dogs, which apparently they bring out during finals week - so cool. After sitting in on a few mock classes and speaking to the professors, I knew that University of San Francisco was where I wanted to spend my next four years studying. Any doubts I had about leaving my home state of Washington to become a USF student vanished - I commited to USF that day!... Read 2,319 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $39,825

• SAT range 1190-1390

• Fairfield, CT•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  832 reviews

Junior: I have had a fantastic experience at Fairfield university! I love the community here and how friendly everyone is. It is super easy to make friends in classes and during clubs and activities. It is really nice to be able to make meaningful connections with professors with the small class sizes and Fairfield guarantees an internship during your four years so that is a nice perk. I genuinely love the energy and people here as well as the location. Being so close to the beach is awesome and the downtown area is super safe. I think one thing I would like to see change is the housing situation because it can be stressful with the number of students coming in every year.... Read 832 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $44,723

• SAT range 1230-1380

• Milwaukee, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  2,131 reviews

Freshman: Caring people, lovely campus, and courses that grasp your interest! The core classes are perfectly geared to students that are reaching their potential as they bring out your best tendencies and serve their purpose without being as overbearing as typical 'gen-eds.' Another advantage of Marquette is the fact that the campus is located within the city of Milwaukee which is experiencing an unprecedented urban renaissance! The city atmosphere provides countless employment, cultural, and internship opportunities. The basketball program is also great to follow! The games are mental and the rallying atmosphere around the team brings campus together!... Read 2,131 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $33,566

• SAT range 1180-1360

• Seattle, WA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  997 reviews

Freshman: A little expensive for the quality of education and resources there. Plenty of ADHD and special needs accommodations but services are hard to waitlist/access and the staff isn’t always helpful. Most professors are nice but the quality of education isn’t challenging with well thought out organized lectures to cohesively teach. Dining hall is better compared to most schools but expensive per meal. The students at the school are pretty odd but a good diverse student population. I find that a lot of people have issues with the housing office throughout the year. However, the gym is very nice with decent hours. Big weight room, basketball courts, and cardio equipment. Work study is hard to get a job at this school and the hours are inconvenient. The job extends your hours without pay sometimes. Lots of events from the many clubs and involvement fairs throughout the year though! Really enjoyed the assortment from cultural, extramural sports, games, sporting events and school spirits events.... Read 997 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $36,671

• SAT range 1120-1330

• Scranton, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  668 reviews

Sophomore: For a variety of reasons, I like attending Scranton University. I felt an extraordinary sense of belonging and camaraderie the moment I stepped foot on campus. The warm and welcoming climate at the university develops intimate interactions with both peers and instructors, creating a conducive environment for personal growth and academic performance. The wide selection of extracurricular activities and clubs has helped me to pursue my interests and discover new ones, enriching my college experience. Furthermore, the university's commitment to service and social justice resonates well with my ideals, allowing me to make a positive difference in the world. Scranton University is more than simply a place to learn; it is a home that fosters my intellectual, social, and personal development, making every day on campus worthwhile.... Read 668 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $35,913

• SAT range 1100-1280

• Dubuque, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  376 reviews

Sophomore: Most of the teachers are awesome! The administration is lacking competency unfortunately, especially when it comes to financial aid/tuition issues or credit transfers. The campus is pretty old, and most of the buildings do not have A/C. Although the campus terrain is beautiful, it is incredibly hilly and a bit treacherous in the winter months with steep inclines and lots of steps. As such, the campus overall is not ADA-compliant unless one drives and parks directly in front of the desired building--not walkable.... Read 376 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $20,068

• SAT range 960-1140

• South Orange, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  2,145 reviews

Junior: I have loved my time here at Seton Hall! Since my first tour, I felt welcomed and a part of the campus community immediately. The sense of community at SHU is genuinely a game changer- I have met so many people from different majors, states, and even countries! One of my favorite things about Seton Hall is the academics here. Aside from having excellent and strong academic programs, the smaller class sizes and personalized attention have helped me grow and succeed as a student both in class and on campus. I have gotten to know exceptional faculty, and that personalized attention has helped me develop a strong bond with many of my professors! As a big school-spirit person, the events, Christmas tree lighting, and basketball games are so fun! It also is helpful being right outside NYC- a 30-minute train ride for internship opportunities, jobs, and entertainment is hard to beat!... Read 2,145 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $33,177

• SAT range 1200-1370

• Saint Bonaventure, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  476 reviews

Niche User: I've committed to play ball at St Bonaventure, and everything about the recruiting process has been incredible. On my visit, everyone was so kind, and genuine, and really seemed to love this school. I'm not just talking the students, but the Uni staff, and people all over the town. I mean, people LOVE this school! On my flight home, wearing a Bonnies t-shirt at the airport/on the plane, half a dozen people called out to me "Bonnies!" The love is real.... Read 476 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $25,533

• SAT range 1070-1270