2024 Best Value Colleges in Minnesota

• Crookston, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  196 reviews

Sophomore: After my first year of attending college, I found that the University of Minnesota Crookston had a lot to offer. Between the variety of clubs available to join, to the on-campus activities that never seemed to end, there was always something to do or someway to get involved. The classes were taught in a professional manner and gave me plenty of opportunity to learn the material. The staff were willing to help you to the best of their ability, and seemed to always be willing to go above and beyond what they needed to do. The food and dining options were nothing to write home about, but occasionally there was something exciting available. There is not much I would change about how the school operates. Overall, my first year was exactly the kind of experience I was hoping to get coming to a smaller school. Looking forward to coming back next year... Read 196 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 48%

• Net price $11,925

• SAT range 1000-1180

• Minneapolis, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  4,808 reviews

Senior: The UofM Twin Cities is an amazing public university! It offers just about any program you can think of and many of these programs are ranked extremely well in the United States, as well as around the world. Much of the faculty is involved in groundbreaking research, which enables students to be involved in research as well. The academic standards are rigorous but not too demanding to be successful. The location in the Twin Cities is wonderful for access to opportunities in the community for internships and partnerships. There are tons of student groups and activities for students to get involved in, which helps makes the large school feel smaller and offers opportunity to build a close knit community here. Having Division I sports means there is always a fun sporting event to go to, many of which are free for current students. There is a fair amount of diversity, although this is an area I would like to see growth in. I also would like to see a decrease in tuition costs.... Read 4,808 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $17,468

• SAT range 1310-1490

• 4 Year (Online)

• •
  Rating 4.25 out of 5  3,673 reviews

Senior: I honestly cannot say enough good things about Capella! The academic advisor I personally have has been a godsend in terms of helping me to achieve my academic goals on a timeline that I needed, in addition to being a personal cheerleader! The classes are swift in terms of time but robust! Connecting to learn online has been such an elating experience and really opened the door for me to pursue my undergraduate degree. I have preached to many friends and family about the experience I have had as a student at Capella and would urge anyone to consider them if interested in an online degree!... Read 3,673 reviews

• grade unavailable

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $17,840

• SAT range —

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  1,059 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 1,059 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $19,252

• SAT range 890-1210

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  468 reviews

Alum: Over my 25 years as an Academic Physician, I can say with confidence that my Mac education enabled me to be the doctor I am. Mac taught me to think critically, consider others empathetically, and stay curious about the world around me. These are the factors that truly drive my everyday practice, research, and teaching/mentoring of medical students. Mac today is even more solid than a generation ago, maintaining its excellence in teaching while supplementing with hands on internship opportunities. Thank you Macalester!... Read 468 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 31%

• Net price $30,939

• SAT range 1340-1480

• Collegeville, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  403 reviews

Junior: Saint John's University is a great school. There is a good balance between academic and social life. The academic aspect of Saint John's University is beneficial to ensure you get an excellent education. The class sizes are small, which allows for better student-to-teacher interaction. Most, if not all, the teachers set up opportunities to help students that need it outside of class. There is also a variety of class schedules for each class. There is a diverse variety of majors, from STEM and Business to Gender Studies. Attending this University will provide you with the resources necessary to fulfill your academic and career needs. The social life of Saint John's University is excellent as well. Many programs aim to have students interact with the nature around them. Many retreats, walking trails, and events involve interaction with the outdoors. There are also a variety of clubs that are specific for majors or even recreational events.... Read 403 reviews

• grade B

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $27,750

• SAT range 1020-1240

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  499 reviews

Junior: Metropolitan State University is the only college I have attended and still do attend. I love that the staff at Metropolitan state care for their students. They care about people of color and the LGBTQ+ community. They care about people of all ages such as teens, those who are 25+, single fathers, and mothers as well. They provide so many services such as child care, housing, food, tutoring, and more. I know that other colleges may provide some of the same services, but with Metro I am constantly reminded that I am cared for. I love how inclusive they are and it makes me feel very welcomed. I genuinely love being a student at Metropolitan State and would recommend this college to anyone and everyone!... Read 499 reviews

• grade B

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $16,830

• SAT range —

• Rochester, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  181 reviews

Freshman: I love going to school here because it’s really easy to connect with other healthcare professionals! There are so many opportunities here, from mentorships, volunteer hours, and jobs at Mayo Clinic like PCAs. The professors really want to see you succeed and have special hours you can go and ask them anything. This school is awesome because it’s really a place you can grow and thrive if you want a place in the healthcare field.... Read 181 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $14,198

• SAT range 1010-1250

• Duluth, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  564 reviews

Sophomore: Beautiful school and in a prime location - no complaints there! The small population of the school provides optimal opportunities to connect with professors and other students—a great student-to-teacher ratio. The culture among students is very diverse and offers a beautiful opportunity to learn about different cultures! The only downfall is the parking situation, super strict, and poor parking lot placements, but that is arbitrary. Also, the athletics department tends to lack, there is no football field on campus, so if you're looking for a lively student section, this is not the school.... Read 564 reviews

• grade B

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $25,744

• SAT range 1050-1310

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  402 reviews

Senior: I love Concordia University. Overall, they have been amazing, the professors are awesome and always willing to help and there are always events going on. Of course, no one's perfect. I can't complain too much about their food, but it is important to students on the meal plan. Their prices are ridiculously high. The grill is fire, though. It is amazing and always has good food. The fancy lunches and dinners are not good, however. It makes sense since the food has to be made in large quantities and kept warm. When I came in as a freshman, Concordia was unbelievably welcoming! They always let you know what was happening and everyone was there for you if you needed help, your RAs, your CSP Seminar instructor, everyone. But now, no one seems to care. It's like once you get in and stay in, they no longer care. Their communication sucks and they don't bother keeping anybody in the loop. They changed the app, changed the locks, kept changing things, and didn't tell anyone but the freshman.... Read 402 reviews

• grade B

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $15,944

• SAT range 920-1110

• Duluth, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  1,196 reviews

Sophomore: The atmosphere here is so welcoming! I met two of my best friends immediately on day one of classes in my freshman year. In highschool I always had a hard time making friends, but everyone is so friendly and kind here at UMD. One of the best parts is the fact that the entire campus is connected indoors (except for one further building) so in the winter, you don't have to worry about weather while moving between buildings. The dorms are also connected via tunnels, which is especially helpful if you don't want to worry about putting on winter gear before your 8am. Most of the professors are incredible and very helpful, and you can tell they're invested in helping each individual student. One of my professors from my first semester is the reason I decided on a STEM major, he rekindled my love for biology. The dining center is also wonderful. Especially this year, they have had so many dietary-inclusive options, including multiple vegan options at each meal.... Read 1,196 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $16,960

• SAT range 1160-1270

• Northfield, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  538 reviews

Alum: I just graduated from Carleton and really enjoyed my time there! The highlight for me was definitely the people: students and professors. I had a great academic experience that positively challenged me and helped me grow. I love that Carleton is academically rigorous but doesn't feel overly competitive. I loved the student body's quirky and fun-loving feel. I also really appreciate that student life isn't centered around partying and drinking—it's there if you want it, but I didn't feel pressured. Carleton, like most other schools, has a lot of improvements that can be made on the institutional level in terms of supporting student's needs: specifically folks with disabilities and mental health issues, low-income students and students of color. I found myself constantly baffled by how out of touch the admin was with the student body's needs. There is also very little freedom to live off campus or be off the meal plan (which is cheaper), and the school is trying to restrict it even more.... Read 538 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 18%

• Net price $31,718

• SAT range 1370-1550

• Winona, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  557 reviews

Senior: Saint Mary’s has such wonderful professors that are extremely helpful and accessible. Not only do they help students understand class information. They provided helpful interview tips and advice and even quiet spaces with good wifi and professional backdrops for interviews. Little things like these are not required from professors, yet our Saint Mary’s staff truly does the little things to go above and beyond. Campus life is wonderful. Living in the beautiful bluffs of Winona, Minnesota is really something special. Our university is tucked up in a little corner of Winona, it provides me comfort and safety not being in the middle of a downtown area. Our campus life offers new learning buildings, workout facilities, and up-to-date residence halls. When you are ready to step off campus Winona has many different restaurants, look-outs, outdoor activities, and stores to keep you busy!... Read 557 reviews

• grade B

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 98%

• Net price $21,606

• SAT range 1030-1200

• Winona, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  944 reviews

Freshman: In addition to the beautiful campus and friendly staff, theres a lot to love. In the (almost) five weeks i've been at Winona State University, I have fell in love with it more than I thought I would. The size of the college in terms of campus and student body is a great pro to attendance. Because of the size you're able to gain meaningful relationships with professors and peers, and if you need assistance with a certain class its not difficult to get it. The size of the university also makes finding answers to questions regarding financial aid, courses, locations, etc... much easier than with a larger university. The classes are academically challenging but in a way that urges you to take an extra step in your understanding, and the professors are there to support you. Overall I'm really happy with my choice, theres not much I would change!... Read 944 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $17,283

• SAT range 970-1280

• Morris, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  464 reviews

Junior: My time so far at UMM has been pretty great! The community here is really thriving and everyone is really welcoming and inviting. I think there are a number of things that could improve (such as residence hall conditions, dining hall, etc.), but the university is working on improving and changing these things. Academics at Morris are really good, and you are always challenged to improve and most professors are very nice and understanding if you need help or accommodations.... Read 464 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $11,652

• SAT range 1070-1260

• Northfield, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  789 reviews

Freshman: St. Olaf has been great in my first year. The community is very real on campus, there is a true meaning to being an Ole. As someone that didn't buy into the admissions buzz words, I can tell you that are for the most part serious. The campus is continuously improving what is already a beautiful campus (especially in the fall!). As a Bio Pre-med major I feel like I am getting a very well rounded education at St. Olaf (Aside from STEM I have taken classes like Japanese Woodblock Printing or Ecospirituality where we've tapped maple trees for class). I am even planning on studying abroad next interim!... Read 789 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $27,729

• SAT range 1240-1430

• Saint Joseph, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  641 reviews

Senior: I absolutely love St. Bens! Everyone there is so welcoming and the monastery population is so kind! Although it is an all girls school, they do an amazing job of integrating the Johnnies and vice versa. I have truly found my best friends at this school and get an amazing education in their nursing program.... Read 641 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $28,269

• SAT range 1110-1220

• Minneapolis, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.13 out of 5  189 reviews

Junior: As a school focused on the trades and on technology, Dunwoody is constantly updating its majors offered and required corsework. As it is very small, you often get to know your instructors very well (and they you), however, there is not much choice in what classes can be taken. Personally I have no problem with this as all the classes are enjoyable and informative.... Read 189 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 99%

• Net price $24,738

• SAT range —

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  808 reviews

Alum: Bethel University offers a great CHRIST-centered education! While I attended during covid, the community was still intentional about building relationships. The faculty and staff are well-equipped and caring individuals who really care about the students belonging and then becoming all that GOD calls them to be as they discover their future vocation.... Read 808 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $28,840

• SAT range 1090-1340

• Mankato, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  241 reviews

Alum: As an alumni of Bethany Lutheran College, I rate my experience to be pretty high. As a small college, like Bethany, you are more than just a number at the school. The teachers and faculty truly know you and aid you in achieving your goals. The amount of connections and friends you make are endless. As a student, I was able to grow in the classroom, on the basketball/tennis court and in faith. There isn’t much that I would change about my experience. The school strives to make their students well-rounded individuals and I believe they have done a great job in this.... Read 241 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 61%

• Net price $17,640

• SAT range 950-1150

• Mankato, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  1,254 reviews

Sophomore: I enjoy the campus atmosphere. I made a lot of good friends, and none of my professors were terrible. Overall, very welcoming and enjoyable! I like the different events that are put on, especially the ones showcasing minorities. The push for diversity, equity, and inclusion is good to see as well. I would like to see a change in the accessibility resources department, however, because many of my friends have had bad experiences with getting accommodations, including my disabled friend who is in a wheelchair. The university dining center needs some work as well, because many of my friends (myself included) have gotten food poisoning more than once.... Read 1,254 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $15,832

• SAT range 886-1106

• Saint Cloud, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  1,222 reviews

Junior: Overall, the professors are amazing. You can see the love they have for their students, and how much they want us to succeed. But, dorm life (including food plans) need to change significantly. The dorms are not the nicest and the food needs major improvement. I'd also like to see more variation in how courses are offered (more online) when possible because I'd like to be a student without having to be ON campus to do the classes Campus life is so lively. There is something going on at all times of the day, many groups that a student can choose to join, and so much around campus as well!... Read 1,222 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $13,615

• SAT range 1000-1250

• New Ulm, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  174 reviews

Junior: I love Martin Luther College because it is a close-knit community of people who all share the same faith. Spiritual health is the main priority of school, as well as training the students how to care for the spiritual well-being of their future classes and congregations. There are some downsides to such a small college, such as the lack of off-campus housing, but overall, the small school environment fosters long lasting relationships that will benefit students later in life.... Read 174 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $21,988

• SAT range 1080-1250

• Moorhead, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  793 reviews

Senior: Rigorous academics, and a value on education, beyond the confines of a classroom. Close-knit campus community, and alumni- with many opportunities for hands-on learning, networking, internships, and opportunities for undergraduate research. Very friendly campus community, with big city amenities, and two large universities close by. Having toured other small colleges, Concordia stood out to me due to it’s friendly, down-to-earth community, and emphasis on being globally aware, and engaged. I’d like to see more international students coming to campus. There is a definite emphasis on attracting, and retaining a diverse student body, but would love to see more cultures represented. Concordia college has many excellent resources available- whether that be for furthering education, internship placement, research opportunities, or medical school preparation. The music program, and faculty are amazing! Winters are brutal here, but that makes studying abroad all the more enticing!... Read 793 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $23,890

• SAT range 1080-1330

• Minneapolis, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  643 reviews

Freshman: I am the first generation in my family to go to college, so it was a little scary at first. But orientation helped a lot, even for shy people like me. I got to meet new classmates and experience life as an Auggie. My first classes were great! I recommend joining a cooking-related class, those are the happy places. So far, my professors are excellent. Classes are very engaging even if you are sleepy or tired. I'm only giving 4 stars just to be fair since I am a freshman.... Read 643 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $23,871

• SAT range 1080-1310