2022 Top Private Universities in America

The Top Private Universities ranking is based on rigorous analysis of academic, admissions, financial, and student life data from the U.S. Department of Education along for millions of reviews from students and alumni. The ranking compares top private colleges and universities in each state. This year's rankings have reduced the weight of ACT/SAT scores to reflect a general de-emphasis on test scores in the college admissions process. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

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A critical mass of the student body falls within the specified group, low and middle income students pay a reasonable net price, the school participates in tuition relief programs for veterans, and the school's overall Niche Grade is above a B-.

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Sophomore: Currently reaching near the middle of my time here, and this school truly works you to the bone. The baseline of this place is that everyone is very smart. Some are decently smart and work hard enough to get in, others come in doing Olympiads from when they were 5 years old...The students are very diverse. Some come in "normal", others finally get to truly express the weird and unique that they've been suppressing their whole lives. The campus is extremely welcoming and you really get to be who you want to be; it's very beautiful. Each dorm has an extant history and culture; you can automatically learn about someone by what dorm they live in...The academics are exceedingly difficult by content and pace. The problem set difficulty are elevated beyond a typical school's, and they force you to collaborate with others. Everyone must collaborate. You're forced to learn time management skills...I was finally able to satisfy my love for learning here. Truly an amazing and unique school!Read 639 Reviews
#1 Top Private Universities in America.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
4 Year,
CAMBRIDGE, MA,
639 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Currently reaching near the middle of my time here, and this school truly works you to the bone. The baseline of this place is that everyone is very smart. Some are decently smart and work hard...The students are very diverse. Some come in "normal", others finally get to truly express the weird and unique that they've been suppressing their whole lives. The campus is extremely welcoming and...The academics are exceedingly difficult by content and pace. The problem set difficulty are elevated beyond a typical school's, and they force you to collaborate with others. Everyone must...I was finally able to satisfy my love for learning here. Truly an amazing and unique school!.
Read 639 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $19,998,
SAT Range: 1510-1580,
Will You Get In?Compare
Sophomore: Make sure to do your research before deciding to apply or committing. Definitely a lot of prestige, resources, and amazing people. However, as an inner city kid from the midwest, the east coast, especially Boston, was sort of a culture shock. Social life is not as prominent as it is at other schools because academics and athletics definitely dominate the scene. Boston is definitely a college CITY. With so many colleges in a 10 mile radius you only see college study out and about. Overall a very eye opening experience, just make sure to visit and be sure that this is what you seek in your college experience!...Read 775 Reviews
#2 Top Private Universities in America.
Harvard University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CAMBRIDGE, MA,
775 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Make sure to do your research before deciding to apply or committing. Definitely a lot of prestige, resources, and amazing people. However, as an inner city kid from the midwest, the east coast,....
Read 775 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 5%,
Net Price: $18,037,
SAT Range: 1460-1580,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Alum: Now, 60+ years after a Stanford BSME, I am astoundingly grateful for a rounded undergraduate engineering education that led to 1) a succession of rewarding employments, and through those, 2) development of cultural appreciation and of language capability in Malaysian/Indonesian - employment experiences in human relations and communication that made me a more effective and versatile engineer. So to Stanford, thanks for getting me off to a great start!...T. Savage, SeattleRead 1,217 Reviews
#3 Top Private Universities in America.
Stanford University
4 Year,
STANFORD, CA,
1217 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Now, 60+ years after a Stanford BSME, I am astoundingly grateful for a rounded undergraduate engineering education that led to 1) a succession of rewarding employments, and through those, 2)...T. Savage, Seattle.
Read 1217 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 5%,
Net Price: $20,023,
SAT Range: 1420-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
Sponsored
Freshman: I was nervous about going to W&L after hearing so many controversial things. However, I absolutely love my college! There is such a wide range of people, opinions, and opportunities that I truly believe that there is a place for everyone here. Furthermore, the university is working really hard to become more inclusive and diverse. I feel cared about and listened to at W&L...Read 457 Reviews
Sponsored Result, Washington and Lee University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
LEXINGTON, VA,
457 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says I was nervous about going to W&L after hearing so many controversial things. However, I absolutely love my college! There is such a wide range of people, opinions, and opportunities that I truly....
Read 457 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 25%,
Net Price: $27,148,
SAT Range: 1350-1500,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Freshman: Yale is an amazing school! The professors and students are all encouraging and friendly. Everyone there deserves to be there, which makes the learning environment extremely rewarding and stimulating. There are so many resources to help you navigate your time at Yale, especially during your first-year. You immediately build a community within your residential college, and can find a group instantly through classes or extracurriculars. The campus is beautiful, intertwined with the city. The courtyards of the residential colleges and the buildings on campus are unmatched by any other university in the country. Everyone is extremely friendly, all while you are earning a world-class education and building connections that will last for years to come...Read 1,004 Reviews
#4 Top Private Universities in America.
Yale University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NEW HAVEN, CT,
1004 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Yale is an amazing school! The professors and students are all encouraging and friendly. Everyone there deserves to be there, which makes the learning environment extremely rewarding and stimulating.....
Read 1004 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $17,511,
SAT Range: 1460-1580,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Freshman: The courses, faculty, resources, and community here are all wonderful. There is truly a culture throughout the university of caring about the students and doing everything possible to help them succeed. The academics are, of course, extremely challenging, but there are plenty of ways to get help and the academic faculty are always very receptive to students needing assistance. Most everyone has the drive to succeed without creating an overly competitive or cutthroat environment. Culture outside of academics - arts, music, clubs, sports - is vibrant as well...Read 446 Reviews
#5 Top Private Universities in America.
Princeton University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PRINCETON, NJ,
446 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says The courses, faculty, resources, and community here are all wonderful. There is truly a culture throughout the university of caring about the students and doing everything possible to help them....
Read 446 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 6%,
Net Price: $18,685,
SAT Range: 1450-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
Graduate Student: I am an ABSN student that started when everything was virtual due to COVID and I am only here for a year (keep this in mind). The campus is BEAUTIFUL and huge! The professors are really invested in your education. Parking is HORRIBLE if you do not time it right or try to get around without a parking pass. The parking lots are a good walk away from the buildings most of the time so add walking time to your commute if you are a grad student. Student Health is phenomenal. Cocoa Cinnamon is a great coffee shop that everyone should try at least once to get coffee (tea or hot chocolate) and churros. The city of Durham is beautiful so explore it if you get a chance...Read 1,145 Reviews
#6 Top Private Universities in America.
Duke University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
DURHAM, NC,
1145 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Graduate Student says I am an ABSN student that started when everything was virtual due to COVID and I am only here for a year (keep this in mind). The campus is BEAUTIFUL and huge! The professors are really invested in....
Read 1145 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 8%,
Net Price: $26,932,
SAT Range: 1470-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Freshman: At first, I was a bit disappointed that I ended up at Rice University. I was aiming for the Ivy Leagues and ended up at a college that I hadn't even heard of before the university application process. However, even though I've only been here for a few weeks, I couldn't be happier. Rice is a super inclusive university, with only the best of the best as professors, and the people here are nicer than any other people I've ever met. Everyone in the student body is willing to get to know you and, as an introvert, I feel myself becoming more and more relaxed when hanging out and talking to other people. Of course, I couldn't mention Rice without mentioning how good their academics are, and as a STEM student the classes are fast-paced yet easy to understand. Rice also has an enormous campus that rivals the Ivies while only having a total enrollment of under 7000 students. This means that dorms are also massive, and the living conditions are sensational. I'm happy to be an Owl!...Read 1,079 Reviews
#7 Top Private Universities in America.
Rice University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
HOUSTON, TX,
1079 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says At first, I was a bit disappointed that I ended up at Rice University. I was aiming for the Ivy Leagues and ended up at a college that I hadn't even heard of before the university application....
Read 1079 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 11%,
Net Price: $19,215,
SAT Range: 1460-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Senior: I love Brown. I transferred here, and quickly met some of the most amazing, passionate, and genuine people I could imagine. The student body is so friendly and hard-working. Still, the best part of Brown is the open curriculum—the academic freedom and autonomy I am given here has changed my relationship to learning and life in general. I have discovered so many interests I never know I had! The open curriculum, in general, is perfect for students who have lots of wide-ranging interests and want to pursue multiple fields, or know exactly what they want to specialize in. But it's also great for students who have no idea, and want time to explore and try new areas of study while they figure things out. I agree with other reviewers that the food and dorms aren't outstanding by any means. However, the academic environement, professors, and fellow students at Brown are more than worth it. I'm so sad to be graduating :(...Read 1,031 Reviews
#8 Top Private Universities in America.
Brown University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PROVIDENCE, RI,
1031 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says I love Brown. I transferred here, and quickly met some of the most amazing, passionate, and genuine people I could imagine. The student body is so friendly and hard-working. Still, the best part of....
Read 1031 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $27,659,
SAT Range: 1440-1560,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Junior: Work hard, play hard! That’s life at Penn. Strengths - Great approachable Professors, almost any class or activity you can think of, wonderful diversity, beautiful campus. Lots of opportunities to study abroad. Greek life is active, but not necessary to have a rich social life. Tuition, room and board are expensive but there’s lots of aid available. Highly recommended, but very competitive admission rate ( around 8% ). Suggest applying Early Decision if Penn’s your first choice ( 18% acceptance rate )...Read 1,280 Reviews
#9 Top Private Universities in America.
University of Pennsylvania
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PHILADELPHIA, PA,
1280 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Work hard, play hard! That’s life at Penn. Strengths - Great approachable Professors, almost any class or activity you can think of, wonderful diversity, beautiful campus. Lots of opportunities....
Read 1280 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 8%,
Net Price: $24,167,
SAT Range: 1460-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
Junior: It is hard to imagine a better college than Dartmouth. The mix of academics, clubs and outdoor activities, and social scene is (in my opinion) unparalleled. Everyone is academically driven, and I feel like I can have an intellectual conversation with anyone on campus. There is a sport, club, or outdoor activity for everyone at the college, as most people I know are heavily involved in at least 2 extracurricular clubs. Lastly, the social scene is fun and inclusive. There are different frats and sororities for different all types of preferences, and every house has an "open door" policy. There is little to no social hierarchy that I've noticed (Football players aren't treated differently from comp sci geeks), making it so that anyone can be friends with anyone. ...One additional note: sophomore summer is the best term of all time! Look it up.Read 708 Reviews
#10 Top Private Universities in America.
Dartmouth College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
HANOVER, NH,
708 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says It is hard to imagine a better college than Dartmouth. The mix of academics, clubs and outdoor activities, and social scene is (in my opinion) unparalleled. Everyone is academically driven, and I...One additional note: sophomore summer is the best term of all time! Look it up..
Read 708 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 9%,
Net Price: $24,525,
SAT Range: 1440-1560,
Will You Get In?Compare
Alum: Attending Columbia University was a fantastic experience for me. My professors were all very interesting. Some were a bit quirky, but that was ok. They always challenged me to be open to possibilities and to figure things out from all angles. The work load was definitely heavy, but I learned more there than anywhere else I have been since then. And the facilities were excellent. There's a telescope on campus and I'll never forget our class meeting at 9pm one night to view the planets and see what astronomers actually did. We saw rings of Saturn, Jupiters moons, storms on Jupiter, star clusters, and more. Even though it was only an elective class, I found it fascinating and the professor, who was visiting from England, was very engaging and enjoyed his work. All of my instructors were. They were all working and teaching, so it was the best of both worlds. Also, the research materials were endless. It didn't hurt that the school is in Manhattan, and in my favorite part!...Read 1,275 Reviews
#11 Top Private Universities in America.
Columbia University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NEW YORK, NY,
1275 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Attending Columbia University was a fantastic experience for me. My professors were all very interesting. Some were a bit quirky, but that was ok. They always challenged me to be open to....
Read 1275 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $22,126,
SAT Range: 1460-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Sophomore: As a parent of a sophmore in Visual Arts and Writing programs, I feel so grateful she got in. First of all she got a full ride, they removed a massive strain off of our family and did it completely and thoroughly. She had met and spoken with several faculty members before applying (Early Decision) and visited the campus, and they were so helpful and supportive it really allowed us to make a confident Early Decision. My daughter is gifted, but shy shy shy, and her mother is Brazilian, so VERY attached and we worried about sending her away. It was tough, but the support of programs like Deneb Stars and the many other programs (including late night escorts for safety) allowed her to make the leap and find her feet. Once the pandemic hit, WashU was amongst the first half dozen schools to move online (they are now hybrid, my daughter is working from home). The faculty and admin prioritized their health first, while the coursework has remained rigorous. She is thriving. A+ response Washu!...Read 1,494 Reviews
#12 Top Private Universities in America.
Washington University in St. Louis
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
SAINT LOUIS, MO,
1494 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says As a parent of a sophmore in Visual Arts and Writing programs, I feel so grateful she got in. First of all she got a full ride, they removed a massive strain off of our family and did it completely....
Read 1494 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 16%,
Net Price: $27,233,
SAT Range: 1480-1560,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Alum: I graduated summa cum laude from Vanderbilt University in 2021 with a Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience. I primarily chose to attend Vandy for its academic prowess, and it definitely lived up to that reputation. In retrospect, I loved the majority of my STEM classes, and I find that my education was well-rounded because of my required liberal arts classes. The campus is beautiful, the food is relatively good, and on-campus housing is average. Admittedly, I was excited to live off-campus for my last two years (but beware - living in Nashville is not cheap). Socially, I had a great time at Vandy, especially thanks to the liveliness of Nashville, but sadly not due to Vanderbilt sports - this is not their strong suit. I met lifelong friends at this school! Realistically, however, many students do come from wealthy backgrounds, which can be off-putting at times. Ultimately, while undeniably expensive, Vanderbilt is a great school that will certainly work to your advantage after graduation...Read 1,296 Reviews
#13 Top Private Universities in America.
Vanderbilt University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NASHVILLE, TN,
1296 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I graduated summa cum laude from Vanderbilt University in 2021 with a Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience. I primarily chose to attend Vandy for its academic prowess, and it definitely lived up to that....
Read 1296 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 12%,
Net Price: $25,804,
SAT Range: 1470-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Freshman: Northwestern is definitely an academically rigorous school, but the amount of resources provided to its students makes success attainable. The Northwestern faculty goes above and beyond to ensure that their students have the support they need, not only to promote strong academics, but also all facets of health. Also, the student body at Northwestern is incredible! Everyone is extremely kind and inclusive. Thus, despite the rigor of the classes at NU--and the stress that such rigor entails--I have had such a positive experience that has made it all worth it!...Read 1,421 Reviews
#14 Top Private Universities in America.
Northwestern University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
EVANSTON, IL,
1421 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Northwestern is definitely an academically rigorous school, but the amount of resources provided to its students makes success attainable. The Northwestern faculty goes above and beyond to ensure....
Read 1421 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 9%,
Net Price: $28,344,
SAT Range: 1430-1550,
Will You Get In?Compare
Freshman: My favorite part of UChicago is definitely its academics -- students are constantly encouraged to debate, rethink, and most importantly, listen. I was able to take a graduate student course as a first-year, and was amazed by the level of respectful and intellectual discussion that was possible! Students and professors alike are motivated, caring, and inclusive, and there's a strong sense of community everywhere you go, from the UCPD officer on the street corner to the dining hall staff. There's truly something for everyone, from Student Action to University Theater to Circus Club to Greek life. Regardless of extracurricular interests, however, there's an undeniable bond in the love of learning and open-mindedness that ties everyone in UChicago together...Read 1,202 Reviews
#15 Top Private Universities in America.
University of Chicago
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CHICAGO, IL,
1202 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says My favorite part of UChicago is definitely its academics -- students are constantly encouraged to debate, rethink, and most importantly, listen. I was able to take a graduate student course as a....
Read 1202 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 6%,
Net Price: $36,584,
SAT Range: 1500-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Sophomore: For context- current sophomore who started at USC online, majoring in Communications but has taken classes from across disciplines-Academics: overall good but definitely some terrible professors who either have favoritism, are unclear with expectations, or bad w grading. But the majority of professors are really good-Environment: if you're intimidated by rich, judgmental people, this is not the place for you. A lot of the culture is exclusionary towards ppl who work or who don't partake in certain activities (ex: Greek life) But when you get through the superficial aspect you can meet some really awesome, interesting friends!...-facilities: very very nice- great gyms, dining halls, dormsOverall: a great school with a lot of resources, so be sure to look into your major specific resources bc they offer so much! Just be warned that it's not the easiest place to go to if you don't fit a certain mold...Read 3,827 Reviews
#16 Top Private Universities in America.
University of Southern California
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
LOS ANGELES, CA,
3827 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says For context- current sophomore who started at USC online, majoring in Communications but has taken classes from across disciplines-Academics: overall good but definitely some terrible professors who either have favoritism, are unclear with expectations, or bad w grading. But the majority of professors are really good-Environment: if you're intimidated by rich, judgmental people, this is not the place for you. A lot of the culture is exclusionary towards ppl who work or who don't partake in certain activities...-facilities: very very nice- great gyms, dining halls, dormsOverall: a great school with a lot of resources, so be sure to look into your major specific resources bc they offer so much! Just be warned that it's not the easiest place to go to if you don't fit....
Read 3827 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 11%,
Net Price: $39,759,
SAT Range: 1340-1530,
Will You Get In?Compare
Senior: Work hard, play harder. Cornell is an excellent school academically speaking & one where you'll find friends for life. The opportunities are endless, and job placement is spectacular. All of my friends are either going to top firms or top PhD/MD programs...It's hard to transition to college, but Cornell is a pretty difficult transition (very cold, hard academically, exclusive Greek life scene). That said, once you make it work for you it's the best uni experience!...Read 1,979 Reviews
#17 Top Private Universities in America.
Cornell University
4 Year,
ITHACA, NY,
1979 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says Work hard, play harder. Cornell is an excellent school academically speaking & one where you'll find friends for life. The opportunities are endless, and job placement is spectacular. All of my...It's hard to transition to college, but Cornell is a pretty difficult transition (very cold, hard academically, exclusive Greek life scene). That said, once you make it work for you it's the best uni....
Read 1979 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 11%,
Net Price: $27,522,
SAT Range: 1400-1540,
Will You Get In?Compare
Alum: Aside from all of the aspects Pomona promotes as the reasons in favor of attending, I have to say that the relationships I forged with faculty, staff, and my fellow majors (Public Policy Analysis) contributed in large part to my success in undergrad and beyond. The Career Development Office in particular helped me perfect my job-hunting skills, and tailor my resume to ensure I was always putting my best, most relevant self out there. The alumni network is robust, and folks are always willing to lend a helping hand when it comes to connecting current students and other alums to jobs or people who can lift them up. Thanks to the CDO, I was able to land a great internship that legitimized my thesis research to a point where I was able to create valid policy solutions to address the problems I was trying to solve, which is why I chose Pomona in the first place. So glad to have had the opportunities and experiences that I did! My life shifted for the better because of Pomona...Read 411 Reviews
#18 Top Private Universities in America.
Pomona College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CLAREMONT, CA,
411 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Aside from all of the aspects Pomona promotes as the reasons in favor of attending, I have to say that the relationships I forged with faculty, staff, and my fellow majors (Public Policy Analysis)....
Read 411 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 9%,
Net Price: $30,392,
SAT Range: 1390-1540,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Freshman: Notre Dame has a great school spirit and campus life. In addition to a top-tier, rigorous education you can also enjoy your time at college. Everyone is super collaborative, friendly, and extremely accepting regardless of differences. The faculty is super acceptable and want to speak to you or help you with coursework when needed. People have close-knit friendships with their dorms and all partake in signature traditions. Plus the campus is awesome!...Read 1,365 Reviews
#19 Top Private Universities in America.
University of Notre Dame
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NOTRE DAME, IN,
1365 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Notre Dame has a great school spirit and campus life. In addition to a top-tier, rigorous education you can also enjoy your time at college. Everyone is super collaborative, friendly, and extremely....
Read 1365 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 19%,
Net Price: $29,981,
SAT Range: 1400-1550,
Will You Get In?Compare
#20 Top Private Universities in America.
California Institute of Technology
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PASADENA, CA,
126 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Great academic and research environment. Amazing people all around, from students to faculty. Only problem is the administration..
Read 126 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $26,591,
SAT Range: 1530-1580,
Will You Get In?Compare
Sophomore: I like the coursework at CMU! It's both challenging and exciting. We also have a vibrant extracurricular scene, and student services like career counseling are useful. Although the scheduling system could be improved, my overall experience with CMU has been positive. I would recommend it, particularly for potential applicants interested in engineering, computer science, drama, or architecture...Read 1,418 Reviews
#21 Top Private Universities in America.
Carnegie Mellon University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PITTSBURGH, PA,
1418 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says I like the coursework at CMU! It's both challenging and exciting. We also have a vibrant extracurricular scene, and student services like career counseling are useful. Although the scheduling system....
Read 1418 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 17%,
Net Price: $36,983,
SAT Range: 1460-1560,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Alum: I was a student at the JHU Peabody Conservatory of Music. I believe firmly that institutions will not support you unless you advocate for yourself. Because I advocated for myself, I was granted lots of different opportunities to grow and perform while enrolled. Peabody is now working to expand the amount of public engagement and community performance its students participate in, which I think is a good thing. Overall, I encountered great professors who were thorough, knowledgeable, and intentional in their academic practice. The music faculty is top tier, too. You get out of this school what you put into it!...Read 1,337 Reviews
#22 Top Private Universities in America.
Johns Hopkins University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
BALTIMORE, MD,
1337 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I was a student at the JHU Peabody Conservatory of Music. I believe firmly that institutions will not support you unless you advocate for yourself. Because I advocated for myself, I was granted lots....
Read 1337 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 11%,
Net Price: $25,241,
SAT Range: 1470-1560,
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Junior: I am reminded everyday how incredibly lucky I am to be a student at Georgetown University. I truly believe that there is a place for everyone here. Interested in Political Science? Pre-Med? Theology? Languages? International Affairs? GEORGETOWN IS THE PLACE TO BE! No matter their interests, Georgetown students and faculty are united by the spirit of Cura Personalis—"care for the whole person." My peers at Gtown are the most multi-faceted and driven people I have ever met...Tucked away in a beautiful residential neighborhood, yet walking distance from the heart of Washington DC, Georgetown's location is unmatched. Georgetown has a STELLAR reputation among employers in both the public and private sectors. The Georgetown network includes countless successful professionals, ranging from politicians on Capitol Hill, medical researchers at the NIH, executives on Wall Street, and diplomats in the State Department. I am looking forward to seeing where my Georgetown education will take me...Read 1,213 Reviews
#23 Top Private Universities in America.
Georgetown University
4 Year,
WASHINGTON, DC,
1213 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says I am reminded everyday how incredibly lucky I am to be a student at Georgetown University. I truly believe that there is a place for everyone here. Interested in Political Science? Pre-Med? Theology?...Tucked away in a beautiful residential neighborhood, yet walking distance from the heart of Washington DC, Georgetown's location is unmatched. Georgetown has a STELLAR reputation among employers in....
Read 1213 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 14%,
Net Price: $30,710,
SAT Range: 1380-1550,
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Sophomore: I have liked my time at Tufts so far. I am a student-athlete on the pre-med track, and have found that it has been somewhat manageable to maintain a competitive GPA and enjoy college life and athletics. Diversity on campus is generally white, but there are still groups of POC, FGLI, and other groups if one wants to join. Athletics aren't what we're known for, but lacrosse and soccer are very dominant and fun to watch here. Professors are generally caring and attentive, but the econ professors aren't great in my experience. Parties are fun if that's your thing, and there is always a place to go whether that's the city or a house somewhere. Dorms are ok. I eat a lot, and campus food is generally very good, even though some people complain about it. I've visited friends and had way worse. There is a lot of privilege here, but if you look you'll find a great group of people...Read 1,022 Reviews
#24 Top Private Universities in America.
Tufts University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
MEDFORD, MA,
1022 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says I have liked my time at Tufts so far. I am a student-athlete on the pre-med track, and have found that it has been somewhat manageable to maintain a competitive GPA and enjoy college life and....
Read 1022 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 15%,
Net Price: $32,720,
SAT Range: 1380-1530,
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Freshman: Bowdoin has the most friendly, welcoming people I have ever met. Bowdoin is very LGBTQ-friendly. It is quite heterogeneous, and everyone seems to feel comfortable being themselves. The professors are all insanely qualified and bright. Bowdoin offers great financial aid, and is one of few colleges to have need-blind, no-loan financial aid (meaning the College gives you grants instead of loans in its financial aid package). The campus is scenic, outdoorsy...The party scene for freshmen is mainly basement parties at the College Houses (Bowdoin's alternative to Greek life). These parties don't serve alcohol, so you must pregame (if you want) elsewhere. However, these parties are advertised campus-wide, so everyone is invited/ included. After freshman year, students mainly party in dorms or apartments with their friend groups. ...One qualm about Bowdoin: it is pretty intolerant to non-liberal/Democrat opinions. Conservatives, Republicans, and moderates are pretty closeted and silenced.Read 709 Reviews
#25 Top Private Universities in America.
Bowdoin College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
BRUNSWICK, ME,
709 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Bowdoin has the most friendly, welcoming people I have ever met. Bowdoin is very LGBTQ-friendly. It is quite heterogeneous, and everyone seems to feel comfortable being themselves. The professors are...The party scene for freshmen is mainly basement parties at the College Houses (Bowdoin's alternative to Greek life). These parties don't serve alcohol, so you must pregame (if you want) elsewhere....One qualm about Bowdoin: it is pretty intolerant to non-liberal/Democrat opinions. Conservatives, Republicans, and moderates are pretty closeted and silenced..
Read 709 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 9%,
Net Price: $25,622,
SAT Range: 1360-1510,
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Alum: This school changed the entire trajectory of my life. The small classes were perfect for my learning style, and I felt that my professors genuinely cared about my growth and progress. I developed as a whole person—spiritually, intellectually, athletically, and it changed the way I understood the world around me. Being exposed to so many subjects and ideas helped me discover what I wanted to do professionally and prepared me to be successful in graduate school. I also met my beautiful wife! I couldn't have asked for a better college experience...Read 381 Reviews
Sponsored Result, Southern Virginia University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
BUENA VISTA, VA,
381 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says This school changed the entire trajectory of my life. The small classes were perfect for my learning style, and I felt that my professors genuinely cared about my growth and progress. I developed as....
Read 381 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B minus,
Acceptance Rate: 99%,
Net Price: $22,496,
SAT Range: 960-1200,
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Freshman: Regent was a personal fit, offering the degree and training that is compatible with my needs. The campus is large, landscaped well, safe and in a great location in Virginia Beach. There is plenty of room to walk around in the green grass and to enjoy a relaxing sit. An overall wonderful place to spend time. The teachers seem knowledgeable, helpful and polite. Generally, the degrees are a combination of general ed classes, cores classes and required religion classes.The campus is peaceful, safe and in a great location. It is in Virginia Beach. Not far from the beach, restaurants, etc. Their library is three stories tall with wall-to-wall books and the communications building is very impressive. The communications building features two movie theater style screening rooms and two theater stages. After visiting the campus and interacting with the staff, I have the utmost respect and appreciation for this University. I highly recommend this school for the education and ease of the process!...Read 940 Reviews
Sponsored Result, Regent University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA,
940 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Regent was a personal fit, offering the degree and training that is compatible with my needs. The campus is large, landscaped well, safe and in a great location in Virginia Beach. There is plenty of....
Read 940 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 86%,
Net Price: $14,785,
SAT Range: 940-1220,
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About This List

Where Niche Grades come from and how Niche calculates rankings.

Quick References

Rank	School Name	Location
1	Massachusetts Institute of Technology	Cambridge, MA
2	Harvard University	Cambridge, MA
3	Stanford University	Stanford, CA
4	Yale University	New Haven, CT
5	Princeton University	Princeton, NJ
6	Duke University	Durham, NC
7	Rice University	Houston, TX
8	Brown University	Providence, RI
9	University of Pennsylvania	Philadelphia, PA
10	Dartmouth College	Hanover, NH
11	Columbia University	New York, NY
12	Washington University in St. Louis	Saint Louis, MO
13	Vanderbilt University	Nashville, TN
14	Northwestern University	Evanston, IL
15	University of Chicago	Chicago, IL
16	University of Southern California	Los Angeles, CA
17	Cornell University	Ithaca, NY
18	Pomona College	Claremont, CA
19	University of Notre Dame	Notre Dame, IN
20	California Institute of Technology	Pasadena, CA
21	Carnegie Mellon University	Pittsburgh, PA
22	Johns Hopkins University	Baltimore, MD
23	Georgetown University	Washington, DC
24	Tufts University	Medford, MA
25	Bowdoin College	Brunswick, ME

2022 Top Private Universities in America

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Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Harvard University

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Stanford University

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Washington and Lee University

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Yale University

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Princeton University

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Duke University

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Rice University

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Brown University

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University of Pennsylvania

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Dartmouth College

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Columbia University

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Washington University in St. Louis

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Vanderbilt University

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Northwestern University

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University of Chicago

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University of Southern California

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Cornell University

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Pomona College

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University of Notre Dame

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California Institute of Technology

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Carnegie Mellon University

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Johns Hopkins University

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Georgetown University

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Tufts University

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Bowdoin College

Bowdoin College

Southern Virginia University

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Regent University

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