2024 Top Private Universities in Minnesota

• 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+

• Acceptance rate 31%

• Net price $30,939

• SAT range 1340-1480

• 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

• Acceptance rate 18%

• Net price $31,718

• SAT range 1370-1550

• Northfield, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  788 reviews

Sophomore: I'm currently a sophomore on the hill, and one thing I can say for sure is that the professors are INCREDIBLE! I haven't had a bad professor yet. Maybe I'm just lucky, but I think it's because St. Olaf truly has amazing faculty. The school has its fair share of issues, like every college. However, it's a still a very special place; all the people are caring and fun, the campus is beautiful, and the community is vibrant. Personally, I like the small college vibe. It's fun having so many mutual friends and it's really easy to meet people! But if you're not someone who likes recognizing people frequently around campus, St. Olaf might feel suffocating to you. Overall, it's a wonderful school that I think nearly anyone could be content at.... Read 788 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $27,729

• SAT range 1240-1430

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  1,285 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 1,285 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  1,058 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 1,058 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $19,252

• SAT range 890-1210

• Saint Peter, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  896 reviews

Freshman: Amazing professors who are good humans, first and foremost. Driven students. Tons of interests. Many minds. Even more perspectives. Extremely intriguing and useful courses. Resources. Resources. Resources. Make use of them! Liberal arts. Nothing beats it. Cliquey. Very much so. Drama. Ugh. Worse than middle school, if you're into that. There's plenty of crowds that don't run like that, however. Just be patient with yourself to find them. Not-too-Christian. (Hope this is reformed). Homey. Small. Sincere. Personal. Trust me, it's better than what the pictures show. It's better than what's advertised. It's home for four years, and a nice one.... Read 896 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $27,657

• SAT range 1080-1340

• 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

• Acceptance rate 61%

• Net price $17,640

• SAT range 950-1150

• 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

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $23,890

• SAT range 1080-1330

• 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

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $15,944

• SAT range 920-1110

• 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

• Acceptance rate 98%

• Net price $21,606

• SAT range 1030-1200

• 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

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $25,744

• SAT range 1050-1310

• 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

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $21,988

• SAT range 1080-1250

• 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

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $27,750

• SAT range 1020-1240

• 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

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $28,840

• SAT range 1090-1340

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.02 out of 5  1,081 reviews

Sophomore: The University of Northwestern has truly been an answered prayer. The community, friendships, and relationships that have grown over the course of my time at Northwestern is astounding. UNW is a place where everyone of all backgrounds can find a place that they feel comfortable in to express their ideas and opinions. I am grateful for the academic enrichment that UNW offers, and the compassionate professors that I have had. Not only do my professors care about my education, but I know that they also care about my faith and well-being. Here at Northwestern, I have had the opportunity to strengthen my faith in every aspect, and feel comfortable having important conversations with those that I have met through this school. One thing that I would like to change here is related to my major. I am a psychology major and the program definitely lacks variety in electives and courses in general. It is hard to gain a degree that is versatile for the workplace. Other than that, I do love it here!... Read 1,081 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $22,965

• SAT range 1110-1330

• 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

• Acceptance rate 99%

• Net price $24,738

• SAT range —

• 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

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $28,269

• SAT range 1110-1220

• Minneapolis, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  254 reviews

Senior: The Minneapolis College of Art and Design is a phenomenal environment for creatives of all ages and backgrounds to learn, hone their skills, and find their own unique identity as an artist. The professors and instructors of this school have a deep commitment to helping students and providing individual personal guidance to allow each of us to follow our dreams. In terms of the institution itself, many feel that the current leadership is blind to the needs of its constituents. With too much focus on profits rather than progress, health, and care. I would happily endorse this school for anyone seeking to further their skills or understanding of themselves and their creative pursuits.... Read 254 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 66%

• Net price $28,520

• SAT range 1020-1240

• Minneapolis, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  641 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 641 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $23,871

• SAT range 1080-1310

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.49 out of 5  882 reviews

Sophomore: I love Hamline! The faculty is very helpful all around, there are many opportunities and resources here.... Read 882 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $20,239

• SAT range 1170-1280

• Saint Bonifacius, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  397 reviews

Senior: Crown College is a wonderful place to grow holistically. Professors push you to think deeper and critically, forming your own thoughts and values. Students and staff are available for mentorship relationships and want to encourage and support you spiritually, academically, and emotionally. Crown has many opportunities to grow in your major area but also to be connected in all of the areas that you have interest in. There are so many leadership opportunities, clubs, sports, etc. that you can get involved with. These are great resume builders but also just great experiences to grow yourself. Crown College is a great place to be real and grow. It really is home! :)... Read 397 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $25,513

• SAT range 960-1150

• St. Cloud, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  105 reviews

Freshman: I have had such a great experience, especially with all of my councilors and teachers! My mom graduated from this college and had a lot of good to say and so I wanted to try it out for myself.... Read 105 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $18,239

• SAT range —

• Minneapolis, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  618 reviews

Junior: North Central University is one of the finest universities out there! Especially is you're going into Worship leading, music, or ASL (American Sign Language), North Central is the place to be! Located in downtown Minneapolis, there is a rich vibrancy of culture, diversity, and different views (that you're probably not used to)! Even after only being enrolled for a year thus far, North Central has made me grow like never before. The professors, students, and faculty represent Christ so well, and I've had so many fond experiences in my first year there! The worship culture there is so amazing as well. All Worship Live, PG (praise gathering), and render worship leaders humble themselves and provide a wonderful atmosphere to worship our God! I cannot write enough words to express how spectacular this university is.... Read 618 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $24,232

• SAT range 950-1160

• St. Louis Park, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  122 reviews

Junior: This school has excellent professors who care about the material and you too! I usually am an introvert, but attending this school has made me branch out of my comfort zone due to the friendly environment. The only thing I would like to change is the location because it's far away from my house, but I think everyone wants something convenient. This school is excellent at working with different learning styles, so everyone understands the material.... Read 122 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $22,055

• SAT range —

• Minneapolis, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.34 out of 5  59 reviews

Freshman: I am a newly enrolled freshman at IPR, my start date is July 2nd. Originally the enrollment process seemed lengthy and extremely daunting. However with the help of the school's many knowledgeable advisers, I have been able to successfully complete the enrollment process and am on my way to the next step in life's incredible journey! What sparked my interest in IPR was when I had a friend do some recording and mixing for me, he was attending IPR at the time so we had full access to the studios 24/7! This ease of access to state of the art equipment and full access to prominent individuals working in the industry today shot my interest through the roof. Despite the tuition cost and how expensive it will be to live in the city, this is the school I needed to attend. I have experienced and heard nothing but positive things about The Institute of Production and Recording, it is an incredible school.... Read 59 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $23,297

• SAT range —