2024 Top Private Universities in Texas

• Houston, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  1,110 reviews

Junior: I came into Rice as a transfer student this past semester. I'm happy to say I've found a place where I feel completely welcomed and appreciated. This is where I was meant to be. I am academically challenged and my curiosity is constantly mirrored in my classmates/friends. The conversations are fun and the people are genuine. Don't think that you can't apply because of how competitive it looks. They really practice the holistic approach and if you bring your unique story, passion, and perspective you have a shot. I didn't have perfect test scores, but I had a great work ethic and passion for what I do. If you want a home away from home- highly recommend!... Read 1,110 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 9%

• Net price $18,521

• SAT range 1490-1570

• San Antonio, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  742 reviews

Alum: The professors seemed to care deeply about their students' individual success; this is why I believe the very small average class size is so appealing. The campus is gorgeous and fosters creativity, tranquility, and a strong urge to cultivate one's higher will and gain a deeper understanding of the beautiful spot in time and space that we find ourselves. The coaches are all tremendous motivators, so they really arouse the desire to strive for balance and to be well-rounded in the physical in addition to the obvious mental that comes along with attending the prestigious Trinity University! My mindset was transformed at Trinity, and I learned from the genius professors, outstanding coaches, and my based colleagues that peace, purpose, and fulfillment does not involve hedonism nor a self-serving agenda. I think choosing to attend Trinity was one of the two best choices I have ever made. It is very difficult to imagine a better university filled with people half as awesome as Trinity peeps... Read 742 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 34%

• Net price $27,356

• SAT range 1280-1440

• Dallas, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  1,563 reviews

Alum: I loved my professors and program at SMU! The campus is absolutely gorgeous and it's a really good size without being too small or overwhelmingly large. The school is in the perfect location for local restaurants and shops while being 10 minutes away from the nightlife of downtown and the entertainment of the districts. Overall, it was a god experience. The people weren't my favorite, but I was still able to find my own group of people that didn't give in to the "rich-kid" stereotype the school has. I think it good work on its diversity and aid, especially in the art school.... Read 1,563 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $41,986

• SAT range 1340-1510

• Fort Worth, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  1,709 reviews

Senior: TCU has an incredibly inclusive and supportive community. The professors genuinely care about their students and want their students to succeed. Many have their PhD, with years of real-world industry experience. They are great resources as mentors both in an outside the classroom. The school spirit of TCU is unlike any other school. Students are incredibly proud to be horned frogs and hold lots of school pride. This year, students have been calling TCU an "everything school" because of our success in academics and across all sports. TCU has a great campus, with state-of-the-art buildings and facilities. The dorms are well-equipped and updated, and the recreation center is a great facility. The dining hall food in the BLUU isn't great, but there's plenty of dining options on campus (a healthy smoothie bar, chick-fil-a, Peet's, flatbreads, etc.) and others on University Avenue. Fort Worth is full of culture and has great restaurants/places to explore. Overall great people, great place!... Read 1,709 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $42,574

• SAT range 1130-1350

• Waco, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  4,497 reviews

Alum: The atmosphere was amazing! When I went to school here, there were only about 12,500 students but we all felt like a family. The professors really cared for the students. The academics were great. Professors would combine book work with projects that would prepare you best for the type of job you would retain. Even when you have graduated, you are connected with other alumni’s. It’s big enough that you don’t know everyone but small in a sense where you can cross friendship circles. When you come back to campus, many years later, it still feels like home.... Read 4,497 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $46,039

• SAT range 1160-1350

• San Antonio, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,856 reviews

Freshman: This university is a great place for diversity and offers a wide variety of courses. While it’s certainly not a party school, the school has an amazing social climate for those who are more lowkey with their social interactions. They do a lot of diversity and inclusion training, and treat their freshmen class really well. The faculty and staff are extremely welcoming and nice, I have not had a bad experience with them yet! The professors are mostly very friendly and recognize hard work, and their courses are very informative and thorough. The campus is also very compact, so getting from class to class is not a hassle at all, especially if you’re scheduled back to back. The only cons I can see is the high monetary pricing of the school (as most private colleges) and the fact that the campus VA program does not communicate with the on base VA, so you’re basically setting up your benefits without a lot of help, and it also leads to a lot of misscommunication.... Read 1,856 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $21,161

• SAT range 920-1160

• Longview, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  704 reviews

Senior: Letourneau University boasts an exceptional aviation and engineering program in the United States, offering an especially conducive atmosphere for those focused on the aviation field. Recognized for its strong affiliations with esteemed partner companies, the program's reputation shines brightly. The university's commitment to practical, hands-on education is evident through these industry connections. With a blend of academic excellence and real-world exposure, Letourneau University provides a dynamic learning environment. For those aspiring to excel in aviation and engineering, this program offers an outstanding opportunity to thrive. The valuable skills and industry networks gained here pave the way for a successful future in these dynamic fields.... Read 704 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $25,932

• SAT range 1130-1370

• Irving, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  529 reviews

Sophomore: The University of Dallas has opened so many doors for me in terms of lifetime friendships, growing in knowledge, and in my faith! I can't think of any other university that cares more about it's individual students and their thirst for truth.... Read 529 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 58%

• Net price $25,620

• SAT range 1110-1390

• Abilene, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  1,422 reviews

Sophomore: I adore this place! My family was Catholic, so our upbringing was different. I have always enjoyed both hearing the biblical tales and learning about their background. I will undoubtedly continue my nursing career here at this university. I adore how each lesson includes references to God. It is very dissimilar from the previous universities I have attended.... Read 1,422 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $29,734

• SAT range 1050-1270

• Houston, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  697 reviews

Freshman: It is a catholic school, but they won’t force you to partake in any of the catholic traditions of you’re not comfortable. The school is guarded very well and very safe you have to have your id to enter the building and the dorms so it’s not welcome to strangers and it is surrounded by a gate. The food is delicious and they provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Lastly, the people here are very nice and welcoming makes you feel like you belong. Highly overall I recommend coming here!... Read 697 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 98%

• Net price $20,130

• SAT range 1040-1220

• San Antonio, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  90 reviews

Alum: I graduated from Hallmark University in 2020 with a Bachelor's of Business Management in Digital Marketing. I found the experience to be wonderful. I had the opportunity to earn Character With Distinction when I graduated. Also, the Hallmark Consulting Group was fantastic for training us with real-life experience. I recommend Hallmark University to any adult needing an accelerated degree. My brother also attends Hallmark and will complete his Bachelor's in Information Technology December 2021. I used Financial Aid and never had a problem. It really is a great school!... Read 90 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $9,816

• SAT range —

• San Antonio, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  1,092 reviews

Sophomore: St. Mary's University has truly exceeded my expectations and provided an exceptional college experience. As a student at this esteemed institution, I am thrilled to share my enthusiasm and highlight the numerous aspects that make St. Mary's University a truly great place for higher education. First and foremost, the faculty at St. Mary's University are unparalleled in their dedication and expertise. The professors not only possess impressive academic qualifications but also exhibit a genuine passion for teaching and guiding their students. Their commitment to fostering an environment of intellectual growth and curiosity is evident in every lecture, seminar, and discussion. The faculty members go above and beyond to ensure that students receive personalized attention, nurturing their academic interests and encouraging them to explore new areas of study.... Read 1,092 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $17,899

• SAT range 1040-1220

• Lubbock, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  517 reviews

Sophomore: I feel that my experience at Lubbock Christian University has been such a blessing. There truly is no place like this. The community you have by attending is so special. You will never meet a stranger and I can guarantee you will always have people looking out for you. Having the freedom to learn and grow while always being able to worship and learn about God with your peers is amazing. I truly recommend it, even for those who are not believers the atmosphere is just so beautiful.... Read 517 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 95%

• Net price $24,079

• SAT range 940-1160

• Georgetown, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  588 reviews

Alum: I loved my time at Southwestern (2012-2016). The campus is beautiful, Georgetown is lovely, and (most) of the professors top notch. Southwestern changed my life in so many ways. I'm grateful to my professors and classmates who challenged my worldviews and pushed me out of my comfort zone. I had the chance to study abroad twice, once through a group program with SU students and another time through an exchange program. I worked at the library through the work study program throughout college, which was also a fantastic and cherished experience. I made some friends at SU, but decided to take off 1 star because it can be a tough social scene. Everyone knows everyone, and you don't have a ton of options to explore social groups- can be cliquish. Lots of kids whose parents have money, so you're not going to run into a lot of "salt of the earth" types at SU. Overall a wonderful time of my life that I look back on with fond memories! SU is a special place.... Read 588 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 51%

• Net price $28,496

• SAT range 1150-1330

• Austin, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  1,280 reviews

Junior: Never would I imagine that I would make it to a University and get the best experience. And yet here I am, my experience of being a student at St. Edward's University have been fantastic! My first time entering the building so much anxiety built up in my body, but also excitement that my voice is screaming inside "I'm really actually here!" not to mention a lot of emotional feelings flooding in and out when I had to say goodbye to my family. Now being in College doesn't go without struggles and its been like a rollercoaster for me, but with the help and support of St. Edward's and my family I made it through my first year. There are a lot of things that I like about the University, for one it does really good on notifying its students on any up comings announcements, alerts, and even inspiring messages for every struggling student. In honesty, I would like the dorm sizes change, still great stay. Awesome to be a Hilltopper, can't wait to finish my years with constant encouragement!... Read 1,280 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $24,668

• SAT range 1060-1240

• Keene, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  449 reviews

Senior: Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) is a private Christian institution located in Keene, Texas, United States. It is affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church and offers undergraduate programs in various fields of study. Here are some key points about SWAU: Academic Programs: The university offers a range of undergraduate programs in areas such as business, education, nursing, communication, computer science, biology, and more. Students have the opportunity to pursue their chosen field of study and gain knowledge and skills in their respective disciplines. Campus Life: SWAU offers a close-knit community atmosphere on its campus. Students have access to various facilities and resources, including libraries, research centers, athletic facilities, and student organizations. The university often organizes social and cultural events, providing opportunities for students to engage with their peers.... Read 449 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 58%

• Net price $18,472

• SAT range 900-1130

• Sherman, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.5 out of 5  863 reviews

Senior: Overall, I have really loved my time at Austin College! It has provided me with so many experiences that I wouldn't have been able to get at a big public school, like the multiple study abroad opportunities, the amount of quality time spent in schools student teaching for my education minor, and the close relationships I've developed with all of my professors. Going to a small school was the right decision for me! I truly believe attending Austin College for the past four years has helped me develop my sense of self, solidify my commitment to learning, and given me friendships I will cherish for a lifetime.... Read 863 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 43%

• Net price $24,398

• SAT range 1120-1340

• Marshall, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  467 reviews

Freshman: My experience here at East Texas Baptist University has been distinguished compared to my high school experience. What I like about this university is that everyone here is so friendly and open-minded. Every interaction I have had with my fellow students and teachers has been pleasant and productive. I enjoy the chapel services that are help every Monday and Wednesday as it is just such a joyful and uplifting experience. Not only do they provide a great chapel service, but they also provide endless amounts of volunteering opportunities to help us gain experience and service hours. Serving the community in Marshall has been nothing more than a outstanding experience. I am a teachers assistant every Monday and I also contribute voluntary work in my schools Honors program. The only thing is that it is a little on the expensive side, but I think the academic and Christian scholarships provide a good amount of support for every student.... Read 467 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $23,885

• SAT range 920-1120

• Austin, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  468 reviews

Junior: I love that the classroom size is small, it's allocated to help each student individually. The professors are truly there to see you succeed, they all have an open door policy, including the dean. The rarity of that alone makes me more comfortable in my learning experience. We may be a small school but we are close knit, the professors actually know you by name. You are not just a student on a long list of names. I transitioned to HT from a major university and it was so difficult for me to fit in. The minute I walked on campus I was not only relieved to see so many people that looked like me, but the fact that everyone was so friendly. No matter who you are you will feel at home when you step onto the ram's campus!... Read 468 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 50%

• Net price $11,846

• SAT range 820-1000

• San Antonio, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  790 reviews

Senior: Our Lady of the Lake University is a beautiful campus with amazing school programs and clubs. I get to attend school in a castle! The only issues would be that some of the buildings are rundown and unusable until they are fixed and the money has been put towards making the campus look pretty rather than fortifying the foundations of some of the buildings. Once those buildings are fixed up, there will be more space for classrooms and activities than there currently is. People are complaining about lack of space when really, just fix up the messed up buildings and you have all the space you want. Other than that, OLLU is a hidden gem that needs more attention.... Read 790 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 66%

• Net price $18,362

• SAT range 890-1070

• Fort Worth, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  507 reviews

Senior: Texas Wesleyan offers many great things. My experiences with the business department and english department have been amazing. The university does a great job of selecting professors. After three years, there is only one professor I have ever had issues with, which I consider to be a very good tract record with professors. The only thing I have found to dislike at Texas Wesleyan is the lack of classes in certain areas, like art, interior design, and architecture. However, the school of business does an amazing job.... Read 507 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 58%

• Net price $21,495

• SAT range 920-1100

• Seguin, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  531 reviews

Freshman: Texas Lutheran University empowers a diverse student body through an education centered on the liberal arts and professional programs. With the small class sizes you get such a personal 1 on 1 connection with your professors allowing for a better understanding of the material and the professors know you by name and always check up on your progress. The presence of organizations, opportunities for student involvement, and internship opportunities are limitless at every major. The students and faculty thus far have my journey to graduation easy to understand and have given me a variety of courses to take with the proper guidance to prepare for each and every semester. Things here at TLU are exactly what I needed to further my education and I would recommend this university every day of the week!... Read 531 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 63%

• Net price $19,829

• SAT range 1020-1170

• Houston, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  950 reviews

Sophomore: Houston Christian University has been such a treasure! The proffesors are top class and do not just teach but make an effort to make sure thier students understand the topic. I have witnessed countless HCU Proffesor time and time again making an effort to make sure that they aid students who might struggling in the curriculum. The student life is exceptional since in Houston there is so much to explore woth all the different cultures and ethnic backgrounds. That brings me to my joy about Houston Christian University; thier rich diversity. I have personally heard other students saying that they wanted to transfer to a school that was more diverse and therefore, they chose HCU. Most importantly, I love the way this college as a whole makes sure to point the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The most important and crucial topic needed to be heard in our campuses. It has truly been an honor to be apart of this amazing college and I look forward to completing my entire education in HCU. Dawgs Up!... Read 950 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $20,089

• SAT range 1040-1250

• Abilene, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  386 reviews

Freshman: McMurry is a University with great faculty to student ratio. At McMurry, hands on approach to learning is emphasized. Being a small University, every student gets the required attention from staff and the view of every student is considered. McMurry has kind staff and faculty!... Read 386 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $22,098

• SAT range 1030-1230

• Waxahachie, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  833 reviews

Sophomore: SAGU is an incredible college for ministry! Some of the general education teachers are difficult to follow, but the professors that teach classes for ministry majors are fantastic. I have learned how to practically apply my studies to daily life. For example, I feel equipped to study the Bible based on its historical-cultural context. Most professors are very willing to help when you reach out. Some of my professors have even given me points back just because I asked for help. Their online program is fantastic. Academic advisors work well with you to complete your schedule & pick classes that suit you best. They are also very open to feedback on how to improve. Lastly, I love the focus every professor has on the power of a relationship with God. Yes, they teach students about the logistics of ministry. However, they don't focus so much on the logistics that they forget why we do what we do. My relationship with God has grown because of SAGU!... Read 833 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $22,245

• SAT range 900-1080