Best Colleges in Georgia

Georgia has many great colleges and universities. Discover the best colleges in Georgia and find the right fit for you.
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Updated on October 5, 2023
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From metro Atlanta to coastal Savannah, Georgia has some of the best colleges in the country. You can also find scenic rural colleges and online colleges in the Peach State. But which of Georgia's 40-plus schools make the top 10 list?

With options for every budget, major, and school size, you can find the right college to reach your goals on our list. Let's dive in to learn more about the best colleges in Georgia.

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10 Best Colleges in Georgia

Ready to learn more about the best colleges in Georgia? Here's our list of the ten top-ranking colleges and universities in the state.

Methodology

How did we choose the best colleges in Georgia? The Peach State boasts multiple prominent and historical colleges. For our list, we looked at factors like academic excellence, campus life, graduate outcomes, and the student experience. We also considered affordability, financial aid opportunities, and a diversity of sizes and institution types.

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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#1 Best Colleges in Georgia Best Value

University of Georgia

  • Athens, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

UGA ranks as the best college in Georgia. Established in 1785, the university is the oldest public college in the country. More than 230 years later, UGA educates entrepreneurs, researchers, and leaders.

What makes UGA stand out? The public college offers multiple dual bachelor's and master's programs that can help you save time and money. You can choose from over 800 student organizations and 130 study abroad programs. And UGA is a leader in experiential learning.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,790
Out-of-state
$28,830
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,878
Out-of-state
$25,186
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: High

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
48%
Students Enrolled
39,147
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
16% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Colleges in Georgia

Georgia State University

  • Atlanta, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A public college in Atlanta, Georgia State has a diverse student body of over 52,000 students from 150 countries around the world. You can choose from over 250 bachelor's programs. And when you're not in class, you can take advantage of Atlanta's food, culture, and business opportunities. 

Georgia State also operates perimeter campuses around the Atlanta metro area, allowing students to choose between different learning environments. And you'll pay around $10,000 per year for tuition, fees, books, and supplies, which makes Georgia State more affordable than many other universities in Georgia.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,158
Out-of-state
$22,389
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,164
Out-of-state
$22,662
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
36,360
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Colleges in Georgia Best Value

Georgia Institute of Technology

  • Atlanta, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The Peach State's top-ranked tech institute is also a public university, making it more affordable than many private colleges in Georgia. Georgia Tech enrolls more than 45,000 students on its campuses in Atlanta, France, and China. Or you can earn a Georgia Tech degree online.

The 400-acre wooded campus in Atlanta welcomes students. Popular majors include engineering, computing, business, liberal arts, and the sciences. You'll also develop research and leadership skills through experiential learning opportunities.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,258
Out-of-state
$31,370
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,064
Out-of-state
$29,140
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: High

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
21%
Students Enrolled
39,771
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
91% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Colleges in Georgia Best Value

Kennesaw State University

  • Kennesaw, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Looking for an affordable college in Georgia? Then consider KSU. Georgia residents pay around $5,500 per year in tuition at this public college. 

When you're on campus, you'll live in a residential community and participate in over 300 student-led organizations. In the classroom, KSU offers more than 180 programs from its campus just 15 miles outside of Atlanta. It's also Georgia's third-largest university, with nearly 43,000 students. More Georgia teachers and nurses graduate from KSU than from any other college.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,450
Out-of-state
$15,704
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,328
Out-of-state
$19,188
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: High

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
41,181
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
94% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Colleges in Georgia

Savannah College of Art and Design

  • Savannah, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

If you're interested in art or design, SCAD is one of the best colleges in Georgia. As a professional college, you'll take career-focused classes with an emphasis on industry-specific skills. And if you're not in Savannah, you can take classes online. 

You'll take small classes and receive individual attention. And you'll have over 100 programs to choose from, making SCAD one of the largest art and design universities in the country.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$37,575
Out-of-state
$37,575
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$38,475
Out-of-state
$38,475
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Low

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Low
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
14,265
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
26% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Best Colleges in Georgia

Clark Atlanta University

  • Atlanta, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Over 4,000 students attend Clark Atlanta University, which is one of the best HBCUs in Atlanta. It's also a historic institution, formed by the union between the country's first college that offered graduate degrees to Black students and the first four-year liberal arts college for Black students.

You can choose from 40 areas of study at this private college. And when you're not in class, you can participate in the vibrant campus life that encourages innovation and culture.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$18,990
Out-of-state
$18,990
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,814
Out-of-state
$14,814
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
3,776
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Best Colleges in Georgia

Emory University

  • Atlanta, GA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Many rank Emory at the top of their list of private colleges in Georgia. And it's easy to see why. Emory has a reputation for academic excellence and cutting-edge research facilities. The university's 8,000 undergrads choose from over 80 majors, with most enrolling in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Emory students are active on and off campus. The campus boasts over 325 clubs and organizations, and 80% of students volunteer. Emory also commits to meeting 100% of the financial need of first-degree undergrads.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$53,070
Out-of-state
$53,070
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$43,800
Out-of-state
$43,800
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
19%
Students Enrolled
13,997
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
87% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Colleges in Georgia

Spelman College

  • Atlanta, GA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Dating back to 1881, Atlanta's Spelman College is one of the top-ranked HBCUs in the country. Today, it's a well-known women's liberal arts college. The private college encourages academic excellence, leadership development, and service. 

As a Spelman student, you'll benefit from counseling services, a wellness center, and strong academic programs. And last year, over 85% of students received financial aid to cover the cost of their degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$25,942
Out-of-state
$25,942
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
53%
Students Enrolled
2,207
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Colleges in Georgia

Mercer University

  • Macon, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Join nearly 9,000 students at Mercer, a private college in Macon, Georgia. Founded in 1833 by Georgia Baptists, Mercer encourages volunteering and service. You can also participate in more than 140 student clubs and organizations to build leadership skills.

In addition to its on-campus undergraduate programs, Mercer also offers degrees designed for working adults and online programs. You can qualify for institutional financial aid by submitting the GA state aid application.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$28,695
Out-of-state
$28,695
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,964
Out-of-state
$14,964
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
9,006
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Colleges in Georgia

Agnes Scott College

  • Decatur, GA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Founded as a women's college in 1889, Agnes Scott offers a small, liberal arts environment. The core curriculum emphasizes global learning, leadership development, and professional success. And you can pursue a dual degree or major in pre-law or pre-medicine to prepare for grad school. 

Agnes Scott boasts small class sizes and a student body of 1,115. Winding walking paths through lofty trees give the Decatur campus a residential feel. Still, you're only six miles from downtown Atlanta and its opportunities.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$43,920
Out-of-state
$43,920
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,650
Out-of-state
$16,650
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Low

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Low
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
1,080
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

List of All Colleges in Georgia

We've created a complete list of all four-year nonprofit universities in Georgia. You can use the table below to compare data on student population, average net cost, acceptance rate, and number of applicants.

The following school data comes from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Note that schools that do not admit full-time, first-time degree-seeking students and that enroll fewer than 500 undergrads were not considered for this list.

All 45 Colleges in Georgia
School Total Student Enrollment Avg. Annual Net Price Acceptance Rate Number of Applicants
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College 3,814 $7,260 67% 2,349
Agnes Scott College 1,109 $24,305 67% 1,879
Albany State University 6,297 $14,672 100% N/A
Augusta University 8,961 $13,572 86% 5,191
Berry College 2,303 $25,359 66% 5,643
Brenau University 2,551 $23,635 87% 2,334
Brewton-Parker College 893 $21,874 95% 744
Clark Atlanta University 4,055 $30,015 56% 16,153
Clayton State University 6,817 $9,792 56% 2,255
College of Coastal Georgia 3,232 $12,117 98% 2,519
Columbus State University 7,898 $12,902 88% 3,870
Covenant College 914 $25,028 84% 813
Dalton State College 4,525 $5,532 100% N/A
Emmanuel College 918 $19,921 63% 766
Emory University 14,779 $26,680 11% 33,179
Fort Valley State University 2,923 $13,016 43% 6,247
Georgia College & State University 6,763 $20,301 80% 4,414
Georgia Gwinnett College 10,949 $10,981 94% 5,626
Georgia Institute of Technology 43,859 $17,402 17% 50,610
Georgia Southern University 27,076 $15,352 89% 14,680
Georgia Southwestern State University 3,157 $12,186 73% 1,939
Georgia State University 36,973 $17,589 67% 26,050
Kennesaw State University 42,899 $18,079 68% 21,106
LaGrange College 643 $21,557 59% 1,414
Life University 2,787 $28,226 98% 448
Mercer University 9,009 $22,087 75% 7,556
Middle Georgia State University 7,843 $13,174 100% 3,440
Morehouse College 2,554 $35,251 60% 5,221
Oglethorpe University 1,446 $20,094 71% 2,816
Piedmont University 2,060 $18,792 64% 2,331
Point University 1,666 $19,890 24% 2,355
Reinhardt University 1,215 $26,845 62% 1,083
Savannah College of Art and Design 15,636 $45,976 82% 14,387
Savannah State University 3,385 $9,452 100% N/A
Shorter University 1,460 $13,490 97% 871
Spelman College 2,417 $37,085 28% 13,649
Thomas University 1,388 $16,308 46% 358
Toccoa Falls College 1,764 $20,609 68% 1,066
Truett McConnell University 2,710 $18,835 81% 652
University of Georgia 40,118 $17,180 43% 39,320
University of North Georgia 18,972 $11,721 70% 11,920
University of West Georgia 12,687 $15,625 80% 4,783
Valdosta State University 11,557 $12,836 89% 4,975
Wesleyan College 734 $13,900 67% 1,298
Young Harris College 1,407 $18,910 77% 1,990
Source: NCES

What Is the Cost of College in Georgia?

Georgia colleges are more affordable than the national average. At a public four-year university, you can expect to pay around $7,500 in tuition and fees as a Georgia resident. Private colleges cost around $30,400 regardless of your state residency.

You can save money as a Georgia college student by attending community college for your first two years and then transferring to a four-year institution. Georgia residents pay around $3,150 in tuition for public community colleges.

Alternatively, you might consider attending an online college in Georgia to lower your transportation costs.

Cost of College in Georgia 2021
Institution Type Average Tuition & Required Fees
Public 4-Year (in-state) $7,525
Public 4-Year (out-of-state) $23,430
Private 4-Year $30,380
Public 2-Year (in-state) $3,169
Public 2-Year (out-of-state) $8,535
Source: NCES

Scholarships for Georgia Students

Did you know that Georgia offers many college scholarships? You can receive free money to attend college in Georgia if you meet the eligibility requirements. Learn more about some of the top scholarships below.

Georgia Hope Scholarship

You can receive a HOPE Scholarship after graduating from a Georgia high school. You'll need to attend an eligible Georgia college or university. The amount of the award varies depending on your school and the number of hours enrolled.

Zell Miller Scholarship

Georgia residents qualify for the Zell Miller Scholarship. You'll need to meet academic requirements and submit the FAFSA or Georgia Student Finance Application to qualify. The award amount varies depending on your course load and chosen college in Georgia.

REACH Scholarship

Offered by REACH Georgia, the REACH Scholarship supports students from middle school through high school. If REACH Scholars maintain a 2.5 GPA, they can qualify for up to $2,500 per year for up to four years to attend a Georgia college.

Frequently Asked Questions About Colleges in Georgia

How many colleges are in Georgia?

Georgia is home to around 50 four-year public and private nonprofit colleges and universities. There are also around 15 for-profit colleges in Georgia, according to NCES.

Some of the best-known colleges in Georgia include the University of Georgia, Emory University, Georgia Tech, and Georgia State University. The Peach State also stands out for its HBCUs, including Morehouse College, Spelman College, and Clark Atlanta University.

What colleges accept the Georgia Hope scholarship?

Many Georgia colleges accept the HOPE Scholarship, including UGA, Georgia Tech, and Georgia State. Private colleges like Emory, Mercer, Morehouse, and Spelman also accept the HOPE scholarship.

Visit the program page for more information on eligible colleges.

Is Georgia Tech a good school?

Yes, Georgia Tech is a well-known college that specializes in science and technology programs. It's also one of the largest colleges in Georgia. And since Georgia Tech is a public school, it charges a lower tuition rate than many other schools.

Georgia Tech also reports one of the lowest acceptance rates among Georgia colleges: Only 17% of more than 50,000 applicants were accepted in fall 2022, according to NCES.