Best Public Colleges in Georgia for 2026
Public colleges in Georgia provide a powerful combination of academic excellence and affordability. From flagship universities like University of Georgia to innovative STEM hubs like Georgia Tech, the state’s public institutions are known for research, access, and real-world career preparation.
Each school listed below has earned the College of Distinction designation for its commitment to the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, a Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes. They also deliver exceptional value, especially for Georgia residents taking advantage of in-state tuition and HOPE/Zell Miller Scholarships.
Use this list of Georgia’s best public colleges for 2026 to explore schools that balance academic quality with accessible cost and strong student support.
Georgia College
Milledgeville, GA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
With over 46 undergraduate programs, 150+ student organizations, and 34 graduate programs to choose from, students are encouraged to participate in intellectual and culturally vibrant activities. As a historic teaching and nursing college, Georgia College & State University consistently ranks among the best programs for both teaching and nursing undergraduate and graduate programs. Combined with affordable tuition, Georgia College is a top pick for students looking for dedicated faculty and staff, diverse academic programs, and a supportive student environment.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDY
Programs for students at Georgia College include online degree programs, dual enrollment, double majoring, student exchange programs, an honors program, internships, study abroad, a professional studies program, and summer classes. Georgia College can award certificates as well as bachelor’s, some master’s, and two doctorate degrees.
FACULTY RESEARCH
Faculty participate in an active community of research at Georgia College. Research labs include the Social Emotional Development Laboratory, Behavioral Neuroscience, Behavioral Pharmacology, Memory Lab, and more.
Acceptance rate 88% • Net price $19,769 • SAT Range 1060-1240
Total Undergrad Population 5,681 • Setting Town • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 62% • Retention rate 84% • Student-to-faculty ratio 16:1
Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, GA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
Georgia Institute of Technology, or Georgia Tech, is a renowned public research university located in Atlanta, Georgia. With over 100 degree programs offered in fields such as engineering, business, computing, sciences, design, and more, Georgia Tech is committed to providing its diverse student body with a world-class education that prepares them to become leaders and innovators in their chosen fields.
Georgia Tech’s distinguished faculty and cutting-edge research programs are dedicated to tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges, and the university provides ample opportunities for students to participate in experiential learning, entrepreneurship programs, and research. Discover what sets Georgia Tech apart and become a part of a community of learners and leaders that is making a difference in the world.
Acceptance rate 16% • Net price $15,901 • SAT Range 1330-1530 • Students submitting SAT scores 77%
Total Undergrad Population 19,505 • Setting City • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 92% • Retention rate 98% • Student-to-faculty ratio 18:1
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, GA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
Georgia Southern University is large enough to provide endless opportunities, but personal enough to feel like home, plus employers say our grads are ready from day one. With almost 27,000 students, approximately 141 different degree programs, three campuses built on a single vision of growing others, Georgia Southern University is moving ahead and ready for more. With historic brick streets or moss-dripping oak trees, our picturesque campuses may seem pristine, but there’s a lot of roll-up-your-sleeves work going on here. Research is focused on community impact. Teaching is focused on students. And students are focused on their future.
Since 1906, the University’s hallmark has been a culture of engagement that bridges theory with practice, extends the learning environment beyond the classroom and promotes student growth and life success. 10 years in a row named “Military Friendly”, 11-time top eco-friendly campus, top 10 best hidden gem public universities and with inclusive excellence a core value, Georgia Southern is ready to help students shine.
Acceptance rate 90% • Net price $16,957 • SAT Range 980-1160
Total Undergrad Population 22,295 • Setting Town • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 53% • Retention rate 77% • Student-to-faculty ratio 24:1
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, GA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
Kennesaw State University believes in empowering you to become the best version of yourself. Through a blend of rigorous academics, vibrant campus life, and diverse opportunities, you’ll discover your passions and unlock your potential. Engage with access to over 300 student organizations. Find camaraderie in on-campus residence halls. Savor award-winning dining options. Experience the thrill of competition in club sports and NCAA Division I teams. Become a proud Owl and a part of a supportive community that values your unique voice and ambitions.
When you choose KSU, there are no limits to who YOU will become.
Acceptance rate 69% • Net price $17,566 • SAT Range 1020-1220
Total Undergrad Population 40,509 • Setting Suburb • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 48% • Retention rate 79% • Student-to-faculty ratio 23:1
University of Georgia
Athens, GA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
Located in the charming college town of Athens, Georgia, the University of Georgia (UGA) is a distinguished public research university with a rich history dating back to 1785. UGA is renowned for its rigorous academics and innovative research programs across a wide range of disciplines, including business, engineering, arts and sciences, education, and more. With a diverse student body of over 38,000 individuals from all walks of life, UGA is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive campus culture that celebrates diversity and encourages intellectual curiosity.
Acceptance rate 37% • Net price $16,303 • SAT Range 1160-1390
Total Undergrad Population 31,514 • Setting City: Midsize • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 87% • Retention rate 95% • Student-to-faculty ratio 17:1
University of North Georgia
Dahlonega, GA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
Founded in 1873, UNG has led generations of leaders across professions. The university’s strong culture of military personnel and inquiring academic minds is apparent across all five campuses. Offering both on-campus and online educational pathways, UNG has a bachelor’s, associate’s, graduate, or doctoral degree for anyone ready to become outstanding leaders for a diverse and global society.
Acceptance rate 72% • Net price $11,687 • SAT Range 1020-1215
Total Undergrad Population 17,242 • Setting Town • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 52% • Retention rate 73% • Student-to-faculty ratio 18:1
What it’s like to attend public schools in Georgia and other FAQ:
Top-ranked public colleges in Georgia include University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, Georgia Southern University, Kennesaw State University, and Georgia College.
Yes. Georgia offers some of the most affordable in-state tuition in the country, especially with HOPE and Zell Miller Scholarships. Schools like University of North Georgia and Kennesaw State University are great examples of high-value public options.
These institutions offer academic advising, career services, undergraduate research, and campus engagement programs that support student success. Many, like Georgia Southern and Georgia College, focus on hands-on learning and community engagement.
Colleges of Distinction evaluates schools based on four areas: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes. Public schools on this list go beyond rankings and test scores to help students truly thrive. Learn more about our methodology.
Last updated: August 2025. Data sourced from the U.S. Department of Education’s IPEDS database and College Scorecard.
About Our Methodology: Colleges of Distinction recognizes student-centered institutions that meet high standards for academic quality, community engagement, and post-graduation outcomes. Our evaluation considers both quantitative data and qualitative factors to highlight schools where students thrive. See our full methodology here.
Explore More Colleges of Distinction in Georgia:
- 📍 Best Colleges in Georgia
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- 🩺 Best Undergraduate Nursing Schools in Georgia
- 💼 Best Undergraduate Business Schools in Georgia
- 🔧 Best Undergraduate Engineering Schools in Georgia