45 Best College Graduation Rates for 2025
Updated: February 12th, 2025
Estimated reading time: 14 minutes
By: Tyson Schritter & Colleges of Distinction Staff
Jump to: 45 Best Graduation Rate Colleges | 15 Best Graduation Rate Colleges of Distinction | 10 Best Graduation Rate Public Colleges
Highlights: 45 Best College Graduation Rates for 2025
- Harvard University has the highest graduation rate in the country at 97%
- The public college with the highest graduation rate is the University of Virginia (95%)
- There are lots of amazing non-elite schools with high graduation rates, such as Catholic University (81%), Stonehill College (81%), and Loyola University Maryland (80%)
Graduation rates are one of the most popular statistics used to rank schools. After all, the whole point of going to college is to graduate, right? While college is so much more than the diploma with your name on it, graduation should be the ultimate goal. Thanks to the 1990 Student Right to Know Act, colleges and universities are required to report the percent of students who graduate within 150% of the normal time for completion of or graduation from the program, which is typically 4 to 6 years.
Graduation rates can be good indicators for the quality of a school, but a low rate doesn’t necessarily equate to a lesser quality school. There are numerous factors that contribute to a less-than-perfect rate, and not all of them should deter you from applying. Keep reading to learn more about graduation rates and see which schools report the highest numbers.
How are graduation rates calculated?
A college’s graduation rate is the percentage of a school’s first-time, first-year undergraduate students who complete their program within 150% of the published time for the program. For example, for a 4-year degree program, entering students who complete within 6 years are counted as graduates.
Average national graduation rates:
According to data collected by the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics in 2020, the overall 6-year graduation rate for first-time, full-time undergraduate students who began seeking a bachelor’s degree at 4-year, degree-granting institutions in fall 2014 was 64 percent.
To see a college’s strict 4-year rate, go to NCES College Navigator tool and search for any school. Click the drop down tab labeled “Retention and Graduation Rates,” You’ll find a graph like the one below that illustrates the institution’s 4-year, 6-year, and 8-year rates. For the following examples, we used data from Harvard University.
What factors affect graduation rates?
Transfer students: Graduation rates do not include students who have transferred in or out of a university. Institutions are not required by the “Right to Know Act” to report their transfer rates. Thus, there is not enough data to accurately account for students who transfer to and ultimately graduate from another institution. So, a school with a lower rate might also serve a significant transfer student population. The table below does not have a transfer-out rate because Harvard University elected not to provide that information.
Double majors and minors can also affect rates. Although there is less quantitative data to reflect this, many schools report that students who chose to double major or minor do not graduate within the 4 to 6 year window. Those pesky over-achievers can skew the data in a small way.
Ivy League Graduation Rates
It’s no secret that Ivy League schools are great colleges. These institutions are leaders in almost every area: acceptance rates, retention rates, endowment size, etc. And graduation rates are no different. Elite colleges—such as our example school, Harvard—boast some of the highest rates in the country. In fact, Harvard takes the number-one spot with a whopping 97% graduation rate. Now, you might be wondering how nearly every student is graduating from Harvard. They must have the secret sauce, right? The perfect formula for success? Maybe. World-renowned professors and a $53.2 billion endowment certainly helps, but there could be another side to this coin.
Former Business Insider Journalist Joe Weisenthal shared a critical take on Harvard’s glowing graduation rates in his article titled “The REAL Reason Harvard Has Awesome Graduation Rates.” He wrote:
But let’s be honest. You know why Harvard has a matriculation graduation rate around 80%, right? It’s not because they have programs to hold their students’ hands through graduation. The secret: be uber-selective in who you accept, ensuring that everyone who enters is a type-A, overachiever. That’s it.
While this was published 15 years ago, the only thing that has changed is the numbers. Harvard’s graduation rate has risen to an impressive 97% while the acceptance rate has plummeted; in 2009, Harvard’s acceptance rate was 9.1%. In 2024, it fell by more than half of that to 3%. Yikes. All of this begs the question: are these schools really that much better at educating students than other schools? Or are they merely benefitting from being extremely selective about the type of student they are accepting?
13 Best Graduation Rate Colleges
1. Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
Graduation Rate: 97%
Harvard University, founded in 1636, is a prestigious Ivy League institution located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Known for its rigorous academics, world-class faculty, and influential alumni, Harvard offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. With a rich history of innovation and leadership, it remains one of the most respected universities in the world.
| Acceptance Rate 3% | Net Price $17,900 | SAT Range 1500-1580 Test Optional |
2. Princeton University
Princeton, NJ
Graduation Rate: 97%
With a history dating back to 1746, Princeton University is a world-renowned Ivy League institution recognized for its academic excellence and vibrant intellectual community. Its stunning campus, distinguished faculty, and strong emphasis on research and service make it a leader in higher education. Princeton’s commitment to developing future leaders has cemented its reputation as one of the most prestigious universities in the world.
| Acceptance Rate 4% | Net Price $19,811 | SAT Range 1500-1580 Test Optional |
3. University of Notre Dame
Notre Dame, IN
Graduation Rate: 97%
The University of Notre Dame du Lac, known simply as Notre Dame or ND, is a private Catholic research university in Notre Dame, Indiana, outside the city of South Bend. The university graduates 97% of students in 6 years.
| Acceptance Rate 12% | Net Price $29,083 | SAT Range 1440-1540 Test Optional |
4. University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Graduation Rate: 97%
The University of Pennsylvania, founded in 1740 by Benjamin Franklin, is a prestigious Ivy League institution in Philadelphia known for its rigorous academics and commitment to innovation. With a strong emphasis on student success, Penn boasts a high graduation rate of 97%, reflecting its supportive learning environment and world-class resources. Its top-ranked programs in business, law, and medicine, along with a rich tradition of research and leadership, make it one of the most respected universities in the world.
| Acceptance Rate 6% | Net Price $26,017 | SAT Range 1500-1570 Test Optional |
5. Williams College
Williamstown, MA
Graduation Rate: 97%
Williams College, founded in 1793, is a top-ranked liberal arts college in Williamstown, Massachusetts. Known for its small class sizes, personalized learning, and strong emphasis on undergraduate research, Its close-knit community, dedicated faculty, and commitment to academic excellence make it one of the most prestigious liberal arts institutions in the country.
| Acceptance Rate 10% | Net Price $16,988 | SAT Range 1470-1560 Test Optional |
6. Bowdoin College
Brunswick, ME
Graduation Rate: 96%
Bowdoin College, founded in 1794, is a highly regarded liberal arts institution in Brunswick, Maine. With a strong focus on academic excellence, close faculty-student relationships, and a commitment to the common good, Bowdoin boasts a high graduation rate of around 96%. Its rigorous academics, vibrant campus community, and emphasis on leadership and service make it one of the nation’s top liberal arts colleges.
| Acceptance Rate 8% | Net Price $23,110 | SAT Range 1480-1550 Test Optional |
7. Brown University
Providence, RI
Graduation Rate: 96%
Brown University, founded in 1764, is an Ivy League institution in Providence, Rhode Island, known for its open curriculum and emphasis on intellectual exploration. With a graduation rate of around 96%, Brown fosters a collaborative and self-directed learning environment that encourages students to pursue their academic passions. Its commitment to innovation, research, and social impact makes it one of the most distinctive and prestigious universities in the world.
| Acceptance Rate 5% | Net Price $26,608 | SAT Range 1500-1570 Test Optional |
8. Dartmouth College
Hanover, NH
Graduation Rate: 96%
Dartmouth College, established in 1769, is a prestigious Ivy League institution in Hanover, New Hampshire, offering a close-knit community with just over 4,000 undergraduate students. Known for its broad range of academic programs, Dartmouth provides majors in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering, while encouraging interdisciplinary studies. With a graduation rate of around 96%, the college’s small size fosters close relationships with faculty and a personalized learning experience.
| Acceptance Rate 6% | Net Price $17,322 | SAT Range 1500-1570 Test Optional |
9. Duke University
Durham, NC
Graduation Rate: 96%
Duke University, founded in 1838 and located in Durham, North Carolina, is a prestigious research institution known for its academic rigor and commitment to leadership. One high-impact practice Duke employs is its Bass Connections program, which connects students with faculty on interdisciplinary research projects addressing real-world issues. This collaborative initiative allows students to gain hands-on experience while making meaningful contributions to fields ranging from public policy to global health, enhancing their academic and professional development.
| Acceptance Rate 7% | Net Price $23,422 | SAT Range 1510-1570 Test Optional |
10. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA
Graduation Rate: 96%
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), founded in 1861 and located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a world-renowned institution known for its focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). MIT offers a wide range of majors, from physics and computer science to economics and architecture, with a strong emphasis on innovation and problem-solving. One notable high-impact practice at MIT is the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP), which allows students to engage in cutting-edge research alongside faculty, providing hands-on experience in groundbreaking projects across various disciplines.
| Acceptance Rate 5% | Net Price $21,519 | SAT Range 1510-1580 |
11. Yale University
New Haven, CT
Graduation Rate: 96%
Yale University is known for its rich traditions, vibrant residential college system, and deep commitment to the arts and humanities. Its unique academic structure allows undergraduates to take courses at the Yale School of Drama, Yale Law School, and other graduate programs, offering an interdisciplinary approach to learning. The university is home to one of the largest libraries in the world, the Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library, which houses rare treasures like the Gutenberg Bible. Yale also fosters a strong culture of public service through initiatives like the Dwight Hall Center for Public Service and Social Justice, where students engage in community projects and global outreach. With a thriving student life, Yale’s a cappella scene—led by the famous Whiffenpoofs—is one of the most celebrated in the country, adding to the school’s distinctive character.
| Acceptance Rate 5% | Net Price $26,017 | SAT Range 1500-1570 Test Optional |
12. Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Graduation Rate: 96%
Northwestern University is a prestigious research institution known for its interdisciplinary approach to education and strong emphasis on experiential learning. With top-ranked programs in journalism, theater, business, and engineering, Northwestern encourages students to explore diverse academic interests across its 12 schools. One standout high-impact practice is the Medill School of Journalism’s Journalism Residency program, which places students in professional media organizations worldwide for hands-on reporting experience. The university also boasts a thriving arts scene, a strong commitment to research through initiatives like the NUvention entrepreneurship program, and a picturesque campus along Lake Michigan in Evanston, Illinois.
| Acceptance Rate 7% | Net Price $23,341 | SAT Range 1490-1560 Test Optional |
13. Rice University
Houston, TX
Graduation Rate: 96%
Rice University is a highly regarded research institution in Houston, Texas, known for its small student-to-faculty ratio and strong emphasis on innovation. With top programs in engineering, business, and the sciences, Rice fosters a collaborative academic environment where students engage in hands-on research as early as their first year. One of its standout high-impact practices is the Rice Center for Engineering Leadership (RCEL), which equips students with real-world problem-solving skills through experiential learning, mentorship, and industry partnerships. The university’s distinctive residential college system builds a tight-knit community, while its location near the Texas Medical Center provides unparalleled opportunities for research and internships.
| Acceptance Rate 8% | Net Price $20,587 | SAT Range 1500-1570 Test Optional |
The Rest of the Top 45 Graduation Rate Colleges
| Rank | School | Graduation Rate | Acceptance Rate | Net Price | SAT Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14 | Claremont McKenna College | 95% | 11% | $29,978 | 1450-1560 Test Optional |
| 15 | University of Chicago | 95% | 5% | $27,979 | 1510-1570 Test Optional |
| 16 | Johns Hopkins University | 95% | 8% | $22,844 | 1530-1580 Test Optional |
| 17 | Columbia University in the City of New York | 95% | 4% | $20,869 | 1490-1570 Test Optional |
| 18 | Cornell University | 95% | 8% | $26,455 | 1480-1560 Test Optional |
| 19 | University of Virginia | 95% | 17% | $10,409 | 935-1175 Test Optional |
| 20 | Washington and Lee University | 95% | 17% | $24,667 | 1410-1530 Test Optional |
| 21 | Harvey Mudd College | 94% | 13% | $42,720 | 1480-1560 Test Optional |
| 22 | Georgetown University | 94% | 13% | $37,967 | 1390-1550 |
| 23 | Washington University in St Louis | 94% | 12% | $22,440 | 1500-1570 Test Optional |
| 24 | Swarthmore College | 94% | 7% | $17,930 | 1460-1560 Test Optional |
| 25 | California Institute of Technology | 93% | 3% | $23,397 | Test Blind |
| 26 | University of California-Berkeley | 93% | 12% | $16,997 | Test Blind |
| 27 | University of California-Los Angeles | 93% | 9% | $15,166 | Test Blind |
| 28 | Pomona College | 93% | 7% | $17,423 | 1480-1560 Test Optional |
| 29 | Amherst College | 93% | 10% | $17,965 | 1360-1550 Test Optional |
| 30 | Tufts University | 93% | 10% | $33,333 | 1460-1550 Test Optional |
| 31 | University of Michigan | 93% | 18% | $19,005 | 1350-1530 Test Optional |
| 32 | Barnard College | 93% | 8% | $27,738 | 1453-1550 Test Optional |
| 33 | Carnegie Mellon University | 93% | 11% | $32,964 | 1500-1570 Test Optional |
| 34 | Vanderbilt University | 93% | 6% | $26,689 | 1510-1560 Test Optional |
| 35 | Middlebury College | 93% | 10% | $22,912 | 1430-1550 Test Optional |
| 36 | Stanford University | 93% | 4% | $17,998 | 1510-1580 Test Optional |
| 37 | University of Southern California | 92% | 10% | $41,496 | 1440-1550 Test Optional |
| 38 | Wesleyan University | 92% | 17% | $20,463 | 1450-1540 Test Optional |
| 39 | Emory University | 92% | 11% | $27,986 | 1460-1550 Test Optional |
| 40 | Georgia Institute of Technology | 92% | 16% | $15,901 | 1330-1530 |
| 41 | Babson College | 92% | 20% | $30,220 | 1380-1500 Test Optional |
| 42 | Davidson College | 92% | 14% | $26,510 | 1360-1510 Test Optional |
| 43 | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | 92% | 19% | $11,140 | 1370-1530 Test Optional |
| 44 | Villanova University | 92% | 25% | $37,946 | 1400-1510 Test Optional |
| 45 | University of Florida | 91% | 24% | $11,521 | 1300-1480 |
15 Best Colleges of Distinction Graduation Rates
These hyper-elite colleges are not the only way to get a great college education. We have picked another 15 amazing schools that have strong graduation rates and also pass through our Four Distinctions guidelines. Take a look for yourself and see if there is one or two worth adding to your shortlist!
| School | Graduation Rate | Acceptance Rate | Net Price | SAT Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Catholic University of America | 81% | 84% | $35,008 | Test Blind |
| Stonehill College | 81% | 73% | $31,134 | Test Blind |
| Bryant University | 81% | 66% | $40,612 | 1160-1340 Test Optional |
| Loyola University Maryland | 80% | 76% | $31,857 | 1180-1350 Test Optional |
| Messiah University | 78% | 78% | $29,882 | 1100-1340 Test Optional |
| Elizabethtown College | 77% | 77% | $27,019 | 1090-1280 Test Optional |
| Gustavus Adolphus College | 76% | 62% | $28,805 | 0-0 Test Optional |
| Rockhurst University | 76% | 69% | $23,785 | 1116-1246 Test Optional |
| John Carroll University | 76% | 81% | $30,790 | 1190-1350 Test Optional |
| Randolph-Macon College | 75% | 83% | $29,058 | 1040-1210 Test Optional |
| Sacred Heart University | 74% | 68% | $46,165 | Test Blind |
| Washington College | 74% | 66% | $33,553 | 1185-1345 Test Optional |
| St. John Fisher University | 74% | 68% | $28,969 | 1120-1280 Test Optional |
| The College of Wooster | 74% | 54% | $29,529 | 1250-1450 Test Optional |
| Saint Norbert College | 74% | 92% | $27,236 | 1066-1220 Test Optional |
10 Best Graduation Rate Public Colleges
| Rank | School | Graduation Rate | Acceptance Rate | Net Price | SAT Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | William & Mary | 91% | 33% | $20,422 | 1365-1510 Test Optional |
| 2 | University of Wisconsin-Madison | 89% | 43% | $14,216 | 1360-1510 Test Optional |
| 3 | University of California-San Diego | 88% | 25% | $13,293 | Test Blind |
| 4 | University of Maryland-College Park | 88% | 45% | $15,833 | 1370-1520 Test Optional |
| 5 | Ohio State University-Main Campus | 88% | 51% | $19,575 | 1330-1480 Test Optional |
| 6 | Clemson University | 88% | 38% | $24,408 | 1230-1390 Test Optional |
| 7 | The University of Texas at Austin | 88% | 29% | $18,036 | 1230-1490 Test Optional |
| 8 | University of Georgia | 87% | 37% | $16,303 | 1160-1390 |
| 9 | University of California-Irvine | 86% | 26% | $14,647 | Test Blind |
| 10 | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus | 86% | 54% | $27,450 | 1220-1400 Test Optional |
At Colleges of Distinction, we firmly believe that the true value of a school lies beyond the numbers. That’s why we hand-pick and individually review all of our schools to see how they help students learn, grow, and succeed. We believe that a thorough selection process requires so much more than an overview of institutional data and statistics. No matter where you are in your college search journey, Colleges of Distinction can help you find a school that’s the best fit for you.
If you’re an adult student who wants to finish your degree, we can help you too! Check out our sister brand Abound: Finish College to find the right degree completion program for you.
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