Best Affordable Colleges in Georgia for 2026

Emory University

Atlanta, GA ‧ Private ‧ 4-year

Emory University is a renowned private institution located in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia. With over 80 undergraduate majors spanning nine schools and colleges, Emory offers students the freedom to explore their interests through a flexible, interdisciplinary curriculum.

Inside the classroom, students benefit from intimate learning environments led by dedicated, world-class faculty who prioritize mentorship and active learning. Beyond academics, Emory fosters a vibrant, service-oriented community that values social responsibility, diversity, and global citizenship.

Research, internships, and leadership opportunities are woven into the undergraduate experience, preparing students to make meaningful contributions both during and after college. Whether studying public health, business, the humanities, or the sciences, Emory students are equipped with the skills, values, and real-world experience to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.

Acceptance rate 11%      •      Net price $27,986     •     SAT Range 1460-1550
Total Undergrad Population 7,359     •     Setting City      •     Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 92%      •     Retention rate 96%      •      Student-to-faculty ratio 9:1

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

Click here for available majors

Toccoa Falls College

Toccoa Falls, GA ‧ Christian ‧ 4-year

Toccoa Falls is the perfect academic community for students who are looking for an institution that will positively impact both their academic and spiritual lives. Founded in 1907 in the beautiful foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Toccoa Falls’ first president, Dr. Richard Forest, was convinced of the importance for all students to receive a quality Christian education. Over one hundred years later, TFC is still following his motto: Where Character is Developed with Intellect.

Toccoa Falls College is serious about providing solid academics that build skills for a lifetime, and equally serious about promoting a solid Christian worldview that provides a stable foundation for a meaningful life.

TFC deliberately integrates scripture, truth, wisdom, and service into all that it does. Whether they are sitting in class, taking online courses, hiking beautiful trails, relaxing by the falls, swimming in the pond, studying in the library, or just spending time with friends, students are bound to experience the power of Toccoa Falls College’s mission.

Acceptance rate 64%      •      Net price $20,657     •     SAT Range 1060-1250
Total Undergrad Population 2,489     •     Setting Town      •     Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 45%      •     Retention rate 57%      •      Student-to-faculty ratio 16:1

Click here for available majors

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

Click here for available majors

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

Young Harris College

Young Harris, GA ‧ Private ‧ 4-year

Founded more than 130 years ago by The United Methodist Church, Young Harris College has been transformed into a progressive model of liberal arts education featuring innovative academic programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and competitive NCAA Division II athletics. Young Harris College has a close-knit environment that brings students and faculty together, fostering strong relationships that last long after graduation.

At YHC, students can choose from 30+ majors and 25+ minors that teach skills guaranteed for success. They are trained to develop the strong critical thinking, communication, and social skills that make them stand out to employers. Outside the classroom, YHC’s holistic approach to learning allows students to take on leadership roles and even add new offerings to the College’s 60+ organizations.

Acceptance rate 64%      •      Net price $20,509
Total Undergrad Population 1,403     •     Setting Rural      •     Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 46%      •     Retention rate 67%      •      Student-to-faculty ratio 11:1

Click here for available majors