Best Colleges in Georgia for 2026
Georgia is home to an incredible range of higher education institutions, from renowned research universities like Georgia Tech to historic liberal arts colleges like Spelman College. Whether you’re looking for a large public flagship, a close-knit private campus, or a faith-based experience, Georgia offers something for every student.
Each of the schools listed below has been recognized as a 2026 College of Distinction for its commitment to engaged teaching, vibrant communities, and strong student outcomes. These schools go beyond rankings and test scores—they prioritize student-centered learning and real-world preparation across all disciplines.
Explore our curated list of the best colleges in Georgia for 2026 and find the institution that matches your goals, values, and learning style.
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 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
Reinhardt University
Waleska, GA ‧ Christian ‧ 4-year
Since 1883, Reinhardt has focused on meeting student needs one person at a time. Reinhardt’s emphasis is on personalized education, best provided in small classes by talented professors who challenge and care about their students.
Students find Reinhardt’s academic programs engaging, challenging, and rewarding — an investment that yields positive returns to their personal and professional lives. Graduates take full advantage of Reinhardt’s opportunities and enter their professions with the richness of a broad liberal arts education. They are well prepared, having gained specific professional skills through their participation in engaged classroom experiences, co-curricular enrichments, challenging research projects, rewarding service initiatives, exciting internships, and life-transforming studies abroad.
Acceptance rate 55% • Net price $27,507
Total Undergrad Population 1,082 • Setting Rural • Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 36% • Retention rate 57% • Student-to-faculty ratio 11:1
Spelman College
Atlanta, GA ‧ Private ‧ 4-year
Maximize your potential at Spelman College. Spelman is a Private HBCU school in Atlanta, Georgia with many undergraduate degrees to choose from.
Founded in 1881 as the Atlanta Baptist Female Seminary, the institution became Spelman College in 1924. Now a global leader in the education of women of African descent, Spelman is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and proud members of the Atlanta University Center Consortium.
Today Spelman’s student body comprises more than 2,100 students from 43 states and 10 foreign countries. Spelman empowers women to engage the many cultures of the world and inspires a commitment to positive social change through service. Faculty, staff, and students alike are dedicated to academic excellence in the liberal arts and sciences and the intellectual, creative, ethical and leadership development of our students.
Acceptance rate 34% • Net price $37,403 • SAT Range 1060-1270
Total Undergrad Population 3,633 • Setting City • Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 76% • Retention rate 94% • Student-to-faculty ratio 11:1
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
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
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
What it’s like to attend schools in Georgia and other FAQ:
Top colleges in Georgia include Emory University, University of Georgia, Georgia Institute of Technology, and Spelman College. These schools are known for academic excellence, student support, and real-world outcomes.
Yes. Public universities like Georgia Southern University, University of North Georgia, and Kennesaw State University offer high-quality academics at affordable in-state tuition rates. Many private schools also provide generous merit-based and need-based aid.
Georgia offers a wide range of colleges, including public research universities, small liberal arts colleges, HBCUs like Spelman College, and Christian institutions like Reinhardt University and Toccoa Falls College. Whether you’re looking for a large flagship school or a small faith-based campus, there’s something for everyone.
Each College of Distinction is selected for its dedication to four key distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Communities, and Successful Outcomes. Our evaluation highlights schools that truly help students thrive beyond rankings or test scores.
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 institutions that go beyond rankings and standardized test scores to offer a truly student-centered education. Each school is evaluated across four key areas: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Communities, and Successful Outcomes. Read more about our methodology here.
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