Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

TBS Staff Writers
By
Updated on June 5, 2023

When most people think private college, the dollar signs start filling their heads. However, just because a college or university is private does not mean it can’t be an excellent higher education value. A private college that opens doors to a notable graduate school or to a renowned company may, in fact, provide a greater return for one’s education dollar. We’re here to make that research easier.

What follows is the undergraduate private colleges with the best ROI. As with the public colleges, the emphasis for return on investment is for student/family yearly incomes of $48,000 or less. Colleges listed here are private, nonprofit, and grant bachelor’s degrees.

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Accredited Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

Stanford University

  • Location-markerStanford, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Stanford University offers programs designed with busy students in mind. Located in California, the private institution provides on-campus and online programs. At the school, 5% of programs offer online enrollment options.

The college also has 89 master's degrees, with 11 master's programs available online. In both modalities, enrollees take rigorous classes and benefit from a supportive learning community. Faculty mentors and academic advisors work with degree-seekers to create an individualized course of study. Learners benefit from institutional resources such as career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. Bachelor's degree-seekers have a 94% graduation rate.

Prospective students can reach out to the financial aid office to learn about their eligibility for funding. According to the most recent data, learners with financial aid make up 70% of the student body.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$52,857
  • Out-of-state$52,857
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$52,479
  • Out-of-state$52,479
  • Retention Rate99%
  • Acceptance Rate4%
  • Students Enrolled17,249
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment5%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

  • Location-markerCambridge, MA
  • 4 year
  • Campus

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology prioritizes flexibility in its degree-granting programs. Located in Cambridge, the private institution offers both in-person and online degree programs.

Enrollees benefit from several learning formats that fit their schedule and needs. Degree-seekers can work with faculty members and their academic advisor to customize their degree path to suit their personal and professional goals. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology offers strong career planning resources, including career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. The undergraduate programs report a 95% graduation rate.

Prospective students can contact the financial aid office to learn more about funding opportunities. According to the most recent data, 74% of learners receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$53,450
  • Out-of-state$53,450
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$53,450
  • Out-of-state$53,450
  • Retention Rate99%
  • Acceptance Rate7%
  • Students Enrolled11,520
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment0%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

Princeton University

  • Location-markerPrinceton, NJ
  • 4 year
  • Campus

Princeton University stands out for its commitment to higher education. Learners enrolled at the private institution take classes on campus and online.

Enrollees benefit from multiple learning formats designed for diverse schedules. Degree-seekers work closely with faculty mentors to design an individualized course of study based on their transfer credits, interests, and career goals. Learners can access top-notch institutional resources during their time at Princeton University, including career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. Undergraduate degree-seekers have a 98% graduation rate at the school.

The financial aid office connects prospective students with internal and external funding opportunities. Today, 63% of the student body receives financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$51,870
  • Out-of-state$51,870
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$51,870
  • Out-of-state$51,870
  • Retention Rate98%
  • Acceptance Rate6%
  • Students Enrolled8,419
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
  • AccreditationYes
#4 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

Harvard University

  • Location-markerCambridge, MA
  • 4 year
  • Campus

Harvard University offers a flexible route to a college degree. The private institution enrolls learners online and on its Cambridge, Massachusetts, campus.

Enrollees can choose the format that matches their learning style and schedule. Degree-seekers individualize their course of study by selecting electives and minors based on their interests and career goals. Learners hone their skills for the job market with resources like career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. The undergraduate programs report a 97% graduation rate.

Prospective students work with the financial aid office to create a package of aid to cover degree costs. Of the total student body, 73% of learners receive a financial aid award.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$47,730
  • Out-of-state$47,730
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$48,008
  • Out-of-state$48,008
  • Retention Rate97%
  • Acceptance Rate5%
  • Students Enrolled31,655
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment18%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

Brigham Young University

  • Location-markerProvo, UT
  • 4 year
  • Campus

The flexible programs at Brigham Young University offer a variety of options for degree-seekers. Learners enrolled at the private institution participate in online and on-campus classes offered at the main campus in Provo.

Enrollees can choose the format that matches their learning style and schedule. The programs provide customization options such as electives and concentrations so degree-seekers can meet their personal and professional goals. Brigham Young University offers strong career planning resources, including career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. Undergraduate degree-seekers can expect a 78% graduation rate.

Prospective students can contact the financial aid office to learn more about funding opportunities. Of the student body, 71% of learners receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,790
  • Out-of-state$5,790
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,290
  • Out-of-state$7,290
  • Retention Rate90%
  • Acceptance Rate67%
  • Students Enrolled34,318
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment12%
  • AccreditationYes
#6 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

University of Pennsylvania

  • Location-markerPhiladelphia, PA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

The University of Pennsylvania ranks among the top online colleges. The private institution enrolls learners on its Philadelphia campus and in online programs. The school offers 2% of its programs to distance learners.

Undergraduates select from 93 majors, with one major offering online enrollment. At the graduate level, the college has 141 master's programs, which include three online options. Enrollees can choose the learning format that best fits their needs and schedule. Degree-seekers work closely with academic advisors to select classes that meet graduation requirements and match the student's professional goals. The University of Pennsylvania offers career services like job fairs and workshops to help learners reach their professional goals. The school reports a 96% graduation rate for its undergraduate programs.

The financial aid office connects prospective students with internal and external funding opportunities. Of the student body, 59% of enrollees receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$51,156
  • Out-of-state$51,156
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$36,254
  • Out-of-state$36,254
  • Retention Rate98%
  • Acceptance Rate8%
  • Students Enrolled26,675
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment6%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

Rice University

  • Location-markerHouston, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Rice University offers a flexible route to a college degree. The private institution provides both on-campus and online programs from its Houston campus. Currently, 1% of programs offer online learning formats.

At the graduate level, the college delivers 53 master's programs, including an online master's program. Both modalities offer rigorous academics and supportive learning environments. Degree-seekers can work with faculty members and their academic advisor to customize their degree path to suit their personal and professional goals. Learners make progress toward their professional future thanks to career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. As a leader in education, the college reports a 93% graduation rate.

The financial aid office helps prospective students identify funding opportunities to cover degree costs. The school reports that 69% of the student body receives financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$48,330
  • Out-of-state$48,330
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$48,791
  • Out-of-state$48,791
  • Retention Rate98%
  • Acceptance Rate9%
  • Students Enrolled7,282
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment5%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

Brigham Young University-Idaho

  • Location-markerRexburg, ID
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Brigham Young University-Idaho stands out for its commitment to higher education. Learners attending the private institution enroll in fully online programs and in-person programs offered in Rexburg. Currently, 18% of programs provide online learning formats.

Undergraduates choose from 80 bachelor's programs, with the option to earn an online degree in 12 fields. Both modalities offer rigorous but supportive learning environments. The programs provide customization options such as electives and concentrations so degree-seekers can meet their personal and professional goals. Career resources include workshops, resume feedback, mock have, and job fairs. Bachelor's degree-seekers hold a 60% graduation rate.

Prospective students may be eligible for internal and external funding opportunities to pay for their degree. Today, 61% of learners at the institution receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,208
  • Out-of-state$4,208
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate70%
  • Acceptance Rate96%
  • Students Enrolled39,145
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment70%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

Yale University

  • Location-markerNew Haven, CT
  • 4 year
  • Campus

Yale University appeals to students with a variety of needs. From its main campus in New Haven, Connecticut, the private institution provides in-person and online programs.

Both modalities offer rigorous but supportive learning environments. Degree-seekers can work with faculty members and their academic advisor to customize their degree path to suit their personal and professional goals. Learners can access top-notch institutional resources during their time at Yale University, including career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. At the school, the graduation rate is 97%.

Prospective students work with financial aid advisors to identify scholarship and grant opportunities. Currently, 64% of enrollees use financial aid to pay for school.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$55,500
  • Out-of-state$55,500
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$43,300
  • Out-of-state$43,300
  • Retention Rate99%
  • Acceptance Rate6%
  • Students Enrolled13,609
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment0%
  • AccreditationYes
#10 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

Brown University

  • Location-markerProvidence, RI
  • 4 year
  • Campus

Brown University stands out for its exceptional programs. From its Providence, Rhode Island, campus, the private institution provides on-campus and online enrollment options.

Enrollees in both modalities benefit from rigorous study and supportive learning communities. Faculty mentors and academic advisors help degree-seekers customize the course of study based on their interests and goals. Brown University helps learners reach their career goals with institutional resources such as career workshops and job fairs. The school reports a graduation rate of 96% for its undergraduate programs.

Prospective students can contact the financial aid office to learn more about funding opportunities. According to the most recent data, 56% receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$57,112
  • Out-of-state$57,112
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$57,112
  • Out-of-state$57,112
  • Retention Rate98%
  • Acceptance Rate7%
  • Students Enrolled10,333
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
  • AccreditationYes
#11 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

Dartmouth College

  • Location-markerHanover, NH
  • 4 year
  • Campus

Dartmouth College offers flexible options for a variety of degree-seekers. From its main campus in Hanover, New Hampshire, the private institution provides in-person and online programs.

Both modalities provide rigorous academics and supportive learning communities. Degree-seekers work closely with faculty mentors to customize their program based on unique interests and career goals. Dartmouth College offers career services like job fairs and workshops to help learners reach their professional goals. Undergraduate degree-seekers have a 95% graduation rate at the school.

Prospective students benefit from the financial aid office, which provides guidance on funding opportunities. Currently, 62% of enrollees use financial aid to pay for school.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$55,605
  • Out-of-state$55,605
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$55,605
  • Out-of-state$55,605
  • Retention Rate98%
  • Acceptance Rate8%
  • Students Enrolled6,606
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment2%
  • AccreditationYes
#12 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

Vanderbilt University

  • Location-markerNashville, TN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Vanderbilt University ranks among the top online colleges. The private institution provides both on-campus and online programs from its Nashville campus. Of the school's total programs, 1% provide an online learning option.

At the graduate level, the school offers 104 master's programs. Enrollees can choose the learning format that best fits their needs and schedule. Degree-seekers work closely with academic advisors to choose classes that meet graduation requirements and match the student's professional goals. Vanderbilt University helps learners reach their career goals with institutional resources such as career workshops and job fairs. The school reports a 93% graduation rate for its undergraduate programs.

Prospective students work with the financial aid office to identify funding opportunities to cover degree costs. Currently, 68% of enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$50,800
  • Out-of-state$50,800
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$48,624
  • Out-of-state$48,624
  • Retention Rate97%
  • Acceptance Rate9%
  • Students Enrolled13,131
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment8%
  • AccreditationYes
#13 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

Washington and Lee University

  • Location-markerLexington, VA
  • 4 year
  • Campus

Washington and Lee University offers programs designed with busy students in mind. The private institution enrolls learners online and on its Lexington, Virginia, campus.

In both modalities, enrollees participate in rigorous but supportive learning environments. Degree-seekers work closely with faculty mentors to design an individualized course of study based on their transfer credits, interests, and career goals. Washington and Lee University helps learners reach their career goals with institutional resources such as career workshops and job fairs. Undergraduate degree-seekers hold a 94% graduation rate at the school.

Prospective students may be eligible for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid. According to the most recent data, 66% of learners receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$53,730
  • Out-of-state$53,730
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate98%
  • Acceptance Rate19%
  • Students Enrolled2,264
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
  • AccreditationYes
#14 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

Cornell University

  • Location-markerIthaca, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

The flexible programs at Cornell University offer a variety of options for degree-seekers. The private institution enrolls learners on its Ithaca campus and online.

At the graduate level, the college has 119 master's programs, which include one online option. Enrollees can choose the format that matches their learning style and schedule. Degree-seekers work closely with faculty mentors to design an individualized course of study based on their transfer credits, interests, and career goals. Cornell University offers strong career planning resources, including career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. The undergraduate graduation rate is currently 95%.

Prospective students connect with the financial aid office to learn more about internal and external funding opportunities. Out of the total student body, 62% of learners receive a financial aid award.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$56,550
  • Out-of-state$56,550
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$29,500
  • Out-of-state$29,500
  • Retention Rate97%
  • Acceptance Rate11%
  • Students Enrolled24,027
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment4%
  • AccreditationYes
#15 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

Duke University

  • Location-markerDurham, NC
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Duke University prioritizes flexibility in its degree-granting programs. From its main campus in Durham, North Carolina, the private institution provides in-person and online programs. At the school, 1% of programs offer an online enrollment option.

At the graduate level, the college has 92 master's degrees, including two online programs. Both modalities prioritize academic rigor while providing a supportive learning community. Degree-seekers customize their program based on their personal or professional goals by coordinating with faculty mentors and academic advisors. Learners hone their skills for the job market through resources like career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. As a leader in education, the college reports a 95% graduation rate.

Prospective students work with the financial aid office to identify funding opportunities to cover degree costs. Today, 63% of learners at the institution receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$55,880
  • Out-of-state$55,880
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$55,680
  • Out-of-state$55,680
  • Retention Rate98%
  • Acceptance Rate8%
  • Students Enrolled16,686
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment6%
  • AccreditationYes
#16 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

Columbia University in the City of New York

  • Location-markerNew York, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Columbia University in the City of New York offers a flexible route to a college degree. From its main campus, the private institution provides in-person and online programs. Currently, 3% of programs enroll online learners.

The college also has 140 master's degrees, including 12 online options. Both modalities prioritize academic rigor while providing a supportive learning community. The programs offer a great deal of flexibility for degree-seekers to customize their course of study based on career goals. Career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs help learners reach their professional goals. The school's undergraduate programs report a graduation rate of 95%.

Prospective students may be eligible for internal and external funding opportunities to pay for their degree. According to the most recent data, learners with financial aid make up 59% of the student body.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$57,763
  • Out-of-state$57,763
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$47,600
  • Out-of-state$47,600
  • Retention Rate99%
  • Acceptance Rate5%
  • Students Enrolled31,456
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment6%
  • AccreditationYes
#17 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

University of Chicago

  • Location-markerChicago, IL
  • 4 year
  • Campus

The University of Chicago provides diverse enrollment options for degree-seekers. The private institution enrolls learners on campus and in online programs.

Enrollees can choose the format that matches their learning style and schedule. Customization options such as electives, minors, and concentrations let degree-seekers create an individualized course of study. Learners benefit from institutional resources such as career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. The undergraduate programs report a 95% graduation rate.

Prospective students connect with the financial aid office to learn more about internal and external funding opportunities. According to the most recent data, 57% of learners use financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$57,642
  • Out-of-state$57,642
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$60,300
  • Out-of-state$60,300
  • Retention Rate99%
  • Acceptance Rate6%
  • Students Enrolled17,452
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment0%
  • AccreditationYes
#18 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

University of Notre Dame

  • Location-markerNotre Dame, IN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

The University of Notre Dame prioritizes flexibility in its degree-granting programs. The private institution welcomes degree-seekers to its campus while also offering online programs. Of the school's total programs, 1% offer online enrollment.

The college also has 61 master's degrees, including an online option. The school's learning options benefit enrollees seeking a supportive learning community. Degree-seekers work with faculty members and academic advisors to customize the degree based on their personal and professional goals. Learners hone their skills for the job market thanks to resources like career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. As a leader in education, the college reports a 96% graduation rate.

The financial aid office helps prospective students identify funding opportunities to cover degree costs. Currently, 68% of enrollees use financial aid to pay for school.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$55,046
  • Out-of-state$55,046
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$54,908
  • Out-of-state$54,908
  • Retention Rate98%
  • Acceptance Rate16%
  • Students Enrolled12,683
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment3%
  • AccreditationYes
#19 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

Johns Hopkins University

  • Location-markerBaltimore, MD
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Johns Hopkins University provides flexible study to learners from all walks of life. Located in Baltimore, Maryland, the private institution grants degrees in person and online. Of the school's total programs, 21% offer online enrollment.

At the graduate level, the college delivers 124 master's programs, including 30 online master's programs. Enrollees in both modalities benefit from rigorous study and supportive learning communities. Degree-seekers work with faculty members and academic advisors to customize the degree based on their personal and professional goals. Learners hone their skills for the job market with institutional resources, including resume reviews, career counseling, and job fairs. A leader in student success, the school reports a graduation rate of 93%.

Prospective students benefit from the financial aid office, which provides guidance on funding opportunities. Out of the student body, 67% of learners receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$55,350
  • Out-of-state$55,350
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$55,350
  • Out-of-state$55,350
  • Retention Rate97%
  • Acceptance Rate11%
  • Students Enrolled27,079
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment46%
  • AccreditationYes
#20 Private Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

Washington University in St. Louis

  • Location-markerSaint Louis, MO
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

The flexible programs at Washington University in St. Louis offer a variety of options for degree-seekers. Learners enrolled at the private institution take classes on campus and online.

The college also has 86 master's degrees, of which three are offered online. Both modalities provide rigorous academics and supportive learning environments. Faculty mentors and academic advisors help degree-seekers customize the course of study based on their interests and goals. Washington University in St. Louis helps learners reach their career goals with institutional resources such as career workshops and job fairs. Undergraduate degree-seekers have a 95% graduation rate at the school.

The financial aid office connects students with funding opportunities to help offset degree costs. Currently, 51% of enrollees receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$54,250
  • Out-of-state$54,250
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$54,250
  • Out-of-state$54,250
  • Retention Rate97%
  • Acceptance Rate14%
  • Students Enrolled16,191
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment6%
  • AccreditationYes

RANKING METHODOLOGY