2026 College Rankings

Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI)

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Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI)

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First-year retention rates measure the percentage of first-year students who come back to campus for a second year. This is an indicator of how happy students are generally with their decision to attend that institution as less students decide to drop out or transfer to another school.

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Rank	Institution	First Year Retention Rate	Acceptance Rate	SAT Score	Your Est. Net Price Avg. Net Price	Median Starting Salary	Save
1	University of Chicago	99	4.48	1,510 – 1,570	28060	80870	#1 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Chicago Chicago, IL The University of Chicago receives 43,600 applications annually and the school is considered extremely selective. It's made up of an undergraduate college and five graduate research divisions. UChicago also has campuses all over the world, from Hong Kong to Paris....Read more First Year Retention Rate 99 % Acceptance Rate 4.5% SAT Score 1,510 – 1,570 Avg. Net Price $28,060 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $80,870
2	University of Notre Dame	99	11.27	1,460 – 1,560	29300	86210	#2 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Notre Dame Notre Dame, IN Edward Sorin founded the University of Notre Dame in 1842 as a private Catholic research university. Their motto is, “Vita Dulcedo Spes” or “Life, Sweetness, Hope” – referencing the Virgin Mary. The school’s teams are known as the Fighting Irish, and wear the colors blue and gold. Their mascot is the very iconic Leprechaun....Read more First Year Retention Rate 99 % 1.0% Acceptance Rate 11.3% SAT Score 1,460 – 1,560 Avg. Net Price $29,300 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $86,210
3	Northwestern University	98	7.69	1,500 – 1,560	26830	76844	#3 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Northwestern University Evanston, IL A founding member of the Big Ten Conference, top sports for the Wildcats include Football, Basketball, and Swimming and Diving (combined). Willie the Wildcat cheers them on and the colors are purple and white....Read more First Year Retention Rate 98 % 1.0% Acceptance Rate 7.7% SAT Score 1,500 – 1,560 Avg. Net Price $26,830 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $76,844
4	Hillsdale College	97	20.72	1,350 – 1,480	23993	63721	#4 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Hillsdale College Hillsdale, MI Hillsdale College’s motto is “Virtus Tentamine Gaudet” or “Strength Rejoices in the Challenge.” The school has a 97% first year retention rate and an 8 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. All students have to take courses on the “Great Books” and the United States Constitution. 76% will graduate within 4 years. First Year Retention Rate 97 % 1.0% Acceptance Rate 20.7% SAT Score 1,350 – 1,480 Avg. Net Price $23,993 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $63,721
5	University of Michigan-Ann Arbor	97	15.64	1,370 – 1,530	17574	73762	#5 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Michigan-Ann Arbor Ann Arbor, MI University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, was founded in 1817, making it the oldest institution of higher education in Michigan. The most commonly chosen major at UMich is Computer and Information Sciences, General. During the last admissions cycle, 47% of accepted students decide to attend. First Year Retention Rate 97 % 1.0% Acceptance Rate 15.6% SAT Score 1,370 – 1,530 Avg. Net Price $17,574 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $73,762
6	University of Wisconsin-Madison	96	45.2	1,360 – 1,480	14235	61275	#6 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Wisconsin-Madison Madison, WI The University of Wisconsin, Madison was the first public university in the state – it opened when Wisconsin received statehood in 1848. Their motto is “Numen Lumen” or “Divine Light.” With 40,000 faculty and staff, the university is also the largest employer in Wisconsin....Read more First Year Retention Rate 96 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 45.2% SAT Score 1,360 – 1,480 Avg. Net Price $14,235 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $61,275
7	Bellin College	95	97.18	1,010 – 1,180	37954	72118	#7 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Bellin College Green Bay, WI Located in Green Bay, Bellin College accepts 97% of applicants. Undergraduates have to send in unknown to apply. Approximately 98% of students attending Bellin College will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 95 % 4.4% Acceptance Rate 97.2% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $37,954 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $72,118
8	University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign	95	42.37	1,330 – 1,520	13973	64802	#8 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Champaign, IL The University of Illinois at Urbana – Champaign has a student-to-faculty ratio of 20 to 1, and 72% of students will graduate in 4 years. The most popular major is Computer Science. Illinois's motto is "Learning & Labor." First Year Retention Rate 95 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 42.4% SAT Score 1,330 – 1,520 Avg. Net Price $13,973 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $64,802
9	Kettering University	94	78.67	1,180 – 1,340	35609	80275	#9 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Kettering University Flint, MI Located in Flint, Kettering University accepted 79% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to send in unknown to apply. Approximately 100% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 94 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 78.7% SAT Score 1,180 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $35,609 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $80,275
10	Ohio State University-Main Campus	94	60.57	1,310 – 1,450	19783	51438	#10 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ohio State University-Main Campus Columbus, OH Ohio State University is a Public Ivy. Getting its start in 1870, it was originally known as the Ohio Agricultural and Mechanical College. With 972 athletes, the Buckeyes take part in the Big Ten Conference. Popular sports include Football, Basketball, and Ice Hockey. First Year Retention Rate 94 % Acceptance Rate 60.6% SAT Score 1,310 – 1,450 Avg. Net Price $19,783 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,438
11	Purdue University-Main Campus	93	49.87	1,220 – 1,490	13722	60838	#11 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Purdue University-Main Campus West Lafayette, IN A NCAA Division I-FBS school, Purdue University was a founding member of the Big Ten Conference. Some famous alumni include Neil Armstrong, Millie Bobby Brown, and Orville Redenbacher. The school has also produced Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and Olympic medalists. First Year Retention Rate 93 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 49.9% SAT Score 1,220 – 1,490 Avg. Net Price $13,722 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $60,838
12	Wabash College	93	63.3	1,070 – 1,280	25562	52667	#12 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Wabash College Crawfordsville, IN Wabash College is an all men’s school with a 9 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. 100% of students receive grant aid - around $39,605 each - and 75% graduate within six years. The student paper, “The Bachelor,” has been in publication since the early 1900s. First Year Retention Rate 93 % 8.1% Acceptance Rate 63.3% SAT Score 1,070 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $25,562 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $52,667
13	Wheaton College	93	87.4	1,280 – 1,460	31356	50270	#13 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Wheaton College Wheaton, IL Wheaton College was founded by evangelical abolitionists in 1860 and would become a stop on the Underground Railroad. Clinical Psychology is the most popular major. A NCAA Division III with football school, athletes, wearing blue and orange, are known as The Thunder and compete in the College Conference of Illinois and......Read more First Year Retention Rate 93 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 87.4% SAT Score 1,280 – 1,460 Avg. Net Price $31,356 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,270
14	Case Western Reserve University	92	36.54	1,430 – 1,530	44000	75613	#14 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Case Western Reserve University Cleveland, OH Case Western Reserve University is known as the “Yale of the West,” as its campus imitated Yale’s. 88% receive grant aid to help offset the cost, or $40,221 on average. A NCAA Division III with football school, the Spartans often compete in Basketball, Football, and Soccer. First Year Retention Rate 92 % Acceptance Rate 36.5% SAT Score 1,430 – 1,530 Avg. Net Price $44,000 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $75,613
15	Kenyon College	92	31.03	1,380 – 1,490	46859	46627	#15 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Kenyon College Gambier, OH Kenyon College has produced Rhodes Scholars, Truman Scholarship winners, Fulbright recipients, and Marshall Scholarship winners. Famous alumni include Rutherford B. Hayes, Paul Newman, and Bill Watterson. The school is extremely selective and has a 92% first year retention rate. First Year Retention Rate 92 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 31.0% SAT Score 1,380 – 1,490 Avg. Net Price $46,859 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,627
16	Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology	92	76.86	1,330 – 1,500	45406	85935	#16 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Terre Haute, IN Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology focuses on math, science, and engineering. It was originally founded as the Terre Haute School of Industrial Science in 1874 in an effort to teach technical training for railroad construction. It would get its current name in 1971 after financial support from the Hulman family....Read more First Year Retention Rate 92 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 76.9% SAT Score 1,330 – 1,500 Avg. Net Price $45,406 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $85,935
17	Indiana University-Bloomington	91	78.21	1,200 – 1,420	17270	53417	#17 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Indiana University-Bloomington Bloomington, IN Bloomington is the flagship and largest campus of Indiana University. Alumni include Bob Chapek, Suzanne Collins, and Jimmy Wales. IUB is somewhat selective and has an impressive 91% first year retention rate. 81% of students graduate in six years. First Year Retention Rate 91 % Acceptance Rate 78.2% SAT Score 1,200 – 1,420 Avg. Net Price $17,270 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $53,417
18	Marquette University	91	81.34	1,230 – 1,390	34322	65241	#18 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Marquette University Milwaukee, WI Founded in 1881, by 1909 Marquette University was the first coeducational Catholic university in the world. During the last admissions cycle, the school accepted 15,200 out of 19,000 applications. 14% of these students decided to attend....Read more First Year Retention Rate 91 % Acceptance Rate 81.3% SAT Score 1,230 – 1,390 Avg. Net Price $34,322 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $65,241
19	Oberlin College	91	34.18	1,380 – 1,520	51624	38871	#19 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Oberlin College Oberlin, OH In the United States, Oberlin College is the oldest coeducational liberal arts college and its Conservatory of Music is the oldest operational conservatory. 72% of students will graduate within four years (83% within six). Oberlin’s motto is “Learning and Labor.” First Year Retention Rate 91 % 2.2% Acceptance Rate 34.2% SAT Score 1,380 – 1,520 Avg. Net Price $51,624 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $38,871
20	Cedarville University	90	65.29	1,120 – 1,350	27150	47937	#20 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Cedarville University Cedarville, OH Cedarville University first opened in 1887. One famous alumnus is Grace Norman, who won a gold medal and bronze medal for the United States in the 2016 Paralympics, for the triathlon and 400m respectively. 100% of students receive institutional grant aid from Cedarville, around $20,740 per student on average. First Year Retention Rate 90 % 5.9% Acceptance Rate 65.3% SAT Score 1,120 – 1,350 Avg. Net Price $27,150 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,937
21	Cleveland Institute of Music	90	47.31	--	29683	20170	#21 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Cleveland Institute of Music Cleveland, OH Based in Cleveland, Cleveland Institute of Music accepts 47% of applicants. They charge $125 for undergraduate applications and $125 for graduate applications. About 100% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The college’s first year retention rate is 90% and......Read more First Year Retention Rate 90 % 8.2% Acceptance Rate 47.3% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $29,683 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $20,170
22	Lake Forest College	90	56.81	1,240 – 1,410	31225	51324	#22 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Lake Forest College Lake Forest, IL A liberal arts college, Lake Forest College is located just a half mile from Lake Michigan and 30 miles north of Chicago. With over 30 majors available, many students choose to major in Business/Commerce, General, followed by Research and Experimental Psychology, Other, Biology/Biological Sciences, General, and Speech......Read more First Year Retention Rate 90 % 4.7% Acceptance Rate 56.8% SAT Score 1,240 – 1,410 Avg. Net Price $31,225 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,324
23	Miami University-Oxford	90	75.4	1,220 – 1,380	28229	49773	#23 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Miami University-Oxford Oxford, OH Miami University, Oxford’s motto is “Prodesse Quam Conspici”, or “To accomplish without being conspicuous.” It’s one of the oldest public universities in the United States. A NCAA Division I-FBS school, most of Miami’s athletes, the RedHawks, compete in the Mid-American Conference. First Year Retention Rate 90 % Acceptance Rate 75.4% SAT Score 1,220 – 1,380 Avg. Net Price $28,229 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,773
24	Michigan State University	90	84.8	1,190 – 1,370	23657	55084	#24 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Michigan State University East Lansing, MI Based in East Lansing, Michigan State University accepts 85% of applicants. They charge $65 for undergraduate applications and $65 for graduate applications. About 86% of students at Michigan State University will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 90 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 84.8% SAT Score 1,190 – 1,370 Avg. Net Price $23,657 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $55,084
25	DePauw University	89	57.19	1,230 – 1,420	31411	58476	#25 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) DePauw University Greencastle, IN DePauw University was founded in 1837 as Indiana Asbury University. Its motto is “Decus lumenque reipublicae collegium,” which is Latin for “The college is the splendor and light of the common good.” Speech Communication and Rhetoric, Econometrics and Quantitative Economics, and Computer Science are commonly chosen majors. First Year Retention Rate 89 % Acceptance Rate 57.2% SAT Score 1,230 – 1,420 Avg. Net Price $31,411 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $58,476
26	Denison University	89	17.39	1,350 – 1,480	43721	51352	#26 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Denison University Granville, OH Denison University is extremely selective - about 24% of accepted students enrolling. With an 89% first year retention rate and 9 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio, 85% will graduate in six years....Read more First Year Retention Rate 89 % Acceptance Rate 17.4% SAT Score 1,350 – 1,480 Avg. Net Price $43,721 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,352
27	Michigan Technological University	89	92.43	1,150 – 1,370	16879	69672	#27 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Michigan Technological University Houghton, MI Michigan Technological University offers over 185 degree programs across five colleges: Engineering, Computing, Sciences and Arts, Business, and Forest Resources and Environmental Science. Many students choose to study Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Civil Engineering, and General. First Year Retention Rate 89 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 92.4% SAT Score 1,150 – 1,370 Avg. Net Price $16,879 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $69,672
28	Taylor University	89	73.53	1,110 – 1,360	26178	45142	#28 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Taylor University Upland, IN Taylor University offers 63 majors and programs. Some of the most popular areas of study for the Trojans include Elementary Education and Teaching, Psychology, and General. The school also boasts a 14 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio and 89% first year retention rate. First Year Retention Rate 89 % 2.2% Acceptance Rate 73.5% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,360 Avg. Net Price $26,178 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,142
29	University of Dayton	89	65.45	1,210 – 1,400	32794	62477	#29 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Dayton Dayton, OH Found in Dayton, the University of Dayton accepted 65% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 95% of students at the University of Dayton will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 89 % Acceptance Rate 65.5% SAT Score 1,210 – 1,400 Avg. Net Price $32,794 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $62,477
30	Cleveland Institute of Art	88	61.35	1,050 – 1,310	30837	33148	#30 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Cleveland Institute of Art Cleveland, OH Based in Cleveland, Cleveland Institute of Art accepts 61% of applicants. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be offered. About 100% of students attending Cleveland Institute of Art will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The college’s first year......Read more First Year Retention Rate 88 % 2.3% Acceptance Rate 61.4% SAT Score 1,050 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $30,837 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $33,148
31	Hope College	88	79.24	1,130 – 1,360	30700	49727	#31 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Hope College Holland, MI Student athletes at Hope College are known as the Flying Dutchmen and wear orange and blue. Some popular sports include Football, Basketball, and Track and Field and Cross Country (combined). Hope has a cozy 9 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio and 80% six year graduation rate. First Year Retention Rate 88 % 2.2% Acceptance Rate 79.2% SAT Score 1,130 – 1,360 Avg. Net Price $30,700 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,727
32	Maranatha Baptist University	88	71.9	1,020 – 1,300	28415	40403	#32 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Maranatha Baptist University Watertown, WI Found in Watertown, Maranatha Baptist University accepts 72% of applicants. They charge $50 for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. About 90% of students at Maranatha Baptist University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 88 % 15.8% Acceptance Rate 71.9% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,300 Avg. Net Price $28,415 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,403
33	Saint Mary's College	88	75.97	1,160 – 1,340	27865	53470	#33 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Saint Mary's College Notre Dame, IN Saint Mary’s College is a private Catholic liberal arts school for women. It’s somewhat selective and has a 20% yield. 88% of students stay on after they complete their first year and in the classroom, there’s a cozy 9 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse is the most popular major. First Year Retention Rate 88 % 4.8% Acceptance Rate 76.0% SAT Score 1,160 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $27,865 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $53,470
34	Butler University	87	85.08	1,190 – 1,370	38438	61627	#34 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Butler University Indianapolis, IN 443 of students participate in varsity sports at Butler University, a NCAA Division I-FCS school. Some popular options include Basketball, Soccer, and Football. The Bulldogs have a live mascot – a bulldog named Butler Blue IV. 97% of students receive grant aid to help them afford the cost of attendance. First Year Retention Rate 87 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 85.1% SAT Score 1,190 – 1,370 Avg. Net Price $38,438 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $61,627
35	Calvin University	87	70.91	1,110 – 1,340	25231	48039	#35 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Calvin University Grand Rapids, MI Found in Grand Rapids, Calvin University accepts 71% of applicants and requires $35 for undergraduate applications and . About 100% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 87 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 70.9% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $25,231 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,039
36	Franciscan University of Steubenville	87	58.36	1,110 – 1,350	23086	42037	#36 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Franciscan University of Steubenville Steubenville, OH “Fortitude and Prudence” is the motto of the Franciscan University of Steubenville. Located along the Ohio River, the school has a first year retention rate of 87% and a student-to-faculty ratio of 17 to 1. The Barons participate in the NCAA Division III without football Presidents' Athletic Conference. First Year Retention Rate 87 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 58.4% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,350 Avg. Net Price $23,086 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,037
37	Lawrence University	87	63.94	1,190 – 1,410	27161	40653	#37 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Lawrence University Appleton, WI Lawrence University, founded in 1847 as one of the nation’s first coeducational institutions, offers a rigorous liberal arts and sciences education alongside its world-renowned Conservatory of Music....Read more First Year Retention Rate 87 % Acceptance Rate 63.9% SAT Score 1,190 – 1,410 Avg. Net Price $27,161 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,653
38	University of Wisconsin-La Crosse	87	75.5	1,110 – 1,280	14712	49626	#38 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Wisconsin-La Crosse La Crosse, WI Based in La Crosse, the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse accepted 76% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to send in $25 to apply. Approximately 37% of students attending the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more......Read more First Year Retention Rate 87 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 75.5% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $14,712 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,626
39	DePaul University	86	75.89	1,160 – 1,350	34135	54695	#39 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) DePaul University Chicago, IL Found in Chicago, DePaul University’s acceptance rate is 76% and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 99% of students at DePaul University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. They receive $24,831 on average. The first year retention rate is 86%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 86 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 75.9% SAT Score 1,160 – 1,350 Avg. Net Price $34,135 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $54,695
40	Hebrew Theological College	86	57.14	1,040 – 1,140	16158	32793	#40 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Hebrew Theological College Skokie, IL Located in Skokie, Hebrew Theological College accepts 57% of applicants and requests $100 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 67% of students attending Hebrew Theological College currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 86 % Acceptance Rate 57.1% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,140 Avg. Net Price $16,158 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $32,793
41	Illinois Institute of Technology	86	54.93	1,200 – 1,440	24796	70803	#41 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Illinois Institute of Technology Chicago, IL Located in Chicago, Illinois Institute of Technology accepted 55% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and $100 for graduate applications. About 100% of students attending Illinois Institute of Technology currently receive grant aid from the......Read more First Year Retention Rate 86 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 54.9% SAT Score 1,200 – 1,440 Avg. Net Price $24,796 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $70,803
42	Alma College	85	57.03	1,040 – 1,230	22094	45720	#42 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Alma College Alma, MI A fairly selective school, 3,000 applicants received acceptance letters to Alma College during the last admissions cycle. 10% decide to enroll. Classes are smaller, with a 14 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio, and 85% of freshman stay at the school after they complete their first year....Read more First Year Retention Rate 85 % 11.8% Acceptance Rate 57.0% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $22,094 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,720
43	Kalamazoo College	85	75.32	1,140 – 1,370	26956	46137	#43 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Kalamazoo College Kalamazoo, MI Kalamazoo College is the leading producer of Peace Corps members out of small liberal arts colleges. Its motto is “Lux Esto,” which is Latin for “Be Light.” Many of K College’s faculty hold a terminal degree in their field. Students follow the “K Plan” – an academic plan that focuses on liberal arts, study abroad, and community. First Year Retention Rate 85 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 75.3% SAT Score 1,140 – 1,370 Avg. Net Price $26,956 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,137
44	Ohio Wesleyan University	85	55.6	1,180 – 1,390	23006	42495	#44 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ohio Wesleyan University Delaware, OH Found in Delaware, Ohio Wesleyan University accepted 56% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be offered. Approximately 100% of students attending Ohio Wesleyan University currently receive institutional grant aid to make......Read more First Year Retention Rate 85 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 55.6% SAT Score 1,180 – 1,390 Avg. Net Price $23,006 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,495
45	University of Cincinnati-Main Campus	85	85.29	1,180 – 1,350	24696	48310	#45 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Cincinnati-Main Campus Cincinnati, OH Found in Cincinnati, the University of Cincinnati-Main Campus accepted 85% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request $50 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 67% of students attending the University of Cincinnati-Main Campus will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 85 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 85.3% SAT Score 1,180 – 1,350 Avg. Net Price $24,696 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,310
46	Baldwin Wallace University	84	75.7	1,090 – 1,320	27991	44972	#46 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Baldwin Wallace University Berea, OH Baldwin Wallace University is a private liberal arts and sciences university found in 1845. The school boasts a 12 to 1 student to faculty ratio and 84% first year retention rate....Read more First Year Retention Rate 84 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 75.7% SAT Score 1,090 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $27,991 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,972
47	Huntington University	84	75.64	940 – 1,170	19767	40702	#47 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Huntington University Huntington, IN 96% of students at Huntington University receive grant aid and as a NAIA Division I school, there are also athletic scholarships available. Huntington opened in 1897 as Central College, having been founded by (and still affiliated with) the Church of the United Brethren in Christ. First Year Retention Rate 84 % 9.1% Acceptance Rate 75.6% SAT Score 940 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $19,767 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,702
48	Milwaukee School of Engineering	84	58.93	1,180 – 1,380	25669	75114	#48 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Milwaukee School of Engineering Milwaukee, WI Found in Milwaukee, Milwaukee School of Engineering’s acceptance rate is 59% and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. About 100% of students attending Milwaukee School of Engineering will receive grant aid from the school. The first year retention rate is 84%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 84 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 58.9% SAT Score 1,180 – 1,380 Avg. Net Price $25,669 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $75,114
49	Moody Bible Institute	84	82.69	980 – 1,180	21614	40210	#49 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Moody Bible Institute Chicago, IL Located in Chicago, Moody Bible Institute accepted 83% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They require $50 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 78% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 84 % 6.7% Acceptance Rate 82.7% SAT Score 980 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $21,614 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,210
50	Northwestern Michigan College	84	0	--	7427	34918	#50 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Northwestern Michigan College Traverse City, MI First Year Retention Rate 84 % Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $7,427 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $34,918
51	Ohio Northern University	84	74.4	1,180 – 1,360	25941	62686	#51 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ohio Northern University Ada, OH Ohio Northern University has a 13 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio and 84% first year retention rate. Pharmacy, Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration, Other, and Law are among the most common academic programs. ONU’s motto is “Out of diversity strength” in Latin. First Year Retention Rate 84 % 4.5% Acceptance Rate 74.4% SAT Score 1,180 – 1,360 Avg. Net Price $25,941 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $62,686
52	Ohio University-Main Campus	84	84.99	1,110 – 1,310	21907	48991	#52 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ohio University-Main Campus Athens, OH Located in Athens, Ohio University-Main Campus accepts 85% of applicants. They request $50 for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. About 91% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 84 % 2.4% Acceptance Rate 85.0% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $21,907 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,991
53	Saint Norbert College	84	85.74	1,080 – 1,310	27880	49775	#53 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Saint Norbert College De Pere, WI Roman Catholic and Norbertine, St. Norbert College’s motto is “Docere Verbo et Exemplo,” which translates to “To teach by word and example.” It awards 100% of students with institutional grants and has an 84% first year retention rate. 69% graduate in four years, 72% in six. First Year Retention Rate 84 % 2.4% Acceptance Rate 85.7% SAT Score 1,080 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $27,880 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,775
54	School of the Art Institute of Chicago	84	77.47	1,080 – 1,240	55631	26742	#54 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) School of the Art Institute of Chicago Chicago, IL Found in Chicago, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago accepts 77% of applicants. Undergraduates have to send in $65 to apply. Approximately 99% of students at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago currently receive grant aid from the school. The first year retention rate is 84%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 84 % 2.4% Acceptance Rate 77.5% SAT Score 1,080 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $55,631 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $26,742
55	Andrews University	83	81.85	1,020 – 1,270	24728	43254	#55 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Andrews University Berrien Springs, MI Based in Berrien Springs, Andrews University’s acceptance rate is 82% and requests $30 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 97% of students attending Andrews University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The institution’s first year retention rate is 83% and its four......Read more First Year Retention Rate 83 % Acceptance Rate 81.9% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,270 Avg. Net Price $24,728 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,254
56	Bradley University	83	76.76	1,120 – 1,330	23787	59114	#56 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Bradley University Peoria, IL Found in Peoria, Bradley University’s acceptance rate is 77%. They require unknown for undergraduate applications. About 100% of students attending Bradley University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The institution’s first year retention rate is 83% and its four year graduation......Read more First Year Retention Rate 83 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 76.8% SAT Score 1,120 – 1,330 Avg. Net Price $23,787 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,114
57	Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion	83	88.94	970 – 1,210	23402	51329	#57 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion Marion, IN Indiana Wesleyan University, Marion is a NAIA Division II school, with 515 Wildcats primarily competing in the Mid-States Football Association. With a 12 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio, IWU has an 83% first year retention rate. Many are studying Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. First Year Retention Rate 83 % 5.1% Acceptance Rate 88.9% SAT Score 970 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $23,402 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,329
58	John Carroll University	83	80.9	1,200 – 1,390	30030	53187	#58 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) John Carroll University University Heights, OH John Carroll University was founded in 1886 as the St. Ignatius College. It changed its name to its current moniker in 1923 and became coeducational in 1968. Many of the buildings on the 65-acre campus are of Collegiate Gothic architecture. JCU has a first year retention rate of 83%. First Year Retention Rate 83 % 2.4% Acceptance Rate 80.9% SAT Score 1,200 – 1,390 Avg. Net Price $30,030 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $53,187
59	Knox College	83	70.79	1,160 – 1,440	25709	37757	#59 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Knox College Galesburg, IL Knox College got its start as the Knox Manual Labor College when founded in 1837 by abolitionists – it would go on to play a role in the Underground Railroad. Students can earn up to Bachelor's degrees, and they follow a quarter academic calendar....Read more First Year Retention Rate 83 % 3.8% Acceptance Rate 70.8% SAT Score 1,160 – 1,440 Avg. Net Price $25,709 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,757
60	Principia College	83	44.4	1,030 – 1,220	18248	63721	#60 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Principia College Elsah, IL Principia College offers up to Bachelor's degrees. Found on the Mississippi River, part of the campus is named a National Historic Landmark District. Class sizes are extremely small, with an average 6 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. 83% of students stay on after the first year and 77% graduate within six years. First Year Retention Rate 83 % 10.7% Acceptance Rate 44.4% SAT Score 1,030 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $18,248 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $63,721
61	University of Detroit Mercy	83	75.42	1,040 – 1,270	16790	64534	#61 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Detroit Mercy Detroit, MI Found in Detroit, the University of Detroit Mercy’s acceptance rate is 75%. Undergraduates have to pay unknown to apply. About 100% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid. The first year retention rate is 83%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 83 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 75.4% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,270 Avg. Net Price $16,790 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $64,534
62	University of Evansville	83	77.6	1,070 – 1,280	18773	46734	#62 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Evansville Evansville, IN Affiliated with the United Methodist Church, the University of Evansville dates back to 1854. It has a satellite center in England. A NCAA Division I without football school, the Purple Aces compete in the Missouri Valley Conference. Classes are on the small size, with a 10 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. First Year Retention Rate 83 % 7.8% Acceptance Rate 77.6% SAT Score 1,070 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $18,773 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,734
63	Wayne State University	83	81.16	1,070 – 1,280	14416	45207	#63 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Wayne State University Detroit, MI Located in Detroit, Wayne State University accepted 81% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to pay $25 to apply. About 96% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The institution’s first year retention rate is 83% and......Read more First Year Retention Rate 83 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 81.2% SAT Score 1,070 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $14,416 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,207
64	Augustana College	82	62.68	1,040 – 1,290	24714	49849	#64 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Augustana College Rock Island, IL Found in Rock Island, Augustana College accepted 63% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 100% of students at Augustana College currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The school’s......Read more First Year Retention Rate 82 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 62.7% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,290 Avg. Net Price $24,714 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,849
65	Bowling Green State University-Main Campus	82	80.96	1,010 – 1,240	24283	41281	#65 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Bowling Green State University-Main Campus Bowling Green, OH Found in Bowling Green, Bowling Green State University-Main Campus accepts 81% of applicants and requests $45 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 93% of students attending Bowling Green State University-Main Campus currently receive grant aid from the school. At Bowling Green State University-Main Campus, there......Read more First Year Retention Rate 82 % 2.5% Acceptance Rate 81.0% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $24,283 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,281
66	College for Creative Studies	82	91.94	990 – 1,210	36055	33691	#66 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) College for Creative Studies Detroit, MI Found in Detroit, the College for Creative Studies accepted 92% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 98% of students at the College for Creative Studies will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more......Read more First Year Retention Rate 82 % 7.9% Acceptance Rate 91.9% SAT Score 990 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $36,055 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $33,691
67	Davenport University	82	97.84	--	18538	47041	#67 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Davenport University Grand Rapids, MI Based in Grand Rapids, Davenport University accepts 98% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 100% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school. At Davenport University, there is a 82% first year retention rate and 35% of students will graduate in four......Read more First Year Retention Rate 82 % 10.8% Acceptance Rate 97.8% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $18,538 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,041
68	Hanover College	82	83.7	1,120 – 1,300	23683	42876	#68 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Hanover College Hanover, IN Hanover College is a private not-for-profit institution that offers up to Doctor's degrees. Students follow a four-one-four plan, which is two four-month semesters with a one-month term between. It’s the oldest private college in the state, having been founded in 1827. Hanover became coeducational in 1880. First Year Retention Rate 82 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 83.7% SAT Score 1,120 – 1,300 Avg. Net Price $23,683 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,876
69	Loyola University Chicago	82	81.6	1,220 – 1,390	39147	58411	#69 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Loyola University Chicago Chicago, IL Found in Chicago, Loyola University Chicago accepts 82% of applicants. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 96% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid. The institution’s first year retention rate is 82% and around 67% of students will graduate in four years or less. The three......Read more First Year Retention Rate 82 % 2.4% Acceptance Rate 81.6% SAT Score 1,220 – 1,390 Avg. Net Price $39,147 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $58,411
70	The College of Wooster	82	59.53	1,250 – 1,460	28004	43895	#70 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) The College of Wooster Wooster, OH Located in Wooster, The College of Wooster accepted 60% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 100% of students attending The College of Wooster currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 82 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 59.5% SAT Score 1,250 – 1,460 Avg. Net Price $28,004 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,895
71	University of Michigan-Dearborn	82	55.61	1,000 – 1,260	11521	50389	#71 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Michigan-Dearborn Dearborn, MI Located in Dearborn, the University of Michigan-Dearborn accepts 56% of applicants. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and $60 for graduate applications. Approximately 99% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid. 82% of students continued their studies at the University of......Read more First Year Retention Rate 82 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 55.6% SAT Score 1,000 – 1,260 Avg. Net Price $11,521 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,389
72	University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire	82	82.34	1,110 – 1,280	15151	50011	#72 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Eau Claire, WI Based in Eau Claire, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire’s acceptance rate is 82%. Undergraduates have to pay $25 to apply. Approximately 49% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school. They are given $2,149 on average. The first year retention rate is 82%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 82 % Acceptance Rate 82.3% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $15,151 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,011
73	Beloit College	81	63.04	1,200 – 1,410	24455	41660	#73 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Beloit College Beloit, WI Beloit College’s campus is located next to the Rock River, just north of the Illinois and Wisconsin border. With an 12 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio and a six-year graduation rate of 71%, Beloit’s most popular major is Biology/Biological Sciences, General....Read more First Year Retention Rate 81 % 5.8% Acceptance Rate 63.0% SAT Score 1,200 – 1,410 Avg. Net Price $24,455 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,660
74	Illinois State University	81	88.15	1,010 – 1,230	21369	50599	#74 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Illinois State University Normal, IL Located in Normal, Illinois State University’s acceptance rate is 88% and charges $55 for undergraduate applications. About 94% of students at Illinois State University will receive grant aid from the school. At Illinois State University, there is a 81% first year retention rate and a 51% four year graduation rate....Read more First Year Retention Rate 81 % Acceptance Rate 88.2% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $21,369 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,599
75	Kent State University at Kent	81	86.34	990 – 1,220	21278	40179	#75 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Kent State University at Kent Kent, OH Located in Kent, Kent State University at Kent accepted 86% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests $50 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 94% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 81 % 2.5% Acceptance Rate 86.3% SAT Score 990 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $21,278 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
76	Mount Carmel College of Nursing	81	84.29	930 – 1,080	10065	68161	#76 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Mount Carmel College of Nursing Columbus, OH Found in Columbus, Mount Carmel College of Nursing accepts 84% of applicants. They charge $30 for undergraduate applications. About 50% of students at Mount Carmel College of Nursing will receive grant aid from the school. At Mount Carmel College of Nursing, there is a 81% first year retention rate and 58% of students will......Read more First Year Retention Rate 81 % 2.4% Acceptance Rate 84.3% SAT Score 930 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $10,065 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $68,161
77	Western Michigan University	81	84.6	1,000 – 1,230	17331	45356	#77 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Western Michigan University Kalamazoo, MI There are 395 student athletes, known as Broncos, at Western Michigan University, a NCAA Division I-FBS school. They compete in the Mid-American Conference. WMU has an 81% first year retention rate and 16 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. Many undergraduates major in Aeronautics/Aviation/Aerospace Science and Technology, General....Read more First Year Retention Rate 81 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 84.6% SAT Score 1,000 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $17,331 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,356
78	Columbus College of Art & Design	80	67.66	970 – 1,190	31801	30590	#78 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Columbus College of Art & Design Columbus, OH Found in Columbus, Columbus College of Art & Design’s acceptance rate is 68% and charges $50 for undergraduate applications. About 96% of students at Columbus College of Art & Design will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 80 % 9.6% Acceptance Rate 67.7% SAT Score 970 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $31,801 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $30,590
79	Elmhurst University	80	73.64	1,020 – 1,280	24629	52803	#79 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Elmhurst University Elmhurst, IL Found in Elmhurst, Elmhurst University accepts 74% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 100% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 80 % 5.3% Acceptance Rate 73.6% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $24,629 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $52,803
80	Goshen College	80	84.07	880 – 1,110	16693	43218	#80 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Goshen College Goshen, IN Found in Goshen, Goshen College accepted 84% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 100% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid. The first year retention rate is 80%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 80 % 2.6% Acceptance Rate 84.1% SAT Score 880 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $16,693 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,218
81	Illinois Wesleyan University	80	39.31	1,150 – 1,350	28644	56082	#81 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Illinois Wesleyan University Bloomington, IL Based in Bloomington, Illinois Wesleyan University accepts 39% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 100% of students at Illinois Wesleyan University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 80 % 5.9% Acceptance Rate 39.3% SAT Score 1,150 – 1,350 Avg. Net Price $28,644 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $56,082
82	Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design	80	60.54	1,020 – 1,270	27579	29841	#82 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design Milwaukee, WI Based in Milwaukee, Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design accepted 61% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 100% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 80 % 4.8% Acceptance Rate 60.5% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,270 Avg. Net Price $27,579 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $29,841
83	Otterbein University	80	84.53	1,110 – 1,310	20457	44539	#83 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Otterbein University Westerville, OH Otterbein University is a private institution that offers up to Doctor's degrees. It was founded by the Church of United Brethren in Christ in 1947, but today it’s affiliated with the United Methodist Church....Read more First Year Retention Rate 80 % 2.4% Acceptance Rate 84.5% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $20,457 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,539
84	Trine University	80	85.48	1,050 – 1,270	25355	53010	#84 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Trine University Angola, IN Found in Angola, Trine University’s acceptance rate is 85%. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. Approximately 96% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid. At Trine University, there is a 80% first year retention rate and around 54% of students will earn......Read more First Year Retention Rate 80 % 5.9% Acceptance Rate 85.5% SAT Score 1,050 – 1,270 Avg. Net Price $25,355 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $53,010
85	University of Illinois Chicago	80	77.35	1,150 – 1,360	10852	53218	#85 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Illinois Chicago Chicago, IL Based in Chicago, the University of Illinois Chicago accepts 77% of applicants. They charge $60 for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be offered. About 70% of students at the University of Illinois Chicago currently receive grant aid from the school. The school’s first year retention rate is 80% and around 40% of......Read more First Year Retention Rate 80 % 2.6% Acceptance Rate 77.4% SAT Score 1,150 – 1,360 Avg. Net Price $10,852 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $53,218
86	Lake Superior State University	79	68.01	1,010 – 1,230	12339	42767	#86 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Lake Superior State University Sault Ste Marie, MI Based in Sault Ste Marie, Lake Superior State University accepts 68% of applicants and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 81% of students attending Lake Superior State University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 79 % 14.5% Acceptance Rate 68.0% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $12,339 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,767
87	Lewis University	79	71.29	980 – 1,220	18959	56095	#87 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Lewis University Romeoville, IL Found in Romeoville, Lewis University accepted 71% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. About 100% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 79 % 6.0% Acceptance Rate 71.3% SAT Score 980 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $18,959 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $56,095
88	Mount Vernon Nazarene University	79	84.15	990 – 1,230	22961	43046	#88 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Mount Vernon Nazarene University Mount Vernon, OH Based in Mount Vernon, Mount Vernon Nazarene University accepted 84% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges $25 for undergraduate applications. About 99% of students at Mount Vernon Nazarene University currently receive institutional grant aid. The first year retention rate is 79%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 79 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 84.2% SAT Score 990 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $22,961 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,046
89	Northwood University	79	64.51	950 – 1,160	25549	54058	#89 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Northwood University Midland, MI Found in Midland, Northwood University accepts 65% of applicants. They request $30 for undergraduate applications. About 95% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 79 % Acceptance Rate 64.5% SAT Score 950 – 1,160 Avg. Net Price $25,549 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $54,058
90	University of St Francis	79	65.29	1,040 – 1,250	14045	56648	#90 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of St Francis Joliet, IL Based in Joliet, the University of St Francis’s acceptance rate is 65% and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 97% of students attending the University of St Francis will receive institutional grant aid. At the University of St Francis, there is a 79% first year retention rate and 47% of......Read more First Year Retention Rate 79 % 8.2% Acceptance Rate 65.3% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,250 Avg. Net Price $14,045 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $56,648
91	University of Wisconsin-Platteville	79	89.38	1,080 – 1,310	16266	54825	#91 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Wisconsin-Platteville Platteville, WI Located in Platteville, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville accepted 89% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 72% of students at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending......Read more First Year Retention Rate 79 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 89.4% SAT Score 1,080 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $16,266 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $54,825
92	University of Wisconsin-Stout	79	87.67	1,040 – 1,280	15673	50251	#92 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Wisconsin-Stout Menomonie, WI Found in Menomonie, the University of Wisconsin-Stout accepts 88% of applicants. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. Approximately 36% of students at the University of Wisconsin-Stout currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 79 % 6.8% Acceptance Rate 87.7% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $15,673 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,251
93	Aquinas College	78	89.88	920 – 1,150	18018	40161	#93 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Aquinas College Grand Rapids, MI Based in Grand Rapids, Aquinas College’s acceptance rate is 90%. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 100% of students attending Aquinas College will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 78 % 5.4% Acceptance Rate 89.9% SAT Score 920 – 1,150 Avg. Net Price $18,018 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,161
94	Ball State University	78	85.5	1,080 – 1,260	13599	44394	#94 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ball State University Muncie, IN Found in Muncie, Ball State University’s acceptance rate is 86%. Undergraduates have to send in $60 to apply. About 58% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 78 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 85.5% SAT Score 1,080 – 1,260 Avg. Net Price $13,599 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,394
95	Carroll University	78	66.84	1,070 – 1,280	27031	54456	#95 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Carroll University Waukesha, WI Located in Waukesha, Carroll University’s acceptance rate is 67%. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 94% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 78 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 66.8% SAT Score 1,070 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $27,031 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $54,456
96	Concordia University-Wisconsin	78	78.2	1,110 – 1,310	31916	49761	#96 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Concordia University-Wisconsin Mequon, WI Based in Mequon, Concordia University-Wisconsin accepts 78% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 98% of students at Concordia University-Wisconsin currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. 78% of students decide to stay at Concordia......Read more First Year Retention Rate 78 % Acceptance Rate 78.2% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $31,916 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,761
97	Cornerstone University	78	77.77	1,000 – 1,220	21335	42598	#97 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Cornerstone University Grand Rapids, MI Found in Grand Rapids, Cornerstone University accepts 78% of applicants. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. About 100% of students at Cornerstone University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 78 % 7.1% Acceptance Rate 77.8% SAT Score 1,000 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $21,335 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,598
98	Dominican University	78	90.32	890 – 1,120	13402	47907	#98 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Dominican University River Forest, IL Based in River Forest, Dominican University accepted 90% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 100% of students at Dominican University will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 78 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 90.3% SAT Score 890 – 1,120 Avg. Net Price $13,402 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,907
99	Ferris State University	78	91.39	900 – 1,130	10825	47339	#99 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ferris State University Big Rapids, MI Located in Big Rapids, Ferris State University accepted 91% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 95% of students at Ferris State University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. 78% of students......Read more First Year Retention Rate 78 % 6.8% Acceptance Rate 91.4% SAT Score 900 – 1,130 Avg. Net Price $10,825 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,339
100	Lawrence Technological University	78	55.9	1,040 – 1,280	34083	58827	#100 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Lawrence Technological University Southfield, MI Based in Southfield, Lawrence Technological University accepts 56% of applicants and requests $50 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 99% of students attending Lawrence Technological University currently receive institutional grant aid. At Lawrence Technological University, there is a 78% first year retention......Read more First Year Retention Rate 78 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 55.9% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $34,083 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $58,827
101	Northern Michigan University	78	84.02	990 – 1,210	15707	37996	#101 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Northern Michigan University Marquette, MI Based in Marquette, Northern Michigan University accepts 84% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. Approximately 88% of students attending Northern Michigan University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 78 % 2.6% Acceptance Rate 84.0% SAT Score 990 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $15,707 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,996
102	Oakland City University	78	82.51	870 – 1,150	16437	43190	#102 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Oakland City University Oakland City, IN Located in Oakland City, Oakland City University’s acceptance rate is 83% and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 100% of students attending Oakland City University currently receive institutional grant aid. At Oakland City University, there is a 78% first year retention rate and a 40% four year......Read more First Year Retention Rate 78 % 14.7% Acceptance Rate 82.5% SAT Score 870 – 1,150 Avg. Net Price $16,437 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,190
103	Oakland University	78	87.84	1,030 – 1,230	12208	49017	#103 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Oakland University Rochester Hills, MI Based in Rochester Hills, Oakland University accepted 88% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to send in unknown to apply. About 92% of students attending Oakland University currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 78 % 4.0% Acceptance Rate 87.8% SAT Score 1,030 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $12,208 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,017
104	Saginaw Valley State University	78	72.07	930 – 1,180	11546	43530	#104 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Saginaw Valley State University University Center, MI Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse is the most popular undergraduate major at Saginaw Valley State University by far, but Social Work, Teacher Education, Multiple Levels, Psychology, and General are also commonly chosen programs. A fairly selective school, 98% of students receive institutional grants, $7,869 on average. First Year Retention Rate 78 % 4.0% Acceptance Rate 72.1% SAT Score 930 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $11,546 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,530
105	University of Michigan-Flint	78	70.46	980 – 1,240	7852	45453	#105 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Michigan-Flint Flint, MI Based in Flint, the University of Michigan-Flint accepted 70% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 97% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 78 % 2.6% Acceptance Rate 70.5% SAT Score 980 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $7,852 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,453
106	University of Wisconsin-Whitewater	78	85.72	930 – 1,180	12709	47909	#106 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Whitewater, WI The University of Wisconsin, Whitewater offers 85 programs and majors, but many choose to study Business/Commerce, General. During the last admission cycle, the school received 10,200 applications and accepted 8,700. 110 acres of the 400 acre-campus makes up the Nature Preserve with woodlands, prairie, and wetlands. First Year Retention Rate 78 % Acceptance Rate 85.7% SAT Score 930 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $12,709 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,909
107	Ashland University	77	76.4	1,040 – 1,210	22610	47722	#107 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ashland University Ashland, OH Found in Ashland, Ashland University’s acceptance rate is 76% and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 99% of students attending Ashland University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The college’s first year retention rate is 77% and its......Read more First Year Retention Rate 77 % 6.9% Acceptance Rate 76.4% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $22,610 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,722
108	Aurora University	77	80.85	920 – 1,170	19053	51237	#108 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Aurora University Aurora, IL During the last admissions cycle, Aurora University received 5,380 applications. 16% of accepted students, or 680, decided to enroll. The school’s motto is “Sapientes abscondunt scientiam,” which is Latin for “Wise persons will carry away knowledge.” It offers up to Doctor's degrees. First Year Retention Rate 77 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 80.9% SAT Score 920 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $19,053 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,237
109	Earlham College	77	73.11	1,130 – 1,340	27107	35430	#109 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Earlham College Richmond, IN Founded in 1847, Earlham College is a liberal arts and sciences institution shaped by the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers). They charge unknown for applications and have a student-to-faculty ratio of 7 to 1. Many students participate in Earlham’s study abroad program. First Year Retention Rate 77 % 3.8% Acceptance Rate 73.1% SAT Score 1,130 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $27,107 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,430
110	Grace College and Theological Seminary	77	82.15	1,030 – 1,230	21065	41463	#110 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Grace College and Theological Seminary Winona Lake, IN Grace College and Theological Seminary was founded in 1948, though it has roots going back to 1937. Affiliated with the Charis Fellowship, the school’s motto is “To know Christ and to make Him known.” On campus, 77% of freshmen return for their sophomore year, and 66% graduate within six years. First Year Retention Rate 77 % 3.8% Acceptance Rate 82.2% SAT Score 1,030 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $21,065 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,463
111	North Central College	77	77.33	1,090 – 1,320	23276	51762	#111 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) North Central College Naperville, IL North Central College started as Plainfield College in 1861, receiving its current name in 1926 and acquiring Shimer College in 2017. It’s affiliated with the United Methodist Church, and it’s motto is “Lux Veritas” – or “Light of Truth.” 795 athletes are known as the Cardinals and are cheered on by Chippy the Cardinal. First Year Retention Rate 77 % 6.1% Acceptance Rate 77.3% SAT Score 1,090 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $23,276 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,762
112	Spring Arbor University	77	51.52	1,010 – 1,240	21067	45592	#112 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Spring Arbor University Spring Arbor, MI Found in Spring Arbor, Spring Arbor University’s acceptance rate is 52%. Undergraduates have to pay $30 to apply. About 98% of students attending Spring Arbor University will receive grant aid from the school. The first year retention rate is 77%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 77 % 4.1% Acceptance Rate 51.5% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $21,067 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,592
113	University of Mount Union	77	78.2	960 – 1,220	23616	45919	#113 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Mount Union Alliance, OH 23% of accepted students enroll in the University of Mount Union, a somewhat selective liberal arts school. The 123-acre campus is home to two buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the Kehres Stadium is the oldest college stadium in the state. The university also has a 162-acre nature center. First Year Retention Rate 77 % 8.5% Acceptance Rate 78.2% SAT Score 960 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $23,616 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,919
114	University of Toledo	77	92.02	1,130 – 1,330	17844	44162	#114 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Toledo Toledo, OH Located in Toledo, the University of Toledo’s acceptance rate is 92%. They charge $40 for undergraduate applications and $45 for graduate applications. About 78% of students at the University of Toledo currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The institution’s first year retention......Read more First Year Retention Rate 77 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 92.0% SAT Score 1,130 – 1,330 Avg. Net Price $17,844 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,162
115	Xavier University	77	86.41	1,110 – 1,330	33623	54758	#115 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Xavier University Cincinnati, OH Located in Cincinnati, Xavier University’s acceptance rate is 86%. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 100% of students at Xavier University will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 77 % 7.2% Acceptance Rate 86.4% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,330 Avg. Net Price $33,623 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $54,758
116	Capital University	76	70.22	960 – 1,210	22395	45767	#116 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Capital University Columbus, OH Found in Columbus, Capital University accepts 70% of applicants. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 99% of students attending Capital University will receive institutional grant aid. At Capital University, there is a 76% first year retention rate and around 56% of students will graduate......Read more First Year Retention Rate 76 % 2.7% Acceptance Rate 70.2% SAT Score 960 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $22,395 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,767
117	Grand Valley State University	76	83.02	960 – 1,210	17198	47840	#117 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Grand Valley State University Allendale, MI Based in Allendale, Grand Valley State University’s acceptance rate is 83% and requires $30 for undergraduate applications and $30 for graduate applications. Approximately 87% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. 76% of students continued their studies at Grand......Read more First Year Retention Rate 76 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 83.0% SAT Score 960 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $17,198 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,840
118	Malone University	76	75.86	970 – 1,180	22390	43056	#118 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Malone University Canton, OH Malone University offers up to Post-master's certificates. Affiliated with the Evangelical Friends Church, the school’s motto is “Christ’s Kingdom First.” A part of the Great Midwest Athletic Conference, 398 Pioneers compete in sports, such as Track and Field and Cross Country (combined), Basketball, and Soccer. First Year Retention Rate 76 % 5.6% Acceptance Rate 75.9% SAT Score 970 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $22,390 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,056
119	Marian University	76	95.46	970 – 1,200	22786	55704	#119 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Marian University Indianapolis, IN Found in Indianapolis, Marian University accepts 95% of applicants. Undergraduates have to send in unknown to apply. Approximately 86% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 76 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 95.5% SAT Score 970 – 1,200 Avg. Net Price $22,786 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $55,704
120	Saint Xavier University	76	84.3	960 – 1,140	11318	50784	#120 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Saint Xavier University Chicago, IL Located in Chicago, Saint Xavier University’s acceptance rate is 84%. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. About 100% of students at Saint Xavier University will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 76 % 2.7% Acceptance Rate 84.3% SAT Score 960 – 1,140 Avg. Net Price $11,318 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,784
121	Southern Illinois University Edwardsville	76	97.5	980 – 1,220	17115	46384	#121 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Edwardsville, IL Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville received 10,000 applications during the last admissions cycle. Many students major in Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse, Business Administration and Management, and General....Read more First Year Retention Rate 76 % 5.6% Acceptance Rate 97.5% SAT Score 980 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $17,115 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,384
122	University of Wisconsin-River Falls	76	81.72	1,010 – 1,240	14769	46524	#122 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Wisconsin-River Falls River Falls, WI University of Wisconsin, River Falls, opened as the River Falls State Normal School in 1874. In 1971, it joined the state university system. The oldest building on campus, South Hall, dates back to 1898 and is named on the National Register of Historic Places. First Year Retention Rate 76 % 4.1% Acceptance Rate 81.7% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $14,769 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,524
123	Viterbo University	76	72.43	1,110 – 1,240	21933	56804	#123 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Viterbo University La Crosse, WI Based in La Crosse, Viterbo University accepted 72% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 100% of students at Viterbo University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The school’s first year......Read more First Year Retention Rate 76 % 8.6% Acceptance Rate 72.4% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $21,933 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $56,804
124	Youngstown State University	76	84.45	1,010 – 1,220	12757	37590	#124 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Youngstown State University Youngstown, OH Found in Youngstown, Youngstown State University’s acceptance rate is 84%. Undergraduates have to send in $45 to apply. Approximately 79% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid. At Youngstown State University, there is a 76% first year retention rate and a 28% four year graduation rate....Read more First Year Retention Rate 76 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 84.5% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $12,757 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,590
125	Arizona College of Nursing-Southfield	75	100	--	35849	32840	#125 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Arizona College of Nursing-Southfield Southfield, MI Located in Southfield, Arizona College of Nursing-Southfield’s acceptance rate is 100%. They charge $49 for undergraduate applications and . About 0% of students attending Arizona College of Nursing-Southfield will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 75 % Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $35,849 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $32,840
126	Central Michigan University	75	89.82	980 – 1,210	17575	46567	#126 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Central Michigan University Mount Pleasant, MI Central Michigan University is a NCAA Division I-FBS school, and the Chippewas compete in the Mid-American Conference. Student athletes can receive scholarships, $13,796 on average, and the school offers institutional grant aid to about 93% of students. First Year Retention Rate 75 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 89.8% SAT Score 980 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $17,575 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,567
127	Millikin University	75	66.68	890 – 1,150	22813	43100	#127 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Millikin University Decatur, IL Based in Decatur, Millikin University accepts 67% of applicants. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 100% of students at Millikin University will receive grant aid from the school. The college’s first year retention rate is 75% and around 47% of students will graduate in four years or......Read more First Year Retention Rate 75 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 66.7% SAT Score 890 – 1,150 Avg. Net Price $22,813 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,100
128	University of Illinois Springfield	75	85.88	980 – 1,220	10809	47432	#128 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Illinois Springfield Springfield, IL The University of Illinois Springfield is one of three in the University of Illinois system and is located in the state's capitol city. U of I offers 48 degree programs with Computer Science, Business Administration and Management, General, and Computer Systems Analysis/Analyst being the most sought after....Read more First Year Retention Rate 75 % 7.4% Acceptance Rate 85.9% SAT Score 980 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $10,809 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,432
129	University of Southern Indiana	75	95.81	1,040 – 1,250	14722	42323	#129 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Southern Indiana Evansville, IN Based in Evansville, the University of Southern Indiana accepted 96% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge $40 for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. About 93% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid. The first year retention rate is 75%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 75 % 8.7% Acceptance Rate 95.8% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,250 Avg. Net Price $14,722 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,323
130	Valparaiso University	75	89.43	1,080 – 1,300	21766	55216	#130 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Valparaiso University Valparaiso, IN Based in Valparaiso, Valparaiso University accepts 89% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 100% of students at Valparaiso University currently receive institutional grant aid. At Valparaiso University, there is a 75% first year retention rate and 62% of students will graduate......Read more First Year Retention Rate 75 % 5.1% Acceptance Rate 89.4% SAT Score 1,080 – 1,300 Avg. Net Price $21,766 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $55,216
131	Heidelberg University	74	85.79	1,020 – 1,180	19447	41440	#131 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Heidelberg University Tiffin, OH Found in Tiffin, Heidelberg University accepted 86% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 99% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % 5.1% Acceptance Rate 85.8% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $19,447 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,440
132	Kettering College	74	76.54	1,010 – 1,180	22036	60692	#132 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Kettering College Kettering, OH Located in Kettering, Kettering College accepts 77% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 100% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. They are given $6,854 on average. The first year retention rate is 74%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % 8.6% Acceptance Rate 76.5% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $22,036 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $60,692
133	Monmouth College	74	90.93	1,010 – 1,230	17768	43158	#133 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Monmouth College Monmouth, IL Found in Monmouth, Monmouth College accepts 91% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 99% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school. The college’s first year retention rate is 74% and around 51% of students will graduate within four years. Business......Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % 5.7% Acceptance Rate 90.9% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $17,768 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,158
134	The University of Findlay	74	83.37	1,010 – 1,240	27297	49757	#134 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) The University of Findlay Findlay, OH Located in Findlay, The University of Findlay accepted 83% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 100% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid. The college’s first year retention rate is 74% and 50%......Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % 2.8% Acceptance Rate 83.4% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $27,297 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,757
135	University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point	74	91.8	1,040 – 1,240	14883	43371	#135 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Stevens Point, WI Found in Stevens Point, the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point accepts 92% of applicants and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 75% of students at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 91.8% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $14,883 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,371
136	Wilberforce University	74	40.5	850 – 1,080	5533	35146	#136 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Wilberforce University Wilberforce, OH Based in Wilberforce, Wilberforce University accepts 40% of applicants and requires $25 for undergraduate applications and $40 for graduate applications. Approximately 99% of students at Wilberforce University will receive grant aid from the school. 74% of students continued their studies at Wilberforce University after......Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % 5.7% Acceptance Rate 40.5% SAT Score 850 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $5,533 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,146
137	Carthage College	73	87.06	1,040 – 1,210	27066	46116	#137 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Carthage College Kenosha, WI Found in Kenosha, Carthage College accepts 87% of applicants and requires $35 for undergraduate applications and . About 100% of students attending Carthage College currently receive grant aid from the school. The college’s first year retention rate is 73% and its four year graduation rate is 58%. The common majors among......Read more First Year Retention Rate 73 % 11.0% Acceptance Rate 87.1% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $27,066 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,116
138	Chamberlain University-Illinois	73	82.64	790 – 900	31599	84533	#138 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Chamberlain University-Illinois Addison, IL Found in Addison, Chamberlain University-Illinois accepted 83% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges $95 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 73% of students at Chamberlain University-Illinois currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 73 % 5.2% Acceptance Rate 82.6% SAT Score 790 – 900 Avg. Net Price $31,599 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $84,533
139	Edgewood College	73	75.73	1,040 – 1,210	27038	53843	#139 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Edgewood College Madison, WI Located in Madison, Edgewood College accepted 76% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 98% of students at Edgewood College will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 73 % 2.7% Acceptance Rate 75.7% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $27,038 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $53,843
140	Franklin College	73	69.8	1,060 – 1,240	24189	45635	#140 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Franklin College Franklin, IN Located in Franklin, Franklin College’s acceptance rate is 70%. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be available. About 100% of students at Franklin College will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 73 % 2.8% Acceptance Rate 69.8% SAT Score 1,060 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $24,189 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,635
141	Muskingum University	73	81.84	930 – 1,110	19695	40536	#141 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Muskingum University New Concord, OH Found in New Concord, Muskingum University accepted 82% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 100% of students at Muskingum University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 73 % 5.8% Acceptance Rate 81.8% SAT Score 930 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $19,695 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,536
142	University of Akron Main Campus	73	59.67	930 – 1,210	14693	42269	#142 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Akron Main Campus Akron, OH Based in Akron, the University of Akron Main Campus accepts 60% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 92% of students attending the University of Akron Main Campus will receive institutional grant aid. The college’s first year retention rate is 73% and around 27% of students will......Read more First Year Retention Rate 73 % Acceptance Rate 59.7% SAT Score 930 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $14,693 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,269
143	University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee	73	90.68	970 – 1,210	16263	45851	#143 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Milwaukee, WI Found in Milwaukee, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee accepts 91% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and $75 for graduate applications. Approximately 82% of students at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 73 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 90.7% SAT Score 970 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $16,263 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,851
144	Wisconsin Lutheran College	73	78.16	1,130 – 1,340	24095	49095	#144 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Wisconsin Lutheran College Milwaukee, WI Found in Milwaukee, Wisconsin Lutheran College’s acceptance rate is 78% and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. About 98% of students attending Wisconsin Lutheran College currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 73 % 8.8% Acceptance Rate 78.2% SAT Score 1,130 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $24,095 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,095
145	Antioch College	72	89.13	1,010 – 1,240	15964	32114	#145 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Antioch College Yellow Springs, OH Found in Yellow Springs, Antioch College accepts 89% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 100% of students at Antioch College currently receive grant aid from the school. At Antioch College, there is a 72% first year retention rate and 13% of students will earn their degree in......Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 18.0% Acceptance Rate 89.1% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $15,964 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $32,114
146	Bethel University	72	97.66	900 – 1,160	19494	44271	#146 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Bethel University Mishawaka, IN Located in Mishawaka, Bethel University’s acceptance rate is 98% and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 90% of students at Bethel University will receive grant aid from the school. The college’s first year retention rate is 72% and around 49% of students will graduate in four years or......Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 2.9% Acceptance Rate 97.7% SAT Score 900 – 1,160 Avg. Net Price $19,494 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,271
147	Eastern Illinois University	72	65.35	880 – 1,090	13787	42694	#147 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Eastern Illinois University Charleston, IL Based in Charleston, Eastern Illinois University accepts 65% of applicants. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and $30 for graduate applications. Approximately 91% of students at Eastern Illinois University will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 2.9% Acceptance Rate 65.4% SAT Score 880 – 1,090 Avg. Net Price $13,787 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,694
148	Hiram College	72	93.53	890 – 1,170	21868	40270	#148 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Hiram College Hiram, OH Based in Hiram, Hiram College accepted 94% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 98% of students attending Hiram College will receive institutional grant aid. At Hiram College, there is a 72% first year retention rate and......Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 10.8% Acceptance Rate 93.5% SAT Score 890 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $21,868 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,270
149	Indiana University-Indianapolis	72	76.37	1,040 – 1,260	12228	47173	#149 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Indiana University-Indianapolis Indianapolis, IN Based in Indianapolis, Indiana University-Indianapolis accepts 76% of applicants. Undergraduates have to pay $65 to apply. About 72% of students at Indiana University-Indianapolis will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % Acceptance Rate 76.4% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,260 Avg. Net Price $12,228 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,173
150	Madonna University	72	63.39	880 – 1,080	18373	49871	#150 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Madonna University Livonia, MI Located in Livonia, Madonna University’s acceptance rate is 63% and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 98% of students attending Madonna University currently receive grant aid from the school. The first year retention rate is 72%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % Acceptance Rate 63.4% SAT Score 880 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $18,373 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,871
151	Ripon College	72	79.84	1,040 – 1,280	23772	42334	#151 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ripon College Ripon, WI Found in Ripon, Ripon College accepted 80% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires $30 for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 100% of students attending Ripon College currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The school’s first year......Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 5.3% Acceptance Rate 79.8% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $23,772 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,334
152	Shawnee State University	72	68.91	980 – 1,190	13996	35080	#152 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Shawnee State University Portsmouth, OH Found in Portsmouth, Shawnee State University accepted 69% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications, but some students qualify for fee waivers. Approximately 63% of students attending Shawnee State University will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 68.9% SAT Score 980 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $13,996 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,080
153	Tiffin University	72	80.05	870 – 1,090	26068	42475	#153 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Tiffin University Tiffin, OH Found in Tiffin, Tiffin University accepted 80% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges $75 for undergraduate applications. About 96% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school. At Tiffin University, there is a 72% first year retention rate and a 36% four year graduation......Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 20.0% Acceptance Rate 80.1% SAT Score 870 – 1,090 Avg. Net Price $26,068 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,475
154	University of Wisconsin-Superior	72	93.01	970 – 1,180	13215	41868	#154 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Wisconsin-Superior Superior, WI Found in Superior, the University of Wisconsin-Superior accepts 93% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 51% of students at the University of Wisconsin-Superior currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 93.0% SAT Score 970 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $13,215 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,868
155	Walsh University	72	70.74	1,040 – 1,280	23933	50090	#155 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Walsh University North Canton, OH Found in North Canton, Walsh University accepted 71% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. About 96% of students at Walsh University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. 72% of students continued their......Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 70.7% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $23,933 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,090
156	Wilmington College	72	92.4	890 – 1,150	26548	41889	#156 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Wilmington College Wilmington, OH Located in Wilmington, Wilmington College accepted 92% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to send in unknown to apply. Approximately 100% of students attending Wilmington College currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The first year......Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 5.9% Acceptance Rate 92.4% SAT Score 890 – 1,150 Avg. Net Price $26,548 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,889
157	Albion College	71	80.7	950 – 1,180	16719	48203	#157 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Albion College Albion, MI Albion College’s motto is “Lux Fiat,” or “Let there be Light.” The campus is home to the Whitehouse Nature Center that has six miles of trails, over 160 bird species, 400 plant species, and more. Many undergraduates major in Kinesiology and Exercise Science, Research and Experimental Psychology, and Other. First Year Retention Rate 71 % 2.9% Acceptance Rate 80.7% SAT Score 950 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $16,719 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,203
158	Greenville University	71	97.5	820 – 1,260	20799	40307	#158 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Greenville University Greenville, IL Based in Greenville, Greenville University’s acceptance rate is 98%. Undergraduates have to pay unknown to apply. Approximately 100% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school. The first year retention rate is 71%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 71 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 97.5% SAT Score 820 – 1,260 Avg. Net Price $20,799 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,307
159	Illinois College	71	78.19	920 – 1,200	17375	40110	#159 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Illinois College Jacksonville, IL Founded in 1829, Illinois College is the second oldest college in the state. 100% of enrolled students receive grant aid to help offset the cost of attendance, with each package averaging $31,609....Read more First Year Retention Rate 71 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 78.2% SAT Score 920 – 1,200 Avg. Net Price $17,375 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,110
160	Indiana University-Northwest	71	73.39	920 – 1,190	5745	39714	#160 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Indiana University-Northwest Gary, IN Located in Gary, Indiana University-Northwest accepts 73% of applicants. They require unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 54% of students at Indiana University-Northwest will receive grant aid from the school. At Indiana University-Northwest, there is a 71% first year retention rate and 18% of students will......Read more First Year Retention Rate 71 % 2.9% Acceptance Rate 73.4% SAT Score 920 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $5,745 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,714
161	Olivet Nazarene University	71	55.86	980 – 1,230	21281	49278	#161 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Olivet Nazarene University Bourbonnais, IL Olivet Nazarene University got its start as a grammar school when it opened in 1907, becoming a university in 1986. It’s fairly selective. Athletes, known as the Tigers, wear purple and gold and are cheered on by Toby the Tiger. Many compete in Track and Field and Cross Country (combined), Football, and Soccer. First Year Retention Rate 71 % 4.4% Acceptance Rate 55.9% SAT Score 980 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $21,281 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,278
162	University of Indianapolis	71	66.5	970 – 1,190	22662	46452	#162 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Indianapolis Indianapolis, IN Found in Indianapolis, the University of Indianapolis accepted 66% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 100% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 71 % 4.4% Acceptance Rate 66.5% SAT Score 970 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $22,662 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,452
163	University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne	71	95.97	880 – 1,080	18654	47944	#163 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne Fort Wayne, IN Based in Fort Wayne, the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne accepted 96% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 100% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school. The college’s first year retention rate is......Read more First Year Retention Rate 71 % 7.6% Acceptance Rate 96.0% SAT Score 880 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $18,654 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,944
164	Cleveland State University	70	91.3	930 – 1,210	16230	44625	#164 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Cleveland State University Cleveland, OH Found in Cleveland, Cleveland State University’s acceptance rate is 91%. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 70% of students attending Cleveland State University currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 70 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 91.3% SAT Score 930 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $16,230 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,625
165	Holy Cross College	70	75.18	1,050 – 1,350	22421	41335	#165 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Holy Cross College Notre Dame, IN Based in Notre Dame, Holy Cross College accepted 75% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to pay unknown to apply. About 71% of students at Holy Cross College currently receive grant aid from the school. 70% of students decide to stay at Holy Cross College after completing their......Read more First Year Retention Rate 70 % 11.4% Acceptance Rate 75.2% SAT Score 1,050 – 1,350 Avg. Net Price $22,421 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,335
166	Northern Illinois University	70	69.79	960 – 1,180	14243	46113	#166 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Northern Illinois University Dekalb, IL Northern Illinois University opened in 1895 as the Northern Illinois State School. The 756-acre campus is home to Altgeld Hall, which looks like a castle. Popular areas of study include Psychology, General, and Computer Science. First Year Retention Rate 70 % Acceptance Rate 69.8% SAT Score 960 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $14,243 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,113
167	Quincy University	70	50.93	1,020 – 1,210	19477	43331	#167 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Quincy University Quincy, IL Located in Quincy, Quincy University accepts 51% of applicants and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 100% of students attending Quincy University currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 70 % 9.4% Acceptance Rate 50.9% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $19,477 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,331
168	Siena Heights University	70	68.9	850 – 1,110	17520	49913	#168 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Siena Heights University Adrian, MI Based in Adrian, Siena Heights University’s acceptance rate is 69% and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 100% of students attending Siena Heights University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. At Siena Heights University, there is a 70% first year......Read more First Year Retention Rate 70 % 2.8% Acceptance Rate 68.9% SAT Score 850 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $17,520 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,913
169	Ursuline College	70	74.93	1,030 – 1,200	16350	45646	#169 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ursuline College Pepper Pike, OH Ursuline College is a private liberal arts school founded in 1871 as a Catholic women's college. While men can attend this school today, the school continues to provide a woman-focused education and the majority of students are women....Read more First Year Retention Rate 70 % 4.1% Acceptance Rate 74.9% SAT Score 1,030 – 1,200 Avg. Net Price $16,350 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,646
170	Eastern Michigan University	69	79.64	930 – 1,180	15742	43148	#170 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Eastern Michigan University Ypsilanti, MI Eastern Michigan University got its start in 1849 as the Michigan State Normal School, the first teachers' college outside of New England. A NCAA Division I-FBS school, Eagles compete in the Mid-American Conference. Popular sports include Football, Basketball, and Track and Field and Cross Country (combined). First Year Retention Rate 69 % 1.5% Acceptance Rate 79.6% SAT Score 930 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $15,742 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,148
171	Indiana University-Kokomo	69	86.48	970 – 1,160	3880	42134	#171 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Indiana University-Kokomo Kokomo, IN Based in Kokomo, Indiana University-Kokomo accepted 86% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and $40 for graduate applications. Approximately 40% of students attending Indiana University-Kokomo currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % 3.0% Acceptance Rate 86.5% SAT Score 970 – 1,160 Avg. Net Price $3,880 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,134
172	Marietta College	69	79.31	960 – 1,190	22007	51252	#172 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Marietta College Marietta, OH Found in Marietta, Marietta College accepted 79% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be available. About 100% of students at Marietta College currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % 5.5% Acceptance Rate 79.3% SAT Score 960 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $22,007 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,252
173	Mount St. Joseph University	69	59.12	1,020 – 1,270	17094	43595	#173 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Mount St. Joseph University Cincinnati, OH Based in Cincinnati, Mount St- Joseph University’s acceptance rate is 59%. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. About 99% of students at Mount St- Joseph University will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % 9.2% Acceptance Rate 59.1% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,270 Avg. Net Price $17,094 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,595
174	The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences	69	58.94	850 – 1,210	18892	64942	#174 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences Cincinnati, OH Located in Cincinnati, The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences’s acceptance rate is 59%. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. Approximately 82% of students at The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences will receive institutional grant aid to make attending......Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % 15.0% Acceptance Rate 58.9% SAT Score 850 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $18,892 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $64,942
175	University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh	69	86.5	970 – 1,210	12500	50140	#175 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh Oshkosh, WI Found in Oshkosh, the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh’s acceptance rate is 86% and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 29% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid. 69% of students continued their studies at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh after completing their first year....Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % 4.2% Acceptance Rate 86.5% SAT Score 970 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $12,500 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,140
176	University of Wisconsin-Parkside	69	75.39	930 – 1,210	10234	42154	#176 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Wisconsin-Parkside Kenosha, WI Located in Kenosha, the University of Wisconsin-Parkside’s acceptance rate is 75% and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 24% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid. The institution’s first year retention rate is 69% and around 21% of students will graduate in......Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % 2.8% Acceptance Rate 75.4% SAT Score 930 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $10,234 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,154
177	Wright State University-Main Campus	68	96.33	930 – 1,220	15254	42229	#177 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Wright State University-Main Campus Dayton, OH Based in Dayton, Wright State University-Main Campus accepts 96% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 87% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school. At Wright State University-Main Campus, there is a 68% first year retention rate and around 27% of......Read more First Year Retention Rate 68 % 7.9% Acceptance Rate 96.3% SAT Score 930 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $15,254 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,229
178	Blackburn College	67	63.19	890 – 1,150	18460	36665	#178 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Blackburn College Carlinville, IL Located in Carlinville, Blackburn College accepts 63% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 100% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid. At Blackburn College, there is a 67% first year retention rate and around 25% of students will earn a degree within four......Read more First Year Retention Rate 67 % 15.5% Acceptance Rate 63.2% SAT Score 890 – 1,150 Avg. Net Price $18,460 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $36,665
179	Marian University	67	74.98	930 – 1,110	22697	49839	#179 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Marian University Fond Du Lac, WI Located in Fond Du Lac, Marian University accepted 75% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 100% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 67 % 8.1% Acceptance Rate 75.0% SAT Score 930 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $22,697 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,839
180	McKendree University	67	71.72	920 – 1,300	22444	49439	#180 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) McKendree University Lebanon, IL Located in Lebanon, McKendree University’s acceptance rate is 72% and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 93% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 67 % 1.5% Acceptance Rate 71.7% SAT Score 920 – 1,300 Avg. Net Price $22,444 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,439
181	Miami University-Middletown	67	0	--	10574	49773	#181 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Miami University-Middletown Middletown, OH First Year Retention Rate 67 % 8.1% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $10,574 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,773
182	Mount Mary University	67	62.33	970 – 1,080	20390	40421	#182 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Mount Mary University Milwaukee, WI Located in Milwaukee, Mount Mary University accepts 62% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and $45 for graduate applications. Approximately 100% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 67 % 1.5% Acceptance Rate 62.3% SAT Score 970 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $20,390 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,421
183	Ohio University-Chillicothe Campus	67	0	--	6032	48991	#183 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ohio University-Chillicothe Campus Chillicothe, OH First Year Retention Rate 67 % 4.7% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $6,032 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,991
184	Purdue University Fort Wayne	67	83.89	990 – 1,230	14735	42873	#184 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Purdue University Fort Wayne Fort Wayne, IN Located in Fort Wayne, Purdue University Fort Wayne’s acceptance rate is 84%. Undergraduates have to pay $30 to apply. About 88% of students attending Purdue University Fort Wayne will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 67 % 4.7% Acceptance Rate 83.9% SAT Score 990 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $14,735 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,873
185	Southern Illinois University-Carbondale	67	86.88	920 – 1,170	13473	43087	#185 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Southern Illinois University-Carbondale Carbondale, IL Located in Carbondale, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale’s acceptance rate is 87% and requests $40 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 81% of students attending Southern Illinois University-Carbondale will receive institutional grant aid. 67% of students continued studying at Southern Illinois......Read more First Year Retention Rate 67 % 2.9% Acceptance Rate 86.9% SAT Score 920 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $13,473 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,087
186	Baker College	66	81.87	960 – 1,160	13616	33619	#186 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Baker College Owosso, MI Based in Owosso, Baker College accepted 82% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. About 75% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid. At Baker College, there is a 66% first year retention rate......Read more First Year Retention Rate 66 % 8.3% Acceptance Rate 81.9% SAT Score 960 – 1,160 Avg. Net Price $13,616 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $33,619
187	Benedictine University	66	95.23	1,030 – 1,300	23139	50222	#187 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Benedictine University Lisle, IL Based in Lisle, Benedictine University accepted 95% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 99% of students at Benedictine University currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 66 % 4.3% Acceptance Rate 95.2% SAT Score 1,030 – 1,300 Avg. Net Price $23,139 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,222
188	Cleary University	66	67.54	950 – 1,170	23705	55077	#188 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Cleary University Howell, MI All of the available undergraduate majors at Cleary University focus on Business. In fact, Business Administration and Management, General is the most sought after area of study. It was first known as the Cleary School of Penmanship when it opened in 1883. 99% receive institutional grants from the university. First Year Retention Rate 66 % 3.1% Acceptance Rate 67.5% SAT Score 950 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $23,705 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $55,077
189	Columbia College Chicago	66	89.46	--	29473	32596	#189 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Columbia College Chicago Chicago, IL Based in Chicago, Columbia College Chicago accepts 89% of applicants. They require $25 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 100% of students attending Columbia College Chicago will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 66 % 3.1% Acceptance Rate 89.5% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $29,473 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $32,596
190	Indiana State University	66	80.77	910 – 1,130	12066	41047	#190 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Indiana State University Terre Haute, IN Located in Terre Haute, Indiana State University accepts 81% of applicants and requires $25 for undergraduate applications and $35 for graduate applications. About 93% of students at Indiana State University currently receive institutional grant aid. The first year retention rate is 66%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 66 % 4.3% Acceptance Rate 80.8% SAT Score 910 – 1,130 Avg. Net Price $12,066 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,047
191	Manchester University	66	71.06	900 – 1,190	19425	43024	#191 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Manchester University North Manchester, IN Based in North Manchester, Manchester University’s acceptance rate is 71% and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. About 100% of students at Manchester University will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 66 % 8.3% Acceptance Rate 71.1% SAT Score 900 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $19,425 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,024
192	Purdue University Northwest	66	72.36	890 – 1,150	7916	48439	#192 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Purdue University Northwest Hammond, IN Based in Hammond, Purdue University Northwest accepts 72% of applicants and requires $25 for undergraduate applications and $60 for graduate applications. Approximately 74% of students at Purdue University Northwest will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The first year retention rate is......Read more First Year Retention Rate 66 % 2.9% Acceptance Rate 72.4% SAT Score 890 – 1,150 Avg. Net Price $7,916 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,439
193	University of Wisconsin-Green Bay	66	88.59	970 – 1,180	11429	46546	#193 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Wisconsin-Green Bay Green Bay, WI Found in Green Bay, the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay accepts 89% of applicants. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be requested. About 34% of students attending the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay will receive institutional grant aid. 66% of students continued studying at the......Read more First Year Retention Rate 66 % 5.7% Acceptance Rate 88.6% SAT Score 970 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $11,429 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,546
194	Adrian College	65	72.53	920 – 1,170	25922	42805	#194 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Adrian College Adrian, MI Located in Adrian, Adrian College accepted 73% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 99% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 65 % 8.3% Acceptance Rate 72.5% SAT Score 920 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $25,922 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,805
195	DeVry University-Illinois	65	98.38	680 – 1,020	30889	42178	#195 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) DeVry University-Illinois Lisle, IL Based in Lisle, DeVry University-Illinois accepts 98% of applicants. They charge $30 for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be offered. About 83% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid. At DeVry University-Illinois, there is a 65% first year retention rate and around 23% of students will......Read more First Year Retention Rate 65 % Acceptance Rate 98.4% SAT Score 680 – 1,020 Avg. Net Price $30,889 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,178
196	Grace Christian University	65	99.16	970 – 1,180	13275	31450	#196 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Grace Christian University Wyoming, MI Located in Wyoming, Grace Christian University accepted 99% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be requested. Approximately 86% of students attending Grace Christian University currently receive institutional grant aid to make......Read more First Year Retention Rate 65 % 10.2% Acceptance Rate 99.2% SAT Score 970 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $13,275 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $31,450
197	Indiana University-South Bend	65	83.84	960 – 1,190	9003	41388	#197 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Indiana University-South Bend South Bend, IN Found in South Bend, Indiana University-South Bend’s acceptance rate is 84% and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and $40 for graduate applications. About 46% of students attending Indiana University-South Bend currently receive grant aid from the school. At Indiana University-South Bend, there is a 65% first......Read more First Year Retention Rate 65 % 3.0% Acceptance Rate 83.8% SAT Score 960 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $9,003 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,388
198	Rockford University	65	92.91	870 – 1,080	23642	45847	#198 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Rockford University Rockford, IL Located in Rockford, Rockford University’s acceptance rate is 93%. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 47% of students attending Rockford University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 65 % 7.1% Acceptance Rate 92.9% SAT Score 870 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $23,642 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,847
199	Indiana University-Southeast	64	84.46	990 – 1,190	9102	42290	#199 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Indiana University-Southeast New Albany, IN Based in New Albany, Indiana University-Southeast accepted 84% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and $40 for graduate applications. About 62% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid. The college’s first year retention rate is......Read more First Year Retention Rate 64 % 8.6% Acceptance Rate 84.5% SAT Score 990 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $9,102 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,290
200	Ohio Dominican University	64	94.23	1,040 – 1,310	21032	43933	#200 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ohio Dominican University Columbus, OH Based in Columbus, Ohio Dominican University accepts 94% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 100% of students attending Ohio Dominican University will receive grant aid from the school. 64% of students continued their studies at Ohio Dominican University after completing their......Read more First Year Retention Rate 64 % 6.7% Acceptance Rate 94.2% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $21,032 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,933
201	Lakeland University	63	86.28	930 – 1,100	24253	49546	#201 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Lakeland University Plymouth, WI Based in Plymouth, Lakeland University accepted 86% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to send in $35 to apply. About 100% of students attending Lakeland University will receive grant aid from the school. 63% of students continued their studies at Lakeland University after......Read more First Year Retention Rate 63 % 6.0% Acceptance Rate 86.3% SAT Score 930 – 1,100 Avg. Net Price $24,253 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,546
202	Ohio University-Eastern Campus	63	0	--	4730	48991	#202 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ohio University-Eastern Campus Saint Clairsville, OH First Year Retention Rate 63 % 3.1% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $4,730 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,991
203	Wittenberg University	63	72.35	1,060 – 1,300	23537	42437	#203 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Wittenberg University Springfield, OH Found in Springfield, Wittenberg University’s acceptance rate is 72% and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 100% of students attending Wittenberg University will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 63 % 14.9% Acceptance Rate 72.4% SAT Score 1,060 – 1,300 Avg. Net Price $23,537 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,437
204	Indiana University-East	62	67.22	980 – 1,180	8718	44827	#204 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Indiana University-East Richmond, IN Found in Richmond, Indiana University-East’s acceptance rate is 67%. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications. About 57% of students at Indiana University-East currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 62 % 1.6% Acceptance Rate 67.2% SAT Score 980 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $8,718 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,827
205	North Park University	62	68.51	1,010 – 1,140	20372	49326	#205 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) North Park University Chicago, IL Based in Chicago, North Park University accepts 69% of applicants. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 100% of students attending North Park University currently receive institutional grant aid. At North Park University, there is a 62% first year retention rate and 41% of students will earn their......Read more First Year Retention Rate 62 % 10.1% Acceptance Rate 68.5% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,140 Avg. Net Price $20,372 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,326
206	Ohio Christian University	62	37.97	850 – 930	20290	34457	#206 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ohio Christian University Circleville, OH Based in Circleville, Ohio Christian University’s acceptance rate is 38%. They require $25 for undergraduate applications. About 85% of students at Ohio Christian University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 62 % 24.0% Acceptance Rate 38.0% SAT Score 850 – 930 Avg. Net Price $20,290 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $34,457
207	Roosevelt University	62	97.16	910 – 1,190	22366	42896	#207 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Roosevelt University Chicago, IL Located in Chicago, Roosevelt University accepts 97% of applicants. Undergraduates have to pay unknown to apply. Approximately 92% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid. They are given $6,203 on average. 62% of students continued their studies at Roosevelt University after completing their first year....Read more First Year Retention Rate 62 % Acceptance Rate 97.2% SAT Score 910 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $22,366 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,896
208	Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College	62	72.39	880 – 1,070	20451	41863	#208 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College Saint Mary of the Woods, IN Found in Saint Mary of the Woods, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College’s acceptance rate is 72% and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 87% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 62 % 7.5% Acceptance Rate 72.4% SAT Score 880 – 1,070 Avg. Net Price $20,451 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,863
209	Alverno College	61	85.74	890 – 1,110	24425	51755	#209 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Alverno College Milwaukee, WI Based in Milwaukee, Alverno College accepted 86% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 98% of students attending Alverno College currently receive grant aid from the school. The first year retention rate is 61%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 61 % 22.8% Acceptance Rate 85.7% SAT Score 890 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $24,425 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,755
210	Concordia University-Chicago	61	92.79	1,000 – 1,200	19073	44405	#210 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Concordia University-Chicago River Forest, IL Found in River Forest, Concordia University-Chicago accepts 93% of applicants and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 95% of students at Concordia University-Chicago currently receive grant aid from the school. At Concordia University-Chicago, there is a 61% first year retention rate and a 33% four......Read more First Year Retention Rate 61 % 3.2% Acceptance Rate 92.8% SAT Score 1,000 – 1,200 Avg. Net Price $19,073 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,405
211	The University of Olivet	61	83.25	920 – 1,130	19362	42637	#211 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) The University of Olivet Olivet, MI Found in Olivet, The University of Olivet accepts 83% of applicants and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 99% of students attending The University of Olivet will receive grant aid from the school. The school’s first year retention rate is 61% and its four year graduation rate is 34%. Business......Read more First Year Retention Rate 61 % 7.0% Acceptance Rate 83.3% SAT Score 920 – 1,130 Avg. Net Price $19,362 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,637
212	University of Northwestern Ohio	61	0	--	21853	45639	#212 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Northwestern Ohio Lima, OH First Year Retention Rate 61 % 1.6% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $21,853 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,639
213	Western Illinois University	61	71.18	910 – 1,120	14208	43057	#213 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Western Illinois University Macomb, IL Found in Macomb, Western Illinois University accepts 71% of applicants. They require $30 for undergraduate applications. About 53% of students attending Western Illinois University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. At Western Illinois University, there is a 61% first year......Read more First Year Retention Rate 61 % 3.4% Acceptance Rate 71.2% SAT Score 910 – 1,120 Avg. Net Price $14,208 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,057
214	Wright State University-Lake Campus	61	99.85	930 – 1,180	11008	42229	#214 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Wright State University-Lake Campus Celina, OH Found in Celina, Wright State University-Lake Campus accepted 100% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 83% of students attending Wright State University-Lake Campus currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 61 % 6.2% Acceptance Rate 99.9% SAT Score 930 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $11,008 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,229
215	Anderson University	60	79.34	910 – 1,160	25332	44396	#215 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Anderson University Anderson, IN Located in Anderson, Anderson University’s acceptance rate is 79%. Undergraduates have to pay unknown to apply. Approximately 98% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid. The institution’s first year retention rate is 60% and 54% of students will earn their degree in four years. Most undergraduates......Read more First Year Retention Rate 60 % 14.3% Acceptance Rate 79.3% SAT Score 910 – 1,160 Avg. Net Price $25,332 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,396
216	Bluffton University	60	67.23	890 – 1,120	20429	41940	#216 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Bluffton University Bluffton, OH Located in Bluffton, Bluffton University accepted 67% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be requested. Approximately 100% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more......Read more First Year Retention Rate 60 % 10.4% Acceptance Rate 67.2% SAT Score 890 – 1,120 Avg. Net Price $20,429 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,940
217	Ohio University-Zanesville Campus	60	0	--	5957	48991	#217 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ohio University-Zanesville Campus Zanesville, OH First Year Retention Rate 60 % 13.0% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $5,957 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,991
218	Rochester Christian University	60	97.65	860 – 1,080	21611	40813	#218 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Rochester Christian University Rochester Hills, MI Located in Rochester Hills, Rochester Christian University accepts 98% of applicants. They request unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 100% of students attending Rochester Christian University currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 60 % 10.4% Acceptance Rate 97.7% SAT Score 860 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $21,611 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,813
219	Indiana Institute of Technology	59	70.39	950 – 1,160	24208	29717	#219 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Indiana Institute of Technology Fort Wayne, IN Found in Fort Wayne, Indiana Institute of Technology accepts 70% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 100% of students at Indiana Institute of Technology currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 59 % 10.6% Acceptance Rate 70.4% SAT Score 950 – 1,160 Avg. Net Price $24,208 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $29,717
220	Judson University	59	47.59	870 – 1,160	18673	45374	#220 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Judson University Elgin, IL Based in Elgin, Judson University accepted 48% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires $50 for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. Approximately 98% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 59 % 20.3% Acceptance Rate 47.6% SAT Score 870 – 1,160 Avg. Net Price $18,673 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,374
221	Kuyper College	59	69.1	940 – 1,170	17669	33956	#221 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Kuyper College Grand Rapids, MI Based in Grand Rapids, Kuyper College accepts 69% of applicants. They require unknown for undergraduate applications. About 100% of students at Kuyper College will receive grant aid from the school. The first year retention rate is 59%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 59 % Acceptance Rate 69.1% SAT Score 940 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $17,669 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $33,956
222	Lake Erie College	59	70.36	970 – 1,180	22892	43959	#222 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Lake Erie College Painesville, OH Located in Painesville, Lake Erie College accepted 70% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications. About 100% of students at Lake Erie College currently receive grant aid from the school. At Lake Erie College, there is a 59% first year retention rate and......Read more First Year Retention Rate 59 % 10.6% Acceptance Rate 70.4% SAT Score 970 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $22,892 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,959
223	University of Akron Wayne College	59	89.92	890 – 1,140	6983	42269	#223 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Akron Wayne College Orrville, OH Based in Orrville, the University of Akron Wayne College accepted 90% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 91% of students attending the University of Akron Wayne College will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 59 % 3.5% Acceptance Rate 89.9% SAT Score 890 – 1,140 Avg. Net Price $6,983 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,269
224	Chicago State University	57	43.26	790 – 980	10441	33805	#224 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Chicago State University Chicago, IL Found in Chicago, Chicago State University accepts 43% of applicants. They request $25 for undergraduate applications. About 85% of students at Chicago State University will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 57 % 21.3% Acceptance Rate 43.3% SAT Score 790 – 980 Avg. Net Price $10,441 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $33,805
225	Central State University	56	98.61	800 – 970	11398	27173	#225 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Central State University Wilberforce, OH Based in Wilberforce, Central State University accepts 99% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 91% of students at Central State University currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 56 % 9.8% Acceptance Rate 98.6% SAT Score 800 – 970 Avg. Net Price $11,398 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $27,173
226	Defiance College	56	47.55	970 – 1,080	26298	39303	#226 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Defiance College Defiance, OH Located in Defiance, Defiance College accepts 48% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 99% of students at Defiance College will receive grant aid from the school. On average, these students receive $22,261 each. The first year retention rate is 56%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 56 % 8.2% Acceptance Rate 47.6% SAT Score 970 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $26,298 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,303
227	Governors State University	56	48.27	830 – 1,060	12756	45435	#227 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Governors State University University Park, IL Based in University Park, Governors State University accepted 48% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires $25 for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. About 44% of students attending Governors State University currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 56 % 5.1% Acceptance Rate 48.3% SAT Score 830 – 1,060 Avg. Net Price $12,756 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,435
228	University of Rio Grande	56	0	--	24061	34323	#228 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) University of Rio Grande Rio Grande, OH First Year Retention Rate 56 % 12.5% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $24,061 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $34,323
229	Indiana Institute of Technology-College of Professional Studies	55	0	--	19882	29717	#229 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Indiana Institute of Technology-College of Professional Studies Fort Wayne, IN First Year Retention Rate 55 % 37.5% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $19,882 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $29,717
230	Kent State University at Stark	54	0	--	10861	40179	#230 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Kent State University at Stark North Canton, OH First Year Retention Rate 54 % 1.9% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $10,861 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
231	Ohio University-Southern Campus	54	0	--	6014	48991	#231 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ohio University-Southern Campus Ironton, OH First Year Retention Rate 54 % 14.3% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $6,014 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,991
232	Miami University-Hamilton	53	0	--	9786	49773	#232 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Miami University-Hamilton Hamilton, OH First Year Retention Rate 53 % Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $9,786 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,773
233	Northeastern Illinois University	52	74.6	820 – 1,020	14140	43801	#233 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Northeastern Illinois University Chicago, IL Found in Chicago, Northeastern Illinois University accepts 75% of applicants and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 78% of students attending Northeastern Illinois University currently receive grant aid from the school. At Northeastern Illinois University, there is a 52% first year retention rate......Read more First Year Retention Rate 52 % 14.8% Acceptance Rate 74.6% SAT Score 820 – 1,020 Avg. Net Price $14,140 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,801
234	St- Augustine College	52	0	--	8310	31348	#234 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) St- Augustine College Chicago, IL First Year Retention Rate 52 % 16.1% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $8,310 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $31,348
235	Art Academy of Cincinnati	51	34.49	740 – 1,170	33491	27483	#235 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Art Academy of Cincinnati Cincinnati, OH Located in Cincinnati, the Art Academy of Cincinnati accepted 34% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 100% of students at the Art Academy of Cincinnati will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more......Read more First Year Retention Rate 51 % 17.7% Acceptance Rate 34.5% SAT Score 740 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $33,491 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $27,483
236	Bowling Green State University-Firelands	51	0	930 – 1,110	15782	41281	#236 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Bowling Green State University-Firelands Huron, OH First Year Retention Rate 51 % 8.9% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score 930 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $15,782 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,281
237	Eureka College	50	84.99	880 – 1,160	19128	42968	#237 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Eureka College Eureka, IL Located in Eureka, Eureka College accepted 85% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 100% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid. The college’s first year retention rate is 50% and 39% of students will earn their......Read more First Year Retention Rate 50 % 20.6% Acceptance Rate 85.0% SAT Score 880 – 1,160 Avg. Net Price $19,128 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,968
238	Kent State University at Tuscarawas	50	0	--	12576	40179	#238 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Kent State University at Tuscarawas New Philadelphia, OH First Year Retention Rate 50 % 16.7% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $12,576 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
239	National Louis University	50	95.05	850 – 930	13150	43562	#239 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) National Louis University Chicago, IL Located in Chicago, National Louis University accepts 95% of applicants. Undergraduates have to pay unknown to apply. About 18% of students attending National Louis University will receive grant aid from the school. The college’s first year retention rate is 50% and 23% of students will graduate in four years. The top three......Read more First Year Retention Rate 50 % 10.7% Acceptance Rate 95.1% SAT Score 850 – 930 Avg. Net Price $13,150 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,562
240	Ohio University-Lancaster Campus	50	0	--	5854	48991	#240 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ohio University-Lancaster Campus Lancaster, OH First Year Retention Rate 50 % 21.9% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $5,854 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,991
241	Vincennes University	50	0	--	12895	35834	#241 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Vincennes University Vincennes, IN First Year Retention Rate 50 % 3.8% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $12,895 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,834
242	Great Lakes Christian College	49	0	--	16406	28240	#242 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Great Lakes Christian College Lansing, MI First Year Retention Rate 49 % Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $16,406 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $28,240
243	Kent State University at Ashtabula	49	0	--	12653	40179	#243 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Kent State University at Ashtabula Ashtabula, OH First Year Retention Rate 49 % 69.0% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $12,653 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
244	Kent State University at Geauga	49	0	--	11886	40179	#244 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Kent State University at Geauga Burton, OH First Year Retention Rate 49 % 44.1% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $11,886 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
245	Kent State University at Salem	47	0	--	13301	40179	#245 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Kent State University at Salem Salem, OH First Year Retention Rate 47 % 23.0% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $13,301 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
246	Kent State University at Trumbull	47	0	--	11562	40179	#246 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Kent State University at Trumbull Warren, OH First Year Retention Rate 47 % 7.8% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $11,562 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
247	Concordia University Ann Arbor	45	69.25	1,010 – 1,340	31080	49761	#247 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Concordia University Ann Arbor Ann Arbor, MI Located in Ann Arbor, Concordia University Ann Arbor accepts 69% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 100% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 45 % 31.8% Acceptance Rate 69.3% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $31,080 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,761
248	Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa	43	0	--	14179	27873	#248 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa Wauwatosa, WI First Year Retention Rate 43 % Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $14,179 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $27,873
249	Calumet College of Saint Joseph	42	40	810 – 980	16765	39342	#249 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Calumet College of Saint Joseph Whiting, IN Found in Whiting, Calumet College of Saint Joseph’s acceptance rate is 40% and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 95% of students at Calumet College of Saint Joseph currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The school’s first year retention rate......Read more First Year Retention Rate 42 % 5.0% Acceptance Rate 40.0% SAT Score 810 – 980 Avg. Net Price $16,765 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,342
250	Ohio State University-Lima Campus	42	0	--	12862	51438	#250 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ohio State University-Lima Campus Lima, OH First Year Retention Rate 42 % 2.3% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $12,862 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,438
251	Herzing University-Madison	40	94.3	--	22422	35295	#251 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Herzing University-Madison Madison, WI Found in Madison, Herzing University-Madison accepted 94% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 57% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school. The first year retention rate is 40%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 40 % 16.7% Acceptance Rate 94.3% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $22,422 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,295
252	Ohio State University-Marion Campus	40	0	--	13191	51438	#252 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ohio State University-Marion Campus Marion, OH First Year Retention Rate 40 % 18.4% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $13,191 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,438
253	East-West University	37	40.69	850 – 1,010	21872	21236	#253 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) East-West University Chicago, IL Located in Chicago, East-West University’s acceptance rate is 41% and requests $40 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 75% of students attending East-West University will receive grant aid from the school. The first year retention rate is 37%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 37 % Acceptance Rate 40.7% SAT Score 850 – 1,010 Avg. Net Price $21,872 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $21,236
254	Franklin University	36	0	--	25576	49189	#254 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Franklin University Columbus, OH First Year Retention Rate 36 % Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $25,576 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,189
255	Ohio State University-Mansfield Campus	34	0	--	15634	51438	#255 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ohio State University-Mansfield Campus Mansfield, OH First Year Retention Rate 34 % 9.7% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $15,634 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,438
256	Northland College	31	74.97	970 – 1,200	23253	35819	#256 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Northland College Ashland, WI Based in Ashland, Northland College accepted 75% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 100% of students attending Northland College will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 31 % 56.3% Acceptance Rate 75.0% SAT Score 970 – 1,200 Avg. Net Price $23,253 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,819
257	Ohio State University-Newark Campus	25	0	--	14144	51438	#257 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) Ohio State University-Newark Campus Newark, OH First Year Retention Rate 25 % 3.8% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $14,144 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,438