2026 College Rankings

Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia

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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	Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus	98	14.07	1,370 – 1,530	15901	89432	#1 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus Atlanta, GA Also referred to as Georgia Tech, the Georgia Institute of Technology was founded in 1885 as part of the Reconstruction plans post-Civil War. At first, it only provided degrees in Mechanical Engineering. By 1901, it also offered Chemical, Civil, and Electrical Engineering....Read more First Year Retention Rate 98 % Acceptance Rate 14.1% SAT Score 1,370 – 1,530 Avg. Net Price $15,901 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $89,432
2	Emory University	96	10.29	1,460 – 1,550	27986	74980	#2 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Emory University Atlanta, GA Emory University is a private, doctoral/research college. It has a 96% first year retention rate, 83% four year graduation rate, and 8 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. There are nine academic divisions, including the Emory College of Arts and Sciences, Laney Graduate School, and Rollins School of Public Health, among others. First Year Retention Rate 96 % Acceptance Rate 10.3% SAT Score 1,460 – 1,550 Avg. Net Price $27,986 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $74,980
3	University of Georgia	94.6	37.19	1,250 – 1,430	16303	57565	#3 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia University of Georgia Athens, GA At the University of Georgia, many undergraduates will go on to major in Psychology, General. Founded in 1785, it’s a Public Ivy and one of the oldest public schools in the country. Over the years, UGA has produced many well known public figures, including football players, Pulitzer prize winners, and more. First Year Retention Rate 95 % Acceptance Rate 37.2% SAT Score 1,250 – 1,430 Avg. Net Price $16,303 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $57,565
4	Spelman College	94	24.87	1,110 – 1,330	37403	45676	#4 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Spelman College Atlanta, GA Spelman College is a women’s liberal arts college that was founded in 1881. 23% of those accepted go on to attend. Many students major in Psychology, General. Spelman has an 11 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio and 94% first year retention rate. First Year Retention Rate 94 % Acceptance Rate 24.9% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,330 Avg. Net Price $37,403 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,676
5	Covenant College	88.2	86.51	1,150 – 1,380	25471	39570	#5 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Covenant College Lookout Mountain, GA Affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America, Covenant College’s motto is “In All Things Christ Preeminent.” Courses are taught from a Reformed Christian perspective, and students can earn up to a Master's degree. It has a first year retention rate of 88% – 72% graduate in six years. First Year Retention Rate 88 % Acceptance Rate 86.5% SAT Score 1,150 – 1,380 Avg. Net Price $25,471 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,570
6	Morehouse College	87	43.96	970 – 1,210	34733	38267	#6 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Morehouse College Atlanta, GA A men’s HBCU, alumni of Morehouse College include Martin Luther King Jr., Spike Lee, and Samuel L. Jackson. It’s highly selective and about 27% of accepted students enroll....Read more First Year Retention Rate 87 % Acceptance Rate 44.0% SAT Score 970 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $34,733 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $38,267
7	Savannah College of Art and Design	87	83.68	1,070 – 1,300	46524	34110	#7 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Savannah College of Art and Design Savannah, GA Located in Savannah, Savannah College of Art and Design accepted 84% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires $100 for undergraduate applications and $100 for graduate applications. About 97% of students attending Savannah College of Art and Design currently receive institutional grant aid to......Read more First Year Retention Rate 87 % 2.4% Acceptance Rate 83.7% SAT Score 1,070 – 1,300 Avg. Net Price $46,524 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $34,110
8	Berry College	84	64	1,120 – 1,320	25383	45014	#8 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Berry College Mount Berry, GA Located in Mount Berry, Berry College accepted 64% 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 attending students will receive grant aid from the school. At Berry College, there is a 84% first year retention rate and around 66%......Read more First Year Retention Rate 84 % Acceptance Rate 64.0% SAT Score 1,120 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $25,383 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,014
9	Georgia College & State University	82.35	78.23	1,090 – 1,240	19769	50644	#9 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Georgia College & State University Milledgeville, GA Found in Milledgeville, Georgia College & State University accepted 78% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request $55 for undergraduate applications, but some students qualify for fee waivers. Approximately 13% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid. At Georgia......Read more First Year Retention Rate 82 % 2.4% Acceptance Rate 78.2% SAT Score 1,090 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $19,769 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,644
10	Mercer University	81.92	68.89	1,180 – 1,370	24197	50231	#10 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Mercer University Macon, GA Based in Macon, Mercer University accepts 69% of applicants. They request $50 for undergraduate applications, but some students qualify for fee waivers. Approximately 98% of students at Mercer University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 82 % Acceptance Rate 68.9% SAT Score 1,180 – 1,370 Avg. Net Price $24,197 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,231
11	Agnes Scott College	81.33	62.15	1,180 – 1,370	25609	41382	#11 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Agnes Scott College Decatur, GA One of the Seven Sisters, Agnes Scott College is a women’s undergraduate school but offers co-educational graduate programs as well. The school underwent many name changes since it was founded in 1889, starting with the Decatur Female Seminary....Read more First Year Retention Rate 81 % Acceptance Rate 62.2% SAT Score 1,180 – 1,370 Avg. Net Price $25,609 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,382
12	Albany State University	78	73.02	790 – 940	13775	35579	#12 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Albany State University Albany, GA Found in Albany, Albany State University accepts 73% of applicants. They request $25 for undergraduate applications and $25 for graduate applications. Approximately 12% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 78 % 23.6% Acceptance Rate 73.0% SAT Score 790 – 940 Avg. Net Price $13,775 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,579
13	Chamberlain University-Georgia	78	96.15	--	31471	59213	#13 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Chamberlain University-Georgia Sandy Springs, GA Located in Sandy Springs, Chamberlain University-Georgia accepted 96% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges $95 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 22% of students attending Chamberlain University-Georgia will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more......Read more First Year Retention Rate 78 % 0.0% Acceptance Rate 96.2% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $31,471 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,213
14	Georgia Southern University	78	87.89	990 – 1,140	16957	44423	#14 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Georgia Southern University Statesboro, GA Located in Statesboro, Georgia Southern University accepted 88% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests $30 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 27% of students attending Georgia Southern University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more......Read more First Year Retention Rate 78 % Acceptance Rate 87.9% SAT Score 990 – 1,140 Avg. Net Price $16,957 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,423
15	Georgia State University	77.75	55.43	960 – 1,220	16390	37844	#15 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Georgia State University Atlanta, GA Based in Atlanta, Georgia State University’s acceptance rate is 55%. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but some students qualify for fee waivers. About 10% of students attending Georgia State University currently receive grant aid from the school. The school’s first year retention rate is 77% and around 34%......Read more First Year Retention Rate 78 % Acceptance Rate 55.4% SAT Score 960 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $16,390 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,844
16	University of West Georgia	77.5	51.61	950 – 1,130	14962	41000	#16 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia University of West Georgia Carrollton, GA Located in Carrollton, the University of West Georgia accepts 52% of applicants. They request $40 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 15% of students at the University of West Georgia currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 78 % Acceptance Rate 51.6% SAT Score 950 – 1,130 Avg. Net Price $14,962 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,000
17	Kennesaw State University	76.7	69.19	1,010 – 1,230	17566	47863	#17 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Kennesaw State University Kennesaw, GA Located in Kennesaw, Kennesaw State University’s acceptance rate is 69%. Undergraduates have to pay $40 to apply. Approximately 8% of students at Kennesaw State University currently receive institutional grant aid. The first year retention rate is 76%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 77 % Acceptance Rate 69.2% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $17,566 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,863
18	Augusta University	75.1	62.76	1,020 – 1,230	13486	45037	#18 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Augusta University Augusta, GA Found in Augusta, Augusta University’s acceptance rate is 63% and requests $60 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 16% of students attending Augusta University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The first year retention rate is 75%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 75 % Acceptance Rate 62.8% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $13,486 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,037
19	Reformed University	75	73.42	--	0	63721	#19 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Reformed University Lawrenceville, GA First Year Retention Rate 75 % 0.0% Acceptance Rate 73.4% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $63,721
20	Wesleyan College	75	62.07	880 – 950	15621	35630	#20 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Wesleyan College Macon, GA Found in Macon, Wesleyan College’s acceptance rate is 62% and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 100% of students at Wesleyan College will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 75 % 5.6% Acceptance Rate 62.1% SAT Score 880 – 950 Avg. Net Price $15,621 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,630
21	Clayton State University	73	70.56	880 – 1,070	9397	41633	#21 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Clayton State University Morrow, GA Located in Morrow, Clayton State University accepts 71% of applicants and requires $40 for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. About 10% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 73 % 5.8% Acceptance Rate 70.6% SAT Score 880 – 1,070 Avg. Net Price $9,397 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,633
22	Fort Valley State University	73	62.8	830 – 950	11457	28649	#22 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Fort Valley State University Fort Valley, GA Found in Fort Valley, Fort Valley State University accepted 63% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge $20 for undergraduate applications and $20 for graduate applications. Approximately 21% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more......Read more First Year Retention Rate 73 % 1.9% Acceptance Rate 62.8% SAT Score 830 – 950 Avg. Net Price $11,457 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $28,649
23	Columbus State University	72	99.18	900 – 1,140	11384	39190	#23 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Columbus State University Columbus, GA Located in Columbus, Columbus State University accepted 99% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges $40 for undergraduate applications. About 22% of students attending Columbus State University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The school’s......Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % Acceptance Rate 99.2% SAT Score 900 – 1,140 Avg. Net Price $11,384 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,190
24	Valdosta State University	71.9	72.14	920 – 1,110	11532	39416	#24 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Valdosta State University Valdosta, GA Valdosta State University was originally an all women college when it opened in 1913. It became coeducational in 1950. Today, it’s a part of the University System of Georgia. 356 athletes compete as the Blazers, wearing red and black. VSU is a NCAA Division II with football school. First Year Retention Rate 72 % Acceptance Rate 72.1% SAT Score 920 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $11,532 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,416
25	Point University	71	67.51	920 – 1,200	22622	36410	#25 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Point University West Point, GA Based in West Point, Point University accepted 68% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 93% of students at Point University currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 71 % 31.5% Acceptance Rate 67.5% SAT Score 920 – 1,200 Avg. Net Price $22,622 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $36,410
26	Piedmont University	70	93.28	1,020 – 1,240	21599	43761	#26 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Piedmont University Demorest, GA Found in Demorest, Piedmont University accepted 93% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. About 100% of students at Piedmont University will receive grant aid from the school. The first year retention rate is 70%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 70 % Acceptance Rate 93.3% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $21,599 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,761
27	Savannah State University	70	83.68	890 – 1,010	8506	27494	#27 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Savannah State University Savannah, GA Based in Savannah, Savannah State University’s acceptance rate is 84% and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and $25 for graduate applications. About 26% of students attending Savannah State University will receive institutional grant aid. The college’s first year retention rate is 70% and around 11% of students......Read more First Year Retention Rate 70 % 12.5% Acceptance Rate 83.7% SAT Score 890 – 1,010 Avg. Net Price $8,506 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $27,494
28	Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College	69	77.16	900 – 1,110	6923	35495	#28 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Tifton, GA Based in Tifton, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College’s acceptance rate is 77% and requests $20 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 59% of students attending Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % 3.0% Acceptance Rate 77.2% SAT Score 900 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $6,923 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,495
29	Clark Atlanta University	69	64.63	880 – 1,120	29736	28097	#29 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Clark Atlanta University Atlanta, GA Clark Atlanta University was the first HBCU in the Southern United States. Originally called Atlanta University when it opened in 1865, it was founded by two former slaves. It received its current name when it merged with Clark College in 1988. CAU is fairly selective. First Year Retention Rate 69 % 2.8% Acceptance Rate 64.6% SAT Score 880 – 1,120 Avg. Net Price $29,736 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $28,097
30	Georgia Highlands College	67	11.1	830 – 1,010	6779	37516	#30 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Georgia Highlands College Rome, GA Found in Rome, Georgia Highlands College accepts 11% of applicants and requires $30 for undergraduate applications and . About 6% of students at Georgia Highlands College will receive institutional grant aid. At Georgia Highlands College, there is a 67% first year retention rate and 0% of students will graduate in four years......Read more First Year Retention Rate 67 % 4.7% Acceptance Rate 11.1% SAT Score 830 – 1,010 Avg. Net Price $6,779 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,516
31	Brenau University	65	87.78	1,040 – 1,170	20860	41664	#31 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Brenau University Gainesville, GA Based in Gainesville, Brenau University’s acceptance rate is 88% and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 86% of students attending Brenau University currently receive institutional grant aid. The first year retention rate is 65%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 65 % Acceptance Rate 87.8% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $20,860 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,664
32	Young Harris College	64.1	62.64	910 – 1,180	20509	36389	#32 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Young Harris College Young Harris, GA Located in Young Harris, Young Harris College accepts 63% of applicants. Undergraduates have to pay unknown to apply. Approximately 100% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid. The first year retention rate is 64%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 64 % 15.7% Acceptance Rate 62.6% SAT Score 910 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $20,509 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $36,389
33	Morris Brown College	64	51.39	730 – 900	19468	63721	#33 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Morris Brown College Atlanta, GA Found in Atlanta, Morris Brown College’s acceptance rate is 51%. They require $30 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 4% of students attending Morris Brown College will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. They are given $8,500 on average. The first year retention rate is 64%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 64 % 4.9% Acceptance Rate 51.4% SAT Score 730 – 900 Avg. Net Price $19,468 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $63,721
34	Thomas University	64	43.16	970 – 1,130	19087	45305	#34 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Thomas University Thomasville, GA Thomas University received 500 last admissions cycle and, out of the accepted students, 62% enrolled. Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration is the most popular area of study by far, followed by andLiberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. First Year Retention Rate 64 % 0.0% Acceptance Rate 43.2% SAT Score 970 – 1,130 Avg. Net Price $19,087 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,305
35	Georgia Southwestern State University	63.9	77.16	970 – 1,140	11779	42047	#35 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Georgia Southwestern State University Americus, GA Based in Americus, Georgia Southwestern State University’s acceptance rate is 77% and charges $25 for undergraduate applications. About 39% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid. The college’s first year retention rate is 63% and its four year graduation rate is 20%. Elementary Education and Teaching,......Read more First Year Retention Rate 64 % Acceptance Rate 77.2% SAT Score 970 – 1,140 Avg. Net Price $11,779 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,047
36	Georgia Gwinnett College	63.37	95.5	870 – 1,120	11037	36756	#36 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Georgia Gwinnett College Lawrenceville, GA Based in Lawrenceville, Georgia Gwinnett College’s acceptance rate is 96% and requires $30 for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 6% of students attending Georgia Gwinnett College currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 63 % 7.9% Acceptance Rate 95.5% SAT Score 870 – 1,120 Avg. Net Price $11,037 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $36,756
37	Shorter University	63	96.93	970 – 1,210	16692	41860	#37 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Shorter University Rome, GA Found in Rome, Shorter University accepted 97% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and $25 for graduate applications. Approximately 95% of students at Shorter University will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 63 % Acceptance Rate 96.9% SAT Score 970 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $16,692 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,860
38	Toccoa Falls College	63	65.89	990 – 1,200	20657	33131	#38 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Toccoa Falls College Toccoa Falls, GA Found in Toccoa Falls, Toccoa Falls College accepts 66% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. Approximately 92% of students attending Toccoa Falls College will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 63 % Acceptance Rate 65.9% SAT Score 990 – 1,200 Avg. Net Price $20,657 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $33,131
39	Reinhardt University	62	61.54	970 – 1,170	27507	40411	#39 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Reinhardt University Waleska, GA Based in Waleska, Reinhardt University accepts 62% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 100% of students at Reinhardt University will receive institutional grant aid. At Reinhardt University, there is a 62% first year retention rate and around 20% of students will earn a degree......Read more First Year Retention Rate 62 % 10.7% Acceptance Rate 61.5% SAT Score 970 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $27,507 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,411
40	Life University	61	93.03	930 – 1,110	30403	37368	#40 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Life University Marietta, GA Based in Marietta, Life University’s acceptance rate is 93% and requires $50 for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. About 69% of students attending Life University will receive grant aid from the school. The institution’s first year retention rate is 61% and its four year graduation rate is 24%. The......Read more First Year Retention Rate 61 % Acceptance Rate 93.0% SAT Score 930 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $30,403 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,368
41	Middle Georgia State University	61	99.77	930 – 1,160	13326	39624	#41 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Middle Georgia State University Macon, GA Located in Macon, Middle Georgia State University accepts 100% of applicants. They charge $30 for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. Approximately 7% of students attending Middle Georgia State University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 61 % 10.9% Acceptance Rate 99.8% SAT Score 930 – 1,160 Avg. Net Price $13,326 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,624
42	Paine College	61	86.2	820 – 1,000	17048	25240	#42 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Paine College Augusta, GA Found in Augusta, Paine College accepts 86% of applicants. Undergraduates have to send in $25 to apply. About 29% of students at Paine College currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 61 % Acceptance Rate 86.2% SAT Score 820 – 1,000 Avg. Net Price $17,048 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $25,240
43	Beulah Heights University	60	61.85	--	7311	21108	#43 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Beulah Heights University Atlanta, GA Based in Atlanta, Beulah Heights University’s acceptance rate is 62%. They charge $50 for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be requested. Approximately 10% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 60 % 5.3% Acceptance Rate 61.9% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $7,311 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $21,108
44	Dalton State College	60	43.43	930 – 1,110	5083	37491	#44 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Dalton State College Dalton, GA Based in Dalton, Dalton State College accepted 43% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge $30 for undergraduate applications, but some students qualify for fee waivers. Approximately 3% of students attending Dalton State College currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending......Read more First Year Retention Rate 60 % 17.2% Acceptance Rate 43.4% SAT Score 930 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $5,083 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,491
45	LaGrange College	60	58.05	1,000 – 1,150	24564	46599	#45 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia LaGrange College Lagrange, GA Found in Lagrange, LaGrange College accepts 58% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 100% of students attending LaGrange College will receive institutional grant aid. At LaGrange College, there is a 60% first year retention rate and around 39% of students will earn their degree......Read more First Year Retention Rate 60 % Acceptance Rate 58.1% SAT Score 1,000 – 1,150 Avg. Net Price $24,564 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,599
46	South Georgia State College	60	72.16	--	9222	30570	#46 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia South Georgia State College Douglas, GA Based in Douglas, South Georgia State College accepts 72% of applicants. Undergraduates have to pay $20 to apply. About 25% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 60 % 0.0% Acceptance Rate 72.2% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $9,222 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $30,570
47	Truett McConnell University	59	90.68	990 – 1,180	22373	39193	#47 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Truett McConnell University Cleveland, GA Found in Cleveland, Truett McConnell University accepted 91% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 100% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school. The college’s first year retention rate is 59% and its four year......Read more First Year Retention Rate 59 % 14.5% Acceptance Rate 90.7% SAT Score 990 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $22,373 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,193
48	College of Coastal Georgia	58.7	98.13	850 – 1,120	12670	35382	#48 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia College of Coastal Georgia Brunswick, GA Found in Brunswick, the College of Coastal Georgia accepted 98% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires $25 for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 24% of students attending the College of Coastal Georgia will receive grant aid from the school. At the College of Coastal Georgia,......Read more First Year Retention Rate 59 % Acceptance Rate 98.1% SAT Score 850 – 1,120 Avg. Net Price $12,670 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,382
49	Emmanuel University	57	53.36	970 – 1,170	19006	37595	#49 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Emmanuel University Franklin Springs, GA Based in Franklin Springs, Emmanuel University accepts 53% of applicants. They charge $25 for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. About 93% of students at Emmanuel University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. At Emmanuel University, there is a 57% first......Read more First Year Retention Rate 57 % 10.9% Acceptance Rate 53.4% SAT Score 970 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $19,006 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,595
50	South University-Savannah	50	81.76	--	24116	34115	#50 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia South University-Savannah Savannah, GA Located in Savannah, South University-Savannah accepted 82% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge $75 for undergraduate applications and $75 for graduate applications. About 10% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 50 % 0.0% Acceptance Rate 81.8% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $24,116 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $34,115
51	Strayer University-Georgia	50	0	--	20415	36582	#51 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Strayer University-Georgia Chamblee, GA First Year Retention Rate 50 % 0.0% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $20,415 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $36,582
52	Gordon State College	48	86.78	850 – 1,080	8255	33163	#52 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Gordon State College Barnesville, GA Found in Barnesville, Gordon State College accepted 87% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests $30 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 11% of students at Gordon State College currently receive grant aid from the school. The college’s first year retention rate is 48% and 3% of......Read more First Year Retention Rate 48 % 0.0% Acceptance Rate 86.8% SAT Score 850 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $8,255 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $33,163
53	DeVry University-Georgia	40	100	--	30243	42178	#53 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia DeVry University-Georgia Decatur, GA Located in Decatur, DeVry University-Georgia’s acceptance rate is 100%. They charge $30 for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be offered. About 50% of students attending DeVry University-Georgia currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 40 % Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $30,243 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,178
54	Andrew College	38	51.15	800 – 1,010	22806	30337	#54 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Andrew College Cuthbert, GA Based in Cuthbert, Andrew College’s acceptance rate is 51%. Undergraduates have to pay $20 to apply. Approximately 93% of students attending Andrew College currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 38 % 24.0% Acceptance Rate 51.2% SAT Score 800 – 1,010 Avg. Net Price $22,806 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $30,337
55	Brewton-Parker Christian University	38	86.35	850 – 1,040	22488	35732	#55 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Brewton-Parker Christian University Mount Vernon, GA Based in Mount Vernon, Brewton-Parker Christian University accepts 86% of applicants and requests $35 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 100% of students at Brewton-Parker Christian University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 38 % 17.4% Acceptance Rate 86.4% SAT Score 850 – 1,040 Avg. Net Price $22,488 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,732
56	Atlanta Metropolitan State College	37	67.51	750 – 870	4902	26849	#56 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Atlanta Metropolitan State College Atlanta, GA Located in Atlanta, Atlanta Metropolitan State College accepted 68% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request $20 for undergraduate applications, but some students qualify for fee waivers. Approximately 1% of students at Atlanta Metropolitan State College currently receive institutional grant......Read more First Year Retention Rate 37 % 33.9% Acceptance Rate 67.5% SAT Score 750 – 870 Avg. Net Price $4,902 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $26,849
57	American InterContinental University-Atlanta	35	95.45	--	15590	27823	#57 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia American InterContinental University-Atlanta Atlanta, GA Located in Atlanta, American InterContinental University-Atlanta’s acceptance rate is 95% and requires $50 for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 23% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school. The college’s first year retention rate is 35% and around 25% of students will graduate within four......Read more First Year Retention Rate 35 % 0.0% Acceptance Rate 95.5% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $15,590 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $27,823
58	Herzing University-Atlanta	30	94.12	--	22886	35295	#58 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Herzing University-Atlanta Atlanta, GA Based in Atlanta, Herzing University-Atlanta accepted 94% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. About 75% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school. At Herzing University-Atlanta, there is a 30% first year retention rate and a 14%......Read more First Year Retention Rate 30 % 0.0% Acceptance Rate 94.1% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $22,886 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,295
59	East Georgia State College	1	100	760 – 930	9314	30593	#59 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia East Georgia State College Swainsboro, GA Located in Swainsboro, East Georgia State College’s acceptance rate is 100% and requests $20 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 12% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 1 % Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score 760 – 930 Avg. Net Price $9,314 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $30,593
60	Luther Rice College & Seminary	0	91.67	--	3935	39300	#60 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Luther Rice College & Seminary Lithonia, GA First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 91.7% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $3,935 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,300
61	Oglethorpe University	0	88.6	1,100 – 1,340	22251	42691	#61 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia Oglethorpe University Atlanta, GA First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 88.6% SAT Score 1,100 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $22,251 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,691
62	University of North Georgia	0	67.94	990 – 1,210	11687	43085	#62 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Georgia University of North Georgia Dahlonega, GA First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 67.9% SAT Score 990 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $11,687 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,085