2027 College Rankings

Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US

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Region
Southeast (AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, VA, WV)

About

The Southeast region hosts some of the nation's oldest and most distinguished educational institutions, as well as several highly ranked Hidden Gem colleges. This list highlights exceptional schools located in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Methodology

Each of these rankings is based on an analysis of data about the school's selectivity, financial health, graduation rates, student success, and more. We've outlined our full methodology here.

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Rank	Institution	Acceptance Rate	SAT Score	Your Est. Net Price Avg. Net Price	Median Starting Salary	Save
1	Rhodes College	51.51	1,320 – 1,460	31037	48898	#1 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Rhodes College Memphis, TN Getting its start in the mid-1830’s with the Montgomery Academy, Rhodes College is primarily composed of undergraduates. “Truth, Loyalty, Service” is the motto of Rhodes. Red and black are the colors for the Lynx sports teams, who compete in events such as Football, Basketball, and Lacrosse....Read more Acceptance Rate 51.5% SAT Score 1,320 – 1,460 Avg. Net Price $31,037 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,898
2	Centre College	48.16	1,240 – 1,410	23860	50073	#2 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Centre College Danville, KY Centre College’s motto is “Doctrina Lux Mentis,” or “Learning is the Light of the Mind.” Offering up to Bachelor's degrees, the school has 26 degree programs, with Econometrics and Quantitative Economics being the most sought after. Centre also has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10 to 1. Acceptance Rate 48.2% SAT Score 1,240 – 1,410 Avg. Net Price $23,860 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,073
3	Furman University	48.69	1,300 – 1,450	34086	50796	#3 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Furman University Greenville, SC Furman University is the oldest private institution of higher learning in South Carolina. 92% of students stay on after they complete their first year, and many major in Business Administration and Management, General. 375 Paladins compete in the Southern Conference....Read more Acceptance Rate 48.7% SAT Score 1,300 – 1,450 Avg. Net Price $34,086 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,796
4	Wofford College	54.87	1,240 – 1,370	30481	52076	#4 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Wofford College Spartanburg, SC Wofford College has a 12 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio and an impressive 89% first year retention rate. Many students receive institutional grants – 97% – averaging $36,914 each. Biology/Biological Sciences, General is a top undergraduate area of study. Acceptance Rate 54.9% SAT Score 1,240 – 1,370 Avg. Net Price $30,481 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $52,076
5	The University of the South	56.42	1,250 – 1,400	34815	53456	#5 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US The University of the South Sewanee, TN The University of the South, or Sewanee, sits on 13,000 acres. The grounds are often called “The Domain” or “The Mountain,” and have several Gothic-styled buildings. The university’s magazine, “Sewanee Review,” has been running since 1892, making it the oldest continuous literary magazine in the country. Acceptance Rate 56.4% SAT Score 1,250 – 1,400 Avg. Net Price $34,815 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $53,456
6	Samford University	82.36	1,100 – 1,300	34926	49466	#6 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Samford University Birmingham, AL Founded in 1841, Samford University was originally was called Howard College and was converted to a military hospital during the Civil War. Today the school has a 14 to 1 student to faculty ratio and 93% first year retention rate....Read more Acceptance Rate 82.4% SAT Score 1,100 – 1,300 Avg. Net Price $34,926 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,466
7	Rollins College	52.85	1,200 – 1,370	39201	48239	#7 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Rollins College Winter Park, FL Rollins College was founded in 1885, making it the fourth oldest post-secondary institution in Florida. Rollins has won over 20 National Championships and more than 60 Sunshine State Conference Championships. Student athletes, known as Tars, participate in Basketball, Soccer, and Tennis, among others....Read more Acceptance Rate 52.9% SAT Score 1,200 – 1,370 Avg. Net Price $39,201 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,239
8	Citadel Military College of South Carolina	28.59	1,030 – 1,240	22124	60168	#8 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Citadel Military College of South Carolina Charleston, SC The Citadel Military College of South Carolina is a senior military college that got its start as an arsenal in 1822. It became an academy in 1843 and some of its buildings were burned during the Civil War. The Citadel awards up to Post-master's certificates, and many students are studying Intelligence, General. Acceptance Rate 28.6% SAT Score 1,030 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $22,124 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $60,168
9	Patrick Henry College	77.44	1,260 – 1,440	25869	63721	#9 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Patrick Henry College Purcellville, VA Patrick Henry College is a fairly new school, having only opened in 2000. 100% of students receive grant aid, with each package averaging $13,345. Most students, 88%, stay on after the first year, and many major in Strategic Intelligence, Political Science and Government, General, and Journalism. Acceptance Rate 77.4% SAT Score 1,260 – 1,440 Avg. Net Price $25,869 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $63,721
10	Berry College	73.15	1,120 – 1,320	25363	45014	#10 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Berry College Mount Berry, GA Located in Mount Berry, Berry 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. About 100% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school. At Berry College, there is a 85% first year retention rate and around 65%......Read more Acceptance Rate 73.2% SAT Score 1,120 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $25,363 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,014
11	John Brown University	68.02	1,050 – 1,340	21537	46114	#11 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US John Brown University Siloam Springs, AR John Brown University sits on a 200-acre campus featuring the Cathedral of the Ozarks and the Windgate Visual Art Buildings. A fairly selective school, 28% of those accepted decided to enroll. It offers up to Master's degrees, and popular programs include andGeneral Studies. Acceptance Rate 68.0% SAT Score 1,050 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $21,537 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,114
12	Virginia Military Institute	74.12	1,080 – 1,290	18825	63545	#12 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Virginia Military Institute Lexington, VA Abraham Lincoln called the Virginia Military Institute the “West Point of the South.” Located on the Maury River in the Shenandoah Valley, 429 athletes (the Keydets) compete in the NCAA Division I-FCS Southern Conference. Moe the Kangaroo cheers them on. Acceptance Rate 74.1% SAT Score 1,080 – 1,290 Avg. Net Price $18,825 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $63,545
13	Christopher Newport University	86.04	1,080 – 1,300	23148	51931	#13 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Christopher Newport University Newport News, VA Based in Newport News, Christopher Newport University accepted 86% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 57% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school. 81% of students decide to stay at Christopher Newport......Read more Acceptance Rate 86.0% SAT Score 1,080 – 1,300 Avg. Net Price $23,148 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,931
14	Meredith College	75.06	1,120 – 1,370	24323	45293	#14 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Meredith College Raleigh, NC Meredith College is a private women’s liberal arts school, but its graduate program does admit men. It offers 42 majors and programs, with many choosing to study Biology/Biological Sciences, General. Athletes are known as the Avenging Angels, and they participate in the USA South Athletic Conference. Acceptance Rate 75.1% SAT Score 1,120 – 1,370 Avg. Net Price $24,323 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,293
15	Union University	58.57	1,120 – 1,380	28452	45505	#15 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Union University Jackson, TN Union University athletes are known as the Bulldogs. Previously a NCAA Division I school, they’ve won several championships while part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). Today, athletes compete in the Gulf South Conference....Read more Acceptance Rate 58.6% SAT Score 1,120 – 1,380 Avg. Net Price $28,452 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,505
16	Covenant College	74.56	1,180 – 1,380	27926	39570	#16 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US 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 87% – 67% graduate in six years. Acceptance Rate 74.6% SAT Score 1,180 – 1,380 Avg. Net Price $27,926 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,570
17	Anderson University	54.91	1,110 – 1,310	24434	42073	#17 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Anderson University Anderson, SC A member of the South Atlantic Conference, Anderson University added a football team, starting in the 2024 season. Other popular sports include Baseball, Lacrosse, and Soccer....Read more Acceptance Rate 54.9% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $24,434 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,073
18	Lipscomb University	67.74	1,090 – 1,350	27695	50454	#18 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Lipscomb University Nashville, TN Lipscomb University is a fairly selective school and during the last admissions cycle, 25% of accepted students enrolled. A NCAA Division I without football member, 262 Bisons compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference....Read more Acceptance Rate 67.7% SAT Score 1,090 – 1,350 Avg. Net Price $27,695 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,454
19	Bob Jones University	100	1,030 – 1,270	19624	40892	#19 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Bob Jones University Greenville, SC “Petimus Credimus” is the Latin motto of Bob Jones University, which means “We Seek, We Trust.” The school offers up to the doctor’s degree, though most of the students study at the undergraduate level. Many undergraduates will study Business Administration and Management, Accounting, and Registered Nursing....Read more Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score 1,030 – 1,270 Avg. Net Price $19,624 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,892
20	University of Mary Washington	74.13	1,190 – 1,370	21800	49411	#20 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US University of Mary Washington Fredericksburg, VA Located in Fredericksburg, the University of Mary Washington accepted 74% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge $50 for undergraduate applications and . About 94% of students attending the University of Mary Washington will receive grant aid from the school. The college’s first year......Read more Acceptance Rate 74.1% SAT Score 1,190 – 1,370 Avg. Net Price $21,800 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,411
21	Freed-Hardeman University	59.68	1,010 – 1,230	20178	40086	#21 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Freed-Hardeman University Henderson, TN Found in Henderson, Freed-Hardeman University accepts 60% of applicants. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but some students qualify for fee waivers. Approximately 96% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school. The college’s first year retention rate is 86% and 64% of students will earn......Read more Acceptance Rate 59.7% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $20,178 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,086
22	Transylvania University	66.05	1,090 – 1,320	25442	40447	#22 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Transylvania University Lexington, KY It may come as no surprise, but Transylvania University’s mascot is a bat – and their school color is crimson. Halloween is a big deal at the school, featuring a week-long celebration. It ends with Pumpkinmania, where the steps of a campus building are lined with carved pumpkins....Read more Acceptance Rate 66.1% SAT Score 1,090 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $25,442 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,447
23	Randolph-Macon College	91.05	1,000 – 1,260	28912	48067	#23 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Randolph-Macon College Ashland, VA Randolph-Macon College was founded in 1830, making it the oldest Methodist-run college in continuous operation in the United States. Although the school offers up to Master's degrees, most students are undergraduates....Read more Acceptance Rate 91.1% SAT Score 1,000 – 1,260 Avg. Net Price $28,912 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,067
24	Agnes Scott College	63.53	1,120 – 1,320	27499	41382	#24 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US 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 Acceptance Rate 63.5% SAT Score 1,120 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $27,499 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,382
25	Harding University	70.52	1,050 – 1,330	22806	43555	#25 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Harding University Searcy, AR In the last admissions cycle, Harding University 44% of accepted students decided to attend the following fall. In addition, 98% of students attending Harding receive institutional grant aid to help them afford tuition. Student athletes are known as the Bisons, and they wear black and gold....Read more Acceptance Rate 70.5% SAT Score 1,050 – 1,330 Avg. Net Price $22,806 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,555
26	Bellarmine University	93.71	1,020 – 1,250	23165	49819	#26 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Bellarmine University Louisville, KY Bellarmine University is a private Catholic university providing a liberal arts education. The school has a 12 to 1 student to faculty ratio, 78% first year retention rate, and 71% six year graduation rate. BU is located in the Highlands neighborhood of Louisville right near the Bardstown Road corridor. Acceptance Rate 93.7% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,250 Avg. Net Price $23,165 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,819
27	Hampden-Sydney College	37.52	1,090 – 1,320	29717	55846	#27 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Hampden-Sydney College Hampden-Sydney, VA Hampden-Sydney College is the oldest privately-charted college in the south. This all-male school focuses heavily on tradition. The campus sprawls over 1,300 acres, with part of it named to the National Register of Historic Places. The most popular major currently at H-SC is Business/Managerial Economics. Acceptance Rate 37.5% SAT Score 1,090 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $29,717 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $55,846
28	Ouachita Baptist University	70.72	1,080 – 1,310	24532	41697	#28 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Ouachita Baptist University Arkadelphia, AR Ouachita Baptist University, associated with the Arkansas Baptist State Convention, first opened in 1886. 577 athletes are known as the Tigers wear purple and gold while competing in Football, Baseball, Soccer, Swimming, and other sports....Read more Acceptance Rate 70.7% SAT Score 1,080 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $24,532 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,697
29	Eckerd College	75.8	1,170 – 1,340	43884	37505	#29 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Eckerd College Saint Petersburg, FL A private liberal arts school located not far from the beach, Eckerd College is home to several sustainability initiatives, bikesharing systems, and the Galbraith Marine Science Laboratory. In fact, Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography is a commonly chosen program....Read more Acceptance Rate 75.8% SAT Score 1,170 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $43,884 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,505
30	New College of Florida	73.2	1,070 – 1,250	9078	32611	#30 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US New College of Florida Sarasota, FL A Public school, the New College of Florida awards institutional grant aid to 100% of attending students. 153 athletes may also be eligible for athletic scholarships, as New College is a NAIA Division I institution. In class, students enjoy a cozy 8 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. Acceptance Rate 73.2% SAT Score 1,070 – 1,250 Avg. Net Price $9,078 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $32,611
31	Mississippi Christian University	84.16	1,110 – 1,340	28559	42011	#31 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Mississippi Christian University Clinton, MS Located in Clinton, Mississippi Christian University accepted 84% 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 Mississippi Christian University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college......Read more Acceptance Rate 84.2% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $28,559 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,011
32	Hollins University	67.47	1,140 – 1,300	22605	29863	#32 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Hollins University Roanoke, VA Located in Roanoke, Hollins University’s acceptance rate is 67% and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. About 100% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school. 71% of students continued their studies at Hollins University after completing their first year....Read more Acceptance Rate 67.5% SAT Score 1,140 – 1,300 Avg. Net Price $22,605 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $29,863
33	Milligan University	72.29	1,120 – 1,280	21165	43168	#33 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Milligan University Milligan, TN Milligan University is a Christ-centered liberal arts school with a 355-acre campus. 100% of students receive grant aid, about $31,220 each. A NAIA Division II university, students can also receive athletic scholarships. Many opt to study Business Administration and Management, General. Acceptance Rate 72.3% SAT Score 1,120 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $21,165 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,168
34	Roanoke College	83.06	1,110 – 1,320	26044	45330	#34 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Roanoke College Salem, VA Found in Salem, Roanoke College accepted 83% 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 attending Roanoke College will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The school’s first year......Read more Acceptance Rate 83.1% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $26,044 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,330
35	Asbury University	95.4	1,030 – 1,290	23033	35563	#35 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Asbury University Wilmore, KY Asbury University is a private Christian university located 20 minutes southwest of Lexington. The school's motto is "Academic Excellence & Spiritual Vitality. Of attending students, 100% receive grant aid — $24,516 on average. Popular majors among students include andGeneral Studies. Acceptance Rate 95.4% SAT Score 1,030 – 1,290 Avg. Net Price $23,033 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,563
36	Hendrix College	78.22	1,180 – 1,410	24699	39913	#36 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Hendrix College Conway, AR Most students at Hendrix College are undergraduates, but it awards up to Master's degrees. The school gives 100% of students institutional grant aid, with each package averaging $26,884. There are 24 majors and programs available, with many choosing to study Psychology, General. Acceptance Rate 78.2% SAT Score 1,180 – 1,410 Avg. Net Price $24,699 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,913
37	Shenandoah University	77.85	1,040 – 1,270	27181	48167	#37 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Shenandoah University Winchester, VA Found in Winchester, Shenandoah University’s acceptance rate is 78% and charges $30 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 100% of students at Shenandoah University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. At Shenandoah University, there is a 81% first year retention rate and......Read more Acceptance Rate 77.9% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,270 Avg. Net Price $27,181 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,167
38	Morehouse College	43.96	970 – 1,210	36292	38267	#38 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US 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 Acceptance Rate 44.0% SAT Score 970 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $36,292 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $38,267
39	Lee University	71.38	1,040 – 1,270	20416	38082	#39 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Lee University Cleveland, TN Found in Cleveland, Lee University accepts 71% of applicants. They charge $25 for undergraduate applications, but some students qualify for fee waivers. Approximately 99% of students at Lee University will receive grant aid from the school....Read more Acceptance Rate 71.4% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,270 Avg. Net Price $20,416 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $38,082
40	Converse University	67.87	1,010 – 1,250	19061	33110	#40 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Converse University Spartanburg, SC Opened as a women’s college in 1889, Converse College became Converse University and began admitting men in 2021. 68% of applicants receive acceptance letters, and 96% of those enrolled receive grant aid to help them afford tuition....Read more Acceptance Rate 67.9% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,250 Avg. Net Price $19,061 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $33,110
41	Longwood University	90.22	1,030 – 1,220	20847	46058	#41 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Longwood University Farmville, VA Located in Farmville, Longwood University accepts 90% of applicants and charges $50 for undergraduate applications. About 90% of students at Longwood University currently receive institutional grant aid. They receive $7,486 on average. The first year retention rate is 80%....Read more Acceptance Rate 90.2% SAT Score 1,030 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $20,847 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,058
42	Eastern Mennonite University	99.92	1,140 – 1,540	25021	48158	#42 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Eastern Mennonite University Harrisonburg, VA Based in Harrisonburg, Eastern Mennonite University’s acceptance rate is 100%. They require unknown for undergraduate applications. About 96% of students attending Eastern Mennonite University will receive grant aid from the school....Read more Acceptance Rate 99.9% SAT Score 1,140 – 1,540 Avg. Net Price $25,021 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,158
43	Florida Polytechnic University	34.77	1,140 – 1,320	13016	77545	#43 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Florida Polytechnic University Lakeland, FL Originally a part of the University of South Florida, Florida Polytechnic University branched off in 2012. It’s selective, only accepting around 35% of students. The 170-acre campus is home to a variety of labs including ones for 3-D printing, robotics, gaming, and cybersecurity. Acceptance Rate 34.8% SAT Score 1,140 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $13,016 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $77,545
44	Campbell University	87.2	1,020 – 1,220	25736	45511	#44 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Campbell University Buies Creek, NC Based in Buies Creek, Campbell University accepts 87% of applicants. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications. About 99% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid....Read more Acceptance Rate 87.2% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $25,736 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,511
45	William Carey University	60.29	1,020 – 1,220	15469	37639	#45 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US William Carey University Hattiesburg, MS Based in Hattiesburg, William Carey University accepts 60% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 96% of students at William Carey University currently receive grant aid from the school. 78% of students continued studying at William Carey University after completing their first......Read more Acceptance Rate 60.3% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $15,469 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,639
46	Lynn University	74.25	1,050 – 1,220	45469	41427	#46 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Lynn University Boca Raton, FL Located in Boca Raton, Lynn University accepts 74% of applicants. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 95% of students at Lynn University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more Acceptance Rate 74.3% SAT Score 1,050 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $45,469 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,427
47	Queens University of Charlotte	80.5	1,150 – 1,340	31839	48170	#47 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Queens University of Charlotte Charlotte, NC Queens University of Charlotte opened its doors in 1857 as the Charlotte Female Institute. Co-educational today, women still make up a majority of the study body. It’s affiliated with the Presbyterian Church and as of 2026, controlled by Elon University. Acceptance Rate 80.5% SAT Score 1,150 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $31,839 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,170
48	Oglethorpe University	89.8	1,120 – 1,290	20490	42691	#48 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Oglethorpe University Atlanta, GA Based in Atlanta, Oglethorpe University accepts 90% of applicants. Undergraduates have to send in $50 to apply. Approximately 99% of students at Oglethorpe University currently receive institutional grant aid. They receive $32,484 on average. The first year retention rate is 75%....Read more Acceptance Rate 89.8% SAT Score 1,120 – 1,290 Avg. Net Price $20,490 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,691
49	Bryan College-Dayton	100	980 – 1,190	18159	45559	#49 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Bryan College-Dayton Dayton, TN Found in Dayton, Bryan College-Dayton accepts 100% of applicants and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 94% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score 980 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $18,159 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,559
50	Presbyterian College	65.15	1,060 – 1,240	20840	44387	#50 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Presbyterian College Clinton, SC Located in Clinton, Presbyterian College accepted 65% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. About 100% of students attending Presbyterian College currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more Acceptance Rate 65.2% SAT Score 1,060 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $20,840 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,387
51	Randolph College	90.04	1,050 – 1,230	21668	39122	#51 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Randolph College Lynchburg, VA Randolph College was an all women’s school for over 100 years, only becoming coeducational in 2007. It has an 8 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. 100% receive institutional grants, with each package averaging $16,567. Biology/Biological Sciences, General is the most popular major. Acceptance Rate 90.0% SAT Score 1,050 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $21,668 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,122
52	Centenary College of Louisiana	61.05	1,040 – 1,250	25953	42821	#52 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Centenary College of Louisiana Shreveport, LA The Centenary College of Louisiana is the oldest chartered liberal arts college west of the Mississippi, having been founded in 1885. Students can benefit from a 8 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio and the 65-acre campus that is home to more than 300 species of plant life....Read more Acceptance Rate 61.1% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,250 Avg. Net Price $25,953 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,821
53	Ave Maria University	41.39	1,050 – 1,280	25294	43572	#53 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Ave Maria University Ave Maria, FL Ave Maria University is a private Catholic university located in southwest Florida. Found in 2003 by Tom Monaghan, AMU is the first new Catholic university since 1963. The school has a 17 to 1 student to faculty ratio and 79% first year retention rate. Acceptance Rate 41.4% SAT Score 1,050 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $25,294 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,572
54	Flagler College	78.7	1,090 – 1,260	32395	41963	#54 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Flagler College Saint Augustine, FL Based in Saint Augustine, Flagler College’s acceptance rate is 79% and charges $50 for undergraduate applications. About 98% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid. The institution’s first year retention rate is 71% and 45% of students will earn their degree in four years. The common majors among......Read more Acceptance Rate 78.7% SAT Score 1,090 – 1,260 Avg. Net Price $32,395 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,963
55	Jacksonville University	57.48	1,130 – 1,290	24238	61991	#55 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Jacksonville University Jacksonville, FL Found in Jacksonville, Jacksonville University accepted 57% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires $30 for undergraduate applications and $30 for graduate applications. Approximately 99% of students attending Jacksonville University currently receive institutional grant aid to make......Read more Acceptance Rate 57.5% SAT Score 1,130 – 1,290 Avg. Net Price $24,238 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $61,991
56	Southern Adventist University	71.63	1,010 – 1,280	25753	44818	#56 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Southern Adventist University Collegedale, TN Southern Adventist University, a Seventh-day Adventist institution, has a student-to-faculty ratio of 19 to 1 and a first year retention rate of 84%. Many undergraduates study Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse....Read more Acceptance Rate 71.6% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $25,753 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,818
57	University of Mobile	77.89	1,110 – 1,310	22382	37411	#57 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US University of Mobile Mobile, AL A Southern Baptist school and affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention, the University of Mobile is a private institution. With 49 programs to choose from, the school also has partnerships with Auburn University and the University of South Alabama to offer engineering degrees. Acceptance Rate 77.9% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $22,382 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,411
58	Southern Wesleyan University	99.53	1,080 – 1,260	20134	41489	#58 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US Southern Wesleyan University Central, SC Southern Wesleyan University’s Warriors compete in the NCAA Division II without football Conference Carolinas wearing blue and light blue. Popular sports include Basketball, Baseball, and Track and Field and Cross Country (combined). SWU has an acceptance rate of 100% with a yield of 32%. Acceptance Rate 99.5% SAT Score 1,080 – 1,260 Avg. Net Price $20,134 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,489
59	West Liberty University	97.27	920 – 1,150	13655	36822	#59 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast US West Liberty University West Liberty, WV Dating back to 1837, West Liberty University is one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in West Virginia. Many of its 478 student-athletes (Hilltoppers) participate in the NCAA Division II with football Mountain East Conference....Read more Acceptance Rate 97.3% SAT Score 920 – 1,150 Avg. Net Price $13,655 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $36,822