2026 College Rankings

Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois

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The median SAT ranking is a measure of the overall academic performance of students on campus. It's important to note that students often feel most comfortable on campuses where their own academic performance is close to the average performance of other students. Students who fall either far above or below the median can sometimes feel out of place amongst their peers.

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Rank	Institution	Est. Median SAT	Acceptance Rate	SAT Score	Your Est. Net Price Avg. Net Price	Median Starting Salary	Save
1	University of Chicago	1535	4.48	1,510 – 1,570	28060	80870	#1 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,535 0.1% 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	Northwestern University	1527	7.69	1,500 – 1,560	26830	76844	#2 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,527 0.9% 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
3	University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign	1406	42.37	1,330 – 1,520	13973	64802	#3 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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." Est. Median SAT 1,406 2.1% 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
4	Wheaton College	1363	87.4	1,280 – 1,460	31356	50270	#4 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,363 0.9% 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
5	Lake Forest College	1323	56.81	1,240 – 1,410	31225	51324	#5 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,323 1.5% 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
6	Illinois Institute of Technology	1307	54.93	1,200 – 1,440	24796	70803	#6 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,307 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
7	Loyola University Chicago	1303	81.6	1,220 – 1,390	39147	58411	#7 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,303 1.9% 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
8	Knox College	1281	70.79	1,160 – 1,440	25709	37757	#8 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,281 3.7% 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
9	DePaul University	1254	75.89	1,160 – 1,350	34135	54695	#9 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,254 0.3% 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
10	University of Illinois Chicago	1252	77.35	1,150 – 1,360	10852	53218	#10 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,252 0.4% 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
11	Illinois Wesleyan University	1248	39.31	1,150 – 1,350	28644	56082	#11 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,248 0.1% 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
12	Bradley University	1223	76.76	1,120 – 1,330	23787	59114	#12 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,223 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
13	Blessing Rieman College of Nursing and Health Sciences	1209	69.32	1,110 – 1,310	0	67602	#13 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois Blessing Rieman College of Nursing and Health Sciences Quincy, IL Est. Median SAT 1,209 Acceptance Rate 69.3% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $67,602
14	North Central College	1203	77.33	1,090 – 1,320	23276	51762	#14 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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. Est. Median SAT 1,203 1.5% 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
15	Augustana College	1163	62.68	1,040 – 1,290	24714	49849	#15 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,163 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
16	Benedictine University	1161	95.23	1,030 – 1,300	23139	50222	#16 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,161 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
17	School of the Art Institute of Chicago	1160	77.47	1,080 – 1,240	55631	26742	#17 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,160 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
18	Elmhurst University	1148	73.64	1,020 – 1,280	24629	52803	#18 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,148 3.0% 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
19	University of St Francis	1145	65.29	1,040 – 1,250	14045	56648	#19 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,145 9.0% 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
20	Principia College	1125	44.4	1,030 – 1,220	18248	63721	#20 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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. Est. Median SAT 1,125 0.2% 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
21	Illinois State University	1120	88.15	1,010 – 1,230	21369	50599	#21 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,120 2.2% 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
22	Monmouth College	1120	90.93	1,010 – 1,230	17768	43158	#22 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,120 0.9% 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
23	Quincy University	1115	50.93	1,020 – 1,210	19477	43331	#23 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,115 3.9% 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
24	Olivet Nazarene University	1104	55.86	980 – 1,230	21281	49278	#24 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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. Est. Median SAT 1,104 0.5% 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
25	Concordia University-Chicago	1100	92.79	1,000 – 1,200	19073	44405	#25 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,100 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
26	Lewis University	1099	71.29	980 – 1,220	18959	56095	#26 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,099 1.9% 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
27	Southern Illinois University Edwardsville	1099	97.5	980 – 1,220	17115	46384	#27 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,099 3.2% 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
28	University of Illinois Springfield	1099	85.88	980 – 1,220	10809	47432	#28 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,099 3.2% 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
29	McKendree University	1098	71.72	920 – 1,300	22444	49439	#29 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,098 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
30	Hebrew Theological College	1090	57.14	1,040 – 1,140	16158	32793	#30 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,090 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
31	Moody Bible Institute	1080	82.69	980 – 1,180	21614	40210	#31 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,080 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
32	North Park University	1075	68.51	1,010 – 1,140	20372	49326	#32 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,075 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
33	Northern Illinois University	1070	69.79	960 – 1,180	14243	46113	#33 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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. Est. Median SAT 1,070 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
34	Illinois College	1059	78.19	920 – 1,200	17375	40110	#34 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,059 2.8% 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
35	Saint Xavier University	1050	84.3	960 – 1,140	11318	50784	#35 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,050 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
36	Roosevelt University	1049	97.16	910 – 1,190	22366	42896	#36 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,049 5.4% 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
37	Aurora University	1045	80.85	920 – 1,170	19053	51237	#37 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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. Est. Median SAT 1,045 0.5% 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
38	Southern Illinois University-Carbondale	1045	86.88	920 – 1,170	13473	43087	#38 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,045 1.4% 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
39	Greenville University	1033	97.5	820 – 1,260	20799	40307	#39 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,033 2.4% 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
40	Blackburn College	1020	63.19	890 – 1,150	18460	36665	#40 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,020 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
41	Eureka College	1020	84.99	880 – 1,160	19128	42968	#41 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,020 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
42	Millikin University	1020	66.68	890 – 1,150	22813	43100	#42 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,020 0.6% 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
43	Judson University	1015	47.59	870 – 1,160	18673	45374	#43 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,015 3.0% 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
44	Western Illinois University	1015	71.18	910 – 1,120	14208	43057	#44 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,015 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
45	Dominican University	1005	90.32	890 – 1,120	13402	47907	#45 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 1,005 3.4% 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
46	VanderCook College of Music	1005	89.47	880 – 1,130	21306	45704	#46 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois VanderCook College of Music Chicago, IL Based in Chicago, VanderCook College of Music accepts 89% of applicants. They request $40 for undergraduate applications, but some students qualify for fee waivers. Approximately 100% of students attending VanderCook College of Music will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. At VanderCook......Read more Est. Median SAT 1,005 Acceptance Rate 89.5% SAT Score 880 – 1,130 Avg. Net Price $21,306 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,704
47	Eastern Illinois University	985	65.35	880 – 1,090	13787	42694	#47 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 985 1.5% 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
48	Methodist College	982	38.89	800 – 1,160	41787	64709	#48 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois Methodist College Peoria, IL Est. Median SAT 982 Acceptance Rate 38.9% SAT Score 800 – 1,160 Avg. Net Price $41,787 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $64,709
49	Rockford University	975	92.91	870 – 1,080	23642	45847	#49 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 975 0.5% 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
50	Governors State University	945	48.27	830 – 1,060	12756	45435	#50 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 945 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
51	East-West University	930	40.69	850 – 1,010	21872	21236	#51 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 930 0.0% 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
52	Northeastern Illinois University	920	74.6	820 – 1,020	14140	43801	#52 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 920 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
53	National Louis University	890	95.05	850 – 930	13150	43562	#53 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 890 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
54	Chicago State University	885	43.26	790 – 980	10441	33805	#54 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 885 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
55	DeVry University-Illinois	861	98.38	680 – 1,020	30889	42178	#55 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 861 19.9% 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
56	Chamberlain University-Illinois	845	82.64	790 – 900	31599	84533	#56 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT 845 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
57	Ambria College of Nursing	0	100	--	0	71643	#57 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois Ambria College of Nursing Hoffman Estates, IL Est. Median SAT -- Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $71,643
58	Columbia College Chicago	0	89.46	--	29473	32596	#58 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois 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 Est. Median SAT -- Acceptance Rate 89.5% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $29,473 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $32,596
59	Rush University	0	0	--	0	86865	#59 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois Rush University Chicago, IL Est. Median SAT -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $86,865
60	Saint Anthony College of Nursing	0	100	--	30212	76111	#60 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois Saint Anthony College of Nursing Rockford, IL Based in Rockford, Saint Anthony College of Nursing accepts 100% of applicants and requires $75 for undergraduate applications and $75 for graduate applications. Approximately 100% of students attending Saint Anthony College of Nursing currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more Est. Median SAT -- Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $30,212 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $76,111
61	Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing	0	0	--	0	69519	#61 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing Peoria, IL Est. Median SAT -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $69,519
62	St. Augustine College	0	0	--	8310	31348	#62 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois St. Augustine College Chicago, IL Est. Median SAT -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $8,310 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $31,348
63	St. John's College-Department of Nursing	0	0	--	0	68248	#63 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Est. Median SAT in Illinois St. John's College-Department of Nursing Springfield, IL Est. Median SAT -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $68,248