Rankings / Value

Best No-Loan & Low-Debt Colleges

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$89,639

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

90%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$20,220

Avg. Net Price

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Only 40% of students at these top colleges take federal loans. This means lower debt and more financial freedom for families.

Parents are weighing the cost of college more than ever. They want to know how to avoid crippling debt while ensuring their child gets a quality education. The real question is how to balance affordability and earning potential after graduation.

Princeton University graduates earn $110,066 on average and only $10,320 in debt. In contrast, Stanford University graduates earn even more, at $124,080, but have a higher net price of $13,807. This suggests that while both schools have strong outcomes, families should consider both earnings and costs when choosing a college.

Key Findings

Princeton University graduates earn an average of $110,066, with only $6,128 in net price.

Stanford University has a 92% graduation rate and an average debt of $12,000.

The average earnings for graduates from these top schools is $92,737, illustrating strong post-college financial prospects.

Only 40% of students at these institutions take federal loans, highlighting a commitment to low-debt education.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $89,639

Avg. graduation rate 90%

Avg. net price $20,220

Avg. median debt $15,220

How We Ranked

Composite score for institutions where <40% of students take federal loans

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ

Graduation97%

Earnings$110,066

Net Price$6,128

View full profile →

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Graduation92%

Earnings$124,080

Net Price$13,807

View full profile →

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA

Graduation96%

Earnings$143,372

Net Price$20,111

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

Princeton University has a 97% graduation rate, indicating strong student support and successful outcomes. With a median earning of $110,066 at ten years post-graduation, students can expect a solid financial return on their investment.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University graduates earn a median of $124,080 within a decade, reflecting the institution's strong academic reputation. With a low acceptance rate of 4%, students here are part of an exclusive community that values innovation and leadership.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

MIT graduates enjoy a median earning of $143,372 ten years after graduation, showcasing the high demand for skills learned here. The 96% graduation rate suggests that students receive ample support during their studies, leading to successful outcomes in their careers.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

With a 95% graduation rate, students at the University of Chicago can expect strong academic support. The median earnings of $91,885 at ten years post-graduation reflect the value of a degree from this institution. With a low acceptance rate of 4%, the environment fosters a sense of achievement and competition among a diverse student body.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Johns Hopkins University has a 94% graduation rate, indicating strong retention and support for its students. Graduates earn a median of $87,555 at ten years, reflecting the university's focus on research and professional preparation.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University boasts a 97% graduation rate, a clear indicator of its academic rigor and student support. Graduates earn a median of $101,817 within ten years, emphasizing the long-term financial benefits of attending this prestigious institution. The low acceptance rate of 4% adds to the allure for ambitious students aiming for a top-tier education.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, has a diverse student body of 15,995, fostering a rich academic community. The graduation rate is 95%, and graduates earn a median of $104,043 at ten years post-graduation, highlighting the school's strong career preparation. The 9% acceptance rate indicates a selective admission process, attracting students who are serious about their studies and future careers.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University has a 95% graduation rate, demonstrating its focus on student achievement. Median earnings for graduates reach $89,718 within ten years, reflecting strong career outcomes. The 8% acceptance rate shows that Rice attracts high-achieving individuals looking for a close-knit academic community.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Pennsylvania has a 97% graduation rate, highlighting its commitment to student success. Median earnings reach $111,371 within ten years of graduating, showcasing the financial benefits of a Penn education. The 5% acceptance rate indicates a competitive admissions process, attracting motivated students from various backgrounds.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

#10

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

With a 96% graduation rate, Brown University in Providence, RI, offers a strong track record for student success. The median earnings of $93,487 at ten years post-graduation highlight the financial potential for graduates in a supportive academic environment.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College in Williamstown, MA, has an impressive 95% graduation rate and median earnings of $88,665 ten years after graduation. With only an 8% acceptance rate, this private nonprofit college attracts high-achieving students who thrive in a rigorous academic setting. The small student body of 2,076 allows for intimate classroom experiences and strong faculty connections.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#12

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Vanderbilt University has a graduation rate of 93%, reflecting its commitment to student success. With median earnings of $91,565 for graduates ten years after enrollment, students can expect favorable career outcomes. The 6% acceptance rate means that students face stiff competition, attracting driven individuals who seek to excel academically and professionally.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#13

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

Atlanta is home to Georgia Tech, where 93% of students graduate. The median earnings for graduates reach $102,772 within ten years, highlighting the school's strong return on investment for its students.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#14

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

Duke University has a 96% graduation rate, indicating strong student support and engagement. With median earnings of $97,800 for graduates at ten years, students can expect a solid return on their investment. The low acceptance rate of 6% suggests that admission is competitive, attracting motivated individuals who aim for academic excellence.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College, located in Massachusetts, has a graduation rate of 91% and a median earning of $84,803 for graduates ten years after they start. With 2,300 students, it provides a close-knit environment that many students appreciate.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#16

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

Chapel Hill is home to the University of North Carolina, where 92% of students graduate. The median earnings for alumni stand at $72,200 after ten years, a significant figure for future job seekers.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#17

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College has a graduation rate of 72%. While this rate may seem lower than some peers, the college offers affordable education in a bustling urban setting. Graduates earn a median income of $75,971 after ten years, reflecting the value of degrees from this institution in New York City’s job market.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

California Institute of Technology, known for its rigorous STEM programs, has a staggering median earnings of $128,566 at ten years post-graduation. With a 94% graduation rate, students are well-prepared for careers in science and technology. The acceptance rate of only 3% highlights the competitive nature of this private nonprofit institution in Pasadena, CA.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

#19

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

With a 93% graduation rate, Pomona College fosters a supportive environment for its 1,666 students. Graduates earn a median of $77,779 within ten years, suggesting a solid return on investment for those who choose this private nonprofit institution.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

#20

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College has a graduation rate of 94%, reflecting its commitment to student success. Median earnings for graduates reach $77,644 at ten years, indicating strong financial outcomes for its 1,911 students.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#21

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine, has a graduation rate of 95%. Graduates earn a median of $82,735 a decade after leaving, indicating solid job prospects and earnings potential for attendees.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#22

Yale University

New Haven, CT · 6,758 students · Private nonprofit

Yale University graduates 96% of its students. That's a strong indicator of student support and academic resources, making it an attractive option for those seeking a solid educational foundation. The median earnings for graduates reach $100,533 at the ten-year mark, reflecting the school's commitment to student success in the job market.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

The University of Florida in Gainesville enrolls 35,629 students, with a graduation rate of 91%. Graduates earn a median of $71,588 within a decade, demonstrating a solid earning potential upon completing their degree.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#24

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Northwestern University, located in Evanston, IL, has a 96% graduation rate and a median earning of $89,363 ten years after graduation. With a large student body of 9,201, it fosters a diverse community and offers a wide range of academic programs. The school’s urban setting provides numerous opportunities for internships and networking, appealing to ambitious students.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#25

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · 7,857 students · Private nonprofit

Washington University in St. Louis boasts a 94% graduation rate. This indicates a strong support system that helps students thrive academically. Graduates earn a median income of $86,182 after ten years, showcasing the value of a degree from this institution in the workforce.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#26

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · 8,973 students · Private nonprofit

Columbia University has a striking 96% graduation rate. This high success rate reflects its strong support for students. With a median earnings figure of $102,491 at ten years post-graduation, the financial prospects are compelling.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#27

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth College in Hanover has a graduation rate of 96%. This high success rate is coupled with median earnings of $97,434 for graduates ten years after enrollment, suggesting solid career prospects for students.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#28

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn a remarkable median of $114,862 ten years after completing their degrees. The school has a 93% graduation rate, which highlights its focus on student success and the strong support system available. With a 12% acceptance rate, it attracts high-achieving students who thrive in a rigorous academic environment.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#29

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

Claremont McKenna College is known for its strong focus on economics and government, attracting students interested in these fields. With a 93% graduation rate and median earnings of $104,736 at ten years, the college is a compelling option for those looking to maximize their earning potential.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

#30

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College, situated in Waterville, Maine, has a tight-knit community with just 2,407 students. The school boasts a graduation rate of 89%, indicating a supportive environment for students. Graduates earn a median salary of $80,490 after a decade, showing the value of a Colby degree.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College emphasizes a liberal arts education, fostering critical thinking among its 1,867 students. The graduation rate of 91% indicates a supportive academic environment. With a net price of $17,379 and median debt of $18,688, the financial investment is reasonable, especially with median earnings of $81,400 ten years after graduation.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#32

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Graduates from Washington and Lee University earn a median of $94,810 within ten years of graduation. With a 94% graduation rate, students find a supportive environment that helps them succeed. The school's 14% acceptance rate indicates it attracts a motivated and competitive student body.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#33

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College's 93% graduation rate points to a highly engaged student body. Graduates earn a median income of $80,257 at ten years after finishing their studies. The college's small size of 1,613 students fosters close connections among peers and faculty.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#34

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College has a graduation rate of 90%, demonstrating strong student support. With only 1,430 students, the atmosphere is close-knit, promoting collaboration and deep connections. Graduates earn a median income of $79,966 within ten years, indicating solid post-graduation outcomes.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#35

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

Colgate University has a strong graduation rate of 91%. With only 3,180 students, it offers an intimate learning environment. The median earnings for graduates reach $85,139 after ten years, reflecting the value of a Colgate degree in the job market.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#36

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Emory University has a 91% graduation rate, which indicates a solid track record of student success. With median earnings of $80,137 ten years after graduation, students can expect strong financial returns. The acceptance rate of 11% highlights its competitive nature, attracting a diverse range of applicants.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#40

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art

New York, NY · 842 students · Private nonprofit

21% accepted 81% graduate $83,847 earnings

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

#42

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

#43

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN · 8,818 students · Private nonprofit

At the University of Notre Dame, graduates enjoy median earnings of $99,980 a decade after graduation. The campus is known for its vibrant culture and academic excellence, with a 96% graduation rate reflecting student commitment and support. With only an 11% acceptance rate, the university attracts dedicated students who are eager to excel.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#46

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University graduates see median earnings of $103,494 within a decade of graduation. With a graduation rate of 95%, students are likely to feel confident in their academic success. The university's location in Washington, DC, provides unique opportunities for internships and networking in various fields.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#48

Barnard College

New York, NY · 3,264 students · Private nonprofit

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

#49

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX · 42,855 students · Public

27% accepted 88% graduate $75,121 earnings

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

Princeton University outperforms Johns Hopkins University in both earnings and debt metrics. Princeton graduates earn $110,066 with $10,320 in debt, while Johns Hopkins graduates have lower earnings at $87,555 despite having a similar graduation rate of 94%. Understanding these differences can help families assess which school might provide better financial outcomes.

After reviewing 50 schools, families should prioritize what matters most. Consider location, specific programs, campus culture, and your financial situation. Weighing these factors against the data can help narrow your choices and find the right fit.

This data emphasizes the importance of choosing a college that leads to financial stability. Each family faces a unique decision, but choosing a school with low debt and high earning potential can set a strong foundation for a stable future. This isn't just about education; it's about building a life.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[3]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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