Rankings / National

Best Private Universities

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

Schools Analyzed

$91,742

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

93%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$24,499

Avg. Net Price

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Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates earn an average of $143,372 annually. This figure can shape a family's financial future.

Families often search for the best private universities, hoping to unlock opportunities for their children. They want to know which schools can deliver strong earnings and manageable debt. The path to financial stability weighs heavily in their decision-making.

Princeton University has a graduation rate of 97% and a net price of $6,128. In contrast, Johns Hopkins University, with a graduation rate of 94%, has a higher net price of $18,809. These numbers reveal different financial dynamics that can impact a student’s experience and future.

Key Findings

Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates earn $143,372, the highest in this group.

Princeton University has a 97% graduation rate, the highest among these schools.

The average debt for graduates at Stanford University is $12,000, which is lower than the average for private universities.

University of Chicago students pay an average net price of $14,860.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $91,742

Avg. graduation rate 93%

Avg. net price $24,499

Avg. median debt $15,688

How We Ranked

Flagship composite for private nonprofit 4-year institutions with >40% completion

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 remarkable 97% graduation rate. Students here benefit from a tight-knit community with just 5,709 peers. This environment fosters strong academic connections and mentorship opportunities.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University captivates with its stunning campus and innovative spirit. It has a graduation rate of 92% and a student body of 7,554, providing a vibrant yet competitive atmosphere. Students often engage in groundbreaking research and entrepreneurship opportunities.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

Massachusetts Institute of Technology has an impressive graduation rate of 96%. With 4,535 students, MIT cultivates a close-knit community focused on science and technology. This environment encourages collaboration and innovation among its members.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Chicago has a graduation rate of 95% and a diverse student body of 7,569. Known for its rigorous academics, students are challenged to think critically and engage deeply with their studies. This intellectual environment fosters strong relationships among peers and faculty.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Johns Hopkins University, located in Baltimore, enrolls 5,693 students and has a graduation rate of 94%. This school is known for its strong emphasis on research and healthcare programs. Students find a supportive environment that nurtures academic and personal growth.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University, located in Cambridge, enrolls 7,601 students and boasts a graduation rate of 97%. Known for its rich history and academic rigor, students here experience an environment that values both tradition and innovation in learning.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College is a small liberal arts college in Williamstown, with a enrollment of 2,076 students and a graduation rate of 95%. The close-knit community fosters personal connections and mentorship among students and faculty, creating a supportive academic environment.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University is home to 4,776 students and boasts a graduation rate of 95%. Nestled in Houston, the small campus size fosters close relationships between students and faculty, enhancing the learning experience for everyone involved.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

At Brown University, the focus on student-driven learning allows for a unique educational experience. With a graduation rate of 96% and a student body of 7,226, the Providence-based school encourages exploration and intellectual curiosity among its attendees.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 97%, students at the University of Pennsylvania can expect strong support as they navigate their academic journey. Located in Philadelphia, this private nonprofit school enrolls 10,650 students, creating a vibrant campus atmosphere that fosters collaboration and community engagement.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

#12

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#13

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

#14

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College in Massachusetts serves 2,300 students and has a graduation rate of 91%. Graduates can achieve median earnings of $84,803 at ten years. The campus environment fosters leadership and empowerment among its female student body.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#16

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Pomona College in Claremont, California, has a 93% graduation rate. With 1,666 students, it emphasizes a personalized educational experience. Graduates earn a median of $77,779 at ten years, reflecting strong post-college outcomes for alumni.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

#17

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College in Massachusetts has a 94% graduation rate. With a student body of 1,911, it fosters a tight-knit environment. Graduates can expect median earnings of $77,644 at ten years, showcasing the value of its education.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#18

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College, located in Brunswick, Maine, has a 95% graduation rate. Students here experience a strong sense of community and support, contributing to their success. Graduates earn a median of $82,735 at ten years after enrolling, which reflects the quality of education received.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#19

Yale University

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

Yale University has a 96% graduation rate, which speaks to its strong academic environment. Students here can earn a median income of $100,533 after ten years, showing that the investment in education pays off. The campus culture is vibrant, with 20% of students receiving Pell Grants, fostering a mix of backgrounds and experiences.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Northwestern University, located in Evanston, Illinois, has a 96% graduation rate. With a large student body of 9,201, it offers a vibrant campus life. Graduates earn a median of $89,363 at ten years, underscoring strong career prospects for alumni.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#21

Washington University in St Louis

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

With a 94% graduation rate, Washington University in St. Louis shows strong student support. The median earnings for graduates reach $86,182 at 10 years, indicating that students often do well financially after completing their degrees. This school attracts a diverse group, with 18% of students receiving Pell Grants, reflecting its commitment to accessibility.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#22

Columbia University in the City of New York

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

Columbia University in New York City boasts a 96% graduation rate, highlighting its commitment to student success. Graduates earn a median of $102,491 within ten years, indicating strong financial returns on their education. With 23% of students receiving Pell Grants, the university supports a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#23

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College has an 89% graduation rate, reflecting its emphasis on student achievement and support. With median earnings of $80,490 after ten years, graduates are well-prepared for the job market. The college hosts 14% Pell Grant recipients, showcasing its dedication to providing opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#25

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Washington and Lee University has a graduation rate of 94%, indicating a high level of student success. Graduates earn a median of $94,810 within ten years, suggesting solid career prospects. The diverse student body includes 11% Pell Grant recipients, highlighting the university’s commitment to inclusivity and support for all students.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#26

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

Claremont McKenna College, with a graduation rate of 93%, emphasizes leadership and economics. The small size of the student body, just 1,388, helps foster strong relationships and networking opportunities among students and faculty alike.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

#27

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College has a close-knit community with a graduation rate of 91%. With only 1,867 students, it offers a personalized education experience that appeals to those who prefer smaller class sizes and strong faculty interaction.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#28

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University is known for its innovative programs and dedicated faculty. Graduates see high earning potential, with median earnings of $114,862 after ten years, making it a strong choice for those focused on career outcomes.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#29

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 93%, indicating high student satisfaction and academic success. With 1,613 students, it encourages collaboration and relationships among peers and faculty. This environment can foster a deep intellectual exploration for those who value a rigorous academic experience.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#30

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College sees a 90% graduation rate, which reflects strong student support and engagement. With a small student body of 1,430, students may appreciate the close-knit community and personalized attention from faculty. The college fosters a strong academic environment where students can thrive.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#31

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 91%, Colgate University offers a solid liberal arts education in a picturesque setting in Hamilton, NY. The school encourages active participation and engagement among its 3,180 students, making it a vibrant community for those who enjoy campus life.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#32

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

Bates College has a graduation rate of 90%, illustrating a strong academic foundation for its 1,760 students. Located in Lewiston, Maine, the college fosters a close community where students can develop deep connections. This environment is particularly appealing to those who prioritize collaboration and academic rigor.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Emory University, located in Atlanta, has a graduation rate of 91% and a larger student body of 7,298. Students are likely to notice a vibrant campus life that blends academics with various extracurricular opportunities. This dynamic setting can be ideal for those looking to engage in both studies and social experiences.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art

New York, NY · 842 students · Private nonprofit

21% accepted 81% graduate $83,847 earnings

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts, has an impressive graduation rate of 89%. As a women's college with a student body of 2,544, it offers a unique environment that encourages female empowerment and leadership. Graduates earn a median of $64,027 ten years after graduation, showcasing the value of a Smith education in various fields.

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 82%, Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, supports many students in completing their degrees. The school's large student body of 32,952 offers a range of social and academic opportunities, fostering a vibrant campus life. At ten years post-graduation, alumni earn a median of $75,790, reflecting the value of a BYU degree in the job market.

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#37

University of Notre Dame

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

With a graduation rate of 96%, the University of Notre Dame shows strong student retention and support. The campus culture fosters a sense of community, making it appealing for students looking for a tight-knit environment.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#38

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

Babson College in Wellesley, Massachusetts, is known for its focus on entrepreneurship. With a striking 93% graduation rate, students here receive personalized attention, thanks to a smaller student population of 2,728. Graduates earn a median of $123,938 ten years after completing their degrees, showcasing the school’s strong return on investment.

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

#39

Barnard College

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

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

#40

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University boasts a 95% graduation rate, which speaks to its commitment to student success. With 7,569 students, it offers a rich academic environment in the heart of Washington, DC. The location provides unique networking opportunities for those interested in politics, international relations, and more.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#41

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

Carleton College graduates 90% of its students. This high completion rate reflects the supportive environment and strong academic programs. With a smaller student body of 2,086, students often benefit from close relationships with faculty and classmates.

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

#42

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

Grinnell College has an 88% graduation rate, reflective of its robust academic support systems. With just 1,729 students, the college provides personalized attention and a tight-knit campus atmosphere that enhances the learning experience.

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

#43

Middlebury College

Middlebury, VT · 2,738 students · Private nonprofit

Middlebury College has a 92% graduation rate, indicating a strong commitment to student success. With a total enrollment of 2,738, the college fosters a close-knit community where students can thrive academically and socially.

11% accepted 92% graduate $76,310 earnings

Middlebury's full profile

#44

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

Lafayette College, located in Easton, Pennsylvania, has an 88% graduation rate. The college serves 2,757 students and emphasizes a well-rounded education with strong engineering and liberal arts programs. Graduates earn a median of $91,410 ten years after graduation, reflecting the opportunities available through its academic offerings.

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

#45

Wesleyan University

Middletown, CT · 3,067 students · Private nonprofit

16% accepted 92% graduate $73,897 earnings

Wesleyan's full profile

#46

Hamilton College

Clinton, NY · 2,030 students · Private nonprofit

14% accepted 91% graduate $78,411 earnings

Hamilton's full profile

#47

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

Boston University has a graduation rate of 89%. This indicates strong student support and engagement. With 18,248 students, the campus is vibrant and full of opportunities for connections and exploration.

11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings

Boston's full profile

#48

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · 20,443 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 92%, the University of Southern California supports student success through various resources and programs. The campus hosts 20,443 students, creating a diverse and dynamic environment just steps from the heart of Los Angeles.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

#49

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA · 10,085 students · Private nonprofit

Boston College, located in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, has a graduation rate of 91%. The school, with 10,085 students, combines a strong liberal arts education with a vibrant campus culture. Graduates see a median earning of $103,937 after ten years, reflecting the school's commitment to student success in various professional fields.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

#50

Tufts University

Medford, MA · 7,061 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 93% graduate $83,214 earnings

Massachusetts Institute of Technology outperforms Johns Hopkins University in earnings and debt metrics. MIT graduates earn $143,372, while Johns Hopkins graduates earn $87,555. However, Johns Hopkins has a lower average debt of $10,250 compared to MIT's $14,768. This shows how different institutions can lead to diverse financial outcomes.

After browsing 50 schools, consider personal priorities. Weigh factors like location and program fit against financial data. A school with a high graduation rate might offer better support for students. Financial burdens can differ, so assess net prices and average debt to align with your family's budget.

Data from these universities illustrates the stakes of choosing the right college. A family decision shapes a student’s path to financial stability. Choosing a school with strong earnings potential can impact long-term security. This isn't just about education; it's about building a future.

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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