Rankings / National

Colleges With the Highest Acceptance Rates

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

Schools Analyzed

$48,298

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

46%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$17,200

Avg. Net Price

Find Your Program

Explore Accredited Programs in This Field

Find accredited programs in this field accepting applicants.

✓ Accredited programs ✓ 100% free ✓ No obligation

Forty-seven percent. That's the average graduation rate for colleges with the highest acceptance rates. For families, this means a greater chance of starting college but a significant risk of not finishing.

Students often seek schools with high acceptance rates for a simple reason: accessibility. Many aim to balance their dreams with financial realities. Chetty's research highlights how college choice impacts earnings and mobility, revealing the importance of not just getting in, but graduating with manageable debt.

Delta State University in Mississippi shows an average earning of $41,991, but only 47% of students graduate. In contrast, Eastern Mennonite University graduates 57% of its students and offers earnings of $54,869. These figures illustrate the diverse outcomes across schools in this category.

Key Findings

Delta State University has a graduation rate of 47% and an average earning of $41,991.

Union Adventist University graduates 49% of its students, with average earnings reaching $55,045.

The average net price among these colleges is $20,374, making them more accessible.

King University has a higher earning potential at $59,831, despite a 47% graduation rate.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $48,298

Avg. graduation rate 46%

Avg. net price $17,200

Avg. median debt $22,686

How We Ranked

Ranked by acceptance rate, highest first — open-access institutions

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

University of Southern Mississippi

Hattiesburg, MS

Graduation50%

Earnings$44,140

Net Price$21,708

View full profile →

Delta State University

Cleveland, MS

Graduation47%

Earnings$41,991

Net Price$13,540

View full profile →

The University of Texas at El Paso

El Paso, TX

Graduation48%

Earnings$50,923

Net Price$9,403

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

University of Southern Mississippi

Hattiesburg, MS · 10,075 students · Public

Located in Hattiesburg, the University of Southern Mississippi has an impressive 99% acceptance rate. This public university enrolls over 10,000 students and records median earnings of $44,140 after ten years, with a graduation rate of 50%.

99% accepted 50% graduate $44,140 earnings

University's full profile

Delta State University

Cleveland, MS · 1,620 students · Public

Delta State University has a 100% acceptance rate, making it accessible for a wide range of students. Located in Cleveland, MS, this public university has a diverse student body of 1,620. Graduates earn a median income of $41,991 after ten years, which reflects a solid return on investment for many students.

100% accepted 47% graduate $41,991 earnings

The University of Texas at El Paso

El Paso, TX · 21,005 students · Public

The University of Texas at El Paso has a large student body of 21,005 and also boasts a 100% acceptance rate. Located in El Paso, TX, this public university offers a vibrant campus life. Graduates earn a median income of $50,923 after ten years, a solid return for students entering the workforce.

100% accepted 48% graduate $50,923 earnings

Northeastern State University

Tahlequah, OK · 4,772 students · Public

Northeastern State University offers a 100% acceptance rate, ensuring every applicant has the chance to enroll. Located in Tahlequah, OK, it provides a welcoming atmosphere for a diverse student body, with a total enrollment of 4,772 students.

100% accepted 36% graduate $45,379 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

University of South Dakota

Vermillion, SD · 5,439 students · Public

99% accepted 61% graduate $51,926 earnings

University's full profile

Eastern Mennonite University

Harrisonburg, VA · 754 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 57%, Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, VA, stands out for its commitment to student success. The school has a 100% acceptance rate and serves 754 students. Graduates see a median earning of $54,869 after ten years, indicating strong earning potential for graduates in various fields.

100% accepted 57% graduate $54,869 earnings

Eastern's full profile

Southeastern Louisiana University

Hammond, LA · 9,514 students · Public

Attending Southeastern Louisiana University costs $13,154 after financial aid. Graduates have manageable debt of $22,113, making it feasible for various student backgrounds, including first-generation and traditional students.

99% accepted 45% graduate $46,482 earnings

Southeastern's full profile

Western Colorado University

Gunnison, CO · 1,586 students · Public

Western Colorado University has a 100% acceptance rate, making it accessible for all applicants. With a student population of 1,586 in the scenic Gunnison, CO, students can enjoy a close-knit community and stunning outdoor activities, including skiing and hiking nearby.

100% accepted 51% graduate $46,833 earnings

Western's full profile

Columbus State University

Columbus, GA · 5,625 students · Public

Columbus State University in Georgia features a 99% acceptance rate, making it an accessible option for many students. With 5,625 enrolled, the university supports diverse backgrounds, yet it has a 42% graduation rate and median earnings of $44,544 ten years post-graduation.

99% accepted 42% graduate $44,544 earnings

Columbus's full profile

#10

Valley City State University

Valley City, ND · 958 students · Public

Valley City State University in North Dakota serves 958 students and maintains a 99% acceptance rate. With a graduation rate of 51%, the school focuses on supporting students toward completion, with median earnings of $52,725 for graduates at the 10-year mark.

99% accepted 51% graduate $52,725 earnings

Valley's full profile

#11

Southern Wesleyan University

Central, SC · 747 students · Private nonprofit

Southern Wesleyan University has a 100% acceptance rate, welcoming students from various backgrounds. Nestled in Central, SC, this small private nonprofit college has an enrollment of 747 students, fostering a close community atmosphere where students can thrive academically and socially.

100% accepted 52% graduate $47,756 earnings

Southern's full profile

#12

Metropolitan State University of Denver

Denver, CO · 15,002 students · Public

99% accepted 31% graduate $52,093 earnings

Metropolitan's full profile

#13

Sul Ross State University

Alpine, TX · 1,396 students · Public

99% accepted 29% graduate $41,871 earnings

Middle Georgia State University

Macon, GA · 6,574 students · Public

Middle Georgia State University has a 100% acceptance rate, making it an open door for aspiring students. The university serves 6,574 students in Macon, GA, with a focus on providing a supportive environment for those pursuing a degree in various fields, including technology and health sciences.

100% accepted 25% graduate $40,863 earnings

Middle's full profile

#15

Central State University

Wilberforce, OH · 2,620 students · Public

Central State University in Wilberforce has a 99% acceptance rate, making it an attractive option for many students. However, the graduation rate is only 24%, which could impact overall student outcomes. Median earnings of $33,267 after ten years suggest that graduates may face challenges in the job market.

99% accepted 24% graduate $33,267 earnings

Central's full profile

#16

Culver-Stockton College

Canton, MO · 807 students · Private nonprofit

Students here enjoy a net price of $21,983 after aid, making it relatively affordable. Graduates face a median debt of $26,000, leading to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.56, which is favorable for recent alumni.

99% accepted 45% graduate $46,092 earnings

Culver-Stockton's full profile

#17

Grand View University

Des Moines, IA · 1,486 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Des Moines, Iowa, Grand View University has a warm, welcoming environment with a 99% acceptance rate. The school supports a diverse student body of 1,486, and graduates earn a median of $52,824 within a decade. This financial outcome helps illustrate the college's commitment to student success.

99% accepted 55% graduate $52,824 earnings

Oral Roberts University

Tulsa, OK · 3,487 students · Private nonprofit

With a 99% acceptance rate, Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, has a diverse student population of 3,487. The school has a 56% graduation rate, with graduates earning a median of $46,885 within 10 years. This financial stability highlights the value of an education here, especially for traditional students.

99% accepted 56% graduate $46,885 earnings

King University

Bristol, TN · 908 students · Private nonprofit

King University in Bristol, TN, features a 100% acceptance rate and serves a close-knit community of 908 students. With a graduation rate of 47%, students can expect personalized attention in their academic journey. Graduates earn a median salary of $59,831 after ten years, which offers a good incentive for prospective students.

100% accepted 47% graduate $59,831 earnings

College of Coastal Georgia

Brunswick, GA · 2,979 students · Public

College of Coastal Georgia in Brunswick has a 98% acceptance rate, attracting a diverse group of students. The graduation rate stands at 26%, but graduates earn a median income of $39,318 in their first decade. The $15,261 net price and manageable debt of $15,039 make it an appealing choice for many first-generation students.

98% accepted 26% graduate $39,318 earnings

College's full profile

#21

The University of Montana

Missoula, MT · 7,488 students · Public

96% accepted 47% graduate $44,511 earnings

Emporia State University

Emporia, KS · 2,239 students · Public

Emporia State University, with a 98% acceptance rate, appeals to a wide range of students in Emporia, KS. The school has 2,239 students and a graduation rate of 55%, reflecting a supportive environment focused on student success. This makes it an attractive option for those looking for a community-oriented campus experience.

98% accepted 55% graduate $47,601 earnings

Emporia's full profile

#23

University of the Incarnate Word

San Antonio, TX · 4,440 students · Private nonprofit

Located in San Antonio, the University of the Incarnate Word has a welcoming 98% acceptance rate. With a student body of 4,440, it caters to a mix of traditional and non-traditional students. Graduates earn a median of $56,733 after ten years, making the $22,775 net price quite manageable for many.

98% accepted 51% graduate $56,733 earnings

University's full profile

#24

Benedictine College

Atchison, KS · 2,272 students · Private nonprofit

With a 98% acceptance rate, Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas, welcomes a diverse range of students. The campus has a tight-knit community atmosphere, making it appealing for those who value personal connections and support during their studies.

98% accepted 63% graduate $53,175 earnings

Benedictine's full profile

#25

University of the Cumberlands

Williamsburg, KY · 6,941 students · Private nonprofit

99% accepted 48% graduate $45,036 earnings

University's full profile

#26

Missouri Southern State University

Joplin, MO · 3,019 students · Public

97% accepted 40% graduate $42,620 earnings

Missouri's full profile

#27

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Edwardsville, IL · 8,750 students · Public

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville also has a 98% acceptance rate. Located in Illinois, it’s a great option for students seeking a large public university experience, with 8,750 enrolled students and a supportive environment for learning.

98% accepted 56% graduate $56,346 earnings

Southern's full profile

#28

Greenville University

Greenville, IL · 955 students · Private nonprofit

Greenville University welcomes students with a 98% acceptance rate, drawing those interested in a private nonprofit experience. With a small student body of 955, it fosters a close-knit community where nearly 40% of students receive Pell Grants.

98% accepted 46% graduate $46,827 earnings

Greenville's full profile

#29

Texas Southern University

Houston, TX · 6,844 students · Public

97% accepted 21% graduate $38,924 earnings

Spalding University

Louisville, KY · 583 students · Private nonprofit

With a 99% acceptance rate, Spalding University welcomes nearly all applicants. This private nonprofit institution in Louisville has a small student body of 583, fostering a close-knit community. Graduates earn a median income of $49,438 after ten years, highlighting its focus on career readiness.

99% accepted 54% graduate $49,438 earnings

Spalding's full profile

#31

Shepherd University

Shepherdstown, WV · 2,344 students · Public

97% accepted 50% graduate $49,358 earnings

Shepherd's full profile

#32

Loras College

Dubuque, IA · 1,083 students · Private nonprofit

100% accepted 69% graduate $58,289 earnings

West Liberty University

West Liberty, WV · 1,511 students · Public

97% accepted 60% graduate $43,296 earnings

Le Moyne-Owen College

Memphis, TN · 581 students · Private nonprofit

Le Moyne-Owen College in Memphis has a strong commitment to accessibility, reflected in its 99% acceptance rate. With 581 students, the college emphasizes community, but it faces challenges with a 26% graduation rate and median earnings of $35,594 after ten years.

99% accepted 26% graduate $35,594 earnings

Roosevelt University

Chicago, IL · 2,849 students · Private nonprofit

97% accepted 38% graduate $48,712 earnings

Roosevelt's full profile

#36

University of Mississippi

University, MS · 21,473 students · Public

97% accepted 70% graduate $50,994 earnings

University's full profile

#37

Alabama State University

Montgomery, AL · 3,477 students · Public

With a 98% acceptance rate, Alabama State University welcomes a diverse range of students. The campus in Montgomery, Alabama, supports a community where 71% of students receive Pell Grants, highlighting its commitment to accessibility for lower-income families.

98% accepted 30% graduate $34,502 earnings

Alabama's full profile

#38

American International College

Springfield, MA · 1,017 students · Private nonprofit

100% accepted 44% graduate $53,124 earnings

American's full profile

#39

Virginia Union University

Richmond, VA · 1,203 students · Private nonprofit

Virginia Union University, located in Richmond, Virginia, has a 98% acceptance rate, making it accessible for many students. This private nonprofit school emphasizes its commitment to education and community service, resonating with those who value social responsibility alongside their academic pursuits.

98% accepted 39% graduate $38,275 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#40

University of the Virgin Islands

Charlotte Amalie, VI · 1,518 students · Public

The University of the Virgin Islands, located in Charlotte Amalie, has a vibrant campus life with a 99% acceptance rate. While the graduation rate is lower at 28%, the school offers a low net price of $7,469, making it accessible for many students. Graduates earn a median of $38,681, suggesting that students can find opportunities after graduation.

99% accepted 28% graduate $38,681 earnings

University's full profile

#41

Point Park University

Pittsburgh, PA · 2,331 students · Private nonprofit

97% accepted 59% graduate $45,856 earnings

Austin Peay State University

Clarksville, TN · 7,560 students · Public

96% accepted 42% graduate $44,301 earnings

Austin's full profile

#43

Union Adventist University

Lincoln, NE · 471 students · Private nonprofit

Union Adventist University guarantees a 100% acceptance rate, creating opportunities for students from various backgrounds. This private nonprofit institution in Lincoln, NE, serves a small community of 471 students. Graduates earn a median of $55,045 within ten years, an appealing figure for prospective students considering their future earnings.

100% accepted 49% graduate $55,045 earnings

University of Wyoming

Laramie, WY · 7,944 students · Public

97% accepted 59% graduate $56,880 earnings

University's full profile

#45

The Evergreen State College

Olympia, WA · 2,160 students · Public

96% accepted 43% graduate $45,320 earnings

Metropolitan State University

Saint Paul, MN · 5,616 students · Public

99% accepted 42% graduate $64,705 earnings

Metropolitan's full profile

#47

Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University

Baton Rouge, LA · 821 students · Private nonprofit

With a 99% acceptance rate, Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University in Baton Rouge welcomes nearly all applicants. The small campus, with just 821 students, fosters a close-knit community. Graduates earn a median of $59,419 after ten years, suggesting strong career outcomes for its alumni.

99% accepted 49% graduate $59,419 earnings

Franciscan's full profile

#48

West Texas A & M University

Canyon, TX · 6,917 students · Public

West Texas A & M University in Canyon also features a 99% acceptance rate, indicating a welcoming approach to prospective students. With nearly 7,000 students, it offers a diverse range of experiences and resources. Median earnings for graduates hit $50,741 after ten years, reflecting a solid return on investment for attendees.

99% accepted 51% graduate $50,741 earnings

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks

Reading, PA · 1,872 students · Public

Penn State Berks in Reading has a 99% acceptance rate, making it accessible to many students. Despite a smaller student body of 1,872, it boasts an impressive median earning of $63,435 ten years post-graduation. However, the graduation rate of 28% raises concerns about student completion and support.

99% accepted 28% graduate $63,435 earnings

Pennsylvania's full profile

#50

Texas Woman's University

Denton, TX · 8,767 students · Public

96% accepted 47% graduate $56,544 earnings

A closer look reveals that Union Adventist University, despite a higher debt burden of $27,000, has better earning potential than Delta State University. The difference in average earnings is $13,054, which may influence long-term financial stability.

After reviewing the list, consider how each school aligns with your priorities. Location, program specifics, and campus culture can outweigh acceptance rates. Think about the financial implications as well, especially the average net price of $20,374.

The path from college to a stable life is complicated. One family's choice to attend Eastern Mennonite University could lead to higher earnings and better job prospects. Every decision matters in shaping future opportunities for students entering the workforce.

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.

Related Rankings

All Rankings Methodology Best Colleges Social Mobility Highest Mobility