Most Selective Christian Colleges & Universities
The most selective colleges and universities in the United States represent the pinnacle of academic excellence and prestige. From elite liberal arts colleges to world-renowned research universities, each higher education institution on this list features a competitive admissions process, exceptional faculty, and rigorous academics. Many are also among the best Christian colleges, offering a strong blend of academic excellence and Christian education. Whether you're considering a top Christian college, a Christian liberal arts college, or another selective institution, these schools attract outstanding undergraduate students. This guide helps prospective students explore the best colleges and Christian schools dedicated to faith, leadership, and purpose.
Score 1000
#1 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 12% SAT Range: 1440 - 1540 ACT Range: 33-35
Tuition and fees: $62,693 (2023-24) Net Price: $29,083 (Fall 2022-23)
The University of Notre Dame, located in Notre Dame, Indiana, is a prestigious Catholic research university known for its commitment to academic excellence and faith-based education. Founded in 1842 by the Congregation of Holy Cross, it offers a... read more
Score 974
#2 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 16% SAT Range: 1430 - 1540 ACT Range: 33-34
Tuition and fees: $67,680 (2023-24) Net Price: $32,590 (Fall 2022-23)
Boston College, a renowned Jesuit institution, blends academic rigor with a commitment to holistic education. Located in the vibrant city of Boston, the university offers a diverse range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs designed to challenge and... read more
Score 909
#3 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 25% SAT Range: 1400 - 510 ACT Range: 32-34
Tuition and fees: $64,701 (2023-24) Net Price: $37,946 (Fall 2022-23)
Villanova University, located in Villanova, Pennsylvania, is a prestigious private Catholic institution founded in 1842 by the Order of St. Augustine. Renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, ethical leadership, and service to others, Villanova offers a.... read more
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Score 782
#4 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 40% SAT Range: N/A ACT Range: N/A
Tuition and fees: $58,974 (2023-24) Net Price: $54,471 (Fall 2022-23)
Loyola Marymount University (LMU) is a leading institution committed to academic excellence, personal growth, and social responsibility. Located in Los Angeles, California, LMU blends the rich traditions of Jesuit and Marymount educational philosophies to offer a.... read more
Score 778
#5 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 21% SAT Range: 1250 - 1420 ACT Range: 28-32
Tuition and fees: $60,850 (2023-24) Net Price: $35,455 (Fall 2022-23)
The College of the Holy Cross, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, is a distinguished Jesuit liberal arts institution committed to intellectual rigor, personal growth, and service to others. Rooted in Catholic traditions, Holy Cross fosters a welcoming and inclusive.... read more
Score 769
#6 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 50% SAT Range: 1250- 1450 ACT Range: 26- 32
Tuition and fees: $66,742 (2023-24) Net Price: $52,216 (Fall 2022-23)
Pepperdine University, nestled in the picturesque hills of Malibu, California, blends academic excellence with a strong commitment to Christian values. Known for its rigorous programs across disciplines like business, law, and the liberal arts, Pepperdine fosters.... read more
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Score 782
#7 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 81% SAT Range: 1160 - 1340 ACT Range: 27- 31
Tuition and fees: $51,716 (2023-24) Net Price: $37,592 (Fall 2022-23)
Loyola University Chicago, rooted in Jesuit traditions, is a dynamic institution dedicated to academic excellence, ethical leadership, and social justice. Located in the heart of Chicago, it offers a rich blend of rigorous academic programs, vibrant campus life, and.... read more
Score 778
#8 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 51% SAT Range: 1210 - 1400 ACT Range: 27- 32
Tuition and fees: $54,844 (2023-24) Net Price: $49,727 (Fall 2022-23)
Baylor University, located in Waco, Texas, is a nationally recognized Christian institution that blends academic excellence with a vibrant community. As one of the oldest universities in Texas, Baylor offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional.... read more
Score 726
#9 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: % SAT Range: ACT Range:
Tuition and fees: $ (2023-24) Net Price: $ (Fall 2022-23)
Gutenberg College is a unique educational institution dedicated to cultivating thoughtful and informed individuals through a classical, liberal arts education grounded in biblical truth. Located in Eugene, Oregon, Gutenberg offers an intimate learning..... read more
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Score 719
#10 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 44% SAT Range: 1340 - 1500 ACT Range: 30-33
Tuition and fees: $59,241 (2023-24) Net Price: $49,651 (Fall 2022-23)
Santa Clara University, nestled in the heart of California’s Silicon Valley, is a leading Jesuit institution dedicated to academic excellence, innovation, and social responsibility. With a rich history dating back to 1851, SCU blends tradition with forward-thinking.... read more
Score 709
#11 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 45% SAT Range: 1240 - 1380 ACT Range: 29- 32
Tuition and fees: $56,360 (2023-24) Net Price: $46,065 (Fall 2022-23)
Fairfield University is a distinguished institution rooted in Jesuit values, committed to fostering intellectual growth, ethical development, and a sense of purpose. With a vibrant campus located in Fairfield, Connecticut, the university blends rigorous academics with a.... read more
Score 705
#12 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 76% SAT Range: 1180 - 1350 ACT Range: 27- 32
Tuition and fees: $55,480 (2023-24) Net Price: $31,857 (Fall 2022-23)
Loyola University Maryland is a distinguished Jesuit institution dedicated to fostering intellectual growth, ethical leadership, and a commitment to service. Located in Baltimore, the university blends rigorous academics with a holistic approach to education.... read more
Score 698
#13 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 82% SAT Range: 1220- 1430 ACT Range: 26- 31
Tuition and fees: $28,425 (2023-24) Net Price: $26,086 (Fall 2022-23)
Patrick Henry College is dedicated to providing a rigorous classical liberal arts education rooted in a Christian worldview. Located in Purcellville, Virginia, PHC integrates faith and learning, equipping students to think critically, communicate effectively.... read more
Score 693
#14 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 15% SAT Range: 1063- 1305 ACT Range: 20- 25
Tuition and fees: $21,290 (2023-24) Net Price: $12,279 (Fall 2022-23)
College of the Ozarks, located in the scenic Ozark Mountains of Missouri, is a distinctive institution dedicated to academic excellence, character development, and service. Known as "Hard Work U," the college integrates a unique work-education program where.... read more
Score 617
#15 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 55% SAT Range: 920- 1105 ACT Range: 14- 21
Tuition and fees: $30,946 (2023-24) Net Price: $19,223 (Fall 2022-23)
Union Commonwealth University, a private liberal arts institution in Barbourville, Kentucky, has been committed to academic excellence and personal growth since 1879. With small class sizes and personalized learning, Union offers undergraduate and graduate programs.... read more
Score 668
#16 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 49% SAT Range: 1250 - 1400 ACT Range: 28- 32
Tuition and fees: $60,848 (2023-24) Net Price: $46,645 (Fall 2022-23)
Providence College is a premier Catholic liberal arts institution rooted in the Dominican tradition, dedicated to fostering academic excellence, ethical development, and a strong sense of community. Located in Providence, Rhode Island, the college offers a vibrant.... read more
Score 666
#17 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 66% SAT Range: 1180 - 1350 ACT Range: 25- 31
Tuition and fees: $30,832 (2023-24) Net Price: $21,464 (Fall 2022-23)
Mercer University, founded in 1833, is a distinguished institution dedicated to academic excellence, innovation, and service. With campuses in Macon, Atlanta, and Savannah, Mercer offers a diverse range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs... read more
Score 665
#18 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 90% SAT Range: 1260 - 1440 ACT Range: 27- 32
Tuition and fees: $43,930 (2023-24) Net Price: $31,346 (Fall 2022-23)
Wheaton College, located in Wheaton, Illinois, is a premier Christian liberal arts institution dedicated to integrating faith, scholarship, and service. Known for its rigorous academics and commitment to spiritual formation, Wheaton prepares students to lead with.... read more
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Score 661
#19 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 76% SAT Range: 1220 - 1410 ACT Range: 26- 31
Tuition and fees: $53.500 (2023-24) Net Price: $40,295 (Fall 2022-23)
Gonzaga University, rooted in the Jesuit tradition, is a dynamic institution dedicated to academic excellence and holistic personal growth. Located in Spokane, Washington, Gonzaga offers a vibrant campus community where students thrive through rigorous.... read more
Score 659
#20 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 47% SAT Range: 1030 - 1340 ACT Range: 22- 29
Tuition and fees: $38,450 (2023-24) Net Price: $27,191 (Fall 2022-23)
Union University, rooted in a Christ-centered mission, combines academic excellence with a deep commitment to faith and service. Located in Jackson, Tennessee, Union offers a dynamic environment where students are equipped to excel in their fields while growing.... read more
Score 655
#21 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 53% SAT Range: 1090- 1290 ACT Range: 22- 29
Tuition and fees: $33,580 (2023-24) Net Price: $22,222 (Fall 2022-23)
Anderson University, located in Anderson, South Carolina, is a premier Christian institution dedicated to academic excellence and spiritual growth. With a mission rooted in faith, learning, and service, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate.... read more
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Score 655
#22 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 72% SAT Range: 1210 - 1400 ACT Range: 24- 30
Tuition and fees: $47,000 (2023-24) Net Price: $33,364 (Fall 2022-23)
Creighton University, a distinguished institution rooted in Jesuit traditions, is committed to academic excellence and holistic development. Located in Omaha, Nebraska, Creighton fosters a dynamic learning environment that integrates rigorous academics with.... read more
Score 651
#23 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 41% SAT Range: 1140- 1370 ACT Range: 23- 30
Tuition and fees: $35,500 (2023-24) Net Price: $27,007 (Fall 2022-23)
LeTourneau University is a Christ-centered institution dedicated to providing a transformative educational experience that integrates faith and learning. Located in Longview, Texas, the university is renowned for its strong emphasis on hands-on learning in fields.... read more
Score 645
#24 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 60% SAT Range: 1130- 1360 ACT Range: 24- 30
Tuition and fees: $46,704 (2023-24) Net Price: $30,510 (Fall 2022-23)
Biola University is a Christian institution dedicated to integrating faith and learning, fostering academic excellence, and cultivating spiritual growth. Located in Southern California, Biola offers a vibrant campus community where students thrive intellectually, socially.... read more
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Score 643
#25 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 54% SAT Range: 1170- 1370 ACT Range: 25- 32
Tuition and fees: $50,880 (2023-24) Net Price: $31,221 (Fall 2022-23)
The University of Dallas is a Catholic institution dedicated to academic excellence, rooted in the rich tradition of liberal arts education. Located in Irving, Texas, it fosters intellectual curiosity, ethical leadership, and a commitment to truth. With.... read more
Score 637
#26 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 0% SAT Range: N/A ACT Range: N/A
Tuition and fees: $0 (2023-24) Net Price: $0 (Fall 2022-23)
Aquinas College, located in the vibrant heart of Nashville, Tennessee, is a Catholic institution dedicated to academic excellence and spiritual growth. Guided by the Dominican tradition, the college fosters a holistic education that integrates faith, reason, and....read more
Score 627
#27 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 95% SAT Range: 1140- 1356 ACT Range: 25- 30
Tuition and fees: $59,000 (2023-24) Net Price: $34,951 (Fall 2022-23)
The University of Portland, nestled in the vibrant city of Portland, Oregon, is a distinguished institution known for its commitment to academic excellence, ethical leadership, and service-oriented education. Rooted in the Catholic tradition and guided by the.... read more
Score 626
#28 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 68% SAT Range: 1130 - 1345 ACT Range: 21- 30
Tuition and fees: $30,832 (2023-24) Net Price: $21,464 (Fall 2022-23)
John Brown University (JBU) is a leading Christian institution dedicated to academic excellence and spiritual growth. Nestled in the scenic beauty of Siloam Springs, Arkansas, JBU combines rigorous academics with a strong commitment to faith, preparing students for... read more
Score 624
#29 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 100% SAT Range: 1050- 1280 ACT Range: 21- 28
Tuition and fees: $24,888 (2023-24) Net Price: $20,383 (Fall 2022-23)
Harding University is a leading Christian institution dedicated to fostering academic excellence, spiritual development, and a vibrant community. Located in Searcy, Arkansas, Harding integrates faith and learning across a wide range of programs.... read more
Score 624
#30 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 63% SAT Range: 1110 - 1360 ACT Range: 23- 29
Tuition and fees: $36,078 (2023-24) Net Price: $27,047 (Fall 2022-23)
Cedarville University is a nationally recognized, Christ-centered institution dedicated to academic excellence and spiritual growth. Located in Cedarville, Ohio, the university offers more than 150 undergraduate and graduate programs, integrating faith and.... read more
Score 622
#31 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 76% SAT Range: 1070 - 1340 ACT Range: 23- 30
Tuition and fees: $39,104 (2023-24) Net Price: $25,698 (Fall 2022-23)
Taylor University, located in Upland, Indiana, is a premier Christian institution dedicated to integrating faith and learning. Established in 1846, it combines a strong liberal arts foundation with Christ-centered values, preparing students for meaningful lives of service.... read more
Score 691
#32 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 70% SAT Range: 1120 - 1290 ACT Range: 21- 27
Tuition and fees: $39,350 (2023-24) Net Price: $21,463 (Fall 2022-23)
Milligan University, located in the picturesque hills of Northeast Tennessee, is a Christian liberal arts institution dedicated to fostering intellectual growth, spiritual development, and community engagement. With a rich history dating back to 1866, Milligan.... read more
Score 615
#33 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 56% SAT Range: 1250 - 1430 ACT Range: 28- 32
Tuition and fees: $62,784 (2023-24) Net Price: $48,037 (Fall 2022-23)
Chapman University is a distinguished private institution located in the heart of Orange, California. Known for its innovative approach to education, Chapman combines rigorous academics with hands-on learning to prepare students for success in a rapidly.... read more
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Score 614
#34 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 56% SAT Range: 1000- 1190 ACT Range: 20- 28
Tuition and fees: $30,050 (2023-24) Net Price: 25,099 (Fall 2022-23)
Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to prepare students for meaningful careers and purposeful lives. Known for its vibrant campus community, the university fosters spiritual growth,.... read more
Score 613
#35 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 67% SAT Range: 1145- 1350 ACT Range: 22- 29
Tuition and fees: $38,824 (2023-24) Net Price: $27,386 (Fall 2022-23)
Lipscomb University is a private, Christian institution in Nashville, Tennessee, dedicated to fostering academic excellence and spiritual growth. Rooted in a rich heritage of faith, Lipscomb integrates a Christ-centered perspective into its diverse range of.... read more
Score 603
#36 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 80% SAT Range: 1212 - 1418 ACT Range: 30- 34
Tuition and fees: $51,790 (2023-24) Net Price: $36,412 (Fall 2022-23)
Westmont College, nestled in the scenic hills of Santa Barbara, California, is a premier Christian liberal arts institution dedicated to academic excellence and spiritual formation. With a focus on integrating faith and learning, Westmont offers a transformative.... read more
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Score 599
#37 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 69% SAT Range: 1060- 1290 ACT Range: 21- 28
Tuition and fees: $32,480 (2023-24) Net Price: $22,087 (Fall 2022-23)
Ouachita Baptist University, located in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, is a Christ-centered institution dedicated to academic excellence and spiritual growth. Known for its close-knit community, Ouachita offers a wide range of undergraduate programs that integrate faith.... read more
Score 599
#38 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 78% SAT Range: 1100- 1340 ACT Range: 22- 30
Tuition and fees: $40,640 (2023-24) Net Price: $29,882 (Fall 2022-23)
Messiah University is a nationally ranked Christian university dedicated to preparing students for lives of purpose and service. Located in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, Messiah fosters a vibrant community where faith and learning intersect, offering a wide range.... read more
Score 598
#39 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 71% SAT Range: 1070 - 1340 ACT Range: 22- 30
Tuition and fees: $38,670 (2023-24) Net Price: $26,374 (Fall 2022-23)
Calvin University is a distinguished Christian liberal arts institution committed to equipping students for meaningful lives of service and leadership. Rooted in Reformed tradition, Calvin integrates faith and learning, fostering a dynamic academic environment where.... read more
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Score 597
#40 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 85% SAT Range: 1178- 1416 ACT Range: 25- 30
Tuition and fees: $52,284 (2023-24) Net Price: $32,637 (Fall 2022-23)
Bethel University is a Christ-centered institution committed to fostering academic excellence, spiritual growth, and community engagement. Located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Bethel offers a supportive environment where students are encouraged to pursue their.... read more
Score 596
#41 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 87% SAT Range: N/A ACT Range: N/A
Tuition and fees: $43,980 (2023-24) Net Price: $25,062 (Fall 2022-23)
Regis University, rooted in the Jesuit tradition, offers a transformative education that prepares students to lead with integrity and purpose. Located in Denver, Colorado, Regis emphasizes academic excellence, critical thinking, and a deep commitment to social justice..... read more
Score 595
#42 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 72% SAT Range: 1020- 1240 ACT Range: 22- 26
Tuition and fees: $22,690 (2023-24) Net Price: $20,222 (Fall 2022-23)
Lee University, in Cleveland, Tennessee, is affiliated with the Church of God (Cleveland, TN) and offers a Christ-centered education that integrates faith and learning. Founded in 1918, it is now one of the largest Christian universities in the Southeast, with over..... read more
Score 595
#43 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 76% SAT Range: 1090 - 1310 ACT Range: 26- 31
Tuition and fees: $40,420 (2023-24) Net Price: $28,643 (Fall 2022-23)
Hope College is a distinguished liberal arts institution where academic excellence and Christian faith intertwine to inspire personal and intellectual growth. Nestled in Holland, Michigan, this vibrant community fosters a dynamic environment for learning.... read more
Score 589
#44 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 82% SAT Range: 1130- 1390 ACT Range: 23- 30
Tuition and fees: $40,464 (2023-24) Net Price: $25,471 (Fall 2022-23)
Covenant College is a distinctively Christian liberal arts institution dedicated to equipping students for lives of service and leadership. Nestled atop Lookout Mountain, Georgia, the college offers a stunning campus environment paired with rigorous academics.... read more
Score 581
#45 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 79% SAT Range: 1220- 1400 ACT Range: 27- 31
Tuition and fees: $51,370 (2023-24) Net Price: $31,642 (Fall 2022-23)
Seton Hall University, located in South Orange, New Jersey, is a distinguished institution blending rigorous academics with a vibrant campus life. Rooted in Catholic values and traditions, Seton Hall fosters an environment where students are.... read more
Score 579
#46 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 62% SAT Range: 1195- 1370 ACT Range: 25- 32
Tuition and fees: $47,600 (2023-24) Net Price: $31,551 (Fall 2022-23)
The University of Dayton, rooted in its Catholic and Marianist traditions, is a top-tier national research university committed to fostering innovation, community engagement, and a global perspective. Located in Dayton, Ohio, the university emphasizes a holistic.... read more
Score 578
#47 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 56% SAT Range: 1080- 1330 ACT Range: 24- 29
Tuition and fees: $40,352 (2023-24) Net Price: $26,103 (Fall 2022-23)
Carroll College, nestled in the scenic beauty of Helena, Montana, is a vibrant institution dedicated to academic excellence and personal development. Known for its strong liberal arts foundation and commitment to ethical leadership, Carroll provides.... read more
Score 576
#48 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 64% SAT Range: 1060- 1290 ACT Range: 22- 28
Tuition and fees: $42,380 (2023-24) Net Price: 28,311 (Fall 2022-23)
Abilene Christian University (ACU), in Abilene, Texas, is a Christ-centered institution dedicated to academic excellence and spiritual growth. Founded in 1906, ACU has evolved from a small Bible college into a leading university offering diverse undergraduate.... read more
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Score 575
#49 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 84% SAT Range: 1150- 1320 ACT Range: 25- 30
Tuition and fees: $52,309 (2023-24) Net Price: $32,100 (Fall 2022-23)
The University of Scranton is a private Jesuit university located in Pennsylvania, known for its commitment to academic excellence, ethical leadership, and a vibrant campus community. With a rich history dating back to 1888, the university provides students with.... read more
Score 575
#50 Most Selective Christian College in the United States
Acceptance Rate: 81% SAT Range: 1170- 1330 ACT Range: 26- 31
Tuition and fees: $46,686 (2023-24) Net Price: $33,214 (Fall 2022-23)
Emmanuel College, a Catholic liberal arts and sciences institution in Boston, provides a dynamic and inclusive learning environment. Rooted in a commitment to academic excellence and service, Emmanuel prepares students to lead with integrity.... read more
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