Best Colleges in DC 2024

Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges

We’ve identified 8 colleges and universities in DC that meet our criteria. This list of the top colleges in DC below focuses on schools that offer bachelor’s degrees. The ranking features fully accredited public and private colleges and universities in DC.

Best Colleges in DC 2023

1. #1

   Georgetown University

   Washington , DC

   #2 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #17 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #18 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #18 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025

   Tuition + fees

   $62K

   Acceptance

   12%

   Graduation

   96%

   Student body

   24K

   Median SAT/ACT

   1485/33

   Career Outlook for degree at Georgetown University

   Cost of Degree: $65,081

   Expenses: $23,660

   Starting Salary: $125,200

   Cost Recoup Time: 13 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   Rooted in Jesuit values, Georgetown University encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and exploration that allows students to pursue diverse academic interests. You’ll take on complex real- world challenges through innovative research and coursework with the help of a faculty comprised of renowned scholars, practitioners, and leaders in various fields.

   What we love about Georgetown University:

   With a strong emphasis on international affairs, the university offers numerous study abroad programs, partnerships with prestigious institutions worldwide, and a diverse student body representing over 130 countries.

   Georgetown University is ideal for students who:

   Are looking for a variety of residence amenities and co-living facilities.

   Georgetown University might not be the best fit for students who:

   Are not as interested in activism, public service, and community engagement.

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2. #2

   George Washington University

   Washington , DC

   #23 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #2 Best Research Universities in DC 2025 #2 Best Grad Schools in DC 2025 #2 Best Private Colleges in DC 2024

   Tuition + fees

   $62K

   Acceptance

   49%

   Graduation

   85%

   Student body

   30K

   Median SAT/ACT

   1410/32

   Career Outlook for degree at George Washington University

   Cost of Degree: $64,798

   Expenses: $19,325

   Starting Salary: $82,400

   Cost Recoup Time: 16 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   George Washington University provides a dynamic environment where students can thrive academically and personally through the university’s strong degree programs, diverse student body, and numerous research opportunities. The university offers extensive resources for career development, including academic counseling, networking events, and over 11,000 internship programs in D.C. and beyond.

   What we love about George Washington University:

   The school fosters a vibrant campus life where students can grow and build relationships by joining different student organizations, cultural and athletic events, and community service initiatives.

   George Washington University is ideal for students who:

   Would like to engage in cutting-edge research alongside renowned faculty members in modern laboratories.

   George Washington University might not be the best fit for students who:

   Are not passionate about diversity and inclusivity.

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3. #3

   Howard University

   Washington , DC

   #1 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in DC 2025 #3 Best Grad Schools in DC 2025 #4 Best Private Colleges in DC 2024

   Tuition + fees

   $31K

   Acceptance

   53%

   Graduation

   70%

   Student body

   13K

   Median SAT/ACT

   1170/23

   Career Outlook for degree at Howard University

   Cost of Degree: $33,344

   Expenses: $21,286

   Starting Salary: $54,500

   Cost Recoup Time: 16 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   As a historically Black university, Howard University boasts a legacy of academic excellence and social activism. With a diverse student body and faculty, the school instills a sense of social responsibility in its students and encourages them to make a positive impact in their communities.

   What we love about Howard University:

   Graduates will benefit from the university’s strong alumni network, allowing them to connect with various companies for employment and join clubs for events and networking opportunities.

   Howard University is ideal for students who:

   Are looking for a diverse set of degree programs and areas of study to choose from.

   Howard University might not be the best fit for students who:

   Have a limited budget for boarding since on-campus housing costs tend to run high.

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4. #4

   American University

   Washington , DC

   #7 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Christian Colleges in DC 2025 #3 Best Private Colleges in DC 2024 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024

   Tuition + fees

   $54K

   Acceptance

   41%

   Graduation

   79%

   Student body

   17K

   Median SAT/ACT

   1360/30

   Career Outlook for degree at American University

   Cost of Degree: $56,543

   Expenses: $19,632

   Starting Salary: $67,700

   Cost Recoup Time: 17 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   With numerous international partnerships and exchange programs, American University offers a diverse campus community that is focused on global education and cross-cultural understanding. The university also emphasizes hands-on learning through internships, research projects, and community engagement initiatives.

   What we love about American University:

   The school takes inclusivity up a notch through initiatives like inclusive teaching seminars, which empower faculty to create more welcoming classrooms, and the Diversity Supplier Program, which partners with minority-owned businesses.

   American University is ideal for students who:

   Prefer a vibrant campus arts scene that includes performing arts programs, galleries, and cultural events.

   American University might not be the best fit for students who:

   Are not interested in learning about sustainability practices like food composting, use of reusable water bottles, and upcycling old clothing.

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5. #5

   The Catholic University of America

   Washington , DC

   #13 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #15 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in DC 2024 #3 Best Christian Colleges in DC 2025

   Tuition + fees

   $54K

   Acceptance

   86%

   Graduation

   76%

   Student body

   5K

   Career Outlook for degree at The Catholic University of America

   Cost of Degree: $55,834

   Expenses: $21,950

   Starting Salary: $60,500

   Cost Recoup Time: 19 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   The Catholic University of America maintains a strong religious identity by integrating faith into its academic and extracurricular activities such as retreats and mission trips. The school’s campus features historic architecture and a picturesque backdrop for students to enjoy and explore.

   What we love about The Catholic University of America:

   The campus community is known for student participation and diverse cultural exchange, featuring organizations such as the Black Student Alliance, the Chinese Club, and the Filipino Organization of Catholic University Students.

   The Catholic University of America is ideal for students who:

   Are looking for a private university that offers low tuition rates.

   The Catholic University of America might not be the best fit for students who:

   Prefer an institution that is not affiliated with any particular religious denomination.

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7. #6

   Gallaudet University

   Washington , DC

   #1 Most Affordable Colleges in DC 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in DC 2024 #6 Best Research Universities in DC 2025 #6 Best Grad Schools in DC 2025

   Tuition + fees

   $18K

   Acceptance

   59%

   Graduation

   44%

   Student body

   2K

   Median SAT/ACT

   920/17

   Career Outlook for degree at Gallaudet University

   Cost of Degree: $19,658

   Expenses: $22,092

   Starting Salary: $34,300

   Cost Recoup Time: 18 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   Gallaudet University’s unique bilingual approach, incorporating American Sign Language (ASL) and English, fosters a dynamic learning environment where students enhance their communication skills and cultural understanding. The school drives innovation and knowledge advancement through its research centers, focusing on deaf and linguistics studies.

   What we love about Gallaudet University:

   The school is internationally recognized for its pioneering work in deaf education, offering a diverse range of programs and educational centers for deaf and hard-of-hearing students.

   Gallaudet University is ideal for students who:

   Have diverse needs since the university’s Student Accessibility Services ensures that they will be given equal access to academic and extracurricular activities.

   Gallaudet University might not be the best fit for students who:

   Lack enthusiasm for learning American Sign Language (ASL).

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8. #7

   University of the District of Columbia

   Washington , DC

   #23 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in DC 2025 #3 Best Small Colleges in DC 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in DC 2025

   Tuition + fees

   $6K

   Graduation

   35%

   Student body

   5K

   Career Outlook for degree at University of the District of Columbia

   Cost of Degree: $6,152

   Starting Salary: $39,400

   The University of the District of Columbia is known for offering quality Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programs, preparing students for the workforce through state-of-the-art laboratories and research opportunities. By partnering with community colleges, the school paves the way for its students to pursue higher education and workforce programs.

   What we love about the University of the District of Columbia:

   Through the Center for Urban Agriculture and Gardening Education (CUAGE), the university collaborates with local organizations to address community needs and organizes initiatives that promote food security and agricultural practices.

   The University of the District of Columbia is ideal for students who:

   Are enthusiastic about sustainability practices, renewable energy projects, and carbon footprint reduction efforts.

   University of the District of Columbia might not be the best fit for students who:

   Seek a more personalized learning experience with smaller class sizes.

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9. #8

   Trinity Washington University

   Washington , DC

   #4 Best Small Colleges in DC 2024 #4 Best Christian Colleges in DC 2025 #7 Best Private Colleges in DC 2024 #18 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees

   Tuition + fees

   $26K

   Acceptance

   97%

   Graduation

   38%

   Student body

   2K

   Career Outlook for degree at Trinity Washington University

   Cost of Degree: $26,110

   Expenses: $15,190

   Starting Salary: $43,100

   Cost Recoup Time: 16 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   Aside from offering career-focused programs, Trinity Washington University’s academic approach is centered on experiential learning through internships in notable organizations like the United States Capitol and the White House. With a commitment to social justice, the school’s programs include discussing issues about poverty, discrimination, and inequality.

   What we love about Trinity Washington University:

   The university’s Women’s Leadership Program empowers students to take on leadership roles, both on campus and in their communities, through workshops, mentorship opportunities, and networking events.

   Trinity Washington University is ideal for students who:

   Are looking for a supportive learning environment where faculty members provide personalized attention and guidance.

   Trinity Washington University might not be the best fit for students who:

   Prefer not to attend campus activities and cultural events.

   Compare school

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