DEEPCOLLEGES · OPS · v3.3 SCHOOLS·INDEXED 120 SOURCES IPEDS · CDS · SCORECARD LAST·SYNC 2026.04.29

Best Colleges in Minnesota: Ranked by Value & Outcomes

Ranked by graduate outcomes and value — not prestige.

Top Colleges in Minnesota

#1
Carleton College
Northfield, MN · Private
22.3%
accept
$75,525
Salary (10yr)
#2
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, MN · Public
77.0%
accept
$69,020
Salary (10yr)

FAQs about colleges in Minnesota

How many colleges are in Minnesota ranked on this page?
This guide ranks 2 colleges in Minnesota by graduate salary outcomes, acceptance rate, and net cost of attendance — using public US Department of Education College Scorecard and IPEDS data.
What is the hardest college to get into in Minnesota?
Carleton College has the lowest acceptance rate among Minnesota colleges on this list at 22.3%. Reach for it only if your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars are well above the school's median.
Which Minnesota college has the highest graduate salary?
Carleton College graduates earn the highest median 10-year salary among Minnesota colleges on this list, at $75,525. Major choice impacts earnings far more than school choice — pick based on intended career, not just school median.
Should I stay in Minnesota for college?
In-state public colleges in Minnesota typically charge significantly less tuition than out-of-state students pay, so staying in-state can cut costs dramatically. Private colleges in Minnesota charge the same regardless of state residency. Compare net cost (not sticker) for your family income to decide.
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Data source: IPEDS, College Scorecard.