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

Best Colleges in New Jersey: Ranked by Value & Outcomes

Ranked by graduate outcomes and value — not prestige.

Top Colleges in New Jersey

#1
Princeton University
Princeton, NJ · Private
4.5%
accept
$110,066
Salary (10yr)
#2
Rutgers University
New Brunswick, NJ · Public
65.3%
accept
$74,479
Salary (10yr)

FAQs about colleges in New Jersey

How many colleges are in New Jersey ranked on this page?
This guide ranks 2 colleges in New Jersey 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 New Jersey?
Princeton University has the lowest acceptance rate among New Jersey colleges on this list at 4.5%. Reach for it only if your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars are well above the school's median.
Which New Jersey college has the highest graduate salary?
Princeton University graduates earn the highest median 10-year salary among New Jersey colleges on this list, at $110,066. Major choice impacts earnings far more than school choice — pick based on intended career, not just school median.
Should I stay in New Jersey for college?
In-state public colleges in New Jersey typically charge significantly less tuition than out-of-state students pay, so staying in-state can cut costs dramatically. Private colleges in New Jersey 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.