This guide ranks 5 colleges in Texas 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 Texas?

Rice University has the lowest acceptance rate among Texas colleges on this list at 7.9%. Reach for it only if your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars are well above the school's median.

Which Texas college has the highest graduate salary?

Rice University graduates earn the highest median 10-year salary among Texas colleges on this list, at $89,718. Major choice impacts earnings far more than school choice — pick based on intended career, not just school median.

Should I stay in Texas for college?

In-state public colleges in Texas typically charge significantly less tuition than out-of-state students pay, so staying in-state can cut costs dramatically. Private colleges in Texas charge the same regardless of state residency. Compare net cost (not sticker) for your family income to decide.

Data source: IPEDS, College Scorecard.

Top Colleges in Texas

FAQs about colleges in Texas

Plug your stats in. We'll tell you where you stand.