Best Colleges in Idaho (2023 Rankings)

Welcome to our guide to the best colleges in Idaho for 2023! Whether you're a high school graduate seeking your dream campus, a prospective doctoral student looking for research opportunities, or someone interested in the unique blend of liberal arts and on-campus life, we've got you covered.

In this list, we'll explore the top institutions that offer a variety of programs, from associate degrees to doctoral research opportunities. Our rankings consider factors like enrollment size, available financial aid, and the variety of degrees offered. So, if you're searching for your perfect academic fit, read on to discover the best colleges in the Gem State (in no particular order).

Boise State University

Boise State University, a leading public doctoral research university in Boise, Idaho, stands out for its academic prowess. It's Idaho's largest graduate school, offering 13 doctoral programs, 71 master's programs, and 36 certificates across various colleges and schools. Notably, Boise State is the exclusive provider of a master's degree in Raptor Biology.

Boise State prioritizes graduate student well-being through the GradWell initiative. This program focuses on mental wellness education, facilitating access to mental health resources and nurturing graduate student connections.

The Stats

• National ranking: >600
• Size: Four-year, large-sized university with approximately 20,700 undergraduate students
• Location: Southwest Idaho in Boise, a midsize city area
• Acceptance rate: 77%
• 4-year graduation rate: 29%

University of Idaho

The University of Idaho, a public institution in Moscow, Idaho, is renowned for its agricultural programs. The Agricultural and Food Sciences (AFHS) program now offers a broader range of courses, catering to students' growth and specialization needs.

Additionally, the College of Art and Architecture (CAA) Design-Build Program at U of I is noteworthy. Here, students creatively used sustainable materials to renovate the Moscow Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center, showcasing their innovative spirit.

The Stats

• National ranking: 401-500
• Size: Four-year, medium-sized university with approximately 8,300 undergraduate students
• Location: Northwest Idaho in Moscow, a residential town
• Acceptance rate: 74%
• 4-year graduation rate: 37%

College of Idaho

Established in 1891, the College of Idaho is Idaho's premier private liberal arts institution. Located in the scenic Treasure Valley, the college offers a distinctive PEAK curriculum. This well-rounded education encompasses humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and professional foundations.

Beyond academics, the college boasts a lively campus life with 20 varsity sports teams, club sports, performing arts programs, Greek life, and various student clubs.

The Stats

• National ranking: No ranking
• Size: Four-year, small-sized university with approximately 1,100 undergraduate students
• Location: Southwest Idaho in Caldwell, a residential suburban area
• Acceptance rate: 48%
• 4-year graduation rate: 59%

Idaho State University

Idaho State University offers a wide academic spectrum from technical certificates to graduate and professional degrees. As a Carnegie-classified doctoral research university, it attracts a global student body to its main campus in Pocatello, along with locations in Meridian, Idaho Falls, and Twin Falls.

One of its standout features is affordable in-state tuition, with fees as low as $7,872 for Idaho residents. Additionally, ISU addresses the critical nursing shortage in North Idaho through a partnership with Kootenai Health, offering clinical experiences for students pursuing the online Accelerated Bachelor of Nursing program.

The Stats

• National ranking: >600
• Size: Four-year, medium-sized university with approximately 9,500 undergraduate students
• Location: Southeast Idaho in Pocatello, a small city
• Acceptance rate: No data
• 4-year graduation rate: 16%

Northwest Nazarene University

Northwest Nazarene University is a private Christian institution renowned for its holistic education approach. NNU offers a diverse range of over 80 programs of study, including graduate programs in Business, Counseling, Education, Nursing, Theology & Christian Ministries, and Social Work.

Beyond academics, students can take part in various extracurricular activities, such as music groups, a thriving theater program, and a nationally competitive speech team.

The Stats

• National ranking: No ranking
• Size: Four-year, small-sized university with approximately 1,300 undergraduate students
• Location: Southwest Idaho in Nampa, a residential suburban area
• Acceptance rate: 77%
• 4-year graduation rate: 41%

Lewis-Clark State College

Lewis-Clark State College, a prominent public institution located in Nampa, Idaho, offers a diverse array of over 130 programs, including 20 fully online options. Notably, the nursing program is renowned for its exceptional 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio, providing students with valuable one-on-one time with their professors.

The nursing program's state-of-the-art labs further enhance the learning experience. With a commitment to academic excellence and a wide range of program choices, Lewis-Clark State College is a top college choice in Idaho.

The Stats

• National ranking: No ranking
• Size: Four-year, small-sized university with approximately 3,800 undergraduate students
• Location: Northwest Idaho in Lewiston, a small city
• Acceptance rate: 100%

Brigham Young University-Idaho

Brigham Young University-Idaho, a distinguished private university affiliated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is known for its affordability, with tuition as low as $4,300 for all students, BYU-Idaho employs a proactive teaching method called the Learning Model. This approach equips students to prepare, teach one another, and apply their knowledge in real-life scenarios.

BYU-Idaho's innovative Three Track System keeps the campus bustling year-round, providing students with increased class opportunities throughout the year. This distinctive approach to education, combined with its strong values, makes Brigham Young University-Idaho a standout choice.

The Stats

• National ranking: No ranking
• Size: Four-year, large-sized university with approximately 44,400 undergraduate students
• Location: Eastern Idaho in Rexburg, a town-city area
• Acceptance rate: 97%
• 4-year graduation rate: 17%

College of Western Idaho

As Idaho's largest community college, the College of Western Idaho (CWI) takes pride in its commitment to the community. Offering a diverse range of educational programs, CWI caters to various needs, including two-year associate degrees, transferable degrees for those planning to pursue a four-year education, vocational and occupational training, certificate courses, and dual-credit classes. 

Additionally, CWI supports adult education and GED preparation, English as a Second Language courses, developmental coursework, and non-credit community and continuing education. With its adaptability and focus on community needs, CWI is a cornerstone of accessible education in Idaho.

The Stats

• National ranking: No ranking
• Size: Two-year, large-sized community college with approximately 30,000 undergraduate students
• Location: Southwest Idaho in Nampa, a residential suburban area
• Acceptance rate: N/A
• 4-year graduation rate: N/A

College of Southern Idaho

The College of Southern Idaho (CSI) is a dynamic community college known for its flexibility and outdoor education initiatives. CSI offers Flex Start courses, allowing students to choose between face-to-face, hybrid, or online classes in shortened semesters to better accommodate their schedules.

CSI Outdoors is a unique program that promotes adventure-based learning and environmental stewardship. It offers outdoor and wilderness experiences for students, faculty, staff, and the community.

The Stats

• National ranking: No ranking
• Size: Two-year, medium-sized community college with approximately 7,300 undergraduate students
• Location: Southern Idaho in Twin Falls, a remote town
• Acceptance rate: N/A
• 4-year graduation rate: N/A

North Idaho College

North Idaho College (NIC) is a community college offering flexible educational opportunities. NIC stands out with its multiple Start Dates, enabling students to earn Associate Degrees or Certificates at their own pace, including Dual Credits for high school juniors and seniors.

The college excels in academics and athletics, with all-Americans in nine programs, competing in the Northwest Athletic Conference. Moreover, NIC prioritizes Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, preparing students for success in various trades and industries at the Parker Technical Education Center.

The Stats

• National ranking: No ranking
• Size: Two-year, medium-sized community college with approximately 9,400 undergraduate students
• Location: Northwest Idaho in Coeur d'Alene, a large city
• Acceptance rate: N/A
• 4-year graduation rate: N/A

Honorable mentions

• New Saint Andrews College. Attend this unique private Christian university with an integrated liberal arts program.
• Boise Bible College. Become a pastor or other servant for Christ at this four-year college.

College Rover can help you discover your path to higher education in Idaho

Ready to explore the top colleges in Idaho for 2023? College Rover is here to assist you in your educational journey, providing valuable insights into schools, programs, and more. Let's navigate the possibilities together and find your ideal college in the Gem State.

College Rover gets the majority of its data directly from the U.S. Department of Education (DOE). The DOE publishing schedule "lags" the most current data which some colleges post on their official websites. This may cause there to be a difference in the data you see on College Rover and an individual college website. College Rover's website is updated as the DOE data becomes available and is configured for the College Rover website.