Best Colleges in Idaho

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Best Accredited Colleges

#1 Brigham Young University-Idaho

Rexburg, ID

$7727

59%

Brigham Young University-Idaho was originally founded in 1888 as a secondary school for Latter-day Saint settlers of Rexburg. The school later converted into a two-year college before beginning operations as a four-year institution in 2001. Today, Idaho's largest private university spans 430 acres and welcomes 28,000 students each year. The university is owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Students can pursue 20 associate degrees and 87 bachelor's degrees across six colleges and 33 departments. Diverse majors include food science, civil engineering, economics, theater, religious education, and world languages. BYU-Idaho believes in hands-on learning and is one of the largest intern-providing institutions in the U.S. Outside of class, students can participate in sports, performing arts, recreation, and service activities. The admissions process requires applicants to submit official high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. Church members must be in good standing, and nonmembers must complete an interview.

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#2 Northwest Nazarene University

Nampa, ID

$19204

56%

Northwest Nazarene University is a comprehensive four-year Christian university and one of eight liberal arts colleges in the U.S. affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene. Located on a 90-acre campus in Nampa, NNU serves more than 2,000 undergraduate and graduate students in addition to 6,000 continuing education students and 2,000 high school students taking concurrent credit courses. NNU offers degrees across four major schools: arts and sciences, graduate studies, business, and theology and Christian ministries. Programs of study include studio art, global business, secondary education, worship leadership, and music theory. NNU also offers a variety of online and accelerated degree options. Students can participate in on-site housing communities, NCAA athletics, over 40 clubs and organizations, and chapel and ministry opportunities. Undergraduate applicants must supply an introductory essay, SAT or ACT scores, and official high school transcripts. NNU charges a $50 application fee.

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#3 University of Idaho

Moscow, ID

$14997

55%

The University of Idaho serves more than 11,000 students through a 1,585-acre campus in Moscow, three educational centers, nine research and extension centers, and extension offices in 42 counties. U of I is a land-grant institution, the state's primary research university, and the lead university in the Idaho Space Grant Consortium. U of I offers 94 undergraduate majors and 62 graduate majors in 12 comprehensive disciplines including art and design, engineering, health, language and writing, and performance art. Many undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs offer online completion pathways. Students enrolled in agricultural programs gain valuable hands-on experience in campus labs, greenhouses, and animal centers and out in the field on hundreds of acres of farmland. To be considered for undergraduate admission, applicants must possess a minimum 2.0 GPA and provide SAT or ACT scores, official high school transcripts, and a nonrefundable $60 fee.

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#4 Boise State University

Boise, ID

$13363

44%

Originally founded as Boise Junior College in 1932, Boise State University became Idaho's third state university in 1974. The 285-acre campus encompasses more than 170 buildings and serves approximately 25,000 students each year. BSU boasts successful NCAA athletic programs, a dynamic Greek life community, and more than 260 student clubs and organizations. This public research university offers 91 bachelor's degrees, 66 master's degrees, 29 graduate certificates, and 11 doctoral degrees. The school's highest-enrollment undergraduate programs include nursing, health science studies, biology, computer science, and psychology. Graduate programs with the highest enrollment numbers include social work, business administration, and educational technology. Distance learners can access hundreds of classes and more than 45 complete degrees online. Prospective students must submit a complete application, official high school transcripts, and ACT or SAT scores. A $50 application fee applies for nonresidents of Idaho and applicants interested in fully online programs.

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#5 The College of Idaho

Caldwell, ID

$22277

67%

The College of Idaho is a private liberal arts college located in Caldwell, 30 miles from downtown Boise. The oldest school of its kind in the state, C of I serves more than 1,000 students each year. The college fosters a close-knit community, with more than 60% of students living on-site in residence halls. C of I also offers varsity sports, Greek life, outdoor activities, and study abroad programs. C of I uses a distinctive curriculum called PEAK, which requires students to complete one major and three minors in four years. PEAK offers practical education and helps expand students' horizons through exposure to four academic areas: the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and a professional field. Learners enjoy small class sizes thanks to the school's 9-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. C of I bases admission decisions on high school academics, recommendation letters, community involvement, personal achievements, and writing ability. The school does not require applicants to provide ACT/SAT scores.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best colleges in Idaho?

Some of the best colleges in Idaho include Boise State University, University of Idaho, Idaho State University, and College of Idaho.

2. How do I apply to colleges in Idaho?

To apply to colleges in Idaho, you typically need to complete an online application form, submit your high school transcripts, provide standardized test scores (such as SAT or ACT), write an essay, and pay the application fee. Each college may have specific requirements, so it's important to check their websites for detailed instructions.

3. What majors and programs are offered at Idaho colleges?

Idaho colleges offer a wide range of majors and programs, including but not limited to business, engineering, education, nursing, computer science, psychology, biology, and environmental studies. It's best to visit the websites of individual colleges to explore their specific offerings.

4. How much does tuition cost at Idaho colleges?

Tuition costs vary depending on the college and program of study. In-state tuition for Idaho residents is generally lower than out-of-state tuition. On average, tuition at public colleges in Idaho ranges from around $6,000 to $8,000 per year for in-state students, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $20,000 to $25,000 per year. Private colleges may have higher tuition rates.

5. Are there scholarships available for Idaho college students?

Yes, there are scholarships available for Idaho college students. Many colleges offer their own scholarships based on academic merit, talent, or financial need. Additionally, there are external scholarships provided by organizations, foundations, and government agencies. It's recommended to research and apply for scholarships early to increase your chances of receiving financial aid.

6. What is the student-to-faculty ratio at Idaho colleges?

The student-to-faculty ratio varies among Idaho colleges. On average, public colleges in Idaho have a student-to-faculty ratio of around 17:1, while private colleges may have smaller class sizes with a ratio of 12:1 or lower. Smaller class sizes generally allow for more personalized attention and interaction with professors.

7. Can I live on campus at Idaho colleges?

Yes, most Idaho colleges offer on-campus housing options for students. Living on campus provides a convenient and immersive college experience, allowing students to be closer to classes, resources, and campus activities. However, availability may vary, so it's advisable to apply for housing early.

8. What extracurricular activities are available at Idaho colleges?

Idaho colleges offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including student clubs and organizations, sports teams, intramural sports, community service opportunities, and cultural events. These activities provide students with opportunities to pursue their interests, develop leadership skills, and make new friends.

9. Can I transfer credits from a community college to an Idaho college?

Yes, many Idaho colleges accept transfer credits from community colleges. However, the transferability of credits depends on factors such as the specific courses taken, grades earned, and the receiving college's transfer policies. It's recommended to consult with academic advisors at both institutions to ensure a smooth transfer process.

10. What support services are available for students at Idaho colleges?

Idaho colleges provide various support services to help students succeed academically and personally. These services may include academic advising, tutoring centers, career counseling, health services, counseling and psychological services, disability support, and student success programs. Students are encouraged to take advantage of these resources to enhance their college experience.