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Explore Arkansas Colleges

Colleges in Arkansas

Explore 27 colleges and universities in Arkansas, including 12 public institutions and 15 private schools. Compare tuition costs, acceptance rates, and find your perfect fit.

27

Total Colleges

12

Public

15

Private

Arkansas at a Glance

Avg Acceptance Rate

4687%

Average acceptance rate for Arkansas colleges

Avg Net Price

$16,040.5

After financial aid

Avg In-State Tuition

$13,202.815

For public universities

Top Ranked School

#141

University of Arkansas

Arkansas Colleges Directory

Browse 27 colleges in Arkansas, sorted by ranking and selectivity.

Belonging Home | Belonging | University of Arkansas
#24 Chemistry
University of Arkansas

Fayetteville, ARPublic

74%
Acceptance Rate
TOTAL COST

$21,910/yr

SAT RANGE

1030-1220

GRADUATION RATE

70%

"Razorbacks roar from Fayetteville's Ozark hills, blending business muscle and engineering grit with hog calls and trail adventures."

University of Arkansas at Little Rock - Abound: Nursing
#60 Best Value
59%
Acceptance Rate
TOTAL COST

$16,526/yr

SAT RANGE

960-1210

GRADUATION RATE

48%

"A dynamic urban university in Little Rock, blending affordability with hands-on learning in the heart of Arkansas."

Aerial View of Hendrix College | Hendrix College
#94 Liberal Arts
Hendrix College

Conway, ARPrivate

56%
Acceptance Rate
TOTAL COST

$49,750/yr

SAT RANGE

1123-1348

GRADUATION RATE

73%

"Dive into a hands-on Odyssey of discovery at this quirky liberal arts gem in small-town Arkansas, where close-knit classes fuel big adventures."

Calendar
#144 Liberal Arts
Ouachita Baptist University

Arkadelphia, ARPrivate

68%
Acceptance Rate
TOTAL COST

$40,220/yr

SAT RANGE

1070-1280

GRADUATION RATE

72%

"Faith-infused liberal arts college in Arkansas mountains famous for its epic student lip-sync battles."

Careers at Arkansas State University
#148 Best Value
Arkansas State University

Jonesboro, ARPublic

82%
Acceptance Rate
TOTAL COST

$18,438/yr

SAT RANGE

970-1190

GRADUATION RATE

55%

"Arkansas State University blends Southern charm with a gritty, hands-on approach to learning in the heart of the Delta."

Harding University Carr College of Nursing Employees, Location, Alumni |  LinkedIn
Harding University

Searcy, ARPrivate

71%
Acceptance Rate
TOTAL COST

$31,560/yr

SAT RANGE

1050-1290

GRADUATION RATE

71%

"Harding University blends rigorous academics with a deep-rooted Christian faith in the heart of small-town Arkansas."

University of Central Arkansas Employment Opportunities | Home
89%
Acceptance Rate
TOTAL COST

$16,060/yr

SAT RANGE

910-1170

GRADUATION RATE

55%

"A welcoming Arkansas hub where affordability meets a tight-knit campus spirit in the heart of Conway."

Henderson State University 005
Henderson State University

Arkadelphia, ARPublic

71%
Acceptance Rate
TOTAL COST

$15,180/yr

SAT RANGE

903-1073

GRADUATION RATE

46%

"Henderson State University is located in Arkadelphia, AR."

John Brown University Sign
John Brown University

Siloam Springs, ARPrivate

76%
Acceptance Rate
TOTAL COST

$39,064/yr

SAT RANGE

1070-1340

GRADUATION RATE

73%

"John Brown University is located in Siloam Springs, AR."

U of O Walker Hall
University of the Ozarks

Clarksville, ARPrivate

60%
Acceptance Rate
TOTAL COST

$34,553/yr

SAT RANGE

1020-1160

GRADUATION RATE

55%

"University of the Ozarks is located in Clarksville, AR."

Lyon College to begin exploring grad programs, partners with WRMC for BSN  program
Lyon College

Batesville, ARPrivate

63%
Acceptance Rate
TOTAL COST

$41,430/yr

SAT RANGE

N/A

GRADUATION RATE

59%

"Small Arkansas liberal arts college blending Presbyterian roots with Scottish bagpipes and fiercely competitive debate."

Frequently Asked Questions About Arkansas Colleges

Arkansas has 27 colleges and universities. This includes 12 public institutions and 15 private institutions. The state offers a diverse range of educational opportunities from community colleges to major research universities.

University of Arkansas is the highest-ranked university in Arkansas, ranked #141 nationally. The state is home to several prestigious institutions offering world-class education across various fields.

The average tuition at Arkansas colleges varies by institution type. For public universities, the average in-state tuition is $13,203 per year. Out-of-state students pay an average of $16,313. After financial aid, the average net price is $16,041.

The average acceptance rate for colleges in Arkansas is 47%. However, acceptance rates vary significantly by institution, with some highly selective universities accepting less than 10% of applicants while others maintain open enrollment policies.

To qualify for in-state tuition at Arkansas public universities, you typically need to establish residency for at least 12 months before enrolling. Requirements usually include living in the state, having a Arkansas driver's license, registering to vote in the state, and demonstrating intent to remain. Specific requirements vary by institution, so check with your chosen school's admissions office.

Arkansas is located in the Southeast region of the United States. The Southeast combines Southern hospitality with top-tier research universities and a growing tech sector, offering excellent value and vibrant campus life.

Arkansas offers a range of affordable college options. The average net price after financial aid is $16,041. Public universities in Arkansas provide particularly strong value for in-state residents, with lower tuition rates and access to state financial aid programs.