1. University of Idaho
The University of Idaho (U of I), located in Moscow, is the state’s flagship public research university. Established in 1889, U of I is known for its strong academic programs, particularly in engineering, agriculture, and law. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs through its 10 colleges. U of I is a major research institution with significant contributions to fields such as agriculture, environmental science, and engineering. The campus is known for its vibrant student life, including numerous student organizations, sports teams, and cultural events.
U.S. News Ranking of the University
University of Idaho is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the United States.
Number of Students
U of I serves approximately 11,500 students, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional students.
Degrees Offered
U of I offers more than 150 degree programs across its 10 colleges.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at U of I is around 77%.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for incoming freshmen is approximately 1120.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
Popular extracurricular activities at U of I include student government, Greek life, academic clubs, sports teams, and cultural organizations.
5 Famous Alumni
- Dirk Kempthorne – Former U.S. Secretary of the Interior and Governor of Idaho.
- Sarah Palin – Former Governor of Alaska and Vice Presidential candidate.
- Dan O’Brien – Olympic gold medalist in the decathlon.
- Paul W. Billingsley – Former Director of the Federal Aviation Administration.
- Carol Ryrie Brink – Author of “Caddie Woodlawn.”
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Micron Technology
- Idaho National Laboratory
- St. Luke’s Health System
- Boeing
- HP Inc.
2. Boise State University
Boise State University, located in Boise, is a public university known for its strong emphasis on innovation, research, and community engagement. Established in 1932, Boise State offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs through its various colleges. The university is particularly noted for its programs in business, engineering, and health sciences. Boise State’s strategic location in Idaho’s capital city provides students with numerous opportunities for internships, research, and employment.
U.S. News Ranking of the University
Boise State University is consistently ranked among the top regional universities in the West.
Number of Students
Boise State serves approximately 26,000 students, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional students.
Degrees Offered
Boise State offers more than 190 degree programs across its various colleges.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at Boise State is around 77%.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for incoming freshmen is approximately 1110.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
Popular extracurricular activities at Boise State include student government, Greek life, sports teams, academic clubs, and cultural organizations.
5 Famous Alumni
- Troy Merritt – Professional golfer.
- Leighton Vander Esch – NFL player.
- Kristin Armstrong – Olympic gold medalist in cycling.
- Gene Harris – Jazz musician.
- Jake Plummer – Former NFL quarterback.
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Micron Technology
- St. Luke’s Health System
- Simplot
- HP Inc.
- Boise Cascade
3. Idaho State University
Idaho State University (ISU), located in Pocatello, is a public research university known for its strong emphasis on health sciences and technical education. Established in 1901, ISU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs through its various colleges. The university is particularly noted for its programs in pharmacy, nursing, and energy systems technology. ISU’s commitment to research and community engagement is reflected in its numerous research centers and outreach programs.
U.S. News Ranking of the University
Idaho State University is ranked among the top regional universities in the West.
Number of Students
ISU serves approximately 12,000 students, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional students.
Degrees Offered
ISU offers more than 280 degree programs across its various colleges.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at ISU is around 99%.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for incoming freshmen is approximately 1070.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
Popular extracurricular activities at ISU include student government, Greek life, academic clubs, sports teams, and cultural organizations.
5 Famous Alumni
- Jared Allen – Former NFL player.
- Larry Echo Hawk – Former U.S. Assistant Secretary of the Interior.
- Sherri Ybarra – Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction.
- Stacy Dragila – Olympic gold medalist in pole vaulting.
- Mike Simpson – U.S. Representative.
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Idaho National Laboratory
- Bingham Memorial Hospital
- Portneuf Medical Center
- ON Semiconductor
- Simplot
4. College of Idaho
The College of Idaho, located in Caldwell, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, personal growth, and community engagement. Established in 1891, the College of Idaho offers a range of undergraduate programs in fields such as biology, business, education, and the humanities. The college’s commitment to a broad-based education is reflected in its distinctive PEAK curriculum, which encourages students to explore multiple disciplines. The College of Idaho’s small class sizes and close-knit community provide students with personalized attention and support.
U.S. News Ranking of the University
The College of Idaho is consistently ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the West.
Number of Students
The College of Idaho serves approximately 1,100 students, all of whom are undergraduates.
Degrees Offered
The College of Idaho offers more than 26 majors and 58 minors in various fields of study.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at the College of Idaho is around 50%.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for incoming freshmen is approximately 1170.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
Popular extracurricular activities at the College of Idaho include student government, Greek life, academic clubs, sports teams, and cultural organizations.
5 Famous Alumni
- Butch Otter – Former Governor of Idaho.
- Elgin Baylor – NBA Hall of Famer.
- Steve Symms – Former U.S. Senator.
- Kristine Tompkins – Conservationist and former CEO of Patagonia.
- Gus Otto – Former NFL player.
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Micron Technology
- St. Luke’s Health System
- Idaho National Laboratory
- Boise Cascade
- Simplot
5. Lewis-Clark State College
Lewis-Clark State College (LCSC), located in Lewiston, is a public college known for its strong emphasis on professional and technical education. Established in 1893, LCSC offers a range of undergraduate programs in fields such as nursing, business, education, and the humanities. The college’s commitment to hands-on learning and community engagement is reflected in its numerous internship opportunities and outreach programs. LCSC’s small class sizes and supportive community provide students with personalized attention and support.
U.S. News Ranking of the University
Lewis-Clark State College is ranked among the top regional colleges in the West.
Number of Students
LCSC serves approximately 3,500 students, all of whom are undergraduates.
Degrees Offered
LCSC offers more than 70 degree programs in various fields of study.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at LCSC is around 100%.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for incoming freshmen is approximately 1040.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
Popular extracurricular activities at LCSC include student government, academic clubs, sports teams, and cultural organizations.
5 Famous Alumni
- James F. Amos – Former Commandant of the Marine Corps.
- Michael P. Anderson – NASA astronaut.
- Jay Inslee – Governor of Washington.
- Dennis Johnson – Former NBA player.
- Marilynne Robinson – Pulitzer Prize-winning author.
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- St. Joseph Regional Medical Center
- Clearwater Paper Corporation
- PotlatchDeltic
- Lewiston School District
- Lewis-Clark State College
6. Northwest Nazarene University
Northwest Nazarene University (NNU), located in Nampa, is a private Christian university known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, spiritual growth, and community service. Established in 1913, NNU offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, education, nursing, and theology. The university’s commitment to integrating faith and learning is reflected in its Christ-centered curriculum and community. NNU’s small class sizes and supportive environment provide students with personalized attention and opportunities for personal and academic growth.
U.S. News Ranking of the University
Northwest Nazarene University is ranked among the top regional universities in the West.
Number of Students
NNU serves approximately 2,000 students, including undergraduate and graduate students.
Degrees Offered
NNU offers more than 60 degree programs in various fields of study.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at NNU is around 67%.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for incoming freshmen is approximately 1110.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
Popular extracurricular activities at NNU include student government, academic clubs, sports teams, worship groups, and service organizations.
5 Famous Alumni
- Michael Lodahl – Theologian and author.
- Jim Zorn – Former NFL quarterback and coach.
- Jeff Myers – President of Summit Ministries.
- Sarah Heath – Author and pastor.
- Wendy Fox-Kirk – Academic and business leader.
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- St. Luke’s Health System
- Idaho Department of Health and Welfare
- Nampa School District
- Micron Technology
- Northwest Nazarene University
7. Brigham Young University-Idaho
Brigham Young University-Idaho (BYU-Idaho), located in Rexburg, is a private university affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Established in 1888, BYU-Idaho offers a range of undergraduate programs in fields such as business, education, engineering, and the sciences. The university’s commitment to integrating faith and learning is reflected in its Christ-centered curriculum and community. BYU-Idaho’s emphasis on experiential learning and service provides students with numerous opportunities for personal and academic growth.
U.S. News Ranking of the University
BYU-Idaho is ranked among the top regional colleges in the West.
Number of Students
BYU-Idaho serves approximately 44,000 students, all of whom are undergraduates.
Degrees Offered
BYU-Idaho offers more than 100 degree programs in various fields of study.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at BYU-Idaho is around 96%.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for incoming freshmen is approximately 1170.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
Popular extracurricular activities at BYU-Idaho include student government, academic clubs, sports teams, cultural organizations, and service groups.
5 Famous Alumni
- Quentin L. Cook – Member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
- Julie B. Beck – Former General President of the Relief Society.
- David A. Bednar – Member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
- Bonnie L. Oscarson – Former General President of the Young Women.
- L. Tom Perry – Former member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- LDS Church
- BYU-Idaho
- Melaleuca
- Idaho National Laboratory
- St. Luke’s Health System
8. College of Southern Idaho
The College of Southern Idaho (CSI), located in Twin Falls, is a public community college known for its strong emphasis on technical education and workforce development. Established in 1965, CSI offers a range of associate degree and certificate programs in fields such as nursing, business, education, and the trades. The college’s commitment to hands-on learning and community engagement is reflected in its numerous internship opportunities and outreach programs. CSI’s small class sizes and supportive community provide students with personalized attention and support.
U.S. News Ranking of the University
The College of Southern Idaho is ranked among the top regional colleges in the West.
Number of Students
CSI serves approximately 8,000 students, all of whom are undergraduates.
Degrees Offered
CSI offers more than 100 associate degree and certificate programs in various fields of study.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at CSI is around 100%.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for incoming freshmen is not required as CSI is an open-admission institution.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
Popular extracurricular activities at CSI include student government, academic clubs, sports teams, and cultural organizations.
5 Famous Alumni
- George Eskridge – Former Idaho State Representative.
- Brian Wood – News anchor and journalist.
- Brittney Karbowski – Voice actress.
- Marv Hagedorn – Former Idaho State Senator.
- Jerry Johnston – Author and motivational speaker.
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- St. Luke’s Magic Valley
- Chobani
- Clif Bar
- Glambia Nutritionals
- College of Southern Idaho
9. New Saint Andrews College
New Saint Andrews College, located in Moscow, is a private Christian liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on classical education and Christian worldview. Established in 1994, New Saint Andrews offers a rigorous undergraduate program rooted in the classical tradition, focusing on the liberal arts and theology. The college’s commitment to integrating faith and learning is reflected in its Christ-centered curriculum and community. New Saint Andrews’ small class sizes and close-knit community provide students with personalized attention and opportunities for personal and academic growth.
U.S. News Ranking of the University
New Saint Andrews College is ranked among the top regional colleges in the West.
Number of Students
New Saint Andrews serves approximately 200 students, all of whom are undergraduates.
Degrees Offered
New Saint Andrews offers a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Culture.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at New Saint Andrews is around 80%.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for incoming freshmen is approximately 1200.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
Popular extracurricular activities at New Saint Andrews include student government, academic clubs, cultural organizations, and service groups.
5 Famous Alumni
- Douglas Wilson – Theologian and author.
- Nate Wilson – Author and filmmaker.
- Toby Sumpter – Pastor and author.
- Rachel Jankovic – Author and speaker.
- Ben Merkle – President of New Saint Andrews College.
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Classical Christian Schools
- Canon Press
- New Saint Andrews College
- Local Churches
- Publishing Companies
10. College of Western Idaho
The College of Western Idaho (CWI), located in Nampa, is a public community college known for its strong emphasis on technical education and workforce development. Established in 2007, CWI offers a range of associate degree and certificate programs in fields such as nursing, business, education, and the trades. The college’s commitment to hands-on learning and community engagement is reflected in its numerous internship opportunities and outreach programs. CWI’s small class sizes and supportive community provide students with personalized attention and support.
U.S. News Ranking of the University
The College of Western Idaho is ranked among the top regional colleges in the West.
Number of Students
CWI serves approximately 10,000 students, all of whom are undergraduates.
Degrees Offered
CWI offers more than 100 associate degree and certificate programs in various fields of study.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at CWI is around 100%.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for incoming freshmen is not required as CWI is an open-admission institution.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
Popular extracurricular activities at CWI include student government, academic clubs, sports teams, and cultural organizations.
5 Famous Alumni
- Zachery Bartels – Author and pastor.
- Michael Green – Educator and community leader.
- Jill Stevenson – Business entrepreneur.
- Steve Johnson – Health care professional.
- Amy Parker – Non-profit organization leader.
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- St. Luke’s Health System
- Micron Technology
- HP Inc.
- Simplot
- College of Western Idaho