Great Northern University: 85.7% Acceptance Rate

85.7%Acceptance

$17,700Tuition

36Students

Private nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test BlindData: 2023-24

About Great Northern University

Great Northern University operates as one of the smallest private colleges in the Pacific Northwest with just 36 students. This tiny institution in Spokane maintains an intimate academic environment that's unheard of at larger universities. The 3:1 student-faculty ratio means every student gets individualized attention from professors. With an 85.71% acceptance rate, the school welcomes most applicants who demonstrate genuine interest in close-knit learning.

The financial picture reveals some complexity for families. Students pay an average net price of $31,680, which climbs to $32,695 for families earning over $75,000 annually. Only 2.78% of students receive institutional grants, averaging $3,545 when awarded. About 45.71% of students qualify for federal Pell Grants, indicating the school serves a mix of economic backgrounds. The modest federal loan rate of 31.43% suggests many families can cover costs without heavy borrowing.

The school's 100% retention rate stands out dramatically, meaning every first-year student returns for sophomore year. This microscopic campus houses 44 students in residential facilities, creating a community where everyone knows each other. The student body tilts slightly female at 55.56% and remains predominantly white at 77.78%, with Hispanic students comprising 16.67% of enrollment.

Academics & Faculty

Great Northern University operates as an ultra-small private institution with just 36 students and a 3:1 student-faculty ratio that guarantees intensive personal attention. Every single student returned for their second year, reflecting the close mentoring relationships possible in such an intimate academic environment. The tiny enrollment means students work directly with professors rather than teaching assistants. Class discussions involve everyone, and independent study opportunities are abundant. With fewer than 40 students total, academic programs likely focus on individualized learning paths rather than traditional majors. The small scale creates a tutorial-style education where students can't hide in the back of lecture halls.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 3:1
Retention Rate: 100.0%

Campus Life

Great Northern University operates as an intimate learning community with just 36 students and a remarkable 3:1 student-faculty ratio. The tiny enrollment means every student knows their classmates personally. Spokane sits in eastern Washington, about 280 miles from Seattle, where students need serious winter gear for snowy months and light layers for warm summers.

With only 44 beds available on campus, most students live in close quarters that foster tight-knit relationships. The 100% retention rate suggests students bond quickly with this small community. Weekend activities revolve around Spokane's outdoor recreation, from skiing at nearby mountains in winter to hiking and lake activities in summer. The gender split of 56% women and 44% men creates a balanced social active.

Students here experience an almost tutorial-style education where professors know everyone by name. The small size means limited campus traditions but strong personal connections. Social life centers on study groups, small gatherings, and exploring Spokane's downtown arts scene and riverfront parks.

Setting: City-Midsize
Housing Capacity: 44 beds
Calendar System: Semester

Campus Safety (2023)

No reported Clery Act crimes in 2023.

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 25°–37°F
July Avg: 56°–87°F
Annual Precipitation: 17.4"
Annual Snowfall: 45.4"

Student Demographics

Great Northern University draws a close-knit student body of just 36 students who benefit from extraordinary personal attention. Nearly half receive Pell Grants, reflecting the school's commitment to serving students from modest economic backgrounds. The 3:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know every student by name. Women slightly outnumber men, typical for smaller liberal arts institutions. The student body is predominantly white with a notable Hispanic presence that mirrors Spokane's demographics. With 100% retention, students clearly find what they're looking for in this intimate academic environment.

Men: 44.4%
Women: 55.6%
White: 77.8%
Black: 0.0%
Hispanic: 16.7%
Asian: 2.8%
Pell Grant Recipients: 45.7%

Location

Great Northern University sits in Spokane, Washington's second-largest city with around 230,000 residents. The campus is located about 280 miles east of Seattle and 18 miles west of the Idaho border. Spokane anchors the Inland Northwest region, surrounded by rolling hills and pine forests. The city offers a mix of urban amenities and outdoor recreation, with the Spokane River running through downtown and nearby mountains providing skiing and hiking opportunities. The university's tiny enrollment of just 36 students creates an intimate academic environment in this mid-sized Pacific Northwest city. Students considering colleges in Washington may also compare Great Northern University with similar schools in the region.

Address: Spokane, Washington 99207-2550

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at Great Northern University?

Great Northern University accepts 85.71% of applicants, making it accessible to most students who apply. With only 36 total students enrolled, this tiny private university offers an intimate learning environment that's more like a small seminar than a traditional college experience.

How much does Great Northern University cost after financial aid?

The average net price is $31,680, though this varies by family income level. About 45.71% of students receive financial aid, but only 2.78% receive institutional grants averaging $3,545.

What is the student-faculty ratio at Great Northern University?

Great Northern University maintains an exceptionally low 3:1 student-faculty ratio. With such small class sizes, students receive highly personalized attention that's virtually impossible to find at larger institutions.

Does Great Northern University have good student retention?

The university boasts a perfect 100% retention rate, meaning every first-year student returns for their sophomore year. This remarkable statistic reflects the tight-knit community that develops when you have fewer than 40 students on campus.

Where do students live at Great Northern University?

The university has housing capacity for 44 students, which actually exceeds current enrollment of 36. Room and board costs $11,538, and the intimate residential setting creates a close community atmosphere.

What makes Great Northern University unique in terms of size?

With just 36 students total, Great Northern University is one of the smallest universities in the country. The student body is 55.56% women and 77.78% white, creating an environment where every student is known personally by faculty and staff.