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New Saint Andrews College in Moscow achieves Idaho's highest small college graduation rate at 69.7%, nearly double the state average for these institutions. This academic success story sits alongside remarkably affordable options like College of Southern Idaho, where students pay just $7,005 annually. Idaho's 11 small colleges serve 12,321 students total, creating tight-knit learning environments that connect directly to the state's growing economy. Graduates earn between $33,140 and $51,719, with Northwest Nazarene University leading at the top of this range. The College of Idaho maintains the most selective admissions at 45.5% acceptance, while several schools welcome all qualified applicants. These institutions benefit from Idaho's tech expansion, particularly around Boise's Micron Technology and Hewlett Packard facilities, plus the state's Idaho Opportunity Scholarship program that helps residents afford higher education. Community colleges like North Idaho College in Coeur d'Alene and College of Eastern Idaho in Idaho Falls provide important workforce training, while liberal arts schools offer bachelor's degrees at costs well below national averages.
11
Schools
$18,203
Avg. Net Price
$42,328
Avg. Earnings
50.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Small Colleges in Idaho

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 1,049 $20,566 64.1% 45.5%
2 1,396 $8,728 35.3%
3 3,476 $7,005 35.1%
4 2,488 $11,481 35.7%
5 2,277 $12,832 44.7% 86.8%
6 433 58.0%
7 1,138 $25,537 59.9% 88.2%
8 103 $16,884 48.1% 100.0%
9 273 69.7% 83.0%
10 226 $31,248
11 467 $29,546

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The College of Idaho stand out among small schools?

The College of Idaho maintains the most selective admissions at 45.5% acceptance while graduating 64.1% of students. With 1,049 enrolled students paying $20,566 annually, graduates earn a median $48,473. The school balances academic rigor with strong career outcomes in Idaho's growing professional market.

How affordable are Idaho's community colleges compared to four-year schools?

Idaho's community colleges cost $7,005 to $11,481 annually, significantly less than private institutions averaging $25,000-$31,000. College of Southern Idaho serves 3,476 students at $7,005, while North Idaho College enrolls 2,488 at $11,481, both providing career training and transfer pathways.

Does Idaho offer financial aid specifically for state residents?

Idaho provides the Idaho Opportunity Scholarship for residents attending in-state schools. This program helps offset costs at participating institutions, making already affordable options like Lewis-Clark State College at $12,832 even more accessible for qualifying students pursuing degrees or certificates.

What career outcomes can graduates expect from these schools?

Median earnings range from $33,140 to $51,719 depending on the institution and field of study. Northwest Nazarene University graduates earn the highest at $51,719, while specialized programs connect students to Idaho's tech sector, healthcare facilities, and growing service industries.

Where do most students attend small colleges in Idaho?

College of Southern Idaho enrolls the most students at 3,476, followed by North Idaho College with 2,488. These larger community colleges serve regional workforce needs, while smaller institutions like Boise Bible College focus on specialized education with just 103 students enrolled.

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.