Best Colleges and Universities in Raleigh, NC
Colleges in Raleigh, NC include North Carolina State University at Raleigh, Meredith College, and William Peace University, according to EDsmart's 2026 rankings of 5 local colleges and universities. The best colleges in Raleigh, NC are scored on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes using federal College Scorecard data—so you can compare schools on the same national model.
Key Facts
- Raleigh, NC has 5 colleges and universities in this ranking.
- Top-ranked school in Raleigh, NC: North Carolina State University at Raleigh.
- Median net price (city): $21,649. Median graduation rate: 44.8%.
- Data: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Rankings by EDsmart (completion, affordability, support, career outcomes).
Colleges and Universities in Raleigh, NC at a Glance
Top 5 Colleges in Raleigh, NC
| Rank | School | Grade | National Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | North Carolina State University at Raleigh | A | #83 |
| #2 | Meredith College | B+ | #436 |
| #3 | William Peace University | B- | #1316 |
| #4 | Shaw University | C | #1769 |
| #5 | Saint Augustine's University | D- | #1934 |
Quick Stats for Colleges in Raleigh, NC
Top 5 colleges in each category. Click a school for its full profile.
Most Affordable Colleges in Raleigh, NC
- Shaw University$16,512
- North Carolina State University at Raleigh$17,303
- William Peace University$21,649
- Meredith College$22,488
- Saint Augustine's University$24,313
Colleges in Raleigh, NC with Highest Graduation Rates
Colleges in Raleigh, NC with Highest Graduate Earnings
- North Carolina State University at Raleigh$57,623
- Meredith College$45,293
- William Peace University$39,738
- Saint Augustine's University$26,999
- Shaw University$26,148
Best Colleges in Raleigh, NC by Category
5 Best Colleges in Raleigh, NC
All 5 schools below are sorted by overall EDsmart rank. Click a school for its full profile.
How We Rank Colleges in Raleigh, NC
EDsmart's 2026 model weights four pillars equally—Completion, Affordability, Support, and Career Outcomes—using federal College Scorecard metrics. Letter grades and the 0-100 EDsmart Score are cohort-relative (each school vs. the full national ranked pool), not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
Data Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (2022-2023 cohort, downloaded May 19, 2026). Learn more about our methodology →
Citation: EDsmart rankings (methodology); school data from U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What colleges are in Raleigh, NC?
Raleigh, NC has 5 colleges and universities in this EDsmart ranking, including North Carolina State University at Raleigh.
How many colleges are in Raleigh, NC?
Raleigh, NC has 5 colleges and universities in this EDsmart ranking.
What is the best college in Raleigh, NC?
The top-ranked college in Raleigh, NC in our 2026 rankings is North Carolina State University at Raleigh.
What are the best universities in Raleigh, NC?
The best universities in Raleigh, NC are led by North Carolina State University at Raleigh. Use the ranked list on this page to compare tuition, acceptance rates, graduation rates, and earnings.
How does EDsmart rank colleges?
EDsmart ranks colleges on four pillars—completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes—using standardized federal data. Grades and scores are cohort-relative to all ranked schools (including the 0-100 EDsmart Score index). See our full methodology.
Where does the data come from?
School data comes from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. EDsmart applies its own ranking methodology to produce grades and ranks.
How to Choose the Right College in Raleigh, NC
Choosing a college is one of the most important decisions you'll make. For students considering Raleigh, NC, there are 5 colleges and universities to choose from, each offering unique programs, campus cultures, and career outcomes. Learn how EDsmart ranks colleges by completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What to Look for in Colleges in Raleigh, NC
When evaluating colleges in Raleigh, NC, consider these key factors:
- Graduation Rates: Look for schools with strong completion rates, indicating students receive the support needed to finish their degrees.
- Affordability: Compare net prices after financial aid, not just sticker prices. Many Raleigh, NC colleges offer generous aid packages.
- Career Outcomes: Research median earnings and employment rates for graduates from each institution.
- Campus Culture: Consider school size, student-faculty ratios, and retention rates to find your best fit.
Types of Colleges and Universities in Raleigh, NC
Raleigh, NC offers a diverse range of higher education options:
- Public Universities: State-funded institutions offering lower tuition for in-state residents
- Private Nonprofit Colleges: Independent institutions often with smaller class sizes and specialized programs
- Specialized Schools: Institutions focused on specific fields like arts, technology, or healthcare
Comparing Colleges and Universities in Raleigh, NC
Students often compare schools in Raleigh, NC on graduation rate, net price after aid, acceptance rate, and median earnings after graduation. The ranked list above shows all 5 local options on the same EDsmart scale so you can weigh affordability against outcomes.
Financial Aid and Scholarships for Colleges in Raleigh, NC
Many colleges in Raleigh, NC offer financial aid packages that can significantly reduce the cost of attendance. Be sure to:
- Complete the FAFSA to qualify for federal aid
- Research institution-specific scholarships
- Use each school's net price calculator for accurate cost estimates
- Compare financial aid offers from multiple Raleigh, NC colleges
Next Steps for Choosing a College in Raleigh, NC
Once you've reviewed our rankings of colleges in Raleigh, NC:
- Visit campus websites to learn about specific programs
- Schedule campus tours or virtual visits
- Contact admissions offices with questions
- Compare detailed profiles for your top choices
- Use net price calculators to understand true costs
Remember: The best college for you depends on your academic interests, career goals, financial situation, and personal preferences. Use our rankings methodology as a starting point, then dive deeper into the schools that interest you most. Each college in Raleigh, NC offers unique opportunities—find the one that aligns with your goals.
Schools Near Raleigh, NC
Top-ranked colleges and universities in nearby cities in NC.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Nearby Cities
Colleges and universities in other cities in NC.