Spelman College
Spelman College has an acceptance rate of 24.9%, annual tuition of $31,556, average net price of $38,967, and a national rank of #534 (Grade B+), with a 78.5% graduation rate within 150% of normal time, about 3,414 undergraduates, and median earnings of $58,897 four years after graduation. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Spelman College is a private nonprofit university in Atlanta, GA. Students most often pursue Computer and Information Sciences and Economics.
Day to day, students benefit from a 11:1 student-faculty ratio, and 94.1% first-year retention. Coaches and faculty advisors weave in frequent check-ins, helping students translate ambition into steady progress.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at 35.8%, roughly 14.1 points below typical outcomes. It's well-suited to motivated learners who want a competitive yet collaborative community.
Who is Spelman College Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Spelman College graduates 78.5% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 76.5% and keeps 94.1% of first-year students. Affordability earns a C- compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Spelman College's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $31,556 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,500 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $18,091 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $4,995 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $50,952 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 27.8% of Spelman College students receive Pell Grants — below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $32,923 to $44,529 depending on family income. Use Spelman College's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $38,640/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $44,529/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- Median Earnings (4 Years After Graduation) $58,897
- 10-Year Median Earnings $59,993
- Average Years to Graduate 4.2 years
- Average Student Debt $25,000
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 42.4%
- Employment Rate 86.2%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Spelman College graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Spelman College vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Spelman College's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Spelman College's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Spelman College graduates earn $58,897 median, the 35.8% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 590-680
- SAT Math 518-640
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 22-29
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 3,414
- Full-Time Students 77.7%
- Part-Time Students 22.3%
- Retention Rate 94.1%
- Grad Rate (150% time) 78.5%
- Grad Rate (8-year) 76.5%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 11:1
How to Get Into Spelman College
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Spelman College requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 24.9%, Spelman College is highly selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: Spelman College's 24.9% acceptance rate makes it highly selective. Strong test scores, GPA, and a well-rounded application are essential. Early application can improve your chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1108 and 1320 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Spelman College undergraduates. Psychology, General, Political Science and Government, and Biology, General draw the most students.
- Psychology, General 13.6%
- Political Science and Government 12.2%
- Biology, General 11.1%
- Economics 10.4%
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, Gen 8.5%
- English Language and Literature, General 6.8%
See more majors
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studi 6.4%
- International/Globalization Studies 3.6%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Computer and Information Sciences, General $98,692
- 2. Economics $81,070
- 3. International/Global Studies $73,556
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. English Language and Literature, General $64,244
- 5. Political Science and Government $60,508
- 6. Psychology, General $52,163
- 7. Biology, General $51,873
- 8. Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies $48,561
- 9. Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General $28,357
- 10. Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft $25,129
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer and Information Sciences, General grads earn $98,692—293% more than Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft ($25,129). Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Spelman College. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 64 graduates)
- Political Science and Government (Bachelor's Degree, 57 graduates)
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 52 graduates)
- Economics (Bachelor's Degree, 49 graduates)
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degree, 40 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (30 programs)▼
- Psychology, General
- Political Science and Government
- Biology, General
- Economics
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
- English Language and Literature, General
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- International/Global Studies
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Mathematics
- Sociology
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Chemistry
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Philosophy
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Sociology and Anthropology
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Physics
- History
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Music
- Engineering, General
- Dance
- Human Services, General
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Education, General
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 3,414
- Full-Time Students 77.7%
- Part-Time Students 22.3%
- Male Students 5.0%
- Female Students 95.0%
- Caucasian 5.1%
- Asian 2.0%
- Hispanic 0.9%
- Black 85.6%
- Pell Grant Recipients 27.8%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Spelman College's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Spelman College's undergraduate population. Women make up 95.0% of the student body, while men represent 5.0%.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Spelman College support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Spelman College, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Spelman College has a diverse student body, with 5.1% identifying as White. Women make up 95.0% of undergraduates.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Spelman College support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Spelman College, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Spelman College offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with 35.8% ROI. Ranked #534 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $38,967 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $58,897 median earnings. With 78.5% graduating within 150% of normal time and 94.1% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Spelman College's Positioning
With a B+ grade and #534 ranking, Spelman College competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $38,967 annually, Spelman College charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 94.1% retention rate suggests students value this environment.
Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $27,277 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The 35.8% ROI and $58,897 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $28,967+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Spelman College ranks #534 of 1947 institutions, with 1626 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 78.5% graduation rate sits 16.0 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 94.1% first-year retention is 17.3 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- 35.8% return on investment is 14.1 points below the national 49.9% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $58,897 run about 2% lower than national outcomes four years after graduation.
- Average net price of $38,967 is roughly $18,888 higher than the national median of $20,079.
Helpfulness for Students
- 11:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 94.1% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 86.2% employment rate within three years sits 18.0 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $38,967 is about $18,888 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 27.8% trails the national share by 6.6 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
EDsmart rates Spelman College—a private nonprofit university in Atlanta, GA—at B+ overall. It holds a #534 national ranking Completion earns A, Support A-, Career Outcomes B, and Affordability C-.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
Student momentum is strong: 94.1% retention, 78.5% graduation within 150% of normal time, and 76.5% earning an award within eight years. EDsmart calculates the ROI at 35.8%, offering a quick value checkpoint.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $38,967 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $50,952.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $11,985 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $25,000 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 27.8% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Six years in, alumni earn roughly $58,897 at the median. That sits about 2% below the national median.
The three-year employment rate is close to 86.2%.
The ROI comes in near 35.8%, which you can cross-check against your financial plan.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
24.9% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Spelman College admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spelman College's acceptance rate?
Spelman College's acceptance rate is 24.9%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Spelman College cost?
At Spelman College, listed tuition and fees are $31,556 per year, and the average net price after aid is $38,967. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Spelman College's ranking?
Spelman College ranks #534 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Spelman College's graduation rate?
At Spelman College, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 78.5% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), College Scorecard 8-year award rate is 76.5%, and first-year retention is 94.1%.
What are Spelman College's job outcomes?
Graduates of Spelman College report median earnings of $58,897 four years after graduation, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Spelman College's student population?
Spelman College enrolls about 3,414 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Atlanta, GA 30314-4399
- Website www.spelman.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Endowment$514.0M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate11.7%