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Lees-McRae College and Gardner-Webb University are both private nonprofit institutions — Lees-McRae College in Banner Elk, NC and Gardner-Webb University in Boiling Springs, NC. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Banner Elk, NC · Private
Acceptance rate: 76.8%
Undergrad enrollment: 873
Tuition: $33,250/year
Student-faculty ratio: 11.0:1
Graduation rate: 42.1%
Top programs: Biological sciences, Business and marketing, Education
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Banner Elk, NC with published program strength in Biological sciences and Business and marketing.
Boiling Springs, NC · Private
Acceptance rate: 77.2%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,856
Tuition: $34,760/year
Student-faculty ratio: 12.0:1
Graduation rate: 55.4%
Top programs: Health professions, Business and marketing, Education
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Boiling Springs, NC with published program strength in Health professions and Business and marketing.
| Factor | Lees-McRae College | Gardner-Webb University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 76.8% | 77.2% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| Not reported |
| 975–1198 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 23 average | 19–25 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 873 | 1,856 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $33,250/year | $34,760/year |
| Average net price after aid | $28,340 | $17,674 |
| Graduation rate | 42.1% | 55.4% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $43,415 | $48,039 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 11.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Banner Elk, NC | Boiling Springs, NC |
| Largest program areas | Biological sciences, Business and marketing, Education | Health professions, Business and marketing, Education |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (76.8% vs 77.2%). Gardner-Webb University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($17,674 vs $28,340). Gardner-Webb University reports the higher graduation rate (55.4% vs 42.1%). Gardner-Webb University is the larger undergraduate campus (1,856 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
Common questions when choosing between Lees-McRae College and Gardner-Webb University
Lees-McRae College has an acceptance rate of 76.8%; Gardner-Webb University is around 77.2%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Lees-McRae College tuition is $33,250/year. Gardner-Webb University is $34,760/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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