Overview
Dillard University is a private college established in 1869. As of fall 2023, it has 1,117 undergraduate students, an urban campus spanning 55 acres, and follows a semester-based academic schedule. In the 2025 Best Colleges rankings, Dillard holds the #153 spot among National Liberal Arts Colleges. Tuition and fees are set at $22,594.
Dillard University Rankings
To get a better sense of what Dillard offers, here’s how it stacks up in various categories:
- #153 in National Liberal Arts Colleges (tie)
- #16 in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (tie)
- #67 in Top Performers on Social Mobility (tie)
Out of 211 National Liberal Arts Colleges, Dillard ranks #153. These rankings are based on widely accepted measures of academic excellence.
U.S. News Overall Score
Score (out of 100): 51
Outcomes (57%)
- Average 6-year graduation rate (21%): 49%
- 6-year graduation rate for Pell Grant recipients (5.5%): 42%
- 6-year graduation rate for non-Pell Grant recipients (5.5%): 59%
Dillard University Admissions
Dillard has a 41% acceptance rate. Among admitted students who submitted test scores, half scored between 970-1150 on the SAT or 19-23 on the ACT. The remaining applicants fell either above or below these ranges. The application deadline is rolling, and there’s a $40 application fee.
Dillard University Tuition & Financial Aid
Tuition at Dillard is $22,594, which is significantly lower than the national average of $51,147. This “sticker price” includes tuition and fees, covering services like libraries, campus facilities, and health centers.
When budgeting, consider the total cost (including housing, meals, books, and personal expenses), which comes to $41,604. After financial aid, the average net price drops to $24,604 for students receiving need-based assistance.
Net Price by Family Income (2021-2022)
- $0-$30,000: $17,183
- $30,001-$48,000: $18,453
- $48,001-$75,000: $21,209
- $75,001-$110,000: $22,715
- $110,001+: $22,263
Room & Board: $11,786
Dillard University Academics
With a 12:1 student-faculty ratio, 59.2% of classes have fewer than 20 students. Popular majors include:
- Biology/Biological Sciences (14%)
- Criminal Justice/Safety Studies (12%)
- Public Health (11%)
- Business Administration (9%)
- Psychology (8%)
The freshman retention rate—a key measure of student satisfaction—is 71%.
Dillard University Student Life
As of fall 2023, undergraduate enrollment is 1,117, with 73.6% female and 26.4% male students. 76% live on campus, while 33% live off-campus. The university competes in the NAIA for sports.
Student Body Stats
- Total enrollment (fall 2023): 1,122
- Undergraduates: 1,117
- Graduate students: 5
- Pell Grant recipients (2022-2023): 68%
- Gender breakdown: 74% women, 26% men
Dillard University Campus
Student services include tutoring, career placement, and health services. Campus safety features 24/7 patrols, late-night escorts, emergency phones, and secure dorm access. Alcohol is not allowed, even for students of legal age.
Campus Details
- Size: 55 acres
- Alcohol policy: Not permitted