Women's gymnastics is a captivating and highly technical sport that requires precision, strength, and grace. At the collegiate level, gymnastics has gained immense popularity, with universities across the country fielding impressive teams. In this BrokeScholar study, we’re going to dive into and break down the details of some of the top colleges and universities with renowned women's gymnastics programs.
Women’s gymnastics is especially popular on the collegiate level. Besides being a popular college sport, women’s gymnastics is also a popular sports scholarship to win. Being awarded such a scholarship could entail major savings on the cost of college. However, for our purposes here, we decided to identify the best colleges with women’s gymnastics teams — on the varsity level — in terms of their academic quality as well as in terms of affordability. We considered graduation rates, admission rates, and costs of tuition and required fees. We made note which athletic sanction body these colleges with women’s gymnastics teams fall under, such as NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) versus NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) versus NJCAA (National Junior College Athletic Association). All data was sourced from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
Read on to find out the best colleges with women’s gymnastics on the varsity level.
The Best Colleges With Women’s Gymnastics
When it comes to the best colleges with women’s gymnastics, out of the top 15 best, 13 of the schools are public colleges, mainly very large state colleges. The remaining two colleges with women’s gymnastics are private not-for-profit colleges. Of the top 15 best colleges with women’s gymnastics, the highest graduation rate is an incredible 96%.
An additional pattern that emerges is the fact that all but one of the top 15 colleges with women’s gymnastics compete in NCAA Division I-FBS, the highest level of athletics in US colleges. One college out of the top 15 competes in NCAA Division I-FCS. There are, however, many colleges that play in other athletic sanction bodies, such as NCAA Division II without football or NCAA Division III with football or NCAA Division I-FCS. On top of all that, several of the schools among the top 15 best colleges with women’s gymnastics are also among the best colleges in their state, such as the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
According to NCES data, there are 87 colleges that have women’s gymnastics teams on the varsity level. We then analyzed those 87 colleges in terms of graduation rates, admission rates, and costs of tuition and required fees. Each college was scored based on these factors and then ranked. (Check out the methodology section for more details).
Here’s a look at the best colleges with women’s gymnastics teams on the varsity level.
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Type of institution: Public
Athletic sanction body: NCAA Division I-FBS
Estimated tuition and required fees per year: $13,401 for in-state | $43,473 for out-of-state
The University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) is a prestigious public university located in Los Angeles, California. The UCLA women's gymnastics team is widely recognized as one of the most successful and dominant teams in the nation. They have won seven NCAA championships, most recently in 2018, and have produced numerous individual champions. The team's routines are known for their artistic flair and technical excellence, attracting large crowds and passionate fans.
In terms of academics, UCLA tops our list of the best colleges with women’s gymnastics. The university boasts one of the highest graduation rates in the state of California, at 92%. What’s more, UCLA is particularly competitive to get into. UCLA’s undergraduate acceptance rate is only 11%, far lower than the study’s overall average admission rate of 74%. It also makes UCLA one of the hardest colleges to get into in America.
University of Florida
Type of institution: Public
Athletic sanction body: NCAA Division I-FBS
Estimated tuition and required fees per year: $6,381 for in-state | $28,659 for out-of-state
The University of Florida (UF) is a renowned public university located in Gainesville, Florida. The UF women's gymnastics team is consistently ranked among the top programs in the country. They have claimed several NCAA championships, with back-to-back titles in 2013 and 2014. The team's high level of difficulty in routines, combined with their impressive execution, has earned them a reputation for excellence.
UF is a massive school, hosting nearly 35,000 undergraduates and close to 55,800 students in total. Even with its huge size, the University of Florida manages to maintain an excellent graduation rate of 91%. The undergraduate acceptance rate at UF is very competitive for a major state school, at 30%. What’s more, of those 30% admitted, a full 44% proceed to enroll at the university, which is a very high proportion.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Type of institution: Public
Athletic sanction body: NCAA Division I-FBS
Estimated tuition and required fees per year: $8,989 for in-state | $37,550 for out-of-state
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) is a prestigious public university and a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). The UNC women's gymnastics team has shown consistent competitiveness in the conference and nationally. They have had success in reaching NCAA championships and have produced several standout gymnasts, contributing to the team's strong reputation.
UNC ranked as the No. 3 best college with women’s gymnastics thanks to its strong academic reputation across the board. UNC has a graduation rate of 90%, which is among the highest rates in the study and in the state of North Carolina. What’s more, admission to UNC is pretty tough, with the school having an undergraduate acceptance rate of 20%. And, of those 20% admitted, 45% proceed to enroll at the university, which is an excellent rate compared to many other colleges.
University of California, Berkeley
Type of institution: Public
Athletic sanction body: NCAA Division I-FBS
Estimated tuition and required fees per year: $14,395 for in-state | $44,467 for out-of-state
The University of California-Berkeley (UC Berkeley) is a renowned public university located in Berkeley, California. The UC Berkeley women's gymnastics team is known for its remarkable skill and consistency. The team has a strong history of success, having made multiple appearances in NCAA championships. They consistently rank among the top programs in the Pac-12 conference.
It is fairly well-known by the average American that Berkeley is top academic quality and among the best colleges in the country. Notably its graduation rate of 93% is better than UCLA’s 92%. Berkeley also has one of the lowest undergraduate admission rates in California, at 14%. Critically, of those 14% admitted, a full 43% go on to enroll at UC Berkeley, which suggests that applicants have a serious intent on attending the college.
University of Michigan
Type of institution: Public
Athletic sanction body: NCAA Division I-FBS
Estimated tuition and required fees per year: $16,736 for in-state | $55,334 for out-of-state
The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (UMich) is a prestigious public university with a rich athletic tradition. The Michigan women's gymnastics team has a strong competitive record, with regular appearances in NCAA championships. They have earned a reputation for their powerful performances and technical proficiency. The team's dedication to precision and execution has earned them accolades and recognition.
Academically speaking, the University of Michigan is the best in the state of Michigan. UMich boasts a graduation rate of 94%, which is 18 percentage points higher than the study’s overall average for the 87 colleges in the study. Moreover, getting admitted to UMich is no picnic. Having an undergraduate acceptance rate of only 20%, it is the hardest college to get into in Michigan. That’s especially impressive for a big state school like the University of Michigan to be the most competitive to get into in a state.
University of Georgia
Type of institution: Public
Athletic sanction body: NCAA Division I-FBS
Estimated tuition and required fees per year: $11,180 for in-state | $30,220 for out-of-state
The University of Georgia (UGA) is an actually well-regarded public university located in Athens, Georgia. Although perhaps best known for its football athletic program, the UGA women's gymnastics team has a storied history and is considered one of the powerhouses in collegiate gymnastics. They have secured multiple NCAA championships, with their most recent title in 2009. The team's dynamic routines and energetic performances have made them a fan favorite.
In terms of academic quality, UGA is one of the best among the colleges with women’s gymnastics. With an undergraduate acceptance rate of 40%, UGA is one of the hardest colleges to get into in Georgia. The University of Georgia has a graduation rate of 88%, which is one of the highest rates in the whole state. Equally important, the in-state cost of tuition and required fees at UGA, which is roughly $11,180 per year, is less than the study’s overall average of $18,871.
Brigham Young University
Type of institution: Private not-for-profit
Athletic sanction body: NCAA Division I-FBS
Estimated tuition and required fees per year: $6,304
Brigham Young University (BYU) is a private university located in Provo, Utah, affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The BYU women's gymnastics team has consistently showcased their talent and competitiveness in NCAA gymnastics. Their commitment to precision and technical proficiency has enabled them to achieve success and make appearances in NCAA championships.
BYU has very solid academic credentials and, if you’re inclined to socio-political conservative views, this school is one of the most conservative colleges in the US. In terms of undergraduates completing their education, BYU has a strong graduation rate of 77%, well above the study’s average and one of highest in the state of Utah. Furthermore, BYU is on the more competitive side when it comes to admissions. The undergraduate acceptance rate at Brigham Young is 59%, which is lower than the study’s overall average admissions rate of 74%.
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Type of institution: Public
Athletic sanction body: NCAA Division I-FBS
Estimated tuition and required fees per year: $9,128 for in-state | $30,869 for out-of-state
North Carolina State University at Raleigh (NC State) is a academically-recognized public university located in Raleigh, North Carolina. The NC State women's gymnastics team has shown steady progress and competitiveness in the sport. They have made appearances in NCAA championships and have a dedicated group of athletes who continually strive for excellence in their performances.
NC State is a large state school, having more than 26,000 undergraduates and more than 36,800 students in total. With a graduation rate of 84%, NC State has one of the highest rates out of all schools in North Carolina, not to mention being 18 percentage points better than the study’s average. Plus, with an undergraduate acceptance rate of only 47%, NC State is quite selective with its admissions, especially considering it’s a big state school.
Stanford University
Type of institution: Private not-for-profit
Athletic sanction body: NCAA Division I-FBS
Estimated tuition and required fees per year: $ $58,416
Stanford University is a prestigious private research university located in Stanford, California. The Stanford women's gymnastics team is known for its exceptional talent and technical prowess. They have a history of strong performances in NCAA championships and have produced numerous All-Americans. The team's dedication to precision, along with their artistic and innovative routines, sets them apart.
The name “Stanford” is pretty much associated with academic excellent by all Americans. What you may not know is that Stanford is also one of the cultiest colleges in the US. Stanford’s graduation rate is a remarkable 96%, the highest rate in the whole study. However, it’s in terms of admissions that Stanford University really stands out. The university’s undergraduate acceptance rate is a mere 4%, making it one of the most competitive colleges to get into in the country.
William & Mary
Type of institution: Public
Athletic sanction body: NCAA Division I-FCS
Estimated tuition and required fees per year: $23,970 for in-state | $47,196 for out-of-state
William & Mary is a renowned public research university located in Williamsburg, Virginia. The William & Mary women's gymnastics team consistently competes at a high level. Their dedication to precision and execution has resulted in strong performances and recognition within the sport. The team's commitment to academic excellence is also noteworthy.
William & Mary is an academic star when it comes to colleges with women’s gymnastics. Notably, it is one of the best colleges for political science in Virginia, in addition to offering a broad range of courses and programs. With a graduation rate of 91%, William & Mary has one of the highest rates in both the study and the state of Virginia. In terms of admissions, the school is competitive, having an undergraduate acceptance rate of 37%, which is conspicuously lower than the 74% average rate for the whole study.
University of Maryland
Type of institution: Public
Athletic sanction body: NCAA Division I-FBS
Estimated tuition and required fees per year: $11,233 for in-state | $39,469 for out-of-state
The University of Maryland-College Park (UMD) is a respected public research university located in College Park, Maryland. The UMD women's gymnastics team has a strong competitive record and has made appearances in NCAA championships. Their commitment to technical proficiency and innovative routines makes them a formidable presence in collegiate gymnastics.
With an undergraduate student body of nearly 31,000 and a total student population of over 41,000, the University of Maryland is one of, if not the, biggest colleges in Maryland. UMD has a lot going for it, including its hometown of College Park is the No. 1 healthiest college town in America. Academically, the University of Maryland is topnotch among colleges with women’s gymnastics. It boasts a graduation rate of 88%, a full 22 percentage points higher than the study’s overall average. Despite being one the biggest schools in the state, the University of Maryland’s undergraduate acceptance rate is a competitive 52%.
Ohio State University
Type of institution: Public
Athletic sanction body: NCAA Division I-FBS
Estimated tuition and required fees per year: $12,485 for in-state | $36,722 for out-of-state
Ohio State University-Main Campus (Ohio State) is a well-known — especially for its famous Buckeyes football team — public university located in Columbus, Ohio. The Ohio State women's gymnastics team is known for its consistency and strong performances. They have a history of success in NCAA championships and have produced talented gymnasts who have achieved All-American status. The team's dedication to excellence is evident in their routines.
The Ohio State is a strong academic school and ranks among the hardest colleges to get into in Ohio. Despite having more than 47,000 undergraduate students, Ohio State has managed to sustain a graduation rate of 88% — 22 percentage points better than the study’s average as a whole. In terms of admissions, Ohio State accepts just over half of all applicants (57%), and 25% of those admitted proceed to enroll at the college.
University of Washington
Type of institution: Public
Athletic sanction body: NCAA Division I-FBS
Estimated tuition and required fees per year: $12,242 for in-state | $40,740 for out-of-state
The University of Washington-Seattle Campus (UW) is a prestigious public university located in Seattle, Washington. The UW women's gymnastics team has shown steady improvement and competitiveness in the sport. They have made appearances in NCAA championships and have a group of skilled gymnasts who strive for excellence in their performances.
UW is relatively well-known by Americans for its competitive athletic teams, it is also academically a very high-quality university. In fact, UW is one of the best colleges for political science in Washington state. With a graduation rate of 84%, the University of Washington boasts one of the highest rates in the study and out of all colleges in Washington. And, in terms of admissions, getting into UW is markedly tough considering it’s a large public college. The undergraduate acceptance rate is 53%, of which 28% proceed to enroll at UW.
University of Illinois
Type of institution: Public
Athletic sanction body: NCAA Division I-FBS
Estimated tuition and required fees per year: $15,714 for in-state | $33,686 for out-of-state
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is a distinguished public university located in Urbana and Champaign, Illinois. Across many athletic programs, the University of Illinois is strong. The university’s women's gymnastics team is known for its strong athletic program and competitive performances. They have made appearances in NCAA championships and have a history of producing talented gymnasts who achieve remarkable success in their routines.
The University of Illinois is home to nearly 35,000 undergraduates and more than 56,600 students in total. The city of Champaign is the biggest college town in Illinois. Similar to the other big state schools that made our list of the best colleges with women’s gymnastics, the University of Illinois is one the best public colleges in Illinois and in the nation in general. It has an exceptional graduation rate of 85% and, despite its huge size, has a selective undergraduate acceptance rate of 60%.
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Type of institution: Public
Athletic sanction body: NCAA Division I-FBS
Estimated tuition and required fees per year: $16,263 for in-state | $33,963 for out-of-state
Rutgers University-New Brunswick is a distinguished public university located in New Brunswick, New Jersey. The Rutgers women's gymnastics team consistently competes at a high level in collegiate gymnastics. They have made appearances in NCAA championships and have a dedicated group of athletes who showcase their talent and commitment to the sport. With over 36,000 undergraduates and more than 50,800 students in total, Rutgers is New Jersey’s largest university.
Despite its huge size, Rutgers University still maintains a very good graduation rate of 84%, a good 18 percentage points better than the study’s average for all 87 colleges with women’s gymnastics. Another good sign is Rutgers’ low transfer-out rate of only 8%, implying undergrads really like their college experience at the school.
The Bottom Line on the Best Colleges With Women’s Gymnastics
These colleges and universities house exceptional women's gymnastics programs that offer a platform for talented athletes to showcase their skills and compete at the highest level. These teams have demonstrated their competitive prowess through their appearances in NCAA championships and their dedication to precision, execution, and innovation. Whether it's the powerful routines of UCLA or the technical proficiency of Stanford, these schools exemplify the excellence and artistry found in women's collegiate gymnastics.
It should be noted that several of the colleges with women’s gymnastics listed above also ranked among the best colleges academically in their respective states. Thus, not only can you attend these colleges to pursue your love for women’s gymnastics, but you can get a solid-to-excellent education too. Moreover, like almost every college sport, there are women’s gymnastics scholarships available based on talent, GPA requirements, letters of recommendation, and other qualifications. Check out BrokeScholar’s huge library of college scholarships to see if you can find one that’s ideal for you.
Methodology
This study of the best colleges with women’s gymnastics varsity teams was based on data sourced from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Factors analyzed included the following:
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Graduation rate
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Admission rate
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In-state cost of tuition and required fees (2023 academic year)
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Out-of-state cost of tuition and required fees (2023 academic year)
Each college was given a score for these factors, with the scores then added up, and finally ranked from best to worst.
