Tabor College

Life at Tabor revolves around strict Christian community norms: no drugs, alcohol, gambling, or premarital sex, with most students reportedly adhering. The 539 undergraduates (59% male) choose from 30+ clubs, with athletics, music, and ministry dominating campus culture. Residence life fosters intentional bonding—Instagram shows students gathering for worship, intramurals, and service projects. The rural Kansas location means limited off-campus distractions, reinforcing the insular, faith-focused vibe.

Graduates earn modest salaries—$36,427 median at one year post-graduation, rising to $42,000 after a decade. The abysmal 33% graduation rate (47% per some reports) places Tabor in the bottom 15% nationally, though retention rates tell a brighter story: 93% of students returned in spring 2025, with all classes retaining over 90%. This suggests many who persist through the first year eventually graduate, but a significant cohort drops out early.

Tabor's affordability is its trump card. After aid, the average net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. drops to $16,181—$2,292 below typical private college aid packages. Every student receives financial assistance, with average grants totaling $11,507. The school aggressively combines institutional scholarships, state grants, and federal loans to offset its $29,788 sticker price, making it a budget option for faith-minded families.

Tabor carves a niche by doubling down on its conservative Christian identity—enforced through lifestyle covenants—while delivering surprising value. Its 93% retention rate suggests students who buy into the tight-knit community tend to stay, even as overall graduation rates remain dismal. For evangelical families seeking an affordable, no-frills education steeped in faith, Tabor offers a rare combination of small-town Kansas prices and intense spiritual camaraderie. Just don't expect robust career outcomes or academic prestige.