2019 Colleges with the Best Academics

Best Academics

3,457 results

Middlebury College
4 Year
Middlebury, VT
480
26 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Alum: In my current role, I travel to college campuses around the country to recruit and interview students for positions at my company. I see lots of different schools and interact with dozens of student populations. Each campus has a different vibe and feel, and conversations in campus coffee shops range from purely academic to purely social. I loved Middlebury for the blend of high caliber academics, a hardworking student body, and a focus on active, healthy lifestyles. Students at Middlebury balance work and play, and a weekend was never without hours in the library or miles of hiking, running or biking. The teachers have high expectations for your work, but they understand there's more to get out of college than acing every exam. As I tour college campuses today, I look for candidates who strike that same balance, who take their work seriously, but they don't take themselves too seriously. That's what Middlebury is about.
Read 480 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
16% Acceptance Rate
$21,437 Net Price
1280-1495 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Georgetown University
4 Year
Washington, DC
1,105
27 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Junior: My experience as an undergraduate at Georgetown University has been amazing! I love the university's commitment to investing in each individual student and enriching their academic experience. Georgetown is also intentional about increasing the diversity of the student body and faculty. There is a club or organization for everyone on campus.
Read 1,105 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
17% Acceptance Rate
$26,625 Net Price
1320-1520 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Carnegie Mellon University
4 Year
Pittsburgh, PA
1,338
28 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Senior: Carnegie Mellon fosters the most diverse collegiate environment where you can pursue anything you want to, academically and extracurricular-wise. It is home to 7 distinct colleges undergraduates can choose from including engineering, science, CS, business, fine arts, humanities, and information systems. I belong with the Mellon College of Science (MCS). The cool thing is that I am majoring in Neuroscience through MCS but am also minoring in biomedical engineering through the Carnegie Institute of Technology (CIT - engineering school), so I am experiencing the best of both colleges. This is only one example of the many interdisciplinary paths you can take here at CMU. Finally, CMU provides its students numerous opportunities to make an impact outside the classroom whether that is through travel-abroad service organizations, athletics, and so much more. The main takeaway is the CMU-experience is yours to design and there are endless possibilities.
Read 1,338 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
22% Acceptance Rate
$35,250 Net Price
1380-1550 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Barnard College
4 Year
New York, NY
420
29 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Senior: Barnard College is an amazing institution. If you want to live in New York City but still have a campus, this is the place for you. I love being able to walk a few blocks away from school and feel like I'm immersed in the bustle of NYC - while still having a quiet, beautiful campus to escape to.
The English department has incredibly intelligent, dedicated professors.
However - this is not the easiest school if, like me, you have a difficult time obtaining financial aid. Juggling classes, multiple jobs, and multiple extracurriculars can be difficult - but this is a high intensity school in a high intensity city.
I love women's college though! I've learned so much from the incredible women I go to school with.
Read 420 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
15% Acceptance Rate
$22,815 Net Price
1270-1470 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Emory University
4 Year
Atlanta, GA
1,426
30 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Senior: Because of the campus, people, and opportunities, Emory is truly an incredible university! The campus is definitely one of the most beautiful and safest campuses I have seen. New buildings are constantly being built and old buildings are being remolded. The people are truly the heart of the institution. Students and faculty provide a welcoming and intellectually stimulating environment.
Read 1,426 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
25% Acceptance Rate
$24,804 Net Price
1290-1500 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Haverford College
4 Year
Haverford, PA
204
31 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Senior: Haverford is an incredibly liberal arts-oriented college. With that in mind, the academics is highly focused on students, professors are caring and among the most approachable you'll ever meet, and students respect and care for each other. Campus is scenic, quiet, and has an excellent location in the suburb. There are many restaurants and shops within walkable distance to campus. However, in terms of the social aspect, Haverford parties are somewhat lame in nature, but it is also an extremely safe and accepting environment. Despite that athletics is not commendable, either, the majority of students are more or less involved in varsity sports and seem to enjoy what they do. Overall, Haverford is a nurturing environment for both intellectual growth and maturing personality-wise, and is ideal for those who seek a non-distressing transition into college.
Read 204 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
21% Acceptance Rate
$21,144 Net Price
1320-1520 SAT Range
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Wellesley College
4 Year
Wellesley, MA
547
32 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Sophomore: Wellesley is a wonderful place to complete an undergraduate education! Not only is the education top-notch, with professional, caring professors, but so is the atmosphere. Students here are truly passionate about what they do, whether it be in academics or extracurricular activities. If you're looking to be surrounded by an awesome group of people while taking fascinating classes, Wellesley is the place for you.
Read 547 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
28% Acceptance Rate
$20,013 Net Price
1310-1500 SAT Range
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Claremont McKenna College
4 Year
Claremont, CA
410
33 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Freshman: Where do I begin, I have so much to say about how much I love this school. When I first came to Claremont McKenna, I feared that it would be difficult to make friends as it is such a small school. However, the first day shocked me completely. Everyone was so freaking nice, like unbelievably nice. In the last 3 months of being here, I know about 250/360 kids in my class, and of course a lot of upperclassmen. The party scene here is exactly what I want from a school ,inclusivity, but everyone definitely shares a work hard, play hard mentality. We know how to party, but we also know how to be the scholarly students we got in here for being. The party scene truly is spectacular. The dining hall food is amazing. Sports teams are great as 1/3 of the student body participates in sports There are pretty much a million ways to get involved on campus. I want to continue rambling about how much I love it here, but I also have an econ quiz tomorrow, but I hope that helps. S'GO STAGTHENAS!
Read 410 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
9% Acceptance Rate
$30,527 Net Price
1320-1490 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
4 Year
Ann Arbor, MI
3,957
34 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Alum: The University of Michigan's motto is "Leaders and Best" and that's exactly what this school provides and produces. It provides the best professors, courses and college experiences and produces innovative leaders. My experience at this institution allowed for academic and personal growth, which has embedded quite a zealous spirit within me, especially in regard to the achievement of my future aspirations. I can't thank this school enough. To conclude, I recommend the University of Michigan to anyone willing to work hard, expand their mind and anyone who wishes to fulfil their dreams!
Read 3,957 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
29% Acceptance Rate
$16,107 Net Price
1310-1500 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Harvey Mudd College
4 Year
Claremont, CA
129
35 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Junior: Academics at Harvey Mudd are exceptional. It is rigorous and not always rewarding, but at the end of the day, you learn a lot. Plenty of exciting classes to take, both at Mudd and at the other 5Cs. Mudders are easy to get along with. Only major issue with Mudd is the lack of grade inflation which can hurt your chances of getting into a top Grad school program. Getting a job after graduating from Mudd is easier and very rewarding.
Read 129 Reviews
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Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
13% Acceptance Rate
$35,460 Net Price
1420-1580 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Grinnell College
4 Year
Grinnell, IA
388
36 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Junior: The students are bright, curious, and from a variety of different backgrounds, making Grinnell College an engaging place to live and learn. They are committed to social justice and activism, participating in their courses in a creative and intellectual way that very clearly connects their education to their passions and "real-world" lives. The faculty dedicate a huge amount of time to ensuring their students are receiving the education they need while still reserving time for their own research and writing. However, the administration needs work on the way it communicates with the student body and implements policies, and the location of the college creates a sort of "bubble" that can cause Grinnell to completely absorb the lives of students and faculty.
Read 388 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
20% Acceptance Rate
$30,010 Net Price
1320-1530 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
University of California - Berkeley
4 Year
Berkeley, CA
3,806
37 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Sophomore: Berkeley is just perfect balance between academics and fun! I have amazing professors in all of my classes and they never stress me out too much. It's rigorous enough to get me going but not up to the point where it is not enjoyable. I have plenty of time to destress and go crazy on frat row. Berkeley also provides very unique experiences with a campus ripe with freedom of self-expression. You meet all sorts of people. Also, Berkeley is the number 1 public university in the world so you are definitely getting your money's worth!
Read 3,806 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
17% Acceptance Rate
$17,160 Net Price
1270-1540 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
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Carleton College
4 Year
Northfield, MN
474
38 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Sophomore: Carleton is a great liberal arts school with professors that care about the students as well as students that care about the students. It is a nice school if you want to go on a school outside of the city, but if you are a city person, then Carleton would not be the best place to be. Finally, the academics is very good!
Read 474 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
23% Acceptance Rate
$28,587 Net Price
1320-1540 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Davidson College
4 Year
Davidson, NC
279
39 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Freshman: Davidson is definitely a small school. By that, I mean that it's smaller than my high school. To be quite honest, there really isn't much to do within the town of Davidson, and without a car, Charlotte isn't exactly accessible. I knew all too well of this, but I still decided to come here because Davidson genuinely is an amazing school. Professors are very engaged with their students and I can definitely see how passionate they are about the courses they teach. Class sizes are great as well, with several of my classes having fewer than 15 students and none over ~30. While diversity of the student population leaves something to be desired, Davidson is slowly improving.
Read 279 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
20% Acceptance Rate
$27,897 Net Price
1250-1440 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Williams College
4 Year
Williamstown, MA
266
40 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
College Freshman: I really enjoy being at my college. It is academically challenging while being engaging. The professors love teaching their subjects, and I have learned the value of a liberal arts education by taking classes in many different areas of study, which are helping me become a well-rounded scholar. I really like it here! The relatively small class sizes allow me to get to know my professors and classmates, which helps me learn better, as I can approach my professors comfortably during office hours and form study groups with my fellow classmates. I would choose my school again if I could do it all over because it has everything I want and need: small classes, passionate professors, engaging courses, welcoming atmosphere, beautiful location, and the list can go on!
Read 266 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
18% Acceptance Rate
$18,167 Net Price
1330-1540 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Washington & Lee University
4 Year
Lexington, VA
395
41 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Alum: Washington and Lee offers a wonderful liberal arts education at a premier southern institution. Although the campus environment is not for everyone, I enjoyed my time there.

Prospective students should know that Greek Life, while not mandatory in any sense, is deep-rooted in our campus culture. That being said, there are plenty of groups and organizations for everyone to feel involved and welcomed somewhere.

Professors genuinely care about students as individuals and many will make efforts to get to know you. Office hours are abundant and the professors are always willing to go over difficult material with students. Class sizes vary from 5 -20 students with few exceptions.

There are 5 dining areas on campus: one main dining hall and four smaller "cafes". The food is alright.
Read 395 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
24% Acceptance Rate
$23,867 Net Price
1320-1460 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Colby College
4 Year
Waterville, ME
498
42 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Alum: When I reflect on my time at Colby, I am grateful for the small liberal arts experience; the feeling of community, small class sizes with professors who knew your name, and free printing. I am now pursuing post-graduate studies at a big University and the resources available to students, professor expertise, and quality of coursework is inferior to Colby in almost every way. Colby students are friendly, extremely intelligent, and well-rounded. Most of my friends volunteered, had an on-campus job or worked in a lab, and actively participated in campus clubs. The Colby bubble can become a little suffocating, as it is easy to not leave campus for weeks, but I am honestly sad I will never be in such a tight-knit community of similar-minded peers again. Colby is not perfect by all means, but it's a damn good school. If you choose to go to Colby, go in with an open mind, positive attitude, and readiness to introduce yourself to a million people.
Read 498 Reviews
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Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
19% Acceptance Rate
$21,032 Net Price
1270-1470 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Wesleyan University
4 Year
Middletown, CT
677
43 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Alum: Wesleyan's professors make the school. These instructors are passionate, knowledgeable and more than happy to interact outside of class or school hours. Take advantage of the opportunity to work with these experts!
Read 677 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
18% Acceptance Rate
$20,490 Net Price
1300-1480 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Bates College
4 Year
Lewiston, ME
339
44 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Alum: I had the best experience at Bates. The student body is intellectually curious yet super down to earth, professors are always accessible (many of whom I am still close with over a decade later), coursework/the pre-med committee is challenging but prepared me well for medical school, Maine is beautiful with great skiing and hiking nearby, and there are a bunch of really good restaurants in Lewiston with Portland only a 1/2 hour away. I met some of my best friends at Bates and had an absolute blast!
Read 339 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
23% Acceptance Rate
$24,055 Net Price
1385-1460 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Hamilton College
4 Year
Clinton, NY
430
45 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Freshman: I am happier than I ever thought I could be at this school. The people here are amazing it is a wonderful community and it is very easy to make meaningful relationships quickly. The professors are incredibly knowledgeable and understanding in most cases, and there are many in the administration you can reach out to. I have made the best friends I’ve ever had, met the love of my life, and became truly passionate in so many subjects. I feel very prepared for the world and very supported by this college. PLEASE visit if you’re interested. This school was such a hidden gem for me.
Read 430 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
26% Acceptance Rate
$24,397 Net Price
1300-1480 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
University of Virginia
4 Year
Charlottesville, VA
2,075
46 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Sophomore: I never thought that I would love college this much! The University of Virginia is AMAZING. I have learned a great deal from each of my professors. (I recommend using ratemyprofessor and thecourseform to help you choose them). I actually enjoy going to classes that aren't based on regurgitating information but processing it and actually learning. Additionally, with thousands of clubs, there are plenty of ways to get involved. On another note, there are many stereotypes of people who come to the University, but I promise that not all of us are preppy, rich, and white, though a good portion is. The only problems I have with UVA are the prices of tuition and the honor code. Tuition is expensive and instead of giving grants UVA sometimes gives a lot of loans. Although I love the honor code and what it stands for, it seems to target minorities and foreign students.
Read 2,075 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
30% Acceptance Rate
$15,945 Net Price
1240-1460 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Vassar College
4 Year
Poughkeepsie, NY
590
47 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Alum: I loved being a student at Vassar! The professors are incredible - always there to help you outside of class if you need it. The campus is beautiful, as well.
Read 590 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
27% Acceptance Rate
$21,933 Net Price
1330-1500 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
United States Naval Academy
4 Year
Annapolis, MD
197
48 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Sophomore: My experience here at the Naval Academy has been amazing. I am getting a great education here in Information Technology. There are also an endless amount of opportunities in order to help the community, academy, or yourself. You can travel the world at the expense of the Navy during the summers for training or personal leave. Truly is a great institution to attend and graduate from. Also the alumni here are fantastic. Graduating here will set someone up for life if they choose to get out of the Navy and go back to being a civilian.
Read 197 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
9% Acceptance Rate
— Net Price
1180-1380 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
University of California - Los Angeles
4 Year
Los Angeles, CA
4,690
49 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Junior: UCLA is definitely a place for all-rounded students to thrive and succeed. The campus offers beautiful scenery and classic lecture halls that enthralled me every time I walk to and between lectures. The school is safe and welcoming, and there are plenty of activities to be part of on-campus. In terms of classes, students do have to give it all since the professors do have high standards here. However, this is college, and learning and studying won't hurt you. Professors generally are really engaged in lectures, and if most likely students are going to succeed if they give their best. Dorms and the food are excellent and well maintained compared to others colleges I visited. I won't be surprise if more people decided to come here! GO BRUINS!
Read 4,690 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
18% Acceptance Rate
$14,236 Net Price
1160-1470 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Colorado College
4 Year
Colorado Springs, CO
723
50 Colleges with the Best Academics in America
Junior: I absolutely love everything the Colorado College (CC) has to offer! From amazing professors who take their time to make sure each and every student understands the material, to the amazing programs we offer such as the 3-2 program, plethora of summer research, Priddy Trips, Venture Grants, and yes even great food!

What I wish would change is the constant racism we see from the students, to the faculty and staff, and even the professors. Unfortunately it is rampant and very hard to deal with as a Native American on campus. Constant micro-aggressions wherever you go make life in general tough to deal with.
Read 723 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Academics
16% Acceptance Rate
$23,812 Net Price
1220-1430 SAT Range
Will You Get In?

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2019 Colleges with the Best Academics in AmericaAbout this List

Best Programs

Students

Social Scene

Campus

Athletics

Middlebury College

Georgetown University

Carnegie Mellon University

Barnard College

Emory University

Haverford College

Wellesley College

Claremont McKenna College

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Harvey Mudd College

Grinnell College

University of California - Berkeley

Carleton College

Davidson College

Williams College

Washington & Lee University

Colby College

Wesleyan University

Bates College

Hamilton College

University of Virginia

Vassar College

United States Naval Academy

University of California - Los Angeles

Colorado College