2017 Best College Athletics

1,475 results

University of Florida
4 Year
Gainesville, FL
6,692
1 Best College Athletics in America
Alum: The University of Florida combines a classic collegiate campus with a modern and innovative spirit. First, the UF campus is absolutely beautiful with historical brick education halls and centuries old Oak trees. New buildings on campus are built with unique and complimentary architecture and consider environmental impacts to the campus. The educational spirit on UF is one of excellence where students are trained in traditional histories of subjects but also encouraged to thing about them differently and become innovators in their subject matter. Campus life is some of the best around both on campus and in the surrounding blocks. Gainesville, Fla supports the university and provides an approachable small town college feel. And don't forget GameDay. There's nothing like a Gator game in the Swamp!
Read 6,692 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
46% Acceptance Rate
$14,786 Net Price
1170-1360 SAT Range
University of Alabama
4 Year
Tuscaloosa, AL
3,971
2 Best College Athletics in America
Freshman: I've been attending the University of Alabama for about two months now, and I absolutely love it! The campus is so beautiful, especially around fall. The quad is amazing during football games. You can see the sense of community during the school days and on the weekend during games. On school days you can see how hundreds of students from different backgrounds come together to study or socialize. On the weekends you can see how much all the students love our school by their support for the football team. You can also see the support through alumni who continue to come back to campus. Another thing i've started to realize is how blessed we are with some of the greatest teachers. The teachers I've met so far have been not only welcoming but seem to know exactly what they're talking about. They actually seem as if they enjoy teaching and enjoy their students. I've greatly enjoyed school here so far due to the beautiful campus, friendly people, and brilliant teachers.
Read 3,971 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
51% Acceptance Rate
$18,935 Net Price
990-1250 SAT Range
Louisiana State University
4 Year
Baton Rouge, LA
2,899
3 Best College Athletics in America
Freshman: What I love about LSU is all of the resources that are available to students in order for them to succeed. Whether you are having trouble picking classes, finding extracurricular activities to join, picking a major or minor, keeping your grades up, and more, LSU is bound to have some resource to help you out. There are career and academic centers full of friendly and knowledgeable people who are ready to help you. There are hundreds of clubs centered around various interests, so there is something for everyone. The student body and faculty are so diverse, and the Dean is always looking for ways to create a more inclusive, safe, and educational environment. On top of all of that, LSU is a powerhouse for sports. Even if you aren't athletic or have ever been interested in sports, you will find a home in some athletic event here at LSU. The student life is spectacular, and you will always have something to do and great people to do it with. Geaux Tigers!
Read 2,899 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
77% Acceptance Rate
$13,409 Net Price
1010-1230 SAT Range
- 2017 Best Colleges for Student Athletes
- 2017 Top Party Schools
- 2017 Best College Campuses
Florida State University
4 Year
Tallahassee, FL
6,559
4 Best College Athletics in America
Niche User: When I visited over the summer, I absolutely fell in love with the place. The tour guides were very knowledgeable, the campus was beautiful, and the weather was great. The visit was absolutely perfect and I would not have changed a thing!

Also, the staff at the Office of Admissions is very helpful. I have been speaking to them often about re-evaluating my application and every single time, they answer all my questions and give me the best possible solutions for everything! This is a world-class institution and nothing would make me happier than to one day be a student here!
Read 6,559 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
55% Acceptance Rate
$16,737 Net Price
1130-1280 SAT Range
University of Texas - Austin
4 Year
Austin, TX
5,398
5 Best College Athletics in America
Junior: I love being a student at the University of Texas. It is one of the most renowned public education institutions in the world, and has plenty of activities to be involved in outside of academia. There are countless clubs and organizations on campus, and the surrounding city of Austin is one the best places in the country. However, be warned: it may not be for everyone. With around 50,000+ students, the size can be intimidating to some. I personally enjoy the incredible amount of people I can meet and study with, and the size gives me a nice perspective. There is always something going on on campus; whether it's a basketball game, club fair, jam session, food stand, party - you name it - there is always something close to keep you occupied. Being a musician, living in Ausin and attending UT is the best college experience I could've asked for. Come to UT. Hook 'em Horns!
Read 5,398 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
40% Acceptance Rate
$16,832 Net Price
1170-1410 SAT Range
Ohio State University
4 Year
Columbus, OH
4,719
6 Best College Athletics in America
Sophomore: Why go to Ohio State? How do I even begin?? Not only are the academics incredible, but campus feels like home. Throughout my senior year, a plethora of people would ask "but aren't you afraid you'll feel like a number?", but the answer is no, and I probably never will feel that way. As buckeyes we are all linked together. We all dislike Michigan, we all love the great state of Ohio (even if you're not from here you'll grow to love it to), and we all worked hard to get where we are. Campus is home. Beyond these facets of campus culture, nothing can describe the amazing feeling of the shoe on game day, or campus as a whole a week before the Michigan game. With all of that said, classes will push you hard and academics aren't easy. But, the professors genuinely care about your well-being. All in all, OSU has something to offer for everyone!
Read 4,719 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
53% Acceptance Rate
$18,215 Net Price
1160-1390 SAT Range
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University of Oklahoma
4 Year
Norman, OK
2,553
7 Best College Athletics in America
Freshman: I came from a rural area and was concerned about being on such a large campus. OU provides so many opportunities for students to meet. I also found organizations that provide ways to participate on campus and make new friends. OU provides great professors that work to ensure students' success. I live in the athletic dorms, I am not an athlete. They are required to have a percentage of non-athletes in the dorm. I feel very safe and the accommodations are great! We have our own cafeteria in the dorm and there is a great variety of healthy food to choose from. I would recommend the University of Oklahoma to everyone looking for a great college experience.
Read 2,553 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
81% Acceptance Rate
$16,813 Net Price
1060-1340 SAT Range
University of Maryland - College Park
4 Year
College Park, MD
4,691
8 Best College Athletics in America
College Sophomore: I love the professors! Everyone I've had so far has been so passionate about their subjects, and led the class in such an interesting way that I never once got bored! Professors at UMD make you care about what they are teaching, make you ask questions and even consider majoring in that field. The general education classes are huge, with 150 people of more, but as one goes in their higher years of education, that student number goes down to about 20. Honestly though, for me, the classroom size has not made a difference. Even in the huge classes teachers try to include their students in discussions through various ways such as pointing at a student, letting students vote or raise a hand.
Read 4,691 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
48% Acceptance Rate
$14,833 Net Price
1210-1420 SAT Range
Auburn University
4 Year
Auburn, AL
2,048
9 Best College Athletics in America
College Senior: I currently study Poultry Science within the College of Agriculture. My experience has been nothing but amazing. Auburn University is known to be an Agriculture school. The College of Agriculture is one big family. There are many opportunities that keep the students and faculty involved with each other. That's what makes this experience for me so wonderful. Since my freshman year, I have always been welcomed and given so many wonderful opportunities to better my experience in learning my major. The department of Poultry Science is especially outstanding for their interactions with the students. Everyone knows everybody and we all work to together to help feed the world one chicken at a time!
Read 2,048 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
83% Acceptance Rate
$18,500 Net Price
1050-1275 SAT Range
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
4 Year
Chapel Hill, NC
2,135
10 Best College Athletics in America
Alum: UNC Chapel Hill - the name rings familiarity across the nation. A part of one of the biggest college basketball rivals, a leader in NC healthcare, and known for the specificity of "Carolina blue," UNC is a treasure. Nostalgia hits me every time I return: the campus is beautiful, the students are all on their way to achieving greatness, and the professors genuinely care about what goes on in their the students' minds. Diversity is not that high - as probably 60% of the students want to become doctors and nurses. The racial diversity is representative of the statistics in America. The culture diversity, however, is rather high and incorporating of all activities that I can think of. Overall, a fantastic institution!
Read 2,135 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
28% Acceptance Rate
$10,936 Net Price
1220-1420 SAT Range
Michigan State University
4 Year
East Lansing, MI
4,905
11 Best College Athletics in America
Junior: Michigan State is actually everything it's cracked up to be. Amazing school, outstanding faculty and so many opportunities to do what you love. There is never a time where you are not offered chanced to occupy your time, whether it be joining a club, or campus group, taking classes, or meeting new faces at campus events. The cafeterias are gourmet and filled with many options including gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options. The off campus life is also always filled with fun activities from going to see a concert, or broadway show at the Wharton Theater, to going to a local bar and getting drinks with friends. You will have an excellent experience here, no matter what your interests may be!
Read 4,905 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
66% Acceptance Rate
$14,791 Net Price
970-1270 SAT Range
University of Southern California
4 Year
Los Angeles, CA
3,331
12 Best College Athletics in America
Sophomore: I love attending the University of Southern California! The school has high caliber academics, a competitive yet fun environment for students of all majors, and a gorgeous campus. USC is a bit expensive however, hardworking students can come in with large scholarships to defray this cost. I definitely think that this experience is worth the cost of living and expenses out here and will truly pay off in the end. I have definitely met life long friends and have made unforgettable memories throughout my time here!
Read 3,331 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
17% Acceptance Rate
$31,189 Net Price
1280-1480 SAT Range
- 2017 Best College Food
- 2017 Best College Dorms
- 2017 Best College Locations
University of Miami
4 Year
Coral Gables, FL
2,594
13 Best College Athletics in America
Freshman: I am a freshman at the University of Miami studying biomedical engineering and I love it! The campus is beautiful and there are so many things to get involved in. Students are all hardworking and care about each other. There are so many resources for help with classes, such as free tutoring by students. The local area is nice but you cannot really get anywhere by walking, so most students have cars. Also, not many students live on campus after freshman year. Overall, I have had a great experience so far
Read 2,594 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
38% Acceptance Rate
$33,284 Net Price
1220-1420 SAT Range
Duke University
4 Year
Durham, NC
1,008
14 Best College Athletics in America
Freshman: If you aren't entirely decided on what you want to study, or want to combine two fields that don't seem to fit, Duke is the best school available to you. The flexible pathway through Duke is one of its best features, and it guarantees there's something academic for nearly everyone here. Not to mention everything that goes on outside of academics. Whether you're a performance artist, coder, engineer, service-learner, researcher, intense athlete, or a just for fun one, there's a place for you here. If you're anything at all, and looking to challenge yourself, then come to Duke!
Read 1,008 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
11% Acceptance Rate
$21,764 Net Price
1370-1550 SAT Range
Texas A&M University
4 Year
College Station, TX
6,096
15 Best College Athletics in America
Junior: What I like about Texas A&M is that everybody here shares school spirit no matter what your background is. This spirit helps you feel like you are a part of something from the moment you receive your acceptance letter, to the moment you begin your education at the school itself. It is a great school to attend with countless people to help you over any and every obstacle you may face. I can't really think of anything to change, but definitely be prepared to change your wardrobe from various colors, to Maroon and White!
Read 6,096 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
71% Acceptance Rate
$11,725 Net Price
1080-1310 SAT Range
University of Kentucky
4 Year
Lexington, KY
3,318
16 Best College Athletics in America
Sophomore: The University of Kentucky is a fantastic school for an unbelievable amount of reasons. The class sizes vary in the sense that you can be in a three-hundred-person lecture but the recitation for the class consists of between fifteen to thirty people. Therefore, the TA’s know you and you can get to know the professor as well when need be! The campus is absolutely beautiful to say the least. There are many skeptics out there because how much construction is going on around campus but it is all worth it. In 2016 they officially opened the new business school which is state of the art and is beautiful. However, tuition can be a little expensive for out of students, like myself, so it sometimes scares students off but they do a fantastic job pulling in students from across the country. If I could see one thing change is the parking situation on campus is very clustered and sometimes not everyone gets a parking spot and it becomes very possible to get a ticket by parking somewhere else.
Read 3,318 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
72% Acceptance Rate
$14,842 Net Price
1000-1260 SAT Range
University of Louisville
4 Year
Louisville, KY
1,902
17 Best College Athletics in America
Freshman: I'm a current freshman at U of L, and I love it here! The campus is beautiful; it's not too big and not too small. There are hundreds of student organizations, so there's something here for everyone! Some of my class sizes are big, but some are the same as my high school class sizes. Either way, the professors really care about all of their students, and it's not difficult to form relationships with them. The students here are so kind; everyone wants to be friends with everyone else! Students are very accepting of all kinds of people. The food on and around campus is great, but I do wish we had just a few more on-campus options. My dorm is really nice, too. I would definitely recommend this university!
Read 1,902 Reviews
B+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
74% Acceptance Rate
$14,635 Net Price
1010-1250 SAT Range
University of Connecticut
4 Year
Storrs, CT
2,834
18 Best College Athletics in America
Freshman: The University of Connecticut has so much going on -- all the time! With over 700+ clubs and winning division I sports teams, there is a sense of unity and family here at UConn. Everyday there are new posters, emails, and newspapers being printed and sent out that will have your calendar jam packed with student, cultural center, scholarly, voluntary, and entertainment events. But don't get nervous, there are so many resources on campus and online that will solve any and all the questions or advice you have about financial problems, academic matters, or even personal events. This campus believes strongly in the prosperity of not only your education, but in every individual because as strongly addressed on the Freshman Move-in Day celebration, you are the light.
Read 2,834 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
50% Acceptance Rate
$19,049 Net Price
1140-1340 SAT Range
University of Tennessee
4 Year
Knoxville, TN
3,220
19 Best College Athletics in America
Junior: University of Tennessee is a wonderful school! The campus and surrounding area are very beautiful year round, yet a little hilly. Watch out engineering or chemistry students, those buildings are up "the hill" so prepare for that daily workout! Student life is actively and responsive to changes that happen both locally and nationally, and students are not afraid to voice their opinions in this safe school environment. The teachers are very genuine and want you to succeed to the best of your ability. The University of Tennessee is definitely worth noticing. Oh yeah, and Tennessee football is the best in the SEC!
Read 3,220 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
75% Acceptance Rate
$17,863 Net Price
1050-1270 SAT Range
Baylor University
4 Year
Waco, TX
3,745
20 Best College Athletics in America
Alum: Baylor's great professors and resources have helped me get to where I am in the professional world. Dormitories are relatively new, but nearby off-campus housing is a more affordable option. Dining halls provide good food and many options. I've always felt safe on campus.

Many students come from small Texas towns where they were never exposed to anything outside of their small communities. However, the rising number of out-of-state students enrolling could change that. It is difficult to be engaged in campus life w/o Greek Life especially if that aspect of college does not interest you.

The resources that Baylor offers outweighs the poor student life at the University. Despite not finding my place at the university, I've developed meaningful relationships with my professors and mentors. I RECOMMEND choosing Baylor University, but only if you are ambitious and truly desire professional success.

Hope this helps anyone looking into being a Baylor Bear. Sic Em!
Read 3,745 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
55% Acceptance Rate
$34,900 Net Price
1130-1330 SAT Range
Penn State
4 Year
University Park, PA
6,201
21 Best College Athletics in America
Junior: Penn State is a great place to learn at. Typically, students can choose to go the 2+2 route which allows them to start at another campus for two years and then transfer up to University Park campus for graduation. Penn state is well known as a research school and provides students with endless resources to further their education. The professors are all professional and are passionate about what they teach. Campus life is amazing as long as you put in the effort to get involved. There are plenty of resources to get you in the zone and allow you to socialize with others, and most importantly future employers. They offer many career fairs throughout the year that is great for getting interview experience, or even internships and employment after graduation. Great place to be! We are PENN STATE!
Read 6,201 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
50% Acceptance Rate
$24,220 Net Price
1090-1290 SAT Range
University of Notre Dame
4 Year
South Bend, IN
1,219
22 Best College Athletics in America
Niche User: I attended Notre Dame's Summer Scholars Program. So, I will give my perspective on that experience. At the beginning of the session, the Dean told us it would be "life changing." Indeed, it was. The friends, the environment, the professors and the spirituality of this campus is unmatched. The grounds are impeccable and incredibly gorgeous with flowers everywhere. Based on my experience, I have changed my career goals- a life changing experience. I have had lots of college experiences since age 3. Notre Dame, without exception, is the FINEST. I am a triplet and I speak for my siblings too. We are ND fans and always will be.
Read 1,219 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
21% Acceptance Rate
$27,025 Net Price
1340-1520 SAT Range
Syracuse University
4 Year
Syracuse, NY
3,109
23 Best College Athletics in America
Junior: Syracuse Architecture is a truly exemplary program and my overall experience with Syracuse University has been a positive one. The breadth of subject areas allowed me to take a diverse course load and dabble in interesting topics outside of my major. The School of Architecture itself has a great mix of professors with varying interests, giving a dynamic learning experience from semester to semester as their personal research goals drive various distinct studios and improve the overall experience within the program. I feel progressively closer to becoming successful in the professional world upon graduation.
Read 3,109 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
53% Acceptance Rate
$29,621 Net Price
1070-1280 SAT Range
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
4 Year
Ann Arbor, MI
3,794
24 Best College Athletics in America
Senior: The education that you receive here is definitely unbeatable. The campus is also a generally fun place to be. It is really competitive so that permeates the culture quite a bit, which I could do without. The university's commitment to diversity and inclusion is lacking, but they are making steps to change that going forward so I hope that there will be more positive steps in that area. You don't really get a sense of the local area because the campus is so large it really dominates the city of Ann Arbor. So, even when you venture out in the city a bit, it still feels like you're on campus. It's just very much a college town, so if you're into that, you'll love it!
Read 3,794 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
32% Acceptance Rate
$15,850 Net Price
1280-1480 SAT Range
University of South Carolina
4 Year
Columbia, SC
3,791
25 Best College Athletics in America
Sophomore: Wonderful university filled with plentiful opportunities and school spirit! It is a place that everyone and anyone can feel welcome and at home in a community that will always have someone that shares the same beliefs, morals, ideals, dreams, etc. This school has opened up a ton of doors for me and I already feel like I have I have a better understanding of how my future will be shaped after all the help and advice my teachers have given me. I have also met some of the sweetest, kindest, most genuine people I have ever met at this school and believe that it is a strong community that always takes pride in its accomplishments and is a perfect new home for those who are beginning their college careers.
Read 3,791 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Athletics
65% Acceptance Rate
$17,972 Net Price
1120-1300 SAT Range

1 of 59

2017 Best College Athletics in AmericaAbout this List

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Students

Social Scene

Campus

Athletics

University of Florida

University of Alabama

Louisiana State University

Florida State University

University of Texas - Austin

Ohio State University

University of Oklahoma

University of Maryland - College Park

Auburn University

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Michigan State University

University of Southern California

University of Miami

Duke University

Texas A&M University

University of Kentucky

University of Louisville

University of Connecticut

University of Tennessee

Baylor University

Penn State

University of Notre Dame

Syracuse University

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

University of South Carolina