2023 Best College Campuses in America

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  5,433 reviews

Senior: If you can attend in-person classes, UCLA is a great school! The student dorms are on the expensive side, but well worth the price. There are several dining halls right next to the dorms that each cater to a different style (ie dine-in, to-go, vegan specialties), as well as a few restaurants on campus and the nearby Westwood Village. The campus itself is gorgeous (I love taking evening walks around sunset), and you can learn about the history of it from guided tours if you want. If you're looking for a rad party scene, just cross the street into frat row, and you'll find parties every week. In terms of academics, I will simply say that UCLA is a top school. You will have to work your butt off, sometimes in less-than-ideal circumstances, but the returns will be more than worth it. Most professors are great, but some are only there to do research and are forced to grudgingly teach a class or two, so look them up on Bruinwalk before enrolling in their classes. All-in-all, a great school!... Read 5,433 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $13,393

• SAT range —

• Saint Louis, MO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  1,538 reviews

Alum: I am thankful for my undergraduate experience at Washington University in St. Louis. The college has great connections for post-grad opportunities in multiple fields - business, medicine, research, engineering. I was easily able to switch between the Arts & Sciences program and the Business School at the end of my sophomore year. There is a huge focus on medicine, so even for other career paths there are healthcare adjacent offerings (e.g. Healthcare Management, Bio Medical Engineering, Global Health, Psychology/Neuroscience/Philosophy). The brand name and resources do carry for other non-health related professions too. The classwork can be tough so it's best you find out which paths are a good fit for you in terms of academic rigor, class size, and teaching style. Your counselors can help with this. Good size of the school - not too big to get lost, but not too small to know everyone and the campus is very very beautiful! I suggest visiting and talking to alum to learn more!... Read 1,538 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $28,298

• SAT range 1490-1570

• Riverside, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  2,820 reviews

Junior: California Baptist University is a school of community! This university does its best to involve every student in the community! There are events every month and many giveaway opportunities. They incorporate local services into their events! For example, CBU hosted a viewing of The Batman (2022) movie and inclusive service at the local Castle Park amusement center. CBU celebrates events at every corner. Students of differing fields of study or demographic may come together at larger events or feel included in smaller, interest-specific events. The size of the campus is perfect for these efforts! The campus is what I would describe as a size medium. It is not too big, where students would reduced to a number. It is not too small, where high-school-like drama spreads easily. California Baptist University is just right! Student life may expect a community-feeling to their time at CBU.... Read 2,820 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $23,494

• SAT range 990-1210

• Blacksburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  4,065 reviews

Junior: Virginia Tech is a wonderful academic institution. Where most schools excel in either academics or the college experience, VT is strong in both areas. The surrounding area is also very involved with Virginia Tech. While I have been at multiple colleges, I have returned to VT to finish my bachelor's and complete my master's degree! Take one visit and you will understand why everyone is so proud to be a Hokie. Be sure to also check out the dining halls. Virginia Techs' dining halls are incredible with the friendliest staff you could imagine! The culture at Virginia Tech is Work hard play hard! Students are self-motivated and are always willing to lend a helping hand. Come Friday night, the campus turns into the ultimate social hub. Most classmates of mine only left campus during the holiday breaks, as VT has everything you could want or need while on campus!... Read 4,065 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $20,109

• SAT range 1210-1410

• Lynchburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  7,925 reviews

Freshman: My experience with Liberty University has been blissful, interacting with passionate residential staff who are sincere with the Father, supportive admissions officers over the phone, a direct and transparent website, and resources responding to many essential questions that undergraduates like me would have. If you are a true believer and lover of Jesus Christ in keeping His word and the Holy Spirit dwells in you, this is the college to attend, especially if you're in Virginia! I am an admitted online LU student, but I plan on attending residentially in the future because of the "LU Tour." The campus is gorgeous! Everything about Liberty University leaves a luscious impression. However, above that, I feel the peace of the Holy Spirit throughout. I recommend the LU 100%; you won't be disappointed.... Read 7,925 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 99%

• Net price $27,891

• SAT range 1040-1250

• University , MS•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  2,196 reviews

Freshman: The University of Mississippi, also called Ole Miss, has been an amazing experience for me so far. I've only been in the university for about two months, and in that short period of time, I've been able to do many things. I especially love the very high quality of the professors. They've exceeded every single one of my expectations, and I really enjoy attending their classes! I've also had a really great experience with the International Student & Scholar Services; they're staff has worked hard to ensure that I get everything I need as an international student. The campus is really beautiful, and everything seems to blend in pretty well. There's also a great sports scene if you're into that! Of course, there are some things that could use some work, such as the quality of housing and the variety of food options offered on campus. However, the positives far outweight the negatives, and I feel very satisfied with my experience as of now. I totally recommend attending this university!... Read 2,196 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $13,528

• SAT range 1020-1230

• Harrisonburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  3,143 reviews

Senior: James Madison University is a big school with a small school feel- wherever you are on campus there will be a new face but you'll probably see someone you know as well! The professors want to know you and help you accomplish your goals. The school is absolutely breathtaking and the people are super friendly. There are lots of different options to major in and the resources available at this school are phenomenal. This school does a wonderful job of preparing its students for post-grad life and has a great reputation for getting a job! The school spirit at JMU is really what drew me here in the first place. Current students and alumni are proud to be Dukes and they look out for each other when hiring. We also love our sports, our Marching Royal Dukes (MRDs), and supporting different events in and around the JMU/Harrisonburg community. Great outdoors and delicious eateries, breweries, wineries, and coffee shops nearby! Best school in the world! Go Dukes!... Read 3,143 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $18,528

• SAT range 1140-1310

• Tuscaloosa, AL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  4,677 reviews

Freshman: Known for its excellence in teaching and research, the University of Alabama was on the list of Best Employers for New Graduates 2022. Read on to find out the top 5 reasons for applying to this university! University of Alabama, Birmingham Founded in 1831, the University of Alabama is a student-centered research institute spread across a 1200-acre campus in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. It is known as the center of excellence across many academic, research, and service areas and is the oldest and largest public university in the state. There are tons of reasons why students should consider studying at this university — from small class sizes and incredible campus facilities to award-winning faculty and high-paying job opportunities. Here are our top 5. magical campus The University of Alabama offers a complete educational, cultural, and social experience to its students. magical campus The University of Alabama offers a complete educational, cultural, and social experience to its... Read 4,677 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $21,263

• SAT range 1070-1370

• San Diego, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  1,920 reviews

Sophomore: University of San Diego is an amazing school and I am so glad I chose to attend it. Going to college for the first time is a scary experience, but USD made it an easy transition. Because it is a small school, it is easy to make friends quickly because you see them around all the time and the opportunity to make good times is always there. The learning environment is also great, the professors are all very open and welcoming to the students. The class sizes range between 20-30 kids on average making it very easy to develop a strong relationship with your professors. The professors give themselves easy access to their students through email and office hours where you can easily meet with them for private help. Outside of the academic standpoint, the food and campus is amazing. There are great food options for everyone around the school to enjoy and not to mention the school is located in the beautiful city of San Diego where there is plenty of things to do to keep you on your toes!... Read 1,920 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $34,155

• SAT range 1190-1370

• Houston, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  1,101 reviews

Junior: I came into Rice as a transfer student this past semester. I'm happy to say I've found a place where I feel completely welcomed and appreciated. This is where I was meant to be. I am academically challenged and my curiosity is constantly mirrored in my classmates/friends. The conversations are fun and the people are genuine. Don't think that you can't apply because of how competitive it looks. They really practice the holistic approach and if you bring your unique story, passion, and perspective you have a shot. I didn't have perfect test scores, but I had a great work ethic and passion for what I do. If you want a home away from home- highly recommend!... Read 1,101 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 9%

• Net price $18,521

• SAT range 1490-1570

• Fort Worth, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  1,692 reviews

Senior: TCU has an incredibly inclusive and supportive community. The professors genuinely care about their students and want their students to succeed. Many have their PhD, with years of real-world industry experience. They are great resources as mentors both in an outside the classroom. The school spirit of TCU is unlike any other school. Students are incredibly proud to be horned frogs and hold lots of school pride. This year, students have been calling TCU an "everything school" because of our success in academics and across all sports. TCU has a great campus, with state-of-the-art buildings and facilities. The dorms are well-equipped and updated, and the recreation center is a great facility. The dining hall food in the BLUU isn't great, but there's plenty of dining options on campus (a healthy smoothie bar, chick-fil-a, Peet's, flatbreads, etc.) and others on University Avenue. Fort Worth is full of culture and has great restaurants/places to explore. Overall great people, great place!... Read 1,692 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $42,574

• SAT range 1130-1350

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  3,941 reviews

Graduate Student: What I found while in attendance here in USC is that there are a plethora of resources available to the students given at every opportunity available. You are given an active role in making connections as well as forming new career opportunities during and after your attendance here. There is an emphasis to put yourself out there, however if communicating is not your strength, do not worry! There are plenty of events that aid students in beginning the path towards networking such as events for introverted students. There are additional concerns with the quality of hygiene here as certain public utilities are not the best to gain access of. The demographic population is also a concern as it is a predominantly white institution which can correlate to struggles for students of color. There have been advances in supporting our students of color, however they are fairly new so there is little expectations on the amount of support they may provide. Overall I would highly recommend attending... Read 3,941 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $26,021

• SAT range 1410-1540

• Virginia Beach, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  989 reviews

Niche User: With the limited experiences for me, the University has been tremendous. The professors are engaging, the classes have a good amount of students, the activities are festive and everybody enjoys them. The sermons are powerful, and there is appropriate separation between males and females that keeps people from making mistakes and poor decisions. People learn in different ways, and the professors took this to a level I haven't experienced while in high school. People learn in different ways, kinesthetically, orally, visually; but most people don't comprehend things that others do. There was student-professor interaction that allowed each of us to explore our interests, engage in discussion, and pique our interest. That was just the classroom setting! The activities are amazing. School festivals with magnificent decorations and fun activities, trips to the beach, a museum! There's something for every interest at Regent University, and I can't wait to attend full-time.... Read 989 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 41%

• Net price $16,579

• SAT range 960-1230

• Athens, GA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  5,653 reviews

Senior: I have loved my experience at the University of Georgia. I have truly had the best four years of my life at this school. There are ample opportunities and I have been able to meet so many people from all around the world through greek life, club events, academic events and my study abroad to the University of Oxford. The social life at UGA is truly remarkable and I have been able to flourish and grow into a better person because of the experiences I have had through UGA, including the national championship football team! I have really valued my education at UGA and believe I will be an incredible asset to the working world as my degree in psychology has prepared me to make a difference in the lives of many people. I have had a few concerns with the size of UGA and the lack of staff they have for the number of students attending the school. While the professors are caring, you do not get individualized attention or care from faculty. While this has been challenging, I truly love UGA!... Read 5,653 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 40%

• Net price $16,902

• SAT range 1270-1450

• Miami, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  7,295 reviews

Alum: My experience at Florida International University was outstanding- I met some great individuals throughout my years there and was given a lot of resources that aided me throughout my journey. The university's faculty truly cares about the students and they have helped me transition into a college atmosphere. I like how they offer a lot of opportunities to excel whether it be tutoring, math labs, science labs, and advisor appointments that are flexible. The university is very diverse and inclusive, it allows a lot of people to feel comfortable. The campus food is good, I love the different options they offer such as Panera, Jamba Juice, Pollo Tropical, Chili's, and Burger King. I felt very safe throughout the campus even when I stayed for my later classes till 8 pm. The athletics, such as the gym on campus, is very open and has a great atmosphere to work out in. Overall, I would recommend Florida International University to anyone who has it in their thoughts, always!... Read 7,295 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $9,398

• SAT range 1060-1240

• University Center, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  1,669 reviews

Freshman: Being a first-year student at Saginaw Valley State University, I was anxious to start this new chapter and experience new people, education, and living style. However, Saginaw Valley does an amazing job at making one feel welcomed. In only the first week of school, I had met a great group of people at the many events the university hosts. To add, the professors I have learned from have all been understanding and patient with my studies, and the tutoring opportunities are endless. At Saginaw Valley, you will not need to worry about finding something to do or not feeling at home. The school does an excellent job at accustoming all students to fit their needs the best. I am so thrilled to have picked this school and to be a cardinal!... Read 1,669 reviews

• grade B

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $15,476

• SAT range 960-1170

• Phoenix, AZ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  9,959 reviews

Freshman: Grand Canyon University has helped me decide which pathway and degree to choose to pursue by really making me feel like I matter and that they truly care about my financial, mental, emotional, and educational needs. They quickly respond to me via email, zooms, phone calls, AND texts! They are on it! They really go into detail about what each program has that is offered and are super honest about what would be too much on my plate and class schedule. They make your own class schedule for you by having school counselor sign you up for each class at the beginning of each semester and really make sure you are doing your course work and studies. It has been a true pleasure of mine to work with the staff and counselors at Grand Canyon University because of their great attitude and informative, honest academic and professional opinion. Their classes are accredited and have every program class I need and desire in my pursued choice of program. Their core values are held in the Bible!... Read 9,959 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $21,644

• SAT range —

• Knoxville, TN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  297 reviews

Senior: I transferred to Johnson back in 2021. For the past two years (sophomore and junior), my time here has been transformative. Initially, it was hard transitioning from a bigger school to the culture of a small school. Now, I have grown to love it here! I love the professors because they are passionate, fun, and understanding. The faculty here genuinely care about the student body. Johnson offers that rare opportunity to be friends with your professors and faculty here which brings a deeper feeling of connection. Some things I would change are the level of communication between students and faculty, curfew, and dining hours. Many times students don't know what's going on and are left blindsided. Curfew is not necessary, especially for upperclassmen. Lastly, dining hours should be extended for at least another hour to accommodate athletes and other schedules.... Read 297 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $19,985

• SAT range 980-1190

• Winter Park, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  1,038 reviews

Senior: Rollins provided me with a great overall college experience! Rollins offers a complete education and its beautiful campus allows a student to foster their passions and grow as an individual. Here I meet my friends in my first week as a freshman who I see every day and live with. A student at Rollins feels like they have an impact on their local and global community through clubs, organizations, and a great student-to-faculty ratio. The school is truly catered to the student. With its close vicinity to downtown Orlando and New Symrna only an hour away, there is so much for a student to explore. I truly believe I have learned so much academically, socially, and beyond.... Read 1,038 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 49%

• Net price $30,229

• SAT range 1100-1290

• Dallas, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  1,544 reviews

Alum: A wonderful place to go to college! Balance between school and social life is great, professors are caring and want you to succeed. Campus is gorgeous and there are so many opportunities to get involved. Take advantage of everything the institution offers.... Read 1,544 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $41,986

• SAT range 1340-1510

• High Point, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  1,513 reviews

Niche User: Forever grateful for HPU. My student is about to graduate and I have loved every minute of the HPU experience. From the academic innovation, to the incredible hospitality for parents on campus, to helping my daughter secure a job (already)! even before graduation. Incredible school, incredible leadership, HPU is the place to be! You can't miss the energy you feel when walking that campus. Can't wait for graduation!... Read 1,513 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $40,604

• SAT range 1080-1300

• Tallahassee, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  7,485 reviews

Sophomore: Florida State University has offered an incredibly positive, educational experience for me thus far. I've made several friends in my major and have had nothing but successful and beneficial interactions with me professors and peers. There is still a lot I'm learning about my checklist and goals for my career path which I've especially enjoyed. Learning to network and get out of my comfort zone socially to discover more about my educational and post graduation plans has opened up several opportunities for me that I never would've thought possible before coming to FSU. I can't wait for all the future experiences and opportunities that are still yet to come for me here!... Read 7,485 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $12,684

• SAT range 1180-1340

• Mobile, AL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  308 reviews

Junior: The professors here at UM are amazing! The class sizes are small so professors get to know their students on a personal basis. They genuinely want to see each of their students succeed. As a student-athlete, professors also work with me whenever I have to miss class for games. The university is amazing at getting students plugged in and equipping students with what they need to succeed. We have many study resources and even have a peer review center where papers can be proofread. There are always events happening on campus for students to meet other students. The campus outreach is amazing and I have met so many amazing people.... Read 308 reviews

• grade B

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $21,638

• SAT range 1010-1160

• Auburn, AL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  2,506 reviews

Freshman: Auburn University is a great state university! There are plenty of opportunities to explore campus and make connections. Every year they have over a month’s worth of freshman related events to go to, it’s very welcoming. Advisors are friendly and I have had no problems with my professors. Study and you will get the most out of your classes, though Auburn has plenty of free tutoring/aid for students as well! The only things that have been a problem are parking and housing. I live off campus, but I have heard about the hygiene of on some on campus buildings being below par. Parking is also extremely limited, and there is a lot of construction going on in Auburn. There’s nothing wrong with the academia itself, but be prepared to take extra time to park in designated areas and walk to classes. Investing in a scooter or bike may be wise, but arranging your schedule to be manageably walkable also works. AU is very thorough with campus safety so the only issue there is extra exercise.... Read 2,506 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $23,873

• SAT range 1150-1320

• Newport News, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  1,280 reviews

Sophomore: I absolutely love the security on campus. There are people monitoring the front desks in each of the dorms at all hours. The atmosphere is very welcoming, and the professors know each of their students by name. If you're struggling with academics, tutoring is available for free for everyone who signs up. There are free counseling services on campus as well. The library has private study rooms that are open all hours of the night for CNU students. The campus meals are similar to fresh, homemade meals. The campus is beautiful, and all of the main academic buildings are right next to each other. It is impossible to get lost when finding a building on this campus. The small campus life is really amazing at CNU!... Read 1,280 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $24,059

• SAT range 1110-1320