2024 Best College Food in America

• Brunswick, ME•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  721 reviews

Freshman: Choosing Bowdoin was the best decision of my life! They truly value the liberal arts model AND have great STEM programs. care deeply about the student experience. I would recommend it to absolutely any and every student who is looking for a school with incredible academics and amazing peers. The student body is incredibly intelligent and passionate, yet never competitive. Students are also really friendly and there is a true sense of community on campus: when something is wrong, students look after and take care of each other. Bowdoin works very hard to foster both personal and academic growth in its students—one of Bowdoin's most admirable and impactful qualities. I found the classes to be extremely enjoyable. Professors put tons of effort into teaching their classes and make it clear that they really care about you. Academics are challenging yet extremely rewarding. Yes, the food and dorms are actually as great as everyone says they are. Also financial aid is astonishingly generous.... Read 721 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 9%

• Net price $26,727

• SAT range 1360-1510

• Cedar Falls, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,460 reviews

Freshman: I am quite pleased with my experience at the school. There are many options for food, in addition to dining halls. I also like that the campus is smaller, but it still provides many options to get its students involved. One of my favorite things is how many study spaces there are; there are lounges in the dorms, extra seating within each education building, multiple floors in the library, and more. I have found that in the music organizations I am in, there is generally a positive feeling. The people I have met are willing to support and help others. I also like that there a lot of options for classes, within my major and beyond. One thing I would like to see change is inclusion of air conditioning in all dorm buildings. For context, there was recently a heat wave and many students left their dorms to seek out other temporary housing. It seems unfair that student are forced to find another place to stay because the on-campus room they pay for creates painful living conditions.... Read 1,460 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $15,231

• SAT range 980-1190

• Ashland, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  791 reviews

Sophomore: I genuinely love attending AU. Everyone, including the professors, is so welcoming and puts emphasis on you as an individual. The professors want to and try to build genuine connections with their students. This being said, each student is assigned to a faculty advisor in their program after their freshman year, which establishes more personal connections. The class sizes are not so small that you feel uncomfortable, but small enough that you don't feel like a number. I wouldn't trade attending Ashland for the world!... Read 791 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $21,190

• SAT range 1050-1250

• Columbus, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  5,805 reviews

Senior: As a fourth-year student at The Ohio State University, my experience has been enriching. The diverse academic programs allowed me to explore various fields, and the faculty's expertise and dedication have been invaluable. I've particularly enjoyed the research opportunities, which provided practical skills and experience. Campus life is vibrant, with numerous student organizations and activities, including spirited football games and cultural events. The state-of-the-art facilities, like libraries and recreational centers, have enhanced my experience. One improvement I'd suggest is reducing class sizes in introductory courses for more personalized attention. Overall, my time at OSU has been fantastic, offering a blend of rigorous academics, a lively campus atmosphere, and opportunities for growth. It's been a journey filled with education, experiences, and lasting friendships. Go Buckeyes!... Read 5,805 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $19,474

• SAT range 1250-1440

• Boca Raton, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  539 reviews

Senior: I will be graduating May 2023. Since walking on campus freshman year the professors have been amazing. They truly care about you as an individual and want you to do well. I love the paper and presentation based learning, they are all about hands on teaching. People will call lynn easy or a bad school or too expensive or rich kid school, but if you put effort and truly care about what you are learning then you will get a lot out of your college experience. Lynn has been the best choice I have ever made. I have grown in so many ways, supported and learned so much! If you want professors who care, if you are a leader and want to get involved on campus, if you care about being heard, if you love real world learning and innovation then Lynn is the college for you.... Read 539 reviews

• grade C+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $38,315

• SAT range 1030-1200

• Middletown, CT•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  740 reviews

Sophomore: Having just finished my first year at Wesleyan I can definitely see why this place is so highly rated. By far my favorite thing about this place are the people I've met from professors to students to alumni. I just think this place attracts a type of person who is passionate and interesting and I think that's why I'm in college in the first place. For Brown Rejects: The university is expensive, and as you pay a flat rate and cannot switch classes around easily the experience can feel claustrophobic or rather limiting if you're among the MOST driven students; but O! to be in the middle 50 here; you will stumble into incredible classes with awesome professors and interesting students who will keep you engaged in the material and the work is manageable, club scene is a blast, music is great, alright nightlife, and great senior housing.... Read 740 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 19%

• Net price $20,535

• SAT range 1300-1510

• Jacksonville, AL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  1,063 reviews

Sophomore: Jacksonville State University was my backup school because I knew I was going to attend Auburn University. However, after visiting Auburn I did not feel any connection to it, and plus the campus was massive! Nevertheless, once my orientation singing and dancing show started at Jacksonville State, I knew I was where I belonged. With Jacksonville I feel more seen and included, not only in my classes and with my professors but also with my peers. Jacksonville State is not a massive college so it is not hard to get lost on campus! Compared to Auburn where I got lost during the tour. On another note, the classroom sizes are also smaller and I believe that this allows for a better connection between the faculty and students. Furthermore, anytime I needed to contact a professor about an assignment or class they were able to respond quickly. Overall, my experience at JSU has been more than I had hoped for and I have grown as a friend, leader, and student. Moreover, I know JSU is my home!... Read 1,063 reviews

• grade B

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $13,426

• SAT range 1010-1240

• Hyde Park, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  1,097 reviews

Sophomore: At the culinary institute of America, they provide many helpful courses to let their students advance into the culinary industry. Like every institution that you have their downfalls, such as pricing and the quality of their facilities, there are also very large differences in student life between different campuses, despite seemingly paying same Throughout the campuses so you’re not totally getting what you’re paying for. But overall the school is informative and has been a great experience.... Read 1,097 reviews

• grade C+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 98%

• Net price $30,521

• SAT range —

• Houston, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  1,110 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 1,110 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 9%

• Net price $18,521

• SAT range 1490-1570

• Scranton, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  670 reviews

Sophomore: For a variety of reasons, I like attending Scranton University. I felt an extraordinary sense of belonging and camaraderie the moment I stepped foot on campus. The warm and welcoming climate at the university develops intimate interactions with both peers and instructors, creating a conducive environment for personal growth and academic performance. The wide selection of extracurricular activities and clubs has helped me to pursue my interests and discover new ones, enriching my college experience. Furthermore, the university's commitment to service and social justice resonates well with my ideals, allowing me to make a positive difference in the world. Scranton University is more than simply a place to learn; it is a home that fosters my intellectual, social, and personal development, making every day on campus worthwhile.... Read 670 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $35,913

• SAT range 1100-1280

• High Point, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,554 reviews

Sophomore: My decision to attend HPU was easy once I stepped onto the campus. After my first year I know I made the right decision. My freshman dorm was Wanek and I couldn't have been happier with the roommate that was assigned to me and the quality of the building. Everything is like living at an all-inclusive resort. The tuition cost is not the cheapest, but it includes everything! We have unlimited access to all types of food venues, snacks with entertainment such as carnivals, concerts and more without an extra cost. When you walk to class in the morning there is a kiosk offering drinks and snacks free of charge. The educators are top notch and engaging and we are offered free tutoring. I have made my forever friends while participating in Greek Life and Athletics! Did I mention school spirit? It is a must see. Attend a HPU basketball game in the amazing arena. The student section receives food and merch for attending. I LOVE it! This is my home.... Read 1,554 reviews

• grade C+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $40,604

• SAT range 1080-1300

• Mississippi State, MS•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  2,239 reviews

Freshman: MSU is a friendly, welcoming, and supportive college. Everyone here is willing to help and always available to answer any questions. Students here feel like family and make college life enjoyable! There are so many social events and activities that make college fun and exciting. The campus itself is very beautiful and well maintained. I enjoy sitting outside and relaxing under a shade tree. There’s so many places to study that are quiet and peaceful. The dorms are some of the best I’ve seen. They are very spacious and come equipped with a refrigerator, bed, dresser, and a desk. There is plenty of closet space along with storage under the bed for your extra belongings. There are kitchens and laundry rooms available to make living on campus more convenient. There are many great restaurants on campus like Panda Express, Pizza Hut, Subway, and Chick-Fil-A just to mention a few, not to forget the cafeteria. The food here is really good. The surrounding area has plenty of shopping as well.... Read 2,239 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $16,175

• SAT range 1030-1280

• Provo, UT•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  8,559 reviews

Junior: Brigham Young University has an outstanding uplifting atmosphere that I love! The professors are caring and understanding, and overall amazing at helping students reach their academic goals. The campus itself is gorgeous--making time in between classes a delight. One of my favorite things about BYU is their first year student mentoring experience. Each and every freshman is assigned to a mentor that they meet with throughout their first couple semesters. The mentors are also students so it is very nice to have some sense of camaraderie. What I also love about BYU is that everyone is friendly. Whenever I needed help a kind soul was there with a smile. Prayers before classes start and the devotionals each week really invite the spirit which only enhances my learning. The commitment to lifelong learning and service is something that has been instilled in me from BYU's values and is something I will take with me long after I graduate.... Read 8,559 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $13,432

• SAT range 1220-1440

• Rocklin, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  435 reviews

Junior: I'm an online student, but even though I'm not on campus, I feel very much a part of the school. It's about a two hour drive, so I was able to go and visit and attend some events on campus and felt so comfortable and welcome there. The professors are very available and present in the online forum and are ready to answer questions and just pray over each individual. The success coach is awesome and I feel so supported, encouraged and lifted up. The education received is at such a high standard as well and I feel ready to go into my career with the tools and skills I need. I feel very encouraged in my Christian life and spiritual walk with God. I 100% recommend this school!... Read 435 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $27,823

• SAT range 950-1210

• University , MS•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  2,232 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 2,232 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $13,528

• SAT range 1020-1230

• Hammond, LA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  1,322 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at Southeastern Louisiana University is like no other. I could not imagine myself at any other University. With the great education, staff, food and student activities it can’t get any better! The diverse environment makes the whole campus thrive and all of the student organizations make it brighter. This university sets a good example on what a university should be, the people that I feel get the less recognition are the academic advisors without their guide our paths would be lost and southeastern definitely has the best ones.... Read 1,322 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 99%

• Net price $12,891

• SAT range —

• Manchester, NH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  577 reviews

Freshman: From the moment I first stepped on the college grounds, I felt welcomed and at home. I I knew I had picked the right College. As I walked around the campus with the tour guide, I truly could picture myself being a student here at Saint Anselm. What I loved most was the myriad of places where I could relax, study and socialize outside of my dorm. Also, it felt like I was in my home with all the awesome Christmas decorations! I can't imagine changing anything about this college except I wish it was closer to my hometown. However, if Saint Anselm was anywhere else, it would lose the authenticity of the Northeast.... Read 577 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $34,450

• SAT range 1140-1320

• Edinburg, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  2,824 reviews

Freshman: University with adverse culture and programs that are for every single interest a student may want to pursue. Quiet campus for those who love studying, new programs are offered for all students as innovation increases and various clubs for those with different interests while pursuing a Undergraduate/graduate degree. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley offers growth and advancement opportunities while creating lifelong moments in ones' educational cycle of life! P.S., They offer programs to not pay much in tuition all by passing and apply as much help as possible for you to learn!... Read 2,824 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $6,244

• SAT range 900-1120

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  501 reviews

Junior: I think one thing that sets Oxy apart from other schools is the relationship you will build with your professors and peers in a class setting. My professors are always really accessible and encourage everyone to go to office hours and ask questions. Because of the small class size and collaborative setting where I am able to talk to my classmates, I've met some of my closest friends in my classes at Oxy. Everyone here is super involved and passionate about something they do on campus. This creates a really fun and supportive culture where we all go to everyone's club events, music performances, and sports games. Oxy really takes advantage of its location in Los Angeles. I've had field trips to Downtown LA and City Hall, and there are lots of opportunities to get off campus like free tickets to the Kings game last week! I chose Oxy because I wanted to be a part of a community that cares about what they are doing and that is exactly what I've found here.... Read 501 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 38%

• Net price $43,047

• SAT range 1340-1490

• Orlando, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  22,251 reviews

Freshman: I am an early admittance student slated to begin my journey as a college freshman during my senior year of high school at UCF starting in August of 2023. My experience has been incredibly positive so far beginning with my initial tour of the campus, through the application and acceptance process and lastly checking off my "to do" checklist in order to be ready for orientation. Every campus employee that I have encountered has been welcoming, encouraging and informative which has alleviated much of the pressure of being a first time college student! I highly recommend this institution of higher education!... Read 22,251 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 36%

• Net price $11,575

• SAT range 1170-1350

• Manchester, NH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.35 out of 5  4,215 reviews

Senior: I absolutely love Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)! As a full-time marketing major and sophomore, the online coursework perfectly fits my schedule, allowing me to manage my job alongside my studies. SNHU is undoubtedly one of the top online universities in the US. The courses are manageable, engaging, and up-to-date, offering practical application and real-world scenarios. The professors are knowledgeable and supportive, creating an enriching learning environment. The support services, including advisors and career counseling, are outstanding. SNHU also offers great networking opportunities, which have been beneficial for connecting with peers and professionals in the industry. If I could change one thing, it would be to give students the option to select the textbook curriculum used in their course. Overall, SNHU has surpassed my expectations, and I highly recommend it for its flexibility, top-tier education, and networking opportunities.... Read 4,215 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $21,502

• SAT range 870-1060

• Auburn, AL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  2,552 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 2,552 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $23,873

• SAT range 1150-1320

• Thibodaux, LA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  658 reviews

Senior: I love the professors that are at Nicholls. They are very understanding and very helpful. Most of them are deemed as "mean", but this just means that they are doing their job. Most of them are helpful when it comes to grades and I really like that. People have so many things going on, so having our professors being understanding shows wonders. Also, having the flexibility of classes, (i mean it is college so , duh!) helps with people who have children and the ones that are working to get through college as well!... Read 658 reviews

• grade B

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $12,907

• SAT range 1020-1170

• Saint Joseph, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  641 reviews

Senior: I absolutely love St. Bens! Everyone there is so welcoming and the monastery population is so kind! Although it is an all girls school, they do an amazing job of integrating the Johnnies and vice versa. I have truly found my best friends at this school and get an amazing education in their nursing program.... Read 641 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $28,269

• SAT range 1110-1220

• Iowa City, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  3,838 reviews

Freshman: Overall, there are so many resources available to students. Everywhere I go, it seems like university administration is dying to give away opportunities to students. Whether it be scholarships, clubs, food, or merch, I think every time I walk into the IMU there's an event involving a giveaway. The school did an amazing job planning and scheduling events for freshman during the OnIowa! week where only freshman had moved in. I actually met a lot of my current friends during that week. My only negative experience regarding administration is an inconsistency with the dining hall food and with completing work orders for dorms. Also, the apps used for doing laundry in the dorms have been glitchy, and sometimes prevent people from using machines that are clearly not in use. The campus is beautiful, and very different than any other campus I've been too because it's so engrained into the fabric of Iowa City itself. There's lots of bike paths and nature if you need a break from the city as well... Read 3,838 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $17,599

• SAT range 1130-1350