2024 Best College Locations in New Jersey

• Hoboken, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  719 reviews

Freshman: I loved Stevens Institute of Technology. I was first introduced to this college through my friends and family and fell in love with it at first sight! Now, I always enjoy studying with friends both old and new who are just as engaged in their academics as I am. To add on, I love the increased proximity to the city compared to where I reside at home. In this campus, I constantly have a view of New York, and I love visiting there all of the time with my friends. One of my favorite parts of Stevens was the dining experience. There was always a large amount of areas we can eat from, as well as many outside areas we could use our GrubHub Bucks on. I was always in a good mood due to the fact that I could order whatever I wanted, practically whenever I wanted. To conclude, the close parts and small amount of students allowed me to participate in classes that held a relatively small amount of students. The buildings on the campus were all very close to each other. I loved Stevens!... Read 719 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $40,828

• SAT range 1370-1510

• Montclair, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  3,121 reviews

Freshman: As someone who is freshly graduated from high school, I was really anxious and scared about going to college. Thankfully everyone at Montclair was super helpful, kind, and patient with me. The actual campus itself is gorgeous, and at least gets me a bit of exercise every time I have class since it's on a hill. There are so many amenities on the grounds and after a few months, everything become relatively close and easy to find. Overall, I've really enjoyed my freshman year at Montclair, and hope to have an even better Sophomore year!... Read 3,121 reviews

• grade B

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $12,026

• SAT range 1010-1210

• Madison, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  849 reviews

Senior: FDU is a great University. I had a ton of fun learning and growing as a person. I made friends along the way and faced challenges I never knew I could overcome. However, tuition is by far the most evil. FDU is a private University, and even with a scholarship, life in FDU is costly. Just don’t slack off in College and be sure you can get a return on investment! Good luck!... Read 849 reviews

• grade C+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $15,810

• SAT range 1040-1230

• Woodland Park, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  248 reviews

Graduate Student: Berkeley helped me finally graduate by making it accessible for me with scheduling classes while still keeping my full time job. While being grandfathered into a curriculum I couldn’t finish due to scheduling, availability of classes and a tough financial status, I found myself in a “no way out” situation at the other college I was in prior to Berkeley. Berkeley made it easy for me to finish in a reasonable amount of time and awarded me with scholarships to help me graduate!... Read 248 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $17,322

• SAT range —

• West Long Branch, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  970 reviews

Alum: Monmouth was a great experience for me! I did so much growing as a man, a partner, an athlete, a child of God and so so much more. At Monmouth, I made some of my greatest friends, people that I will be in contact with probably for the rest of my life. The struggles, laughs, cries, triumphs and defeats were all shared with them and for that I will be forever in debt and gratitude for Monmouth and the amazing people. I was able to come in contact with. As an athlete, I learned so much about my body and others' bodies which allowed me to really take my talents to a new level athletically and help contribute to my love for my major, Exercise Science. At Monmouth, I also had the opportunity to seek God without my parents and I am so blessed for the bonds I made this way and how closer to God I have through these groups and events.... Read 970 reviews

• grade B

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $29,059

• SAT range 1070-1250

• Morristown, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.37 out of 5  221 reviews

Junior: Being a small, private university, the professors here at Saint Elizabeth University are some of the sweetest, most genuine, and truly rewarding leaders and set up the students here for success. With the small population, the student-to-professor ratio is just perfect and there is usually never a moment where the professor doesn't engage each individual in the class. In addition to this, the professors genuinely want each student to succeed and find time to provide students with extra time for assistance regarding the course. The university is still growing in diversity but there are very friendly people everywhere!... Read 221 reviews

• grade B

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $21,774

• SAT range 890-1100

• Rutherford , NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.51 out of 5  418 reviews

Senior: This college is deeply founded on ethics and so each person of staff is incredibly helpful no matter what department or position. The professors and advisors go above and beyond to ensure that you understand materials and are not afraid to participate in discussions. They also allow each person to live their truth judgement free. My favorite thing about my school is that they provide help with personal needs where they can whether with food, transportation or academic resources. In my second semester as an international student I was unable to find adequate money for things like food and transportation and I was provided with funding to eat free in the cafeteria and cafes for the semester. That was what cemented the feeling that I was where I needed to be.... Read 418 reviews

• grade C+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $20,027

• SAT range 890-1140

• Princeton, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  463 reviews

Sophomore: Overall, my experience at Princeton was really amazing. There were so many opportunities to become involved on campus, especially in the many music groups (accapella, synphohnia, etc.). There are also so many opportunities to become involved in service through the Pace Center for Civic engagement. The one issue I have is that there are too many things to do and not enough time! The courses here are no joke, and they take up a huge chunk of your time, so I would definitely prepare to be spending a lot of time studying and working on assignments. The academic semesters here are also relatively short (12 weeks), which sometimes makes it difficult to keep up with work. That being said, I am spending my summer on campus and having an incredible time. Finally, I think the accessibility of professors at Princeton is really amazing. They are always willing to meet one-on-one, and they have many office hours (especially in intro-level courses) to help students prepare for exams.... Read 463 reviews

• grade A+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 4%

• Net price $20,908

• SAT range 1460-1570

• Caldwell, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  449 reviews

Sophomore: So far Caldwell is a very interesting and colorful school. I have felt that my professors care deeply about my education and success. Classes offered, an example being the Shakespeare In Performance class I took last semester, are very interesting and engaging. Every staff member of the university I have interacted with has been nothing but pleasant, whether it be a professor or a cook in the cafeteria. My fellow students are incredible as well. Every walk of life can be found in Caldwell's diverse halls. Although the freshman dorm, Mother Joseph Hall, needs some upgrades, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time dorming and attending classes at Caldwell. I have made at least three life long friends and have had life-changing experiences I will never forget. I love Caldwell University and will enjoy every moment I get to spend with my many new friends.... Read 449 reviews

• grade C+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $16,222

• SAT range 1000-1310

• Madison, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.49 out of 5  570 reviews

Junior: I love Drew! The campus is in a great, safe town! I’ve always felt safe walking around at night. The community here is amazing as well! I often find myself surrounded by so many friendly faces, big smiles, and people who are eager to help me in any way! Whether that be through my academic work, mental/physical health, or starting up my career. The campus really brings out the best in people and makes the experience overall amazing. I’ve even grown to love the workers who clean up campus at the crack of dawn haha. In the academics department, we have so many accredited professors. Lots of my professors have worked with professionals within my field, some even being awarded with prestigious prizes. Through them I have had the opportunity to speak to people of my interest and network. The student to faculty ratio at Drew University makes it very easy to find comfort and mentorship within your professors. overall, Drew is an amazing school! I have so much fun all the time! let’s go DREW!... Read 570 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $17,033

• SAT range 1030-1250

• Teaneck, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.51 out of 5  997 reviews

Junior: My experience at FDU so far has been excellent. I've made good friends here and connected well with some professors and staff. I obtained my internship through the Business School's Professional Development Program and have had good opportunities to network and find future jobs. The school is small so class sizes are small which provides a more personalized experience and most professors are willing to help you if you take the time to ask for it. College is what you make of it. If you take advantage of the opportunities given to you and the resources provided, then you will have a good experience.... Read 997 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $12,305

• SAT range 1000-1200

• Wayne, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.48 out of 5  954 reviews

Alum: Overall, I felt that William Paterson University was an exceptional institution for my undergraduate career. For a student who feels more comfortable in smaller, community-based institutions, like myself, WPU is a great choice. There are many opportunities for students to get involved in including Greek Life; D3, club, and intramural sports; musical ensembles; and a plethora of clubs. The location is about 35 minutes away from NYC and is located within the trees, making it available for many types of terrains based on what you prefer. I personally really enjoyed my time within the Psychology Department at WPU. All professors were extremely helpful and were very passionate within their fields. What I would like to see change within WPU is a more integrated and promoted campus social life. Living on campus, there was never much to do around unless you left campus. I would like to see an influx in opportunities on campus to get students of all years more involved.... Read 954 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $15,762

• SAT range 890-1090

• Bloomfield, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.33 out of 5  498 reviews

Senior: My experience at Bloomfield College has its ups and down but overall it has been an amazing experience, I’ve had numerous opportunities to get involved on campus, the number of resources that are available for students have been amazing, I’ve gotten help with my tuition not only for financial aid but also from programs such at Trio SSS, McNair Scholar Program and if you are in EOF you can also get assistance with fund from them. Bloomfield provides tutoring services at the tip of your fingers for whatever subject you require. They also provide plenty of on-campus jobs in every department on campus, as a student, you can have more than one job on campus but you are allowed only one work-study job. This is beneficial because if your class schedule does not aline with a outside job then the on campus job will. Overall this is a pretty good school, you will make the best of it. The school also make it their point to make sure the students feel included by planning programs.... Read 498 reviews

• grade C

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $21,585

• SAT range 780-970

• Union, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  1,569 reviews

Junior: All of the students and faculty are extremely kind and considerate. The professors give a stimulating amount of work and will accommodate to your needs so long as you tell them your situation. Something that I would change is the advertising of clubs and organizations on campus to make them more well known, my first year I wasn’t a part of any organizations because I didn’t know what the university offered. Now I am a member of a club and an officer of an organization and I love it! The head of student affairs is incredibly generous, and the others officers and I work well together. Something else I love is the use of student input in classroom and university in its entirety. Students can take surveys received in emails to evaluate their class, campus, and university. Also, many courses of all subjects have had open discussions about material where students options matter. More than this, my campus feels very inclusive and this makes me feel safe while learning in the classroom.... Read 1,569 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $18,078

• SAT range 920-1120

• Lawrenceville, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  1,247 reviews

Alum: I had a great undergraduate experience. I found great professors and staff who were willing to help not only with on-campus opportunities but also when it comes to getting work experiences and a job. The campus is getting better and better each year, nice to see continuous investments being made. Grateful for all the wonderful people I met here!... Read 1,247 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $23,781

• SAT range 1050-1270

• South Orange, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  2,145 reviews

Junior: I have loved my time here at Seton Hall! Since my first tour, I felt welcomed and a part of the campus community immediately. The sense of community at SHU is genuinely a game changer- I have met so many people from different majors, states, and even countries! One of my favorite things about Seton Hall is the academics here. Aside from having excellent and strong academic programs, the smaller class sizes and personalized attention have helped me grow and succeed as a student both in class and on campus. I have gotten to know exceptional faculty, and that personalized attention has helped me develop a strong bond with many of my professors! As a big school-spirit person, the events, Christmas tree lighting, and basketball games are so fun! It also is helpful being right outside NYC- a 30-minute train ride for internship opportunities, jobs, and entertainment is hard to beat!... Read 2,145 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $33,177

• SAT range 1200-1370

• Glassboro, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  1,825 reviews

Senior: When I first came to Rowan University, it was amidst 2020 and the COVID lockdowns. Expectedly, Rowan University didn't handle this well, but what school did? My first year was absolutely atrocious, it genuinely felt as though I was imprisoned. All classes were online, no activities were schedule across campus in hopes of reducing the spread of the illness, and the food was bad. However, I truly got to see what this University had in store once these restrictions were lightened and eventually lifted. The professors are extremely welcoming and conversive, activities galore, and overall it became the college experience that I assume everyone would imagine. The only issue that I see is that commuters may have an issue with the school as parking can be limited at the time. If Rowan University fixed that issue then it would be perfect as in every other way they are always working towards their improvement!... Read 1,825 reviews

• grade B

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $21,425

• SAT range 1070-1280

• Piscataway, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  6,020 reviews

Junior: Rutgers University is a transformative institution that offers a world-class education. The faculty's expertise and dedication to student success are remarkable. The campus facilities are top-notch, providing an excellent environment for learning and growth. Rutgers fosters a vibrant and diverse community, promoting inclusivity and cultural exchange. The university's emphasis on research and innovation opens doors to exciting opportunities. With extensive extracurricular offerings and a robust alumni network, Rutgers, particularly the Business School, prepares students for rewarding careers. Proud to be a Scarlet Knight!... Read 6,020 reviews

• grade A

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $11,803

• SAT range 1240-1470

• Newark, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  1,201 reviews

Junior: I give 5 stars based on programs that help with tuition. I was told I was eligible so when fall starts, I should be covered. However, I do think as a state school, the cost of tuition should drop. Additionally, if it stays at the cost now, there should be significant upgrades and renovations. The bathrooms are total crap, they smell like urine and all the stall hinges are broken. Just leave the door open because it won’t close. Wave when someone walks past. There are roaches crawling in hill hall in real-time. Printers always breaking. Computer labs are old. Chairs have stains. Teachers barley have supplies! my god, the amount of times my professor had to beg his colleague for chalk or a marker. Projectors never work. I could go on, but it’ll put you to sleep. Overall, 16k, I should have pride in my school. (Sometimes I tell people I go to New Brunswick because of the stare a get when I say Newark ). I could use that MacBook though. I need a computer for fall ! Help me out! :)... Read 1,201 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $11,364

• SAT range 1030-1270

• Galloway, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  1,575 reviews

Other: Stockton was the first university that I attended. I had no friends from high school or my community college that were going to Stockton, and it was an hour away from my home, so I was traveling twice a week to come to my classes. Stockton has so much to offer, and I saw immense opportunity for personal growth. Being a young black female in that space was very hard, but no one ever made me feel like I was less then. The school is huge and always clean and organized and the amount of support that the school offers for the students is relieving. They also have incredible communication; the school keeps you updated with EVERY LITTLE DETAIL! There is almost nothing to go unsaid. All of my professors were incredible and took pride in their work, and held students accountable, but also showed compassion and care. I did unfortunately have to drop out I would return to Stockton in a heartbeat. I loved the atmosphere and would love to be more involved in the school.... Read 1,575 reviews

• grade B

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $19,581

• SAT range 1050-1250

• Hackettstown, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.44 out of 5  321 reviews

Freshman: My first year attending this college has been quite the unique experience. I found myself enjoying waking up every weekday in my dorm room and getting ready for the classes, which offer me wonderful knowledge for my major in Equine Studies. I feel like I belong here, which isn't something I can usually say! I hope to enjoy the next 3 school years here!... Read 321 reviews

• grade C

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 98%

• Net price $24,476

• SAT range 990-1170

• Jersey City, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  760 reviews

Sophomore: I really have enjoyed my experience so far at NJCU. They are extremely welcoming and I really felt comfortable with all of my professors. They are understanding and will work with you through everything. Overall, the campus and people are so nice. The school feels like home and not like a huge campus where you can sometimes feel like a small fish in a sea. There are so many opportunities and clubs here that they offer. It is an amazing university!... Read 760 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $13,756

• SAT range 890-1140

• Jersey City, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.42 out of 5  715 reviews

Senior: I have been at Saint Peters for the last 3 years and I am currently going into my senior year. I've had many good memories and experiences. What I loved the most was the small campus. I am able to make many friends. Saint Peter also allows me to be able to have a connection with my professors and advisers. Since classes are small I am able to get the need I need with my education. I also love how many of my textbooks are for free if needed since I am in the STEM apartment. But there are changes I would love to see. Since it is very small it can get very boring. I would also love to see many of the building updated. Even though they are currently making changes for better it would still be nice to see it faster. Overall, Saint Peters has the resources I need to get my degree.... Read 715 reviews

• grade C

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $12,937

• SAT range 970-1150

• Newark, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.48 out of 5  1,241 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at NJIT has been rewarding, both academically and socially. The courses are challenging but fulfilling, each offering unique material that has helped me grow. Professors are approachable and dedicated, adding value to the educational experience. On the social front, I've met incredible friends and peers who have become an integral part of my daily life. We've formed a close-knit community that enriches my overall well-being. However, there's room for improvement. I'd recommend adding diverse food options like Chinese cuisine to the commuter's lounge. Also, bringing back the couches in the basement would enhance the student experience by providing a comfortable space for relaxation and socializing.... Read 1,241 reviews

• grade B+

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $16,878

• SAT range 1180-1430

• Mahwah, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.43 out of 5  1,023 reviews

Freshman: The college overall was an excellent experience. The program I was a part of, however, was new and undeveloped. I felt as though I wasn't given a path that made me feel confident in following. The offices responded in a timely manner and were always willing to help. All of the professors that I encountered in my time at this college were very pleasant. This college sold me when I saw their housing, commitment to their students' safety, diversity, and welcoming community. The small campus allows for a close community between students and professors, and aids in lessening confusion as you learn to navigate campus. This college provides unlimited extracurricular opportunities and hosts a multitude of events weekly! I was also surprised to find that the TWO dinning halls were always preparing amazing food. Both the atrium and standard dinning hall offered excellent, diverse, options; this includes those who are vegetarian and vegan. They also have Dunkin' and Starbucks as great options!... Read 1,023 reviews

• grade B

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $12,251

• SAT range 1100-1280