2024 Best Colleges for Education in New York

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  5,670 reviews

Junior: To start, living on my own in the city has been an authentic experience that has helped me grow as a young adult, taking on new responsibilities and meeting different people! Overall, college is what you make it. There are so many resources and opportunities, some clearly offered and pushed, and some just found by research or who you know (so be friendly and make connections!). Regarding classes, my professors are very inspiring, with expertise and experience. With the educational aspect, you'll learn the concrete information (rules and details of a concept) by studying and reading; you have to put in your own effort if you want to learn, either on your own time out of class, or for an assignment. Discussions and work in class with the professor are more on the abstract side of things, regarding ideals and philosophies, making you think about the world around you and how you can make a positive impact. Content and work differs by class, but your education relies on your effort!... Read 5,670 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $50,991

• SAT range 1450-1570

• New Paltz, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  1,455 reviews

Sophomore: I like how encouraging New Paltz is to its students! It feels like they really care about the student body. A decent amount of the professors just want their students to understand material and not be in crippling debt so they’ll do things like upload free resources or not require a textbook; it’s very much appreciated. The overall campus feels pretty safe too! It truly feels like they have our best interest in mind. Although New Paltz promotes equity amongst its student body, I would like to see that further enforced. Students from certain minority groups tend to be represented. However, I would like to see students of color to get the protection and acknowledgment they deserve. The student body is fairly white, which isn’t an issue until that ushers in ignorant comments and prejudice toward POC students. New Paltz tries to avoid racial biases, and negative interactions, but they do happen, and when they do, they aren’t taken that seriously. That definitely needs to change.... Read 1,455 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $15,318

• SAT range 1150-1280

• Rockville Centre, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  670 reviews

Sophomore: As a transfer student, the transition has been smooth with the help of advisors. It was more cost effective to attend a university within my home state and still have my independence as it changed from a commuter school to now being able to dorm on campus. Great programs to choose from, smaller class sizes, which helps you to have more interaction with your professors so you’re known by name. Campus life can give you the opportunity to participate in different activities/clubs and having a well known theatre on campus exposes you to performances from your peers as well as nationally known artists. Overall, Molloy University is very supportive and passionate about their students success!... Read 670 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $25,540

• SAT range 1110-1320

• Cortland, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  895 reviews

Senior: The atmosphere is incredible, there are so many amazing people here. If you’re coming for anything fitness related (phys ed, fit dev, ex sci) you’ve definitely found the right place. The campus is a big home to opportunities. Only thing is that the parking at the top of the hill is atrocious… but if you’re a junior or senior (or living on campus) you should have no problems as you’ll probably be at the lower end of campus or walking everywhere. Definitely buy a heated jacket bc it gets very cold. Hope to see you here!... Read 895 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $17,703

• SAT range 1090-1240

• Brooklyn, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  316 reviews

Freshman: St. Joseph's University is a Catholic liberal arts university located in the heart of New York City. One of the things that makes St. Joseph's University unique is its commitment to providing a values-based education that encourages students to engage with the world around them and work towards creating positive change. St. Joseph's University also offers a diverse range of academic programs and opportunities for students, including undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, education, health sciences, and the arts and sciences. In terms of changes, some people may have suggestions for improvements to the university, such as increasing the diversity of the student body and faculty, expanding support services for students, or investing in new facilities or resources. Ultimately, any changes made to the university would depend on the priorities and resources of the institution and the needs of its students, faculty, and community.... Read 316 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $16,290

• SAT range 1020-1200

• Queens, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  1,249 reviews

Sophomore: Currently a sophomore student at Queens College and it is great so far! There are lots of clubs & activities to do on campus, internship opportunities, very fun social events from time to time. The drama program is excellent, offering plenty of performance opportunities to work with professionals in the theater world. The professors are all very passionate about what they do. But something I would like to see changed are quicker responses to emails regarding financial aid/registrar inquiries. I would also love to see more vegan food options in the cafeteria. There is not really a party scene because most people are commuters so everyone seems to be doing their own partying or fun on their own. Overall, I am having a great experience!... Read 1,249 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 61%

• Net price $4,777

• SAT range 1040-1190

• Saint Bonaventure, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  477 reviews

Niche User: I've committed to play ball at St Bonaventure, and everything about the recruiting process has been incredible. On my visit, everyone was so kind, and genuine, and really seemed to love this school. I'm not just talking the students, but the Uni staff, and people all over the town. I mean, people LOVE this school! On my flight home, wearing a Bonnies t-shirt at the airport/on the plane, half a dozen people called out to me "Bonnies!" The love is real.... Read 477 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $25,533

• SAT range 1070-1270

• Oneonta, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  1,177 reviews

Alum: Oneonta was such an amazing experience. I had the opportunity to form with 4 other girls and it was great! We communicated and talked things out. The campus life was good too and meeting new people and talking to a lot of people. Also, having a campus job and interacting with a lot of students on campus. Loved taking acting and dance classes it’s a great way to wind down but also get credit. Always attend events and explore the campus.... Read 1,177 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $17,594

• SAT range 980-1150

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  143 reviews

Senior: Attending Boricua College has proven to be a truly enriching experience. The smaller class sizes create an intimate and engaging learning environment, allowing for more personalized interactions with professors and fellow students. What I particularly appreciate is the college's colloquium strategy of learning, which fosters dynamic discussions and critical thinking. This approach closely mirrors real-world experiences, encouraging us to analyze, debate, and collaborate just as we would in professional settings. Through this unique educational approach, Boricua College has not only imparted knowledge but has also empowered me to apply my learning effectively in the real world.... Read 143 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $13,499

• SAT range —

• Rochester, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  595 reviews

Freshman: At Fisher there is always someone to go to, whether you need financial help, tutoring aids, or even just a shoulder to cry on every staff member and available student leaders will always help someone in need. The aura at Fisher is deemed by it's creed: Teach me Goodness, Discipline and Knowledge; being here for only a short four weeks has already helped me become a more well rounded individual than I was when I graduated high school. There are many faces of diversity here ranges from students, staff and alumni, the Fisher reputation is one to be proud of.... Read 595 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $27,325

• SAT range 1110-1270

• Hamilton, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  1,041 reviews

Sophomore: Colgate University has opened doors for me in countless ways. The rich alumni network is widely used by students through our amazing career services office. Additionally, I have been given opportunities to connect with possible employers and have even gotten a job as a result! Additionally, the school itself is very work hard play hard. I am enrolled in academically rigorous classes but I can also have so much fun here!... Read 1,041 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 17%

• Net price $24,500

• SAT range 1350-1500

• Brooklyn, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  1,272 reviews

Freshman: The school year has just begun, but I can already say I love it! Right before school began, I got a sense of community from a peer mentor reaching out to ensure I had a smooth start to my freshman year. Getting enrolled in my classes was an easy process thanks to the staff. The campus is beautiful and has many areas available to students which is a freedom I admire. Most importantly, I feel challenged in my classes, and the professors, despite what others may think, provide a fair academic experience through informative lectures and grading. I will say, that I wish course options were more open to undergraduate freshmen. It's understandable that those who have been enrolled longer have priority over choosing courses, but it was disappointing to find out I didn't have complete freedom over my schedule.... Read 1,272 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 51%

• Net price $4,254

• SAT range 1020-1180

• Fredonia, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,222 reviews

Senior: I love the small campus/community of Fredonia. Having a smaller campus makes it easier to connect personally to both other students and professors. I have been able to establish personal and professional connections that will benefit me in my future endeavors. I also love the new science center building. I have spent many hours in there studying! I would like to see some better options for advisement here at Fredonia. I have heard many negative experiences with advisement, so I make sure to do everything by myself. I think the school would be better if there were more opportunities for help with graduate programs.... Read 1,222 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $15,973

• SAT range 1090-1280

• Rochester, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  491 reviews

Senior: I am currently in my fourth and final year at Roberts. In terms of academics, it is a small school, so you really get to know the professors. It is easy to meet with them one-on-one to help with any struggles. In terms of social life, I feel like there is always some event going on that students can get involved with. There are also a ton of groups that students can join in leadership roles to help put these events on. Sometimes these positions may come with a small scholarship! The people at Roberts are really the best part of the school. I've met some of my best friends here and have made hundreds of other connections with others across campus. In terms of faith, I can confidently say that I learned a lot more about Christ and have significantly built upon my faith since entering Roberts. The chapels, classes, and surrounding myself with believers were all beneficial. Overall, Roberts gave me the best experience I could have asked for. I would highly recommend the school to others!... Read 491 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 87%

• Net price $21,710

• SAT range 1020-1250

• Potsdam, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  754 reviews

Junior: I am currently a Junior at SUNY Potsdam and have enjoyed my time here thus far. I personally have enjoyed the life-long friends I've made, the connections I've made with my professors/department, and with those in the local community (especially, at the local coffee shop - Jernabis!). SUNY Potsdam, like many colleges, is what you make it. If you put yourself out there, join activities you like/are passionate about, and apply yourself in your department, the chance of you enjoying your college experience increases. Potsdam has a variety of student clubs/organizations and sports teams to join to connect with peers outside of classes too. Academics at Potsdam vary in quality depending on the department you are in, so I highly recommend searching and reaching out to your department of choice before attending. Dorming at Potsdam is pretty good and food is average/has downgraded slightly since COVID, but PACES is actively trying to improve. I recommend checking out Potsdam!... Read 754 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $14,494

• SAT range —

• Albany, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  958 reviews

Graduate Student: Saint rose is a pretty good school depending on your program! If you're business (finance/accounting/marketing), you'll definitely have so much flexibility in scheduling and courses! The professors are super helpful when it comes to course work and other personal matters. Some professors however are strict and pretty mean, but you'll fine that anywhere! There's always events on campus and people around, so the campus is super lively. The diversity isn't the best (it's semi better than other colleges), but in recent years has definitely gotten better! Overall I would recommend saint rose, there's always something to do on campus, people to meet and there's a whole array of clubs and committees to join. The dining is decent, but the food places on campus are definitely great! Highly recommend Camelot Room and Midnight Eats! There's Starbucks which is nice and your student ID gives you free/unlimited use for the CDTA bus! It's great if you're a commuter or a student who likes to go out!... Read 958 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $23,474

• SAT range —

• Syracuse, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  3,539 reviews

Alum: Syracuse University is medium sized American university located in upstate New York with much to offer. Best known for its sports teams, such as basketball, football and lacrosse, the best part about the school was it's diversity in activities, fields of study and student body. Though the winters are cold, the School of Architecture is ranked top 5 in the country, and the hard work from students and faculty shows. With it's deeply historical roots founded in the fundamentals of architecture, the program prepares students to think critically, develop important skills, solve creatively and curates a network of alumni to set students up for career success. The five-year program offers a variety of exciting classes and allows for students to explore outside of the school of architecture - namely taking business courses at Whitman, learning about colors, spaces and psychology or dip their toes clothing design at the fashion school. Overall, the (orange) juice is worth the squeeze!... Read 3,539 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $43,545

• SAT range 1220-1400

• Niagara University, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  585 reviews

Sophomore: I've absolutely loved the community that I have found here at Niagara University. The program that I'm in is so incredibly welcoming and supportive. There are plenty of majors/minors and opportunities to explore and my advisor has made sure I can get the most out of my time here. It's a gorgeous campus and there are plenty of events put on and we're super close to Niagara Falls and Canada! The people are wonderful and I can't implore you enough, please consider Niagara University in your college search! You won't regret it!... Read 585 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $18,118

• SAT range 1050-1220

• Poughkeepsie, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  663 reviews

Sophomore: Vassar College has ample opportunities in most fields of study and well-respected/high-quality academics. Considering its student population, its opportunities for independent research alongside professors are outstanding. Help will always be provided to those who seek it in searches for internships, graduate school advising, and career development. Students have a great relationship with their professors. I would change the manner in which credit registration caps are managed and total credit hours are assessed and provide some more freedom in courses, even though the school does have the coveted open curriculum. Overall, the student body is very engaged, and there is a very active student government. There is a crowd for everyone and any preferred social and academic life.... Read 663 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 20%

• Net price $27,249

• SAT range 1420-1540

• Saratoga Springs, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  661 reviews

Junior: I love my experience at Skidmore. My first year, I was able to take a variety of classes in different departments to figure out where I felt most at home, and many of our classes are interdisciplinary. It is easy and encouraged to have multiple majors/minors, and most professors are amazing! They truly are a great resource that I was not expecting to have, especially coming from a bigger high school. I have been fortunate to hold several campus jobs, including being a tour guide, tutor, and RA. There are also tons of opportunities for students to get involved in administrative, career-preparing work through our SGA and various campus committees--most searches and voting committees will have at least one student representative, and overall the opportunities are vast.... Read 661 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 31%

• Net price $31,553

• SAT range 1270-1440

• Rochester, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,593 reviews

Freshman: Academic Experience: Being a student at the University of Rochester would likely involve rigorous academic programs. The university is known for its commitment to providing a well-rounded education and fostering critical thinking skills. The Rochester Curriculum, which emphasizes interdisciplinary studies, allows me to explore a variety of subjects beyond my major. Campus Life: The campus, located along the Genesee River, offeres a beautiful and picturesque setting for me. I enjoy spending time in the libraries, student centers, and recreational facilities. Campus life includes involvement in student clubs, organizations, and cultural events. Community Engagement: The University of Rochester places importance on community engagement. I have participated in community service projects or collaborated with local organizations, contributing to both my personal growth and the betterment of the community.... Read 1,593 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 41%

• Net price $40,125

• SAT range 1370-1520

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  1,830 reviews

Alum: AMAZING education, amazing people, amazing environment. I just graduated with my bachelors and will go back for masters! If you are looking for a warm, welcoming university that emphasizes the importance of education in adults, I would recommend this college.There are various degrees and oppourtunite to succeed at CUNY CCNY. You will never feel like you are alone and you can always reach out to their amazing staff who is always there whenever you need them. The advising department as well as the financial aid department are super helpful and attentive to students. As far as student life goes, there are multiple events and clubs one can attend and become a part of. There is also a piano in the NAC building that is free for students to stop and play during their free times. Everyone I've met here are wonderful, kind hearted people and those are the ones that I will cherish forever. I have made many of my lifelong friends here and I am thankful for everything this college gave me.... Read 1,830 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $4,213

• SAT range 1050-1260

• Riverdale, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  865 reviews

Freshman: Orientation was a great experience! Orientation leaders had activities planned for each day, they made them fun and interactive. Student to teacher ratio is great, whenever I have a problem I can email, speak to, or go to my professor's office hours. There are many clubs and organizations for everyone to try out including, BSU, Fuerza Latina, Player, Gaelic Society, and many more.... Read 865 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $27,651

• SAT range 1060-1280

• Rochester, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  846 reviews

Senior: Nazareth is my home away from home. Located in the beautiful Pittsford neighborhood of Rochester NY, Nazareth sports one of the most gorgeous campuses I’ve ever seen. You are surrounded by quaint, scholarly buildings, there’s a great fountain central to the campus, and you get all four seasons. The academics are good considering the scope and size of the campus. It is truly a liberal arts education, if that’s what you’d like. I have a major in data science with minors in math, psychology, and philosophy. I have only had an okay experience with a few professors, most are willing to meet with you often, are very personal, and create close professional relationships with their students. While not a research school, I have found a way to do some research projects through getting close with my professors, and this helped my successfully land an NSF funded REU at a D1 research school! The only complaint I have is with the food (it’s not good), but everything else is amazing!... Read 846 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $30,557

• SAT range —

• Hempstead, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  2,349 reviews

Senior: Over my years at Hofstra I really grew to love the university. At first it was very overwhelming considering the size of the campus and the student body, but that’s what I love the most about my school. Hofstra also provides so many amazing opportunities when it comes to clubs and organizations for anyone’s interest. The faculty and community here at Hofstra is also like no other, everyone is more than willing to help and have the best attitudes when doing so!... Read 2,349 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $33,234

• SAT range 1180-1370