2024 Best Colleges for Middle-Class Students in the Philadelphia Area

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  1,332 reviews

Sophomore: As a University of Pennsylvania student, my experience has been transformative. The academic rigor and diverse courses allowed me to explore passions and develop critical thinking. Accessible and knowledgeable faculty shaped my journey, while the vibrant campus life fostered a sense of community among students from diverse backgrounds. I appreciate the emphasis on research opportunities, collaborating with renowned scholars, and Philadelphia's cultural scene, offering internships and networking. However, addressing the cost of attendance with more financial aid options and scholarships is essential for equal access. Moreover, enhancing inclusivity and support for underrepresented groups would strengthen our community further. Overall, UPenn has provided exceptional opportunities, but improvements can make it an even more accessible and inclusive institution for all students.... Read 1,332 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 6%

• Net price $14,578

• SAT range 1480-1570

• Swarthmore, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  424 reviews

Alum: Life changing. Not only because of the quality of professors and the teacher to student ratio, but because the student body is so extraordinary. Living with and around people who are major achievers rubs off on you. Being there raised my standards 1000% because that is what I had to do just to keep up. And that habit stayed with me for the rest of my life. It produced a wonderful, successful life and work experience. Proud to be a Swattie!... Read 424 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 8%

• Net price $19,733

• SAT range 1430-1560

• Haverford, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  263 reviews

Alum: The campus is large and beautiful. There are plenty of places to lounge or study. There isn't a core curriculum, so trying different fields of interest is very easy and encouraged. It is relatively seamless to transition between majors. The professors are incredibly kind and thoughtful. One of my main complaints is that for some majors, the program is fully developed with a multitude of courses, professors, and class times. But for other majors, there are much fewer resources and course electives.... Read 263 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 18%

• Net price $24,462

• SAT range 1420-1540

• Camden, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  830 reviews

Sophomore: Faculty: The university boasts a dedicated and accomplished faculty comprising experienced professors and researchers who are often recognized for their contributions to their respective fields. Many faculty members are actively engaged in research and scholarship, providing students with opportunities for hands-on learning and collaboration. Civic Engagement: Rutgers University–Camden emphasizes civic engagement and community service. It encourages students to actively participate in service-learning initiatives, internships, and community-based research projects to make a positive impact in the local community and beyond. Campus Life: The university provides a vibrant campus life with a range of student organizations, clubs, and extracurricular. Location: Being located in Camden, the university benefits from its proximity to Philadelphia, one of the major cities in the United States.... Read 830 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $10,104

• SAT range 1040-1230

• Newtown, PA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  521 reviews

Graduate Student: Overall, I enjoyed my time at Bucks County Community College. I started as an engineering major, which ended up being a mistake. The prerequisites are very tedious and redundant and most of the STEM teachers are not good at their job. They were all great people but just did not know how to teach students. Once I changed my major to Film Production, I had a much better experience with much better teachers. I think the biggest thing I think should be done differently is allowing students more freedom in classes and how/when they take them. The best part was how friendly all of the staff were.... Read 521 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,062

• SAT range —

• West Chester, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,826 reviews

Junior: So far while being at West Chester University I have had wonderful professors in the early grades preparation major. You can tell that the professors are dedicated and love what they do. They are there to make you the best educator you can be. As well as none education professors, all the professors on campus are there for your success and want what is best for you. West Chester also offers so many fun opportunities for students. Being apart of an organization on campus, I get to witness all the hard work that is put into these fun opportunities, clubs, and organizations for students to be involved in!... Read 1,826 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $14,133

• SAT range 1070-1250

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  328 reviews

Senior: Be a part of a family that knows and cares about you and your future, HFU, you belong here! A catholic private university found right in northeast Philadelphia, with one of the safest neighborhoods and approachable professors due to smaller class size that really helps with building networks and establishing connections even after graduation. A family-like institution where you get help when asked and get to enjoy year-round events and free giveaways. If you want to avoid too much money in tuition and expenses, HFU is just the right place with up to 22k merit scholarships awarded as freshmen along with named scholarships once completed a semester and get consisdred for the help for the number of years you attend.... Read 328 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $11,935

• SAT range 930-1080

• Wilmington, DE•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  132 reviews

Freshman: Overall, I am in love with my experience at Goldey Beacom College. Staff members are very helpful and welcoming. I can feel that they truly care and are passionate in helping students. I have been able navigate myself through my first year of college like a pro thanks to the staff and students at Goldey Bascom. The ambience of Goldey Beacom is that of no other. Students and staff are extremely nice and each inspiring to me. Campus life is so inviting, and I am glad to be a part of it this year. I am very excited to walk the campus and take my classes. I have noticed that Goldey has no band. I do believe this should change and that we have band instruments, however, I can see students forming a band club to start this up. I am also very satisfied with my class schedule. With the great environment and academic opportunities, I have no doubt that I have made the right decision in choosing this business school.... Read 132 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 63%

• Net price $14,637

• SAT range —

• Blue Bell, PA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  623 reviews

Sophomore: I am going to be a second-year student at Montgomery County Community College this semester at the Blue Bell campus. In-person, the faculty is extremely welcoming and the quality of learning is great! I struggle with anxiety yet nobody made me feel uncomfortable or that I was out-of-place. The professors are extremely understanding and are willing to work with you if you ever need assistance. Unfortunately, I couldn't say the same for the online classes. I took summer classes this year and it was very difficult. The professors were not easy to contact and the workload was hard to manage. However, despite these challenges, the students in my classes were very helpful. We had the same issues most of the time and we worked through them together. Overall, I would recommend enrolling here because I had mostly positive experiences and I learned a lot of valuable information. I also pay a fraction of the price that I would at a four-year school.... Read 623 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,093

• SAT range —

• Media, PA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  639 reviews

Sophomore: Many students appreciate the supportive and dedicated faculty at Delaware County Community College. They often highlight the personalized attention and guidance they receive, which contributes to their positive learning experience. The college's commitment to affordability and accessibility also resonates well with students. One area where some students would like to see improvement is the availability of resources and facilities. Expanding library resources, updating technology infrastructure, and creating more collaborative spaces could enhance the overall learning environment. Additionally, fostering a stronger sense of community and student engagement through clubs, events, and extracurricular activities could contribute to a more vibrant campus life. Overall, while Delaware County Community College has several positive aspects, focusing on infrastructure, community building, and career-oriented support can further enhance the student experience.... Read 639 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $13,178

• SAT range —

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  335 reviews

Graduate Student: I have had a great experience, every one is helpful and I earned two degrees! I would recommend to anyone looking to further their education! This is the perfect opportunity for working adults that want to advance in their career.... Read 335 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $13,714

• SAT range —

• Wilmington, DE•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  259 reviews

Sophomore: Great scholarship called SEED program for Delaware residents and it’s easy to get! You get all classes paid for with it and only have to pay for books. Normally, very good, real, and helpful teachers. Have only had bad experience with one teacher who never answered any emails. Offer good classes but I wish the online website was easier to navigate. Small class sizes have been nice to have. Campus is pretty nice, I have only been to the Stanton and Wilmington ones. Overall it’s been a pretty good experience.... Read 259 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,925

• SAT range —

• Warminster, PA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  24 reviews

Niche User: This is a amazing place to visit! I’ve never seen a place where I’ve felt so at home. Everyone is nice, welcoming, and the facility is huge! Staff is great and students are amazing.... Read 24 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $13,480

• SAT range —