2023 Best Colleges in America

• Atlanta, GA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  2,134 reviews

Freshman: I really like the culture here: we emphasize both working hard and playing hard. Now, even for an introvert like myself, this is a great place to meet people, but also to hunker down and work. I really feel like my work matters here. Every assignment serves a purpose. I will say for a tech school, our digital infrastructure is laughable. Sure, our research is protected and secure, but not a day goes by that something does not crash. Not a huge problem, but very frustrating. BUT! Being a liberal arts major at Georgia Tech awards you countless advantages. Programs are small and deliberate, with so many hands-on, technical aspects to each class. Definitely the place to be for the modern liberal arts student!... Read 2,134 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 21%

• Net price $17,410

• SAT range 1370-1530

• Charlottesville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  2,341 reviews

Sophomore: The University of Virginia is a great school! There is a beautiful campus containing many of the brightest, most optimistic, and welcoming minds in the world. After finishing up my first year "On-Grounds," as all Wahoos call it, I have left more impressed than I came in. Professors and students alike extend themselves as learning resources and don't mind the extra effort to help a student who seeks it. As an African-American student though, I would love to see the diversity rate continue to trend upwards as the semesters and school years go by. UVA has a welcoming campus but at times, I feel that the "Unite the Right Rally" tragedy from 2017 still scares away students of color and other minority groups due to the false idea that UVA "isn't a protected campus."... Read 2,341 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 23%

• Net price $19,043

• SAT range 1320-1510

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  3,924 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 3,924 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 16%

• Net price $39,759

• SAT range 1340-1530

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  423 reviews

Sophomore: Claremont Mckenna College is an amazing academic institution. Every student here is so passionate and loves to learn. Claremont has an incredible, close knit-community that is incredibly supportive. My professors all are so kind and involved. I love CMC! Sko nas!... Read 423 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $22,004

• SAT range 1330-1500

• Brunswick, ME•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  718 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 718 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 9%

• Net price $25,622

• SAT range 1360-1510

• Swarthmore, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  423 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 423 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 9%

• Net price $20,360

• SAT range 1390-1540

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  458 reviews

Alum: I graduated from Barnard over 25 years ago. To this day, I am empowered and inspired by the education I received from Barnard and the friendships I made. The classes were excellent, my classmates were inspiring and diverse and I am continuously impressed with their accomplishments - Pulitzer Prize winners, Emmy winners, authors, rock stars, business leaders, entrepreneurs, professors, doctors, lawyers - it was really special. I loved being able to take advantage of the classes, dorms and dining halls of Columbia, and developed close friendships amongst the entire community. Going to school in NYC was AWESOME! For those who think of it as simply a women’s college, I would say say that is way too narrow. It inspires and emboldens women in a way that is unique, and anyway you are among guys all the time - in class, in dorms, on campus, in the dining halls, socializing…you are not at all isolated. I can’t recommend Barnard highly enough!... Read 458 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 14%

• Net price $30,572

• SAT range 1350-1520

• Davidson, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  331 reviews

Alum: Most of my profs were great. Since it's a small school, they're available and they invest in students! They push us to think critically. The student body's commitment to social justice is inspiring, but the administration thinks hosting panels and holding meetings to respond to racism is enough. It's not. Luckily student organizers push Davidson to go further. The party scene is ok, and there are social events for non-drinkers. There are many student activities. We're about 40 minutes from Charlotte by car but students mostly stay on campus. Counseling is free to all students, but you may have to wait 3 wks to get an appointment. Mental health is a serious issue, probably because there is so much academic pressure. Career services offers summer internship grants, job shadowing opportunities, and help applying for positions. Davidson staff in non-academic roles are incredible and during my time there, I built relationships with everyone from cafeteria workers to office administrators.... Read 331 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 20%

• Net price $28,615

• SAT range 1300-1460

• Atlanta, GA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  1,570 reviews

Graduate Student: I loved my experience as a graduate student! I attended the public health program and received a Master's degree from this esteemed school. I learned from professors enmeshed in relevant research and current events. The school's community partnerships and proximity to the CDC allowed its students easy access to many professional opportunities, especially for those interested in infectious disease. Emory provides a beautiful campus and a variety of study spaces for its students. This university may want to work on developing a more distinct student culture -- this is one of the few areas where the school may be lacking.... Read 1,570 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 19%

• Net price $25,672

• SAT range 1380-1530

• West Point, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  463 reviews

Junior: Even though the past year has been tough because of COVID restrictions, I have had overall a pretty good time at West Point. The people here are mainly what makes it worth it--I've made friends that I know will last a lifetime. There are also endless opportunities (both during the semester and summer), especially if you want to get involved with research as an undergraduate. I have been able to publish my research in well known journals and conduct research alongside experts professors in the field I hope to pursue graduate school. The academics are not too hard, but it is very hit or miss in the core classes, because the instructors are randomly assigned and you don't get to choose. You might end up with someone not that great. However, in the upper division classes in the major, instructors are amazing and passionate about the subject. I really enjoy most parts about West Point and I look forward to commissioning as an army officer!... Read 463 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 9%

• Net price —

• SAT range 1210-1440

• Wellesley, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  614 reviews

Senior: Pretty good! Great environment for learning and fostering a well-rounded perspective on the world. Faculty and your peers will have the greatest influence on your experience, so if you choose well, you will definitely be satisfied.... Read 614 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 20%

• Net price $21,614

• SAT range 1350-1520

• Lexington, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  456 reviews

Freshman: I was nervous about going to W&L after hearing so many controversial things. However, I absolutely love my college! There is such a wide range of people, opinions, and opportunities that I truly believe that there is a place for everyone here. Furthermore, the university is working really hard to become more inclusive and diverse. I feel cared about and listened to at W&L.... Read 456 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 25%

• Net price $27,148

• SAT range 1350-1500

• Medford, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  1,046 reviews

Sophomore: Tufts University is a great school and let me tell you why. The amount of financial resources and community resources available for low-income first-generation students is shocking. Although the school's diversity is not as great as it makes it seems on its website they do support the widespread minority racial groups. As a first-generation low-income student, there has not been a moment of experience where I felt unwelcomed or made less due to my ethnic and racial identity. Aside from the resources and the diverse community, the students at Tufts University surprisingly come to this college being who they want to be but as well in a collaborative mindset rather than a competitive one. What does it mean to be who you want to be? That's the best part. Anyone you want to be! If you want to have some strange outfit or follow a certain fashion trend you don't get hate for it (you will be acknowledged for it). A lot of individuals on this campus represent where they come from. Beautiful!... Read 1,046 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 16%

• Net price $32,720

• SAT range 1380-1530

• Chestnut Hill, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  1,551 reviews

Alum: I loved BC. It provided me with a top-notch education in the humanities, and I will continue to stay in touch with many of my professors even as a graduate. BC also provided me with the resources to grow spiritually, surrounded by (no joke) some of the most accomplished theologians in the world. The party scene was pretty great, and as long as you join a club or sport, you should have no problem finding an upperclassman to host you. Many students are, alas, quite “basic” and superficial, although perhaps I’m judging too hard. However, I was part of a group of people that was super smart, artistic, and down-to-earth, so don’t be too dismayed if you’re not a Vineyard Vines connoisseur! My biggest complaint is the administration. Other reviewers are unfortunately not being overdramatic by saying that the highest levels of administration don’t legitimately care about students’ concerns, and it seems that Jesuit values are just advertising for prospective students.... Read 1,551 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 26%

• Net price $30,192

• SAT range 1330-1500

• Amherst, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  314 reviews

Sophomore: Incredible school. You can tell that Amherst invests and prioritizes its academic experience above all. Admittedly, this may come at the price of other "bells and whistles"-- its not flashy, so do not expect a great dining experience, wide merchandise selection, or hype around sports... but your academic career will be worth it! Great professors, small class sizes, diverse student body, and incredible support.... Read 314 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 12%

• Net price $18,832

• SAT range 1430-1560

• Gainesville, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  7,855 reviews

Graduate Student: I am a remote graduate student, studying Arts in Medicine. My experience with UF has been loaded with skill building, networking and the confidence to push my new knowledge into my local community; strengthening my opportunities post-graduation. The online courses and engagement have been optimal for completing my MA, while having the flexibility to work full-time. I feel supported and encouraged from my instructors and peers. Meeting face to face at graduation will be extra special! I am confident that my remote relationships will continue to build and become strong references when advancing into my field.... Read 7,855 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 31%

• Net price $10,075

• SAT range 1290-1460

• Chapel Hill, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  2,559 reviews

Senior: UNC Chapel-Hill is definitely challenging academically, but overall an excellent institution! Despite lots of challenges with the COVID-19 year (part of my sophomore spring and entire junior year), I was able to complete most of my major, and will finish school on-time. Met some excellent professors in the EXSS department who truly care about my learning and success as a student, and was afforded the opportunity to begin research in the MOTION Institute, specifically regarding ACL reconstruction as an undergraduate RA, even in my senior year, when many told me it would be 'too late' to start. UNC also is close to the Newman Center for Catholic students, which is very welcoming and hosts weekly Wednesday night dinners as part of a social get-together for like-minded undergraduates - set-up, cooking, and cleaning all done by students!... Read 2,559 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 25%

• Net price $10,038

• SAT range 1280-1490

• Williamstown, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  307 reviews

Alum: TL;DR: Williams is one of the best schools out there, especially for economically underprivileged and/or international students. Apply even if you think you won’t get in! Financials: I am a recent alumnus from a foreign country who had to pay less than 3K per year(!) towards my education at Williams; the rest was covered by non-repayable Williams grants. The College also pays for your medical insurance, ALL book expenditures, yearly round-trip to your home country (with all expenses). Other one-off expenses they covered: getting a visa, passport renewal, dental expenditures (over $10K). For someone who comes from a poor family whose total earnings are less than $30K/year, all this was an enormous benefit! Academics: Williams is very strong because its professors take time to teach you the material. 1-1 teaching sessions, research work with professors is easily attainable because professors care about their students. Exit opportunities: plentiful, prosperous, and very accessible!... Read 307 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 15%

• Net price $22,356

• SAT range 1410-1550

• Middlebury, VT•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  515 reviews

Senior: I immensely enjoyed the support and community that the campus has offered me throughout my years here. It feels like I've entered and come out a whole new person, perhaps by external forces-- though maybe the campus as well. Great dear friends have come and gone throughout the years, but the ones I've made here will forever be cherished. The professors and admin who have put their entire heart into my best interest will never be forgotten. It is not perfect, but it is like any other home- messy, and chaotic, but full of warmth and heart.... Read 515 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 22%

• Net price $24,517

• SAT range 1340-1520

• Boston, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  3,619 reviews

Junior: As someone who initially bypassed college to enter the workforce, I found it hard to really want to return back to school. Especially now that I have bills. Northeastern took my technology background and found a degree that works best with my career life while still making sure I’m engaged with other students on campus. It has been overall an incredible experience. I have met a ton of inspiring people and many people who have taken a detour from school like myself. This school is a hockey school! The men and women just recently won the Beanpot tournament and the crowd was electric for both. Supportive staff, innovative students and great alumni network. This school is challenging at times as some of the brightest kids have decided to make Northeastern their home. The teachers know this and they are always seeking out new ways to drive the potential in all of us.... Read 3,619 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 20%

• Net price $37,738

• SAT range 1410-1540

• Austin, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  6,528 reviews

Sophomore: I think a lot of the campus resources are great, and I love my classes so far. A lot of the student organizations that you can join have long waitlists, so it’s good to plan early on the type of extracurricular environment you’d like to be a part of. The buildings on campus range from stellar architectural masterpieces to modern works of art. There are very few things lacking, but part of the package deal of living in Austin is the construction. The whole city, including a lot of campus as of now, is hard to navigate with all of the work being done. It’s very important to do the absolute utmost asap, as the course load and competitive environment encourage daily task building. Doing work as soon as possible is practically the only way to be able to experience social events. If you’ve studies in a smaller environment, especially for intro classes, you’ll run into some kinks trying to adapt to the larger class sizes. What starts here changes the world!... Read 6,528 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 32%

• Net price $16,892

• SAT range 1210-1470

• Boston, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  3,523 reviews

Senior: Boston University is one of the best universities in the nation! The students welcome you with open arms and are eager to meet new people from different year levels, so it is very easy for people to get involved in the BU community. As for the faculty, specifically the CS and Mathematics professors, they are the absolute best! They are so helpful inside and outside of the classroom, trying their best to make sure that their lectures are engaging, and putting aside a lot of time outside of their class for office hours. And if a student can't meet during office hours, they always try to find a way to help you out by setting up a different time to meet to thoroughly explain concepts discussed in class, answer questions that a student had, talk about possible research projects, or just have a good one-on-one conversation to talk about anything. I absolutely love Boston University and its community, and I'm so proud to call myself a Terrier!... Read 3,523 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 20%

• Net price $29,154

• SAT range 1310-1500

• Berkeley, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  4,302 reviews

Freshman: UC Berkeley has a variety of student experiences academic opportunities. In terms of common/popular majors, seeing from my first year, many students study Computer Science/EECS, Data Science, Psychology, or Pre-Haas (Business). However, one of the biggest disadvantages of the Berkeley/Bay Area area is the high cost of living. In addition, UC Berkeley only guarantees dorm housing for first-years, so figuring out arrangements for off-campus housing in the future is a burden many students have to face early into their college experience. But as long as you stay on top of your research, and keep in mind your budget, that can be overcome. Overall, the key to success at UC Berkeley is awareness. Be grounded in your goals and taking the initiative to reach them!... Read 4,302 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 17%

• Net price $19,329

• SAT range 1310-1530

• Winston-salem, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  846 reviews

Junior: I’m a rising Junior at wake and I’ve LOVED my time here. With that said, this is definitely a fantastic school for most girls; everyone can find their place. For boys, ONLY COME HERE if you are focused on academics and don’t go out OR you LOVE the idea of greek life and partying. The social scene sucks for boys. Also, this is a HUGE GREEK LIFE SCHOOL! If this isn’t your thing, I would recommend another school. Housing I think is our second biggest issue. Junior year if you don’t go abroad (or do), you’re screwed since you have to live on campus. Sophomore year also doesn’t have the best housing. I wish they would listen to us and change this. Food is pretty good I would say, academics are good (not too challenging, I’m a psych major but 100% depends on major), many ways to get involved, and overall gorgeous campus and great place to learn and have fun. Also, if you’re business, Wake doesn’t guarantee you’ll get into the business school which messes a TON of kids up.... Read 846 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 32%

• Net price $26,324

• SAT range 1270-1410

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  5,563 reviews

Freshman: I’m a dance major at NYU tisch and although this school is very expensive I’ve been loving the experience I’ve had so far. I can’t speak for other majors but being in the dance department it’s very easy to build community and make friends that will definitely last a life time. I will say one of the major flaws I have noticed with nyu (besides the tuition lol) is communication specifically within the financial department. As someone who genuinely cannot afford this school and is going to be in thousands of dollars in debt, I’ve been trying to reach out and appeal my financial aid in hopes to get more but they never answer any of my questions or respond to previous appeals I have sent. Also the campus is very spread out lol. Other than that, living here in NYC and going to my dream school has been nothing but surreal! My GE classes are super fun and I definitely recommended taking CAMS classes!... Read 5,563 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 21%

• Net price $45,417

• SAT range 1370-1540