2023 Best Colleges in the Erie Area

• Erie, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  828 reviews

Sophomore: I have found that Gannon is an underrated university. I wanted to find a campus with an emphasis on being where I could feel accepted and welcomed, while not having a lackadaisical attitude toward academics and expectations. Student diversity is well beyond my expectations which people do not seem to associate with Catholic Uni's. Regarding academics, I always have professors who are passionate about teaching students, and they always seem to do it well. The Greek life is very healthy, especially since it doesn't feel like some "cult" and you are never treated differently based on being/not being in one. They have very good food, but I am not picky and more "IIFYM" which is met often. Parties: Much better than you would imagine Students also have access to mental health services, physical services, accessibility services, clubs you did not know you needed in your life, and the gym here is frigging awesome. The only issue: If you do not like winter weather, this is not for you.... Read 828 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $22,258

• SAT range 990-1250

• Erie, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  839 reviews

Sophomore: Penn State Behrend ensures that each student is gaining the education they deserve. One thing I love about Behrend is the student/professor relationships. Considering the campus is small, along with the classes, it's easy to engage with the professors. All faculty members are more than happy to help you prepare for an exam, answer questions on homework or even give students a better understanding of the material learned in class. Outside of the classroom, the student body is wonderful. All of the students come together to ensure everyone is able to enjoy their time at Behrend. Whether that be events or clubs, and even workshops for mental health and major-based events. There is always someone willing to help if a student is struggling, my personal favorite is the tutoring office. I spent a lot of my time there and gained a lot of useful information. There's not much I would change about Behrend, I've had nothing but a positive experience there!... Read 839 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $23,428

• SAT range 1050-1280

• Edinboro, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.44 out of 5  1,153 reviews

Sophomore: At PennWest Edinboro I enjoy the events that are put on for students. For example the sporting events, puppy palooza, and grocery bingo. During Finals week the school holds special offers for the students. One thing that I would like to see change is the Library. It was supposed to be finished already but the date has been pushed back. Overall, PennWest Edinboro is a great school!... Read 1,153 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $15,771

• SAT range 970-1170

• Erie, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  1,060 reviews

Sophomore: Mercyhurst is an incredible school! With a smaller campus and student body everything is more personal and the college transition is much easier! Also, Mercyhurst's student government hosts great events every weekend for students to participate in! Overall a great school and beautiful campus.... Read 1,060 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $25,785

• SAT range 940-1160