2023 Best Colleges in the Washington, D.C. Area

• Washington, DC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,245 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Georgetown University as a Freshman has been phenomenal. The very first month has been the most memorable. Due to how open the community was, I was able to meet new people every single day and also, I was able to find my long-life friends immediately! The community was so diverse that I had never heard a single negative comment. It was purely all just having fun and sharing honest thoughts. Now, throughout the school year, as a Freshman, I went through many obstacles. One of the most common ones is sickness. However, because of the flexibility that the professors had, I was able to succeed in class. Georgetown's flexibility and resources are so great that even though I was sick some days, I still had a smile on my face. Although it's only my first year, I can definitely say that I started off with no regrets.... Read 1,245 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 12%

• Net price $23,049

• SAT range 1410-1550

• Washington, DC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  2,172 reviews

Alum: I only attended GW for my final year of grad school (and entirely online because of COVID), but I absolutely loved all of the professors, students, and content that I came into contact with through the university. GWU was actually a very close second in my choices for undergrad, and I sometimes still wish I had chosen GW. The location is ideal for many majors and the city environment can be especially fruitful for those seeking to adapt to or continue to enjoy the more vibrant city life (as opposed to more rural campuses). The international and political exposure are particularly exceptional here. Overall, I’m very proud to have graduated from this wonderful institution. I think their excellent Student Success Services staff and generous financial aid alone show an impressive commitment to their students. Raise High!... Read 2,172 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 50%

• Net price $31,240

• SAT range 1310-1490

• College Park, MD•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  5,458 reviews

Freshman: UMD College Park is a great school with lots of opportunities to learn, grow and get involved! This school is huge! The campus is beutiful and there is construction going on to increase student housing options. Although I do not participate in sports currently, I have attended a football game on campus and experienced a very vibrant and enthusiastic athmosphere during the game! Besides, you do not need to join any sports team to get a good workout around here. Just walking to classes can give you a pretty good workout every day! For fun activities outside of campus you can easily commute to Bethesda or DC, but there are plenty of places to eat and shop right outside of campus! I've had some amazing teachers and only one that was unprofessional. I prefer to take in person classes, but I have experienced online education as well over the summer due to limited class offerings. Overall, I recommend this school for the many advantages and great resources it can offer!... Read 5,458 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 52%

• Net price $17,146

• SAT range 1330-1510

• Washington, DC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  2,510 reviews

Freshman: Amazing professors with such interesting insight to their expertise. Clubs and involvement possibilities are plentiful for many different kinds of interests. Class sizes are perfect, there are some bigger lectures but most classes are capped at 35. Diverse selection of classes. What really drew me to American University is the CLEG major-communications, legal institutions, economics, and government. The variety of topics covered gives a full comprehensive education to plan for any path ahead, especially my goal of law school. Obviously being in the DC area is a large part of the American University experience, plentiful opportunities to work, intern, learn, and even just have fun. There are some struggles with freshman housing and food places receiving health code violations. There is a bit of a culture issue at American between some Greek life and general competitive nature of the University, but overall I have really enjoyed my time here. I can't wait to continue my education!... Read 2,510 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $28,622

• SAT range 1280-1440

• Washington, DC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.45 out of 5  970 reviews

Sophomore: The Catholic University of America is an amazing school! It offers a great academic experience with its small class sizes and experienced professors. The campus is beautiful and the university does a wonderful job fostering community among the students and helping everyone achieve their full potential. With the location in DC, there are many opportunities for students to have fun off campus as well as find great opportunities for internships and other academic pursuits. My only complaint is the food service. However, the university is currently constructing a new dining hall so the students have high hopes for improvement. The high cost of tuition combined with room and board is a rather large obstacle for many students, but it is well worth the investment. CUA is also very generous with their scholarship money, and the financial advisors will do anything they can to meet the financial needs of their students. As a CUA student, I find my needs both academic and living well met.... Read 970 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $35,520

• SAT range 1020-1230

• Fairfax, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  4,874 reviews

Freshman: Although my experience with George Mason University is still relatively early on, I can attest that GMU has thorough communication from not only their website, but with the academic advisor. The website is easy to navigate and inviting. We also have visited the campus on several occasions for a spring orientation and then the main freshman orientation event. Both orientation sessions were very organized from the beginning with what to expect before arriving until the completion of the event. During the orientation, we had the pleasure of meeting faculty and students who truly enjoyed their job of welcoming us to the university. We enjoyed the tour of the campus, housing and dining areas. All of the dining halls provided exceptional food variety and can say everything we ate was delicious! GMU has been provided us with nothing but stellar experiences despite the challenges of the ever changing post pandemic lifestyle on campus.... Read 4,874 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $18,841

• SAT range 1140-1350

• Washington, DC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.47 out of 5  3,929 reviews

Sophomore: I will say this to anyone considering attending Howard. College is truly what you make it. Reading a lot of the negative comments about Howard I feel like people really didn’t get the Howard experience they deserved. There ARE nice dorms on campus but it’s up to YOU to pick them. The party scene on campus is what YOU make it and what parties YOU choose to attend. The student life on campus is vibrant and there’s always something to do! The yard is always bursting with life.There’s a larger sense of unity and purpose when you walk through campus. Don’t listen to bad reviews left by students whose opinion is based on a singular experience. Don’t even listen to just my review. Take your time and really ask students on campus what the Howard experience is.Ask them about the good parts and the bad parts but don’t let them make you think that the bad things will always outweigh the good. As for the “elitist” student body, don’t fall for the facade because most of us are regular black kids.... Read 3,929 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 35%

• Net price $26,870

• SAT range 1080-1290

• Washington, DC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  454 reviews

Freshman: During my visit to Gallaudet University on the open day, I had an immersive experience in the deaf world. Interacting without barriers, I witnessed the remarkable accomplishments and talents of the deaf community. The inclusive atmosphere and dedicated professors impressed me with their expertise and understanding of deaf students' needs. Gallaudet's diverse academic programs and resources showcased a commitment to nurturing talent and fostering creativity. Overall, my transformative experience at Gallaudet University deepened my belief in the power of education and ignited a strong desire to be a part of this vibrant community, contributing to its ongoing success.... Read 454 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 62%

• Net price $25,465

• SAT range 760-1080

• Arlington, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  821 reviews

Junior: I am thrilled to share my experience as a student at MU. From the moment I stepped foot on campus, I knew I had found the perfect institution for my educational aspirations. MU is an extraordinary place that truly embodies excellence in education, fostering personal growth, and nurturing a vibrant community. One of the standout features of MU is its exceptional faculty. The profs are not only highly knowledgeable and accomplished in their fields but also deeply passionate about teaching. They go above and beyond to create an engaging and intellectually stimulating environment, encouraging students to think critically and explore their full potential. The dedication of the faculty to student success is evident in their accessibility and willingness to provide guidance and support both inside and outside the class. MU offers a wide array of clubs, org, and extrac activities that cater to various interests, allowing students to pursue their passions and develop leadership skills.... Read 821 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $26,717

• SAT range 970-1170

• Washington, DC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.41 out of 5  497 reviews

Freshman: My experience sp far has been amazing. I am a student of color who attended a school with an approximately 2% population of BIPOC students. Attending Trinity, an all-girls catholic school, the majority of the people being in the BIPOC category has been really helpful in terms of understanding myself and other people in my group. I have found the community to be welcoming. So if you are a student of color, TWC is a place for you. The only two sectors that need improvement are food and social life. On-campus activities are limited and the food could be better.... Read 497 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $12,815

• SAT range —

• Alexandria, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  217 reviews

Senior: I am still attending but will be done March 2021. However, Stratford is a great school to attend. I actually work as am work study student . I attend and work at the Stratford University ( Alexandria Campus). Professors are very respectful and are here to help... Read 217 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $23,243

• SAT range —

• Adelphi, MD•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  2,123 reviews

Graduate Student: This is my third semester, and the advisors are outstanding! They follow-up and help with any questions. UMGC is diverse and provides a work-life balance for graduate students who are mainly working full-time. This university offers online classes, which is a lifesaver. The only downside is that the scholarships are hidden on the website. You will need to contact providing your information to observe all potential scholarships. In general, no universities offer honors programs to graduate students who earn a GPA of 3.8 or higher. This is unfortunate because honors provide a healthy motivation for higher grades and effort toward education. Overall I love this University.... Read 2,123 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $16,228

• SAT range —

• Washington, DC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.48 out of 5  625 reviews

Junior: While being a student at UDC, I have developed many skills such as interpersonal skills, computer literacy, critical thinking, and written/ oral communication skills that will help me further my education and become a better person off campus. The campus is very interactive with the students when it comes to homecoming, basketball games, and other activities outside of sports. Even though my school is a smaller HBCU, the Firebird pride is big and strong! The Academic Department of UDC is also great, the professors and advisers are very helpful to push you toward your end goals and even long-term goals after graduating. They mold each student to be a leader for their community and help all students understand and grow in each skill. UDC is one of many HBCUs that want to see their students progress inside and outside the classroom.... Read 625 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,354

• SAT range —

• Bowie, MD•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.47 out of 5  1,290 reviews

Freshman: By far, I loved my experience here! I was able to meet tons of new people and I liked the diversity (even though its a predominantly black university). The campus is always being cleaned and the lawn is always kept neat and tidy. Everything has been organized and plenty of clubs and events are held. The professors I've had have been wonderful and always open to help and take out office hours for me. I believe that as long as one keeps good balance with friends, college life, and school, they would have a great experience just as I did. I can't wait to attend this university for my sophomore year!... Read 1,290 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 87%

• Net price $14,290

• SAT range 840-1020

• Takoma Park, MD•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.47 out of 5  297 reviews

Alum: I graduated from WAU when it was named Columbia Union College (CUC) in July of 1993! Alum-Class of '93! I loved WAU! It was refreshing. Great Professors, teachers, instructors. I loved the healthy meals. I participated in all things creatively. I was a contributing writer to the Columbia Journal School Newspaper! The field trips for English and Creative Writing class were amazing. The campus was clean and organized and my work on campus was fun! I sang my first solo for our Commencement Class at Graduation in 1993!... Read 297 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 62%

• Net price $13,414

• SAT range 820-1030

• Arlington, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  392 reviews

Junior: I have navigated my degree course without the help of a student advisor since starting in 2021. Watch the classes they set up for you, I had at least one wrong class every quarter that was not in my degree plan. My professor offers unique insight and fun learning enviroments, however; the student advisors could use some work as their feedback isn't very constructive. This could present itself as challenging to a new student without a workplace or previous knowledge of learning paths.... Read 392 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $20,047

• SAT range —

• Washington, DC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.32 out of 5  186 reviews

Freshman: So far my experience pursuing my Bachelors Degree in Business Administration at Strayer University is amazing! I'm currently taking courses at Strayer online. Not only was I provided with a laptop by Strayer, I also have two amazing Professors! The combination of these things have made it a fun and easy experience not only going back to school, but also learning new topics dealing with technology. The work industry today revolves around technology and being proficient in the use of technology, so Strayer making this information so accessible is a plus! This knowledge will benefit me in my career, and in my personal life. The only thing I would change would be to add more Live Zoom Sessions that involves going through that week's work as a class.... Read 186 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $22,776

• SAT range —

• Vienna, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  60 reviews

Sophomore: I am on my second year of a 3 year accelerated BSN program and I have to say that although it is challenging it is also very gratifying. I received a grant which helped me pay for my education and provided an opportunity to save for the second and third year. If you decide to study at Chamberlain in VA, the year will be broken up into 6 sessions, each session is 8 weeks long. It is generally 2-3 courses per session. You will experience quizzes, group projects, midterms, finals. The actual nursing courses have 3 exams per session instead of 2. I do believe that this school is doing a great job preparing me for my NCLEX so far. I also know a couple of now nurses, Chamberlain graduates, who had passed their boards and had no problem finding a job. Financials wise, the whole 3 years comes up to about $85,000 - $90,000 plus books, uniform. Grant opportunities, government and private loans are always available and Chamberlain does a great job explaining the options to you. Best of luck!... Read 60 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $25,386

• SAT range —

• Suitland, MD•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  258 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Strayer University was good. I enjoy learning new strategies and building creative thinking to help come up with future better grades, also to build better thinking and last not least be a future graduate. What I also like about Strayer University is being able to explore mentally and come up with thinking skills on how to complete my class assignments and make sure that my assignment is done on time. What I would like to see change at Strayer University is hopefully come up with some better solutions for the students like myself while dealing with the covid-19. Also I would to see change at Strayer University is making sure that what is required at Strayer University while dealing with this covid-19 that everything is being followed and not getting not fully completed!... Read 258 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $21,401

• SAT range —

• Laurel, MD•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.44 out of 5  151 reviews

Senior: Pros: Capitol is a hidden gem. This school isn't trying to do too much, and quite frankly that's what makes it great. The community here is small but welcoming, and everyone has their own clique. It's not difficult to talk to people and or get involved, it really is up to you and how much you want to participate This school prepares you for what the jobs REALLY want and all the classes here have been very lenient. There are rare cases of troublesome professors, and even if that is the case a simple email of expressing your concern will go a long way Dorms are really nice. Rarely did I have any issues with the rooms and even when there was, the facilities team would help resolve them in a timely fashion Close ties with govt Cons: The labs here aren't the newest but they get the job done The tuition is pretty expensive but do offer a lot of aid Limited activities, the resident life staff needs improvement Limited food options, no meal plan/board offered, but there is a café... Read 151 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $24,946

• SAT range 1020-1230

• Arlington, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  35 reviews

Sophomore: The University of Management and Technology is perfect for students with a busy schedule. I have just completed my Associates degree and I am working on starting my Bachelors degree. Going to this school has made my college experience wonderful and stress free. The staff is helpful and any questions I have are answered promply. Thanks you UMT for helping me further my education!... Read 35 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,075

• SAT range —

• Washington, DC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  24 reviews

Freshman: I actually study at their new location in Chicago. Even though they are experienced not everything runs smoothly.... Read 24 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $17,867

• SAT range —

• Falls Church, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $21,564

• SAT range —

• Vienna, VA•

• 4 Year

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $22,709

• SAT range —

• Arlington, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  127 reviews

Freshman: DeVry University offers great flexibility. I experienced absolutely no stress while I do my assignments and submit them. Resources like the library, tutoring services and the professors themselves are of great help. The discussions are very informative and help you understand various points of views of different people.... Read 127 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 25%

• Net price $17,203

• SAT range —