2023 Best Colleges in New Jersey

• Princeton, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  458 reviews

Niche User: Visiting Princeton was an incredibly memorable experience from the striking campus to the interactions between students. It was very apparent that students genuinely enjoyed being part of the Princeton community. In terms of academics, Princeton is known to be rigorous and fast-paced so it primarily depends on the student themselves to adopt efficient time management skills and study methods to succeed.... Read 458 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 4%

• Net price $20,908

• SAT range 1460-1570

• New Brunswick, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  5,958 reviews

Freshman: The classes are very enjoyable, and I love how professors actually care for how their students are doing in their class. I also like how inclusive the school is, there are so many events for all types of students, so that you can enjoy your college experience.... Read 5,958 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $11,803

• SAT range 1240-1470

• Hoboken, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  713 reviews

Other: I'm an accepted student going into Stevens this next fall. I have already had good experiences within the college, and have received much help from the faculty and student body.... Read 713 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $40,828

• SAT range 1370-1510

• Ewing, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  1,457 reviews

Alum: I had a wonderful experience at TCNJ! I was a Psychology major and Communication Studies minor. I took part in extracurricular activities which ultimately shaped my career path. Through this experience, I was able to apply what I was learning in the classroom to my work outside of the classroom. The faculty and staff truly care about their students and you get such a personalized experience. If it was not for meaningful conversations and experiences, I would not be where I am today. I was successful because of people who also cared about my success. In addition to my co-curricular experiences, I also made a lot of life long friends that I still have today because of TCNJ.... Read 1,457 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 62%

• Net price $13,269

• SAT range 1170-1350

• Newark, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  1,177 reviews

Sophomore: I absolutely love it at Rutgers-Newark! I feel so at home and I truly could not imagine being anywhere else. There is always security everywhere and I can say that I feel safe and when I am on campus. There are plenty of resources available to help further my learning and well being, examples including counseling, workshops, or course tutoring. The professors I have had have genuinely cared about my progress and have always been opening to suggestions and accommodations to best fit my situation. I am so happy to be here and I truly would not have it any other way!... Read 1,177 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $11,364

• SAT range 1030-1270

• Newark, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.46 out of 5  1,220 reviews

Niche User: NJIT has been recognized for its academic excellence and affordability, with numerous rankings placing it among the top universities in the country for return on investment, value, and innovation. The university has also been recognized for its commitment to sustainability, with LEED-certified buildings, solar panels, and energy-efficient technology throughout the campus. Overall, NJIT is a respected institution that offers a wide range of programs and opportunities for students to excel in their chosen fields. Its commitment to technology and innovation, diversity, and sustainability make it a great choice for those seeking a high-quality education with a focus on the future.... Read 1,220 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $16,878

• SAT range 1180-1430

• South Orange, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  2,115 reviews

Junior: Seton Hall University is the definition of a truly welcoming and positive campus. From the moment my tour guide brought me to the green, I knew I belonged here! The teachers are always willing to help you with any questions you may have, it's all about communication. Do not be afraid to ask for help! Also, the cafeteria has many different options for you to choose from, so that way if there are certain options that you may not particularly like, there are still many other options to choose from or that you can cook yourself! The school itself is not too big which is nice, and makes all of the buildings easily located and accessible. Overall, this campus provides so many opportunities both academic and social related, and the environment is so positive!... Read 2,115 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $33,177

• SAT range 1200-1370

• West Long Branch, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  965 reviews

Sophomore: Monmouth University is such an amazing school. Although their food and residential life is not very thrilling, it is easy to ignore due to their amazing staff. The professors really helped me get A's on every course with my hard work and consent communication.... Read 965 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $29,059

• SAT range 1070-1250

• Glassboro, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  1,802 reviews

Freshman: Rowan is an excellent school for those who want to find many opportunities, whether in academics, careers, or student life. As a first-year student, I have felt very welcomed at Rowan and have found that it is easy to make friends here, as long as you get involved in the events and clubs that happen throughout the semester. There is always something to do here! The Music Industry program has been fantastic so far and there are always opportunities floating around to immerse yourself in the industry and start your career. Safety in the surrounding area is a concern, so students should always stay vigilant. The food gets tiring after a while, but I'd say there are many options around, especially since you are not limited to your meal swipes (Rowan bucks and dining dollars are your best friend!) I would also recommend becoming a member of the Honors College if possible. There are many great perks, the courses are superb, and it definitely stands out on your resume.... Read 1,802 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $21,425

• SAT range 1070-1280

• Montclair, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  3,072 reviews

Freshman: As someone who is freshly graduated from high school, I was really anxious and scared about going to college. Thankfully everyone at Montclair was super helpful, kind, and patient with me. The actual campus itself is gorgeous, and at least gets me a bit of exercise every time I have class since it's on a hill. There are so many amenities on the grounds and after a few months, everything become relatively close and easy to find. Overall, I've really enjoyed my freshman year at Montclair, and hope to have an even better Sophomore year!... Read 3,072 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $12,026

• SAT range 1010-1210

• Morristown, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.36 out of 5  218 reviews

Freshman: I will be a freshman at Saint Elizabeth University in the fall of 2023.I will be moving from Arizona to New Jersey, and this process has been a lot for me to process (I can do it). I knew that with hard work and dedication , I would play softball at a higher level but to get the chance to play NCAA ball across country and experience an entire different lifestyle is something I could only dream of. Unfortunately, I need to apply to as many scholarships as possible to make this dream come true. I was offered and accepted a great scholarship package but this does not cover the entire cost of my tuition. So I will continue to apply to as many scholarships as needed to achieve my dreams. My parents are AMAZING but can only pay for so much. I would like to take as much of a burden off my parents as possible. I cannot rate Saint Elizabeth since I have not yet attended the school. But, I am looking forward to my future with them!... Read 218 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $21,774

• SAT range 890-1100

• Camden, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  822 reviews

Senior: Throughout my time here, Rutgers University - Camden🖤❤️ has been nothing but great! Rutgers Camden is really a hidden gem and I have enjoyed all 3 years going here. This campus is so diverse in many ways and I love how throughout my years here, the support system never fails! Even though this campus is small, I feel like that's what makes it so homey! There are a number of organizations you can become a part of, the support system ranges from a) Student Success Coaches, b) The Office of Housing and Residence Life, c) The Learning Center, d) and so much more! The professors are great and really value your education, making sure you walk out with what you need to know for your future career. This is my last year and have loved this place every second since I've been here💕 !... Read 822 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $10,104

• SAT range 1040-1230

• Wayne, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.47 out of 5  936 reviews

Freshman: WPU is a great university! WPU has made me feel welcomed in many ways! There are a lot of clubs and organizations you can join. They also offer many majors and minors that you could choose from. In fact, if you haven't decided what program you want to take, you could be an undeclared student where you will be able to explore classes that suits you! WPU has great professors that are very understanding and helpful to their students. WPU is a huge campus that has a diverse community. You will be able to meet a lot of great people! As a freshman during this pandemic, WPU has made campus feel safe by implementing covid protocols during the whole semester!... Read 936 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $15,762

• SAT range 890-1090

• Galloway, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  1,553 reviews

Senior: Not too big, not too small. Lots of nature, but also close drive to Atlantic City. Professors and other staff members are so caring and most are understanding. The professors truly care about your experience at Stockton and the quality of education you are getting. There are programs and events on campus almost everyday and there are plenty of clubs to join. Highly highly recommend joining the clubs you are interested! Career services and academic advising are great resources for students. The tutoring center is also a great hands on experience to learning. The wellness center and counseling center offer so many services to students such as a registered dietician, psychiatrist, and psychologists. Highly recommend getting to know you’re RA as well!... Read 1,553 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $19,581

• SAT range 1050-1250

• Mahwah, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.43 out of 5  1,009 reviews

Freshman: The college overall was an excellent experience. The program I was a part of, however, was new and undeveloped. I felt as though I wasn't given a path that made me feel confident in following. The offices responded in a timely manner and were always willing to help. All of the professors that I encountered in my time at this college were very pleasant. This college sold me when I saw their housing, commitment to their students' safety, diversity, and welcoming community. The small campus allows for a close community between students and professors, and aids in lessening confusion as you learn to navigate campus. This college provides unlimited extracurricular opportunities and hosts a multitude of events weekly! I was also surprised to find that the TWO dinning halls were always preparing amazing food. Both the atrium and standard dinning hall offered excellent, diverse, options; this includes those who are vegetarian and vegan. They also have Dunkin' and Starbucks as great options!... Read 1,009 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $12,251

• SAT range 1100-1280

• Lawrenceville, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  1,228 reviews

Junior: Beautiful campus that is often tended to by landscapers, gardeners, and general maintenance/cleaners. The professors are smart and interesting, as well as helpful with classwork. There is lots of fun things to do on campus and many options for food. With endless amounts of clubs, sports, and events, it is hard to want to stay in the dorm all day or go home early for the commuter students. My first semester at Rider was nothing like I have ever experienced and partly this is due to all the friends that I made and professors that I met. This is also why I will be coming back for another semester. The only thing I think should be changed is that all the buildings on campus should be refurbished, as only some of them are, and specifically ones in the dorms are not.... Read 1,228 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $23,781

• SAT range 1050-1270

• Madison, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.47 out of 5  556 reviews

Senior: I have been going to Drew University for four years now and I am planning on entering the school's Masters of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Program for next year. The B-MAT and MAT are both gems here at Drew University. The program helps students who are preparing to become educators, linking us with internships, school observation opportunities, and student teaching positions. If you are looking to become a teacher, I definitely recommend looking into Drew's MAT program. Another really nice part about Drew University is the town it is located in. Madison, New Jersey is a really nice town filled with cute Mom-n-Pop shops and several restaurants. There aren't many chain restaurants besides the Chipotle and Domino's, so it can be a bit price-y, but the atmosphere is very pleasant and safe. The only downside to Drew would be the food situation. The Commons cafeteria needs a lot of work, and I've gotten food poisoning there a couple times during my 4 years. The EC is great though!... Read 556 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $17,033

• SAT range 1030-1250

• Union, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  1,549 reviews

Junior: All of the students and faculty are extremely kind and considerate. The professors give a stimulating amount of work and will accommodate to your needs so long as you tell them your situation. Something that I would change is the advertising of clubs and organizations on campus to make them more well known, my first year I wasn’t a part of any organizations because I didn’t know what the university offered. Now I am a member of a club and an officer of an organization and I love it! The head of student affairs is incredibly generous, and the others officers and I work well together. Something else I love is the use of student input in classroom and university in its entirety. Students can take surveys received in emails to evaluate their class, campus, and university. Also, many courses of all subjects have had open discussions about material where students options matter. More than this, my campus feels very inclusive and this makes me feel safe while learning in the classroom.... Read 1,549 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $18,078

• SAT range 920-1120

• Woodland Park, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  246 reviews

Graduate Student: Berkeley helped me finally graduate by making it accessible for me with scheduling classes while still keeping my full time job. While being grandfathered into a curriculum I couldn’t finish due to scheduling, availability of classes and a tough financial status, I found myself in a “no way out” situation at the other college I was in prior to Berkeley. Berkeley made it easy for me to finish in a reasonable amount of time and awarded me with scholarships to help me graduate!... Read 246 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $17,322

• SAT range —

• Lakewood, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  345 reviews

Graduate Student: I attend GCU as a transfer student from Ocean County College. While I was nervous as it is a bigger campus and a 4-year university, I assimilated quickly as the student community was strong. There were many activities to be involved in, strong athletics teams, and students met for study groups often. I was an education and psychology major, and both programs were rigorous. Tutoring was available and professors were ready and willing to assist when needed. The library was equipped with resources and technology and the classroom technology was high-tech. I really enjoyed my years here and are sad they are behind me!... Read 345 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $20,448

• SAT range 980-1160

• Teaneck, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.5 out of 5  987 reviews

Junior: My experience at FDU so far has been excellent. I've made good friends here and connected well with some professors and staff. I obtained my internship through the Business School's Professional Development Program and have had good opportunities to network and find future jobs. The school is small so class sizes are small which provides a more personalized experience and most professors are willing to help you if you take the time to ask for it. College is what you make of it. If you take advantage of the opportunities given to you and the resources provided, then you will have a good experience.... Read 987 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $12,305

• SAT range 1000-1200

• Caldwell, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  439 reviews

Junior: Personally I love this school. The teachers make you feel very connected, and they care about your overall education. My professors are so close to us, and help us exceed in any way possible. I am glad I chose this school!... Read 439 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $16,222

• SAT range 1000-1310

• Jersey City, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  750 reviews

Sophomore: I really have enjoyed my experience so far at NJCU. They are extremely welcoming and I really felt comfortable with all of my professors. They are understanding and will work with you through everything. Overall, the campus and people are so nice. The school feels like home and not like a huge campus where you can sometimes feel like a small fish in a sea. There are so many opportunities and clubs here that they offer. It is an amazing university!... Read 750 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $13,756

• SAT range 890-1140

• Madison, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  840 reviews

Senior: FDU is a great University. I had a ton of fun learning and growing as a person. I made friends along the way and faced challenges I never knew I could overcome. However, tuition is by far the most evil. FDU is a private University, and even with a scholarship, life in FDU is costly. Just don’t slack off in College and be sure you can get a return on investment! Good luck!... Read 840 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $15,810

• SAT range 1040-1230

• Hackettstown, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.44 out of 5  315 reviews

Freshman: My first year attending this college has been quite the unique experience. I found myself enjoying waking up every weekday in my dorm room and getting ready for the classes, which offer me wonderful knowledge for my major in Equine Studies. I feel like I belong here, which isn't something I can usually say! I hope to enjoy the next 3 school years here!... Read 315 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 98%

• Net price $24,476

• SAT range 990-1170