2024 Best Colleges in Pennsylvania

• 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

• Pittsburgh, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,465 reviews

Alum: I went to CMU for undergraduate and graduate school. As an undergraduate science major, I often had trouble completing my assignments despite being the valedictorian of my high school. Many years later I realized the school was trying to teach us how to problem solve, learn things on our own, and get used to the feeling of being lost. In another word, they were training us to be leaders and pioneers. In hindsight, I wish we had career and academic counselors assigned to each student at CMU so we could talk to someone when we were struggling. Tepper was an entirely difference experience. It was hard work, but I got excellent career support and I didn't feel as lost as I did at Mellon College of Science. My Tepper education went a long way in helping me to pass all three levels of CFA exams on my first try. Thank Goodness! After six years at CMU, I was completely prepared to tackle any projects that came my way. I guess all that hard work was worth it.... Read 1,465 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 14%

• Net price $37,450

• SAT range 1480-1560

• 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

• Villanova, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  1,552 reviews

Alum: Villanova is not a perfect school, but it was a great fit and wonderful experience for me! There are countless opportunities, good communication/posting of opportunities for students to be aware of and get involved in, and a great campus, relational feel to the school. Villanova is small enough to feel homey but large enough to continually meet new people or branch out and try new clubs, activities, etc. A common (and true) complaint is lack of diversity on campus. This is something to take into account but as an alum, I think the school is aware of it and has attempted to make strides to address it. I'd like to have seen the social scene change slightly; as someone who doesn't drink alcohol, it took some time to find like-minded people and find social opportunities that didn't feel centered around college drinking culture. I think this is a reality of many schools, not necessarily Villanova-specific. Overall, I loved Villanova and would choose to attend if I had to do it over again!... Read 1,552 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 25%

• Net price $33,123

• SAT range 1350-1490

• 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

• Bethlehem, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  922 reviews

Sophomore: I love the sense of community feel to the school. I like the medium size of the school where you don't feel like a number. The academics are pretty strong, especially the engineering and the CSB programs. Lehigh is also known to have a really good alumni network and really good financial aid packages for those who want need-based opportunities. It does get pretty cold but you'll get used to it. However, it is a slight culture shock that many rich people attend the school but the social scene I feel is fine but is centered around Greek Life, however, you'll find the people you like! The surrounding area is okay, I feel the Northside of Bethlehem is better but not at all a dangerous area, still pretty safe for the most part, just be aware of your surroundings. I am also a minority too and I feel that the political and racial climate is fine, but there is still some microaggressions one can face but I never have felt unsafe. Overall, a really great school and worth it for job outlook!... Read 922 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $31,539

• SAT range 1290-1490

• Pittsburgh, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  4,293 reviews

Freshman: University of Pittsburgh is a great school with many diverse tools students can utilize to get the best out of their time here. From a wide range of studies to a vast option of clubs, University of Pittsburgh allows students to instantly feel connected to the school. In addition, the University of Pittsburgh has fantastic resources especially for Pre-Health related careers. With the UPMC building nearby, you can obtain your medical hours right on campus! You can easily contact a faculty member within the Pre-Health department to discuss the best academic path for you. The campus holds a variety of recreational spots including restaurants, museums, and cafes to study at. However, in the future, I hope to see the university improve their communication with their students regarding Panther Central. Panther Central is Pitt's main communication line where students can ask anything from housing to transportation. Unfortunately, the faculty takes a long time responding to students' emails.... Read 4,293 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $22,996

• SAT range 1250-1470

• University Park, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  7,467 reviews

Alum: I love nearly everything about this school! The sports are great, there are major entertainment events, art and religion are honored, there are over 1,000 student organizations, and I have had incredible professors consistently throughout my years (although peers in other majors did not always say this). In the area, there is hiking, skiing, several summer festivals, several thrift stores, and a high proportion of restaurants with different ethnic cuisines. Recommendation for change are prioritizing updates to dorm buildings and increasing accessibility to groceries downtown, as this is where a large number of students live (without their cars). It has many international students, but is otherwise limited in diversity. It mostly reflects the state/region, so I do not see this as something that necessarily needs to change.... Read 7,467 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $26,151

• SAT range 1160-1360

• Lewisburg, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  794 reviews

Junior: Freshman year was rough due to Covid restrictions. Each year has gotten better, especially the food! The administration actually listened to the complaints and ungraded the selections. The campus is beautiful, but Lewisburg is a small town so aside from a few bars and restaurants there is not much to do in town. The trade off is that it is very safe. Greek life is big, but anyone can get involved and if you are not interested in the party scene there is still a lot to do on campus. The academics are challenging but most of my professors have been great and always willing to help those who are struggling. There are also many opportunities for free tutoring. The housing is variable...some dorms are nicer than others, but the school guarantees housing all 4 years.... Read 794 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 35%

• Net price $38,170

• SAT range 1270-1450

• Bryn Mawr, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  446 reviews

Alum: Bryn Mawr College was a great home for me. Professors and staff care about students and student needs. I loved the self-governance aspect of the school where students got to make decisions concerning how the institution is run. I loved the sense of community, the beauty of the campus, and the skills I received to thrive beyond the walls of Bryn Mawr!... Read 446 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 39%

• Net price $34,482

• SAT range 1310-1500

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  3,135 reviews

Sophomore: I would say the only downside is that you have to be pretty headstrong about your college career decisions. Especially with the Cooperative Education at Drexel, you are expected to stay ahead of the curve and be ready for the workforce, simultaneously keeping advisors and professors in the loop about exactly how you need to organise your classes. The great thing about it applies to students who know how to go out and get what they’re looking for and are self-reliant. I recommend making friends with your professors and being willing to work outside of the bounds of Drexel, because the system is pretty good at following your lead!... Read 3,135 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $26,076

• SAT range 1210-1410

• Easton, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  663 reviews

Junior: I am forever glad that I chose Lafayette! It is a wonderful school for so many different reasons. The class sizes are small, which facilitates good relationships with my peers and professors. Classes are rigorous but manageable, and I feel like I have grown so much academically here. There are also so many ways to get involved; there's something for everyone! The student body is quite friendly and I have definitely found my people here. Lafayette College is a great place to spend your undergrad years!... Read 663 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 41%

• Net price $38,754

• SAT range 1300-1460

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  1,071 reviews

Graduate Student: I am currently 1 year into a two MS program for UX Design. Moving across the country to attend school is not a new thing, but doing it with a family was daunting to say the least. Jefferson has been an incredible school and my program has been worth every penny. I am currently a full-time employee, student, and dad. My professors and cohort members have been amazing to work with. Their knowledge and backgrounds are diverse which has helped me learn and grow in my current career as a Product Manager, as well as prepare for my future career as a UX Designer. My professors come from incredible backgrounds and are able to provide daily examples/experiences that apply to the courses I am taking. It has made me better in my current job and helped me hone in on skills that I know I can improve on for the future. I would highly recommend TJU to any student looking to further their education!... Read 1,071 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $24,227

• SAT range 1130-1320

• Carlisle, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  692 reviews

Alum: As a science major, I enjoyed the close connections I was able to forge with professors and classmates at a small school. The ability to lead & design research projects while in undergrad was something I know I would not have gotten at a big school! I also loved the number of clubs and groups available on campus and I was able to try out new activities and skills I wouldn't have otherwise - like camping and volleyball. The school is pretty isolated so you will have to make most of your own fun on campus if you don't have a car. Carlisle is cute thought! By senior year, it was feeling quite small socially.... Read 692 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 48%

• Net price $20,913

• SAT range 1190-1365

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  5,764 reviews

Senior: I LOVE Temple University! Most of my professors have been nice, fair, knowledgeable and even passionate about what they teach. Temple has a gym on campus, which offers group fitness classes including yoga, cycling, and meditation, included in tuition fees. The healthcare I received on campus has always been stellar. The Disability Resource Services offered have been stellar, and the 24-hour TECH Center is a pleasure to spend days in while studying and working on projects. Temple has an app now where you can request a chaperoned walk home in person or virtually, as well as a nightly shuttle that circulates around the edges of campus for those in off-campus housing. Our Marching Band was one of my favorite extra curriculars offering an annual stipend when you join and you get to perform synchronized dances to pop songs at home games on Philly Eagles turf at the LINC. Temple has a strong community feel that makes you want to wear Temple gear and represent no matter your niche. GO OWLS!... Read 5,764 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $23,224

• SAT range 1010-1230

• Scranton, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  668 reviews

Sophomore: For a variety of reasons, I like attending Scranton University. I felt an extraordinary sense of belonging and camaraderie the moment I stepped foot on campus. The warm and welcoming climate at the university develops intimate interactions with both peers and instructors, creating a conducive environment for personal growth and academic performance. The wide selection of extracurricular activities and clubs has helped me to pursue my interests and discover new ones, enriching my college experience. Furthermore, the university's commitment to service and social justice resonates well with my ideals, allowing me to make a positive difference in the world. Scranton University is more than simply a place to learn; it is a home that fosters my intellectual, social, and personal development, making every day on campus worthwhile.... Read 668 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $35,913

• SAT range 1100-1280

• Gettysburg, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  627 reviews

Alum: I attended Gettysburg in the mid-90's and truly believe it was a life changing experience for me. The education, access to professors, and facilities are top notch. I still miss the beauty of the campus, running in the battlefields and those Gettysburg sunsets! But what really sets Gettysburg apart are the people and the alumni network. I graduated with a degree in political science with the intention of going to law school, but at the last minute pivoted and decided to enter the workforce. Through alumni connections, I was able to get an interview with a senior exec who worked in banking/finance. He took a chance on me and I was able to parlay that first job into a successful 25 year career in investment management. Gettysburg taught me to think critically, develop strong writing and communication skills, and to be well rounded and intellectually curious. Oh, and I had a blast and made great friendships along the way!... Read 627 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $35,794

• SAT range 1280-1430

• Allentown, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  500 reviews

Freshman: Muhlenberg has been an AWESOME place for me and my peers to thrive. There are so many different types of people and it makes talking to new people easier. By connecting with people of other cultures, ethnicities, and experiences you become more well-rounded. It's a welcoming community where you're bound to make friends with like-minded students. I would recommend visiting or checking out Muhlenberg College to see if it's the place for you!... Read 500 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $30,920

• SAT range 1200-1370

• Lancaster, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  875 reviews

Alum: I had a wonderful experience at F&M and I miss it a lot! The campus is beautiful. The people are nice and it really does feel like a global campus. I liked the close relationships with professors and small classes. I was a tour guide so I got a lot of questions about what makes F&M special. For me, it was the size, location, the feeling of safety, and the great academics but laid-back atmosphere. I got into all the graduate schools I applied and I got a full scholarship to my current grad school.... Read 875 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 38%

• Net price $26,316

• SAT range 1200-1420

• Lemont Furnace, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  149 reviews

Sophomore: My overall experience with Penn state is extremely satisfied. There are several tutors and teachers available to help at all times along with a small campus environment to aid in making friends. This small environment makes it easier to know mostly everyone on campus, making it easier to feel completely comfortable going to class or after school activities.... Read 149 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $16,496

• SAT range 960-1190

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  1,084 reviews

Junior: Saint Joseph's University is a private Catholic university located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including business, liberal arts, sciences, and health professions. The university is known for its strong commitment to Jesuit values, emphasizing a holistic education, social justice, and community service. Students at Saint Joseph's have access to diverse academic resources, experiential learning opportunities, and a supportive campus community. The university's location in Philadelphia provides students with rich cultural experiences and opportunities for internships and networking.... Read 1,084 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $33,438

• SAT range 1120-1310

• Scranton, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  598 reviews

Alum: I am a Marywood graduate & also blessed to work here. My work for the past 30+ years has been gratifying in many ways, but I want to review Marywood based on my student experience + what I observe about our current students. You will not find a more friendly, welcoming campus than Marywood. You are encouraged to learn and train in your major, but also to experience classes that broaden your mind, deepen your perspective, and open you to new experiences. You get a strong education and practical experience to obtain a job in your field, but also can discuss meaningful topics beyond your field. A Marywood education affords one a versatilie skill set that is especially needed in today's changing workforce landscape. Our students are happy, community-oriented people who love to have fun and serve others. My own love for serving others started here. Marywood has many benefits of a large university, but in a small school setting. Best of both worlds on a beautiful campus!... Read 598 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $22,687

• SAT range 1020-1220

• Slippery Rock, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  1,587 reviews

Junior: Slippery Rock has been an amazing college so far and I have enjoyed my time here. I transferred into their program as a second-semester sophomore. They worked with me to accept and transfer all of my existing credits and provided me with two scholarships for my first year. Their campus accommodations including food, housing, and leisure have been diverse and easily accessible. I would love for Slippery Rock to provide more parking. They also have extensive on-campus healthcare options, and a gym for wellness opportunities. Due to the size of the campus, it is easy to make friends and interact with teachers on a one-on-one basis. However, the campus is still large enough that there's always someone new to meet, and the ability to avoid people you don't like! For a state school, the price point is perfect and I've loved my time here so far.... Read 1,587 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $12,364

• SAT range 970-1170

• York, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  175 reviews

Sophomore: I like my experience in the classroom. Professors are very helpful and easy to talk to when needing help. I only wish there was more student involvement on campus. However, it is understandable due to that it is a smaller campus with students having varying schedules that there may not be many students on campus at the same time. Recently though more people have been showing up to events, which is great to see!... Read 175 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $19,581

• SAT range 1030-1300

• Loretto, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  588 reviews

Sophomore: The opportunities here are plentiful! My admissions counselor reached out to me during my freshman year to ask if I wanted to work as a Bell Tower Ambassador at the Admission's Office. Ever since the interview, I have absolutely loved working with the counselors and my fellow peers. I also enjoy meeting every prospective student that I have the pleasure to encounter, as well as their family members.... Read 588 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $28,883

• SAT range 1010-1220