2023 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America

• Gambier, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  401 reviews

Niche User: My son is planning to go and from visits, as well as discussions with other students, we can tell it’s a special, amazing place. With a recent $100 million donation, they are building 3 new dorms, renovating some dorms, and tearing down some. The library and athletic complex are spectacular. A modern light filled building is almost complete that will house the center for American democracy, political science and history departments. The science center is gorgeous. Upper class houses are amazing and allow groups of friends to live together in rows of real houses, with outdoor areas etc. The students he spoke to all said they have a great time on weekends, so much so that even those who plan to go on road trips often bail at the last minute bc they don’t want to miss out. Academics are top notch and professors are exemplary, approachable and caring. Its academic reputation is clear when you look at the list of grad schools students attend.... Read 401 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $38,927

• SAT range 1340-1500

• Worcester, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  565 reviews

Alum: Extremely competitive school from day 1. But - that fosters personal growth! Loved how many service-oriented opportunities there were. This was clearly a strong emphasis in the school's Jesuit identity. When HC says that faculty are there to help, it is not just an empty, overly-stated phrase. As an alum, I still reach out to faculty for advice on the job market and graduate school admissions. Truly thankful that HC has invested so much in recruiting and retaining world-class professors.... Read 565 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 43%

• Net price $29,198

• SAT range 1240-1420

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  641 reviews

Niche User: I loved this place! I did a domestic exchange program for a semester. Nice dorms, friendly student body, good food in the dining hall, and cool classes. A lot of fun classes on pop culture and media studies. It was a nice break from my sad, east coast liberal arts college. It was a bit easier than I anticipated it to be, more consistent assignments throughout the year rather than huge final projects like I was used to, but classes at Pomona or Scripps will amp up your workload. Still, like any college, it's just about the classes you take. Con: HUGE wealth gap here between students. First gen solidarity is strong here though. Such a pretty campus, and amazing Latinx Student Union which I joined while I was there.... Read 641 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 18%

• Net price $19,153

• SAT range 1300-1450

• Easton, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  651 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 651 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 41%

• Net price $38,754

• SAT range 1300-1460

• Lewisburg, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  785 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 785 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 35%

• Net price $38,170

• SAT range 1270-1450

• San Antonio, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  734 reviews

Alum: The undergraduate research programs are incredible that you get that kind of opportunity. Some classes are definitely not for everybody, but I for sure found a home within the Geosciences department.... Read 734 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 34%

• Net price $27,356

• SAT range 1280-1440

• Colorado Springs, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  786 reviews

Sophomore: I like Colorado College, and the block plan and small size really intrigued me into coming here, even though I'm not a native Coloradan. It's definitely a great location if you love the outdoors. Those are the main reasons I chose this school. I quickly learned that I could fit in here! However, from being here for two months, I have noticed some of the struggles the area and the school has, including housing and crime. Many cities have these issues, but CC in the Greater Colorado Springs area has tried to fix them to a degree, but there's clearly still work to be done... Not to be too pessimistic, however, I will say though that I've met many really nice people on CC's campus, especially the students, although I do tend to see the liberal and privileged side of things in a simple classroom environment often. I would say for this school to truly be diverse as they say, CC needs more diverse viewpoints as a whole. For now, CC has an amazing mathematics department, and that's my major.... Read 786 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 14%

• Net price $30,200

• SAT range —

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  467 reviews

Sophomore: This is my first on-campus semester, and so far I love it! The student body has a defined sense of creativity and style which is something I never thought to look for in a college. I love the amount of student-run activities happening each day around campus. Honestly, the party scene is perfect for me. There isn't something every single night, but Thursdays and Saturdays are traditionally going out days, and sometimes Fridays as well. For being told that Scripps doesn't have a great party scene, I was pleasantly surprised. I appreciate the substantial gay community, although it doesn't show in particular affinity groups. My friends that are interested in men seem pretty content, as we naturally interact a lot thru classes and events. Not a lot of peer pressure or academic competition among the students, at least for me. Resources like math help & the counseling center aren't bad (!!), but you definetly have to hunt for them. We joke that there's no administration left on campus.... Read 467 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 30%

• Net price $44,770

• SAT range 1380-1520

• Portland, OR•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  286 reviews

Sophomore: Reed is a great school with a good balance of academics and social life. Faculty are so helpful and supportive and really encourage you to engage with the material. They are easily one of the best parts of Reed, always available and they make a genuine effort to get to know you. The academics are involved and it feels like you get a good academic experience for your money. There's always something to do on the weekend and people are generally really friendly and open so it's pretty easy to strike up a conversation with a classmate and get to know them. The only issues with the social scene at Reed are that rumors can move pretty fast in a small school and it can be hard to avoid people that you don't want to see. Overall though people are so nice and its easy to meet people in around the school. There's a lot of community in academic departments, fostered by the faculty, to help you meet other people in your major and make connections with students and faculty alike.... Read 286 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 44%

• Net price $33,056

• SAT range 1320-1520

• Saratoga Springs, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  651 reviews

Junior: I love my experience at Skidmore. My first year, I was able to take a variety of classes in different departments to figure out where I felt most at home, and many of our classes are interdisciplinary. It is easy and encouraged to have multiple majors/minors, and most professors are amazing! They truly are a great resource that I was not expecting to have, especially coming from a bigger high school. I have been fortunate to hold several campus jobs, including being a tour guide, tutor, and RA. There are also tons of opportunities for students to get involved in administrative, career-preparing work through our SGA and various campus committees--most searches and voting committees will have at least one student representative, and overall the opportunities are vast.... Read 651 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 31%

• Net price $31,553

• SAT range 1270-1440

• Bryn Mawr, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  444 reviews

Junior: I love the traditions at Bryn Mawr! By participating in them, you will feel incredibly at home and like you belong and are loved. Additionally, by going to Bryn Mawr, you are able to take classes at Haverford College, Swarthmore College, and the University of Pennsylvania which is an incredible opportunity to academically grow.... Read 444 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 39%

• Net price $34,482

• SAT range 1310-1500

• Hartford, CT•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.32 out of 5  753 reviews

Freshman: Studying at Trinity is the best experience i I’ve ever had. The student body is so cool, diverse, and supportive, the staff really cares about the students, and the professors are open to anything. Also Trinity is very generous - if u need grant money for research/study abroad/field trip - they always give it. Meals at Mother are really good. They’re diverse, and you can always find everything you need. CAMPUS IS SO BEAUTIFUL, one of the best (if not the best lol) college campuses in the US. Area around campus is so-so, but the campus safety is always on duty, and they have the blue lights system, so as a girl I feel safe about walking across campus even at 2am. Downtown Hartford is cool and pretty btw, it’s better to study at Trinity than in the middle of nowhere. The parties are SUPER FUN. The students are crazy in the best possible connotation. “Work hard - party hard” environment, definitely. Overall, I love Trinity, cannot emphasize it more. Couldn’t imagine myself anywhere else!... Read 753 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 38%

• Net price $29,789

• SAT range 1300-1480

• Schenectady, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  608 reviews

Alum: Truly four amazing years I am eternally grateful for. It wasn't perfect, there's more good to say than bad. The professors are amazing , they will invite you to have coffee in the office and discuss your career perspectives, interests, class topics, they will truly you grow intellectually and personally. The campus life is great, it can get a little clicky, but there's enough diversity so everyone can find their people. Schaffer Library is amazing and the research opportunities at Union are OUTSTANDING. The big downsides are food (it's terrible) and housing. Freshman year housing is tiny, but its is part of the experience of adjusting to college life, it helps you feel less lonely... Living in a minerva/theme house sophomore and junior year is ideal, living in the greek houses is really fun, despite the fact the rooms are small (kinda reminds me of freshman housing) you have a living room to hang out in. Senior year is amazing, living in the Seward houses is a 10/10 experience.... Read 608 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $39,101

• SAT range 1270-1450

• Wheaton, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  669 reviews

Freshman: I have been extremely blessed to be able to go to Wheaton College! One of the aspects of Wheaton that really attracted me was the community and they do it really well. There so many different clubs and groups that you can join, and I love all the groups that I am a part of so far! The food is great, though it can get pretty tiring after the eating similar food for a while. Nevertheless, the food and the people who serve it are amazing. The "ring by spring" culture here can be very intimidating so I suggest you take it slow and don't put pressure on yourself to date. College can be hard and lonely, but floor life can be amazing if you invest in it! I have met someone of the most amazing people, but again, don't put pressure on yourself to be friends with everyone. Pro tip: bring a humidifier; the air is DRY, especially in the winter!... Read 669 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $28,319

• SAT range 1250-1430

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  495 reviews

Senior: Oxy is everything you'd expect from a small, liberal arts college in an urban area; what makes the college special is the community and environment of care that the students bring. I have felt extremely supported in my time at Oxy and have found different communities for my hobbies, cultural affinity spaces, and other interests. Oxy can sometimes feel small with only about 2000 students, but I really liked that aspect since no one on campus feels like a stranger. Academics are pretty rigorous but professors are lovely and truly want to work with individual students. Highly recommend taking any courses in the Education department! One downside is the campus is full of hills, so not very accessible for physically disabled students.... Read 495 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 38%

• Net price $43,047

• SAT range 1340-1490

• South Hadley, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  883 reviews

Sophomore: Beautiful campus with beautiful natural scenery nearby, however that's it. Outside of campus, there isn't much to do nearby, and going closer to the other five colleges still lacks due to everything closing early (8-10 pm). Many awesome professors are willing to go above and beyond for their students (but ofc there are poorer ones mixed in). Not much diversity racially which is expected of a PWI, but it feels like it's hard to connect with other POC on campus. Many professors of color are alum of MHC and Smith and are willing to share their experiences and help acclimate you. Also, the admin for the Office of Community and Belonging work hard to make campus more inclusive and provide safe spaces. Class-wise, many students are affluent and cosplay being low-income which will make you uncomfortable at times plus admin doesn't really value or recognize low-income students' situations. The new fgli community works to provide a more authentic space but it's still establishing itself.... Read 883 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 52%

• Net price $29,218

• SAT range 1300-1510

• Northfield, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  775 reviews

Sophomore: St Olaf College is a small, caring, and engaging community. Everyone uplift each other and everyone is very school spirited. The small town it's in is a 20 minute walk and has really pretty coffee shops and thrift stores.... Read 775 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $27,729

• SAT range 1240-1430

• Sarasota, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  97 reviews

Alum: I had an extraordinary time at USFSM! While they did not have dorms, they made up for it in events and camaraderie. There is always something going on at USFSM - whether it is during Week of Welcome, or Relaxation week during Finals, or presentations, the campus is buzzing. Everyone at USFSM, including the chancellor, is easily accessible. Everyone wants you to be successful, and provides you with the tools to do so. You can join student government, any club you can imagine, or nothing at all. There was never a time where I felt I wasn't welcomed. There are no "cliques" either. Everyone was friendly and approachable.... Read 97 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 24%

• Net price $2,734

• SAT range 1160-1290

• Granville, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.47 out of 5  690 reviews

Freshman: Wonderful experience at Denison. Professors are approachable, helpful, and have serious expertise in their respective fields. Being a four year residential college, there is the chance to make meaningful relationships and Denison does a great job of easing the college transition for first years (e.g: June-O, Pre-O, Aug-O, First Year Council). The social scene is not cliquey, and Denisonians are encouraged to try different clubs and activities. Being twenty five minutes from Columbus as well as being in the quaint village of Granville is a perfect combination. Overall, I am pleased with Denison... Read 690 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 28%

• Net price $38,833

• SAT range 1230-1430

• Crawfordsville, IN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.18 out of 5  175 reviews

Freshman: To me, Wabash is a great place for independent students or any men wanna be gentlemen. I am an international student in Wabash, and through some difficulties for the first time. The college has many facilities and offices to help me overcome those bad situations. About professors, never mind... I mean, you never need to mind how NICE they are! They are super nice, friendly, and always willing to help you whenever you need them (including mental health if you want to share to it with them). Wabash also has African and Asian professors, and overall! Perfect diversity and perfect environment. I had not expected much before I came here, but it is worth it.... Read 175 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 62%

• Net price $21,466

• SAT range 1140-1340

• Greenville, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  595 reviews

Freshman: Within the first two weeks of my college experience, Furman University truly became my home! Its community, I believe, is what sets it apart from all the other colleges I had been considering. Whenever I am surrounded by my fellow students, friends, professors, or staff members, I always feel loved, welcomed, and heard. I feel that Furman exceeds in the following categories: academics, campus life/scenery, professors, and student life. There are so many incredible things to do on campus and in class each day. I love feeling engaged and partaking in activities that I know are rewarding and helping my community in some capacity. I feel that the academic and social value of Furman University cannot be matched by any other school! Go Dins!... Read 595 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $33,999

• SAT range 1240-1420

• Gettysburg, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  619 reviews

Sophomore: There is not a lot of diversity at Gettysburg, especially within the faculty, but it is still a step up from my high school. Academics are fair and as a STEM major, I believe I have an adequate amount of learning and opportunities, particularly with research. However, the humanities and social sciences are overlooked. There have been more crimes and safety reports within the last year than has been in previous years.... Read 619 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $35,794

• SAT range 1280-1430

• New London, CT•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.41 out of 5  428 reviews

Sophomore: Great school! Great professors and awesome students. I was very apprehensive about going to such a small school, but my experience has been amazing. The school is small and the class sizes are small, so you can really get to know your professors and the students around you. Unlike other high academic schools, your classmates are always willing to help you. Great experience for me.... Read 428 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 41%

• Net price $44,820

• SAT range 1340-1450

• Memphis, TN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  663 reviews

Alum: To begin, the size of Rhodes College is ideal for getting to know many other students, especially of other graduation years. The campus has beautiful buildings (though some are better on the outside), and the location next to a large forest is especially beautiful in fall. Memphis has a lot of culture and history to provide too. The weather is pretty nice during the school year, and strong greek life means there are a lot of opportunities to go out. An added benefit is that even though greek life is strongly present, it didn't feel weird to not be a part of it and yet still go to the parties because it's about half- half. I'm thankful for my time there, for my small class sizes, and for some of the best educators I've experienced. The science departments offer plenty of research opportunities and study abroad is encouraged! Go Lynx!... Read 663 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $30,525

• SAT range 1330-1490

• Greencastle, IN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  578 reviews

Alum: Honestly DePauw was great. I think I genuinely got the best education possible while at this school, especially due to the emphasis on liberal arts. I do think that the pandemic meant that I missed a lot of opportunities, however. Missing out on internships and other important experiences set me back a bit when looking for a job after graduation. I did find a one though! Also, the library construction took a long time and left us with very limited study space options which was frustrating even if it really needed the update. I also got a lot of scholarship money that made attending worth it.... Read 578 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $27,348

• SAT range 1160-1420