2024 Best Small Colleges in New York

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  473 reviews

Alum: Barnard is very unique, as it’s an undergraduate college of Columbia University (yes, that makes it an Ivy League) but also a tight-knit women’s college. The Columbia Daily Spectator calls it “the only women’s college in the Ivy League.” Lots of recruited athletes at Columbia can go to Barnard instead of CC (Columbia College). A lot of friends were recruited CU athletes at Barnard. It’s also different from other women’s colleges because it feels like a women’s dorm at Columbia. It’s sooo integrated and feels co-Ed! The leaders of most Columbia clubs are Barnard women tbh. It can be annoying to constantly explain to people that Barnard is 100% integrated with the other schools at CU though. The internships at Barnard are INSANE. I was a history major and got internships at top investment banks, big tech companies, famous TV shows and more. It was so easy to get a good job, in part because Barnard alums are obsessed with hiring other Barnard students. NYC was also so fun to be in.... Read 473 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $28,366

• SAT range 1380-1550

• Clinton, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  486 reviews

Alum: Hamilton is one of the best liberal arts colleges in the country. The campus is beautiful and the facilities are impressive. I was constantly blown away by the intelligence of both my professors and classmates. I hear about people from other schools struggling to get jobs out of college, but I’ve gotten tons of interviews and received several job offers (just accepted one the other day). And from what I can tell, my classmates are finding similar success in the workforce, at grad school, or in whatever they pursue. Hamilton does a fantastic job preparing students for further education; I know several people at T14 law schools and have classmates pursuing PhDs at Ivy Leagues and other top universities. Whatever you want to do, a Hamilton education will prepare you to do it. Oh, and people LOVE Hamilton. We have amazing study abroad programs (I went to Australia) but I know multiple people who chose not to go abroad because they didn't want to leave Hamilton. It’s a truly special place.... Read 486 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 14%

• Net price $26,803

• SAT range 1410-1540

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  96 reviews

Junior: Nothing could have prepared me for how amazing Cooper Union actually was. Not only am I attending this university with a very close friend of mine from high school, I’ve been able to make life long friends with people who are just as passionate and motivated as I am. The opportunities that Cooper Union offers are seemingly endless and guaranteed fruitful. The faculty are among some of the best and most innovative practicing architects who use their own experience to validate their methodology in teaching in profound ways. Additionally, the resources they offer the students to get better connected amongst each other, the faculty, and the school as a whole. Although I have had my fair share of love-hate moments with my courses and my assignments, I am well aware that the school is teaching me things that I never thought I’d be able to be exposed to.... Read 96 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 15%

• Net price $20,757

• SAT range 1330-1500

• Poughkeepsie, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  663 reviews

Sophomore: Vassar College has ample opportunities in most fields of study and well-respected/high-quality academics. Considering its student population, its opportunities for independent research alongside professors are outstanding. Help will always be provided to those who seek it in searches for internships, graduate school advising, and career development. Students have a great relationship with their professors. I would change the manner in which credit registration caps are managed and total credit hours are assessed and provide some more freedom in courses, even though the school does have the coveted open curriculum. Overall, the student body is very engaged, and there is a very active student government. There is a crowd for everyone and any preferred social and academic life.... Read 663 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 20%

• Net price $27,249

• SAT range 1420-1540

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  281 reviews

Senior: Great professors and faculty that cares. Like any other school there are some professors that just shouldn’t be teaching - however there aren’t many and you can easily avoid getting stuck with them by doing your research! I’m on the women’s campus, which isn’t much compared to the men’s campus - more specifically when it comes to facilities. I would have liked more space and equipment for music on the women’s campus.... Read 281 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 63%

• Net price $36,807

• SAT range 1140-1410

• Saratoga Springs, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  661 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 661 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 31%

• Net price $31,553

• SAT range 1270-1440

• Schenectady, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  615 reviews

Alum: I came to Union and Upstate NY from California, looking for a small liberal arts college which could support an array of my interests - from art to lacrosse, studying abroad to inner-city work. I loved the small class sizes, the driven, highly-intelligent professors, and the accessibility of everything on campus due to it being a smaller school. I was always able to find time to get work done with classmates or professors, and found Union to be a very comfortable place to be pushed academically while still feeling immensely supported. I played four years of lacrosse for a Nationally ranked NCAA program, was able to study abroad in multiple countries, and still found time to create friendships with professors and peers which Im confidant will last for my lifetime. While some knock Schenectady - the city was being fully revamped while I was there. Farmers Markets, small-businesses, restaurants, and volunteer organizations have made great use of the energy which Schenectady still has.... Read 615 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $39,101

• SAT range 1270-1450

• Syracuse, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  344 reviews

Alum: The school workload is challenging, but you will gain lots of experience, skills, and knowledge. The people are what really make the campus though. They are down to earth and some of the nicest humans on the planet. People are willing to help and give you guidance where they can. Here, earth day truly is every day!... Read 344 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $22,159

• SAT range 1130-1300

• Brooklyn, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  316 reviews

Freshman: St. Joseph's University is a Catholic liberal arts university located in the heart of New York City. One of the things that makes St. Joseph's University unique is its commitment to providing a values-based education that encourages students to engage with the world around them and work towards creating positive change. St. Joseph's University also offers a diverse range of academic programs and opportunities for students, including undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, education, health sciences, and the arts and sciences. In terms of changes, some people may have suggestions for improvements to the university, such as increasing the diversity of the student body and faculty, expanding support services for students, or investing in new facilities or resources. Ultimately, any changes made to the university would depend on the priorities and resources of the institution and the needs of its students, faculty, and community.... Read 316 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $16,290

• SAT range 1020-1200

• Albany, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.41 out of 5  410 reviews

Niche User: I went to ACPHS recently, as I attended their fall open house for 2022. It was amazing, way better than I could have ever imagined. The faculty were so helpful and passionate with their roles in the school, and the students were so welcoming to the students touring that day it was amazing. It was like they really know how to make you feel like family, and it was only an open house! I am very serious about a career as an ER doctor, and going to ACPHS seemed like the perfect fit for someone invested in medicine. The majors and curriculum were very appetizing, they sounded so interesting yet challenging (as the medical field is)! It is definitely a 10/10 college for me, due to the close knit community & the welcomeness they give to everyone coming through the doors! As a pre-med student wanting to stay close to home, I cannot think of a better college to attend. On the plus side as well, Albany Medical College and Albany Health Center are right across the street!... Read 410 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $26,961

• SAT range 1170-1390

• Potsdam, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  919 reviews

Senior: My experience overall at Clarkson has been very positive! After things cleared up following the pandemic, and restrictions were loosened, Clarkson has been amazing. What sets Clarkson apart from other schools is the student body. It is such a welcoming and friendly group of students and I have truly met some of the most amazing people at Clarkson. As a member of the biology and psychology programs, I have also gotten to work with some amazing professors. If you seek it, there are ample opportunities for students!... Read 919 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $31,413

• SAT range 1180-1380

• Saint Bonaventure, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  477 reviews

Niche User: I've committed to play ball at St Bonaventure, and everything about the recruiting process has been incredible. On my visit, everyone was so kind, and genuine, and really seemed to love this school. I'm not just talking the students, but the Uni staff, and people all over the town. I mean, people LOVE this school! On my flight home, wearing a Bonnies t-shirt at the airport/on the plane, half a dozen people called out to me "Bonnies!" The love is real.... Read 477 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $25,533

• SAT range 1070-1270

• Geneva, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.4 out of 5  633 reviews

Junior: HWS is a great place to study and live! The school works very hard to provide opportunities for students in and out of the class room. I have been able to participate in International business case competitions, ski on the ski team, and get great internships through the Salisbury center for career development. I love the classic Liberal Arts College teaching style, we read and write a lot but you'll come out of HWS a really hard worker. Economic department is the best!... Read 633 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $34,239

• SAT range 1170-1370

• Rockville Centre, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  671 reviews

Sophomore: As a transfer student, the transition has been smooth with the help of advisors. It was more cost effective to attend a university within my home state and still have my independence as it changed from a commuter school to now being able to dorm on campus. Great programs to choose from, smaller class sizes, which helps you to have more interaction with your professors so you’re known by name. Campus life can give you the opportunity to participate in different activities/clubs and having a well known theatre on campus exposes you to performances from your peers as well as nationally known artists. Overall, Molloy University is very supportive and passionate about their students success!... Read 671 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $25,540

• SAT range 1110-1320

• Monsey, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  1 review

Freshman: Yeshivath Viznitz is place to study also good in Torah teachings with a good everoment with good management... Read 1 review

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $2,774

• SAT range —

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  515 reviews

Sophomore: The integrated conservatory program is not for everyone, but is an incredible opportunity. Working with industry professionals means you start making connections on your first day, and you are always getting the most up-to-date information. Classes are interspersed with personal stories about auditioning and working in the Broadway community, and teachers are passionate about readying us for the intensity of performing 8 shows a week. You get out of the program what you put into it - be prepared to do the work!... Read 515 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 22%

• Net price $44,797

• SAT range —

• Rochester, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  596 reviews

Freshman: At Fisher there is always someone to go to, whether you need financial help, tutoring aids, or even just a shoulder to cry on every staff member and available student leaders will always help someone in need. The aura at Fisher is deemed by it's creed: Teach me Goodness, Discipline and Knowledge; being here for only a short four weeks has already helped me become a more well rounded individual than I was when I graduated high school. There are many faces of diversity here ranges from students, staff and alumni, the Fisher reputation is one to be proud of.... Read 596 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $27,325

• SAT range 1110-1270

• Canton, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  776 reviews

Alum: I recently graduated out of SLU and four years in Canton included some ups and downs. But as doing my master's degree in a similar institution in NYS, I realized how well things at SLU are. Professors were great and genuinely wanted to help you to succeed in many different fields. Over my four years, I had such a great relationship with my advisor and other staff members. Dining services were great with different options and locations, especially Time Out Cafe in the Athletic Center was a clutch as a student-athlete! Athletics were also well organized, and our facilities were well taken care of. However, the student body is mostly rich New England kids and if you don't like to party, you might feel a bit left out. Dorms, besides Kirk Douglas Hall, are outdated and would need more than cosmetic repair. For me, SLU was the right choice, and really got a lot out of my time there.... Read 776 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $31,744

• SAT range 1220-1400

• Hudson, NY•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  147 reviews

Alum: Great college! Professors truly care for students well-being, and always open to helping both in and outside of the classroom. Campus is small, but events are always taking place and there is always something to do.... Read 147 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,736

• SAT range —

• Buffalo, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  439 reviews

Senior: D'Youville University is an incredible place. This is my last year on campus and seeing all of the growth and progress over my five years has been amazing. The study spaces have been completely transformed and there is always something to do. If you're thinking about coming here just do it! You won't regret it and you'll have the time of your life. There are some people that find things to complain about all the time but that's typical. I'm so proud to be a Saint and I'm so sad that I graduate this year year. The friends I have made are incredible and will be a part of me for life. Insider tip: Don't try to get Starbucks during Red Time or you'll be waiting forever. Hit up one of the Keurigs in KAB instead. It's free and the fridges usually have flavors and creamers in them.... Read 439 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $22,541

• SAT range 1030-1190

• Annandale-on-hudson, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  682 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Bard, so far, has been wonderful! Bard takes a unique learning approach for first years. We get to campus 3 weeks before all other students to do a Language and Thinking work shop. These three weeks together allow first years to really bond. If I could see something change, on top of these wonderful required courses like Seminar, Citizen Science, and L&T; I would love to see a mandatory financial literacy course for first years on campus. It would set Bard farther apart from other liberal arts colleges and also give much education to my current majority finically illiterate generation. Over all I have had a wonderful experience at Bard, have made so many friends and have had so many opportunities in just a few months. Never a dull moment at Bard and there is always some club, band, concert, or event to attend on campus!... Read 682 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $24,318

• SAT range —

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  56 reviews

Freshman: Manhattan School of Music is an amazing experience. The professors within my major are top notch experts who encourage the growth and individualism of all students. The diversity is very poor, which is difficult for minority students. Additionally, core classes outside of my major (such as humanities) are very poorly taught and the professor has frequently made offensive remarks. The experience at Manhattan School of Music can vary vastly depending who your head of department is. However, I think we all understand that we have come to this school to train, not party. We all have a fierce desire to master our major and we all understand the privilege of getting to study under masters of our subject. It is definitely not perfect, but overall I have had a wonderful experience so far and I would highly recommend my program to anyone who can afford it. Unfortunately, people do not receive a good amount of aid from the school unless they are international.... Read 56 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 49%

• Net price $42,578

• SAT range —

• Syracuse, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  627 reviews

Senior: I have appreciated my time at Le Moyne, as it has been a full 4 years of growth. I have learned to advocate for myself with regard to figuring out classes and requirements for my major. I have also had the incredible opportunity to explore my passion for Spanish, as well as Education at Le Moyne with the most amazing and supportive professors. I have made connections that I hope to have for the rest of my academic life!... Read 627 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $24,618

• SAT range 1140-1290

• Niagara University, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  585 reviews

Sophomore: I've absolutely loved the community that I have found here at Niagara University. The program that I'm in is so incredibly welcoming and supportive. There are plenty of majors/minors and opportunities to explore and my advisor has made sure I can get the most out of my time here. It's a gorgeous campus and there are plenty of events put on and we're super close to Niagara Falls and Canada! The people are wonderful and I can't implore you enough, please consider Niagara University in your college search! You won't regret it!... Read 585 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $18,118

• SAT range 1050-1220

• Rochester, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  491 reviews

Senior: I am currently in my fourth and final year at Roberts. In terms of academics, it is a small school, so you really get to know the professors. It is easy to meet with them one-on-one to help with any struggles. In terms of social life, I feel like there is always some event going on that students can get involved with. There are also a ton of groups that students can join in leadership roles to help put these events on. Sometimes these positions may come with a small scholarship! The people at Roberts are really the best part of the school. I've met some of my best friends here and have made hundreds of other connections with others across campus. In terms of faith, I can confidently say that I learned a lot more about Christ and have significantly built upon my faith since entering Roberts. The chapels, classes, and surrounding myself with believers were all beneficial. Overall, Roberts gave me the best experience I could have asked for. I would highly recommend the school to others!... Read 491 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 87%

• Net price $21,710

• SAT range 1020-1250