2024 Best Colleges that Accept the Common App in Pennsylvania

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  1,339 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 1,339 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 6%

• Net price $14,578

• SAT range 1480-1570

• Pittsburgh, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,468 reviews

Sophomore: I'm currently considering a shift to the Bachelor of Computer Science and Arts Degree (BXA). CMU's versatility in offering such a unique blend of art and tech truly speaks to its pioneering spirit in education. It’s not every day you find a university that allows you to bridge two seemingly disparate fields in such a cohesive manner. However, like all institutions, there's always room for improvement. I'd love to see more inter-departmental collaborations. Given the vast array of talent and expertise at CMU, I believe fostering more interdisciplinary projects can lead to even more groundbreaking work. All in all, Carnegie Mellon has given me an environment where I can grow academically while also nurturing my personal interests. If you're looking for a place that challenges you, offers diverse programs, and fosters a sense of community, CMU might just be the place for you!... Read 1,468 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  1,555 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 1,555 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 25%

• Net price $33,123

• SAT range 1350-1490

• Haverford, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  267 reviews

Freshman: Haverford is one of the greatest and lovely college I have ever set my eyes on or experience . Experience can be highly individualised base on preferences. These some of my experience: First and foremost, good academic integrity in the school . The school promotes a culture of fairness and intellectual honesty, where students are encouraged to engage in rigorous academic pursuit whilst upholding to the highest standard in integrity. Moreover, Haverford commitment to inclusivity and respect for diverse perspectives is one of my experience.The college create an environment where people from different background feels valued and supported. Inclusivity is highly valued at Haverford. Again,Haverford college reflects personal values and aspirations like fostering integrity, respect, inclusivity and intellectual growth. I am very happy to be part of a community that share these values and contribute to the vibrant and inclusive environment at Haverford college.... Read 267 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 18%

• Net price $24,462

• SAT range 1420-1540

• Bethlehem, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  925 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 925 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $31,539

• SAT range 1290-1490

• Pittsburgh, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  4,308 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 4,308 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  7,500 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 7,500 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $26,151

• SAT range 1160-1360

• Lewisburg, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  797 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 797 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  450 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 450 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 39%

• Net price $34,482

• SAT range 1310-1500

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  3,148 reviews

Graduate Student: Drexel University has some awesome program directors who are committed to your success and will help you navigate their system by providing warm -handoffs to other departments if they cannot answer your questions directly. They have the student in mind, and provide tuition discounts with partnering organizations you are employed with. They have a great reputation for success and I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue my goal of becoming a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner, and address the issue of maternal mortality in the U.S., and to be a Drexel University Dragon!... Read 3,148 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  665 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 665 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  1,078 reviews

Freshman: I absolutely love Jefferson! I love how motivating and nice the professors are. The faculty is always there to help when you're confused, and the resources provided to students are amazing. But I think the best part of Jefferson is the community. The people here are so nice and welcoming, it feels like you always have someone to talk to or something to do when you're bored. The campus is also beautiful, especially in the fall!... Read 1,078 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  697 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 697 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  5,780 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 5,780 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $23,224

• SAT range 1010-1230

• Scranton, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  670 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 670 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $35,913

• SAT range 1100-1280

• Gettysburg, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  633 reviews

Other: My daughter is a freshman at Gettysburg and she loves the school. Honestly, I don’t know what some of the reviewers are talking about. The student body at Gettysburg is diverse, friendly, bright, and committed. The teachers are smart, dedicated, and supportive. The campus is beautiful. My daughter describes the school thus: “I love Gettysburg! My teachers are great, I have made tons of friends, it is beautiful, and cozy!”... Read 633 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $35,794

• SAT range 1280-1430

• Allentown, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  504 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 504 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $30,920

• SAT range 1200-1370

• Lancaster, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  883 reviews

Freshman: I love, love, love F&M! I've met the best friends. The staff are so sweet. Our College Dean/VP, Drew, is the best. Last week he brought us all pizza at 10 pm. The staff work really hard here. The dining staff are always so friendly. They see us as their kids :) The campus is beautiful. It's not a rich school but we have good resources. Everyone is down to earth. There's decent parties but more of the scene is hanging out with friends, laughing, being spontaneous. The City is pretty great. I like that I can walk to everything. There's lots of support resources for academics, tutoring, counseling and medical. The food is actually great. My house is the best (Weis!). It's the community that means the most to me. Go here.... Read 883 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 38%

• Net price $26,316

• SAT range 1200-1420

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  1,088 reviews

Sophomore: Due to merging of a former college that I’ve been accepted to, there has been a lack of management and coordination in a lot of departments. The staff and instructors are awesome and try their best to manage with the situations. It’s slowly getting there and improvements have been coming along pretty noticeably, but it still needs more time and work. Considering the fact that they are operating multiple campuses, the only suggestion I would have is to try to integrate them together. Majority of the major events take place at the major campus and there is a lack of convenient transport between campuses. There can be some major improvements there is foster inclusivity and cooperation from everyone. They are actively providing us with new experience and expanding their offered science majors which is a plus in my eyes.... Read 1,088 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $33,438

• SAT range 1120-1310

• Scranton, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  600 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 600 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $22,687

• SAT range 1020-1220

• Loretto, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  589 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 589 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $28,883

• SAT range 1010-1220

• Erie, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  840 reviews

Junior: Gannon has a lot of great staff/faculty members and opportunities that are made available to virtually everybody on campus. There are lots of sport teams, clubs, and groups that are easy to join and exciting. Every teacher that I have had has been competent, not always enjoyable, but at bare minimum, able to educate their students. My main problem with the school is just how expensive it is. I want to be able to go to school full time, and still have enough money to enjoy my hobbies like fishing, jiu jitsu, hiking, playing instruments, making music, and travelling. Because of the cost of school, it can make it difficult for me to find the time and money to do these things that I also deeple care about.... Read 840 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $22,258

• SAT range 990-1250

• Dallas, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.5 out of 5  610 reviews

Senior: Misericordia has felt like home since the first time I stepped on campus when I was getting recruited to play softball. Since I started at MU in the Fall of 2019, I have since seen the university make state of the art improvements including the gorgeous Henry Science Center where I attend labs, classes, study group sessions, and more. One of my favorite parts about being a student-athlete at Mis is the comradery among the student body and the devotion to service. One of my favorite volunteer opportunities was going to Patriot's Cove which is an organization that was founded by a military veteran and his spouse to empower other veterans, first responders, and their caregivers to heal and adapt to life after service. On campus, Campus Life constantly puts on events to keep students engaged such as Halloween Scavenger Hunts, Christmas Dinner, Midnight Breakfast during finals week, and numerous Welcome Week Activities to make everyone feel at home. I met some of my best friends at Mis!... Read 610 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $23,822

• SAT range 1050-1220

• Meadville, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.42 out of 5  940 reviews

Junior: A college with small classes offers numerous advantages for students. Firstly, smaller class sizes foster a more personalized learning experience. With fewer students, professors can provide individual attention, facilitating better understanding and engagement. Students can actively participate in discussions and receive prompt feedback, enhancing their academic growth. Secondly, small classes promote stronger relationships between students and professors. This enables students to build connections, seek guidance, and benefit from mentorship opportunities. Additionally, small class sizes encourage collaboration and peer-to-peer learning, as students have more opportunities to interact and share ideas. Overall, a college with small classes cultivates an inclusive and supportive environment, enhancing learning outcomes and student success.... Read 940 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $25,419

• SAT range 1140-1350