2024 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in New York

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  1,335 reviews

Junior: As a Columbia University student, I am proud of myself and I feel very lucky. The school's name alone boasts prestige and prominence, as so many Nobel Prize winners, presidents, and successful businesspeople hail from the university. To be a part of this community, one that fosters community support as well as a push to strive for self improvement and global impact, has been incredibly motivating and exhilarating for me. I am very satisfied by the quality of my teachers and peers. The only things I would change are the tuition price and the humidity of NYC in the summer!... Read 1,335 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 4%

• Net price $12,411

• SAT range 1470-1570

• Ithaca, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  2,057 reviews

Sophomore: Although I have not yet graduated from Cornell University, my experience thus far has been both demanding and rewarding. The academic rigor and high standards have challenged me to push my boundaries and strive for excellence. While the workload can be overwhelming at times, I believe that the difficulties I have faced will ultimately pay off in terms of career opportunities. Cornell's prestigious reputation and strong emphasis on research and innovation provide a solid foundation for future success. With access to renowned faculty, extensive resources, and a supportive community, I am confident that my time at Cornell will pave the way for a promising professional journey.... Read 2,057 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 9%

• Net price $24,262

• SAT range 1450-1560

• West Point, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  468 reviews

Junior: Even though the past year has been tough because of COVID restrictions, I have had overall a pretty good time at West Point. The people here are mainly what makes it worth it--I've made friends that I know will last a lifetime. There are also endless opportunities (both during the semester and summer), especially if you want to get involved with research as an undergraduate. I have been able to publish my research in well known journals and conduct research alongside experts professors in the field I hope to pursue graduate school. The academics are not too hard, but it is very hit or miss in the core classes, because the instructors are randomly assigned and you don't get to choose. You might end up with someone not that great. However, in the upper division classes in the major, instructors are amazing and passionate about the subject. I really enjoy most parts about West Point and I look forward to commissioning as an army officer!... Read 468 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price —

• SAT range 1200-1440

• 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+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $28,366

• SAT range 1380-1550

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  5,671 reviews

Junior: To start, living on my own in the city has been an authentic experience that has helped me grow as a young adult, taking on new responsibilities and meeting different people! Overall, college is what you make it. There are so many resources and opportunities, some clearly offered and pushed, and some just found by research or who you know (so be friendly and make connections!). Regarding classes, my professors are very inspiring, with expertise and experience. With the educational aspect, you'll learn the concrete information (rules and details of a concept) by studying and reading; you have to put in your own effort if you want to learn, either on your own time out of class, or for an assignment. Discussions and work in class with the professor are more on the abstract side of things, regarding ideals and philosophies, making you think about the world around you and how you can make a positive impact. Content and work differs by class, but your education relies on your effort!... Read 5,671 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $50,991

• SAT range 1450-1570

• 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+

• 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+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 15%

• Net price $20,757

• SAT range 1330-1500

• Hamilton, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  1,041 reviews

Sophomore: Colgate University has opened doors for me in countless ways. The rich alumni network is widely used by students through our amazing career services office. Additionally, I have been given opportunities to connect with possible employers and have even gotten a job as a result! Additionally, the school itself is very work hard play hard. I am enrolled in academically rigorous classes but I can also have so much fun here!... Read 1,041 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 17%

• Net price $24,500

• SAT range 1350-1500

• 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+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 20%

• Net price $27,249

• SAT range 1420-1540

• 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+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 22%

• Net price $44,797

• SAT range —

• Kings Point, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  91 reviews

Senior: Kings Point is located in a very nice area and the weekends are always filled with things to do, since Manhattan is not too far way. Plebe year is the toughest year mentally because of the regiment and the heavy load of coursework. My experience at Kings Point was poorer than average because of having to be locked down on campus during COVID-19, not being able to get off my ship during COVID-19, and having to deal with the temporary sea year suspension in late-2022. The food here is mediocre and many of the facilities need significant renovation. Despite all of this, Kings Point still offered a lot. The academics here are challenging but rewarding. The friends that you make here are friends that will last for a lifetime. The regiment can be frustrating at times, but you learn to deal with it. After about 4 years here, I will say that Kings Point has been a roller coaster filled with lots of highs and lows but I would do it again.... Read 91 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 25%

• Net price $4,422

• SAT range 1150-1330

• Forest Hills, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.25 out of 5  63 reviews

Sophomore: Professor Javier Leon is by far one of the best teachers I have ever had. I am taking Biochemistry, and as everyone has heard, this class is intense. I recommend anyone taking this class at this school to request him as your professor. He breaks down the material perfectly and makes it very simple to learn. He adapts to everyone's learning abilities (everyone learns differently) and is very easy to communicate with if you need help. He used everyday life to relate it to the topics, which was very helpful for me. I highly recommend taking this challenging class with him!... Read 63 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 30%

• Net price $16,512

• SAT range —

• 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

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 31%

• Net price $31,553

• SAT range 1270-1440

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  131 reviews

Sophomore: Devry was 4 times more expensive than the community college I attended. But now, I'm working hard on my journey toward my bachelor's degree. DeVry is a fully accredited university and not a cakewalk. It is suitable for individuals who are dedicated and able to manage their time accordingly. You must be online 3 times a week to participate in online discussions. DAs DeVry's success coach, I have seen countless people struggling with form. Personally, it was nice to be working for a week. State schools are cheaper, but many struggles with the traditional format. It depends on your needs. I currently run the program and I will be happier after getting my degree. Also, getting a Pelgrant and getting a tuition discount can be a big help for tuition increases. It is thought that it is a sufficiently affordable and efficient school for students who need a degree, and especially at the point where online education due to coronavirus is popular, devry has many advantages in online education.... Read 131 reviews

• grade C+

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 38%

• Net price $29,641

• SAT range —

• Bronx, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  818 reviews

Other: I had the pleasure of studying at Monroe College - Bronx/New Rochelle as a student from Kazakhstan, and I am delighted to share my review of this institution. Monroe College truly provided an exceptional experience, and I was particularly drawn to the warm and welcoming atmosphere that embraced international students like myself. From the moment I stepped onto the campus, I felt a sense of inclusivity and support. The staff and faculty at Monroe College demonstrated genuine care and dedication in assisting international students with their academic and personal needs. Whether it was guidance on course selection, navigating campus resources, or providing cultural support, the support system at Monroe College was exceptional. The multicultural environment at Monroe College was vibrant and enriching. Interacting with students from various backgrounds and nationalities fostered a sense of global community, and it allowed me to develop lifelong friendships and connections.... Read 818 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 39%

• Net price $12,054

• SAT range —

• Rochester, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,594 reviews

Freshman: Academic Experience: Being a student at the University of Rochester would likely involve rigorous academic programs. The university is known for its commitment to providing a well-rounded education and fostering critical thinking skills. The Rochester Curriculum, which emphasizes interdisciplinary studies, allows me to explore a variety of subjects beyond my major. Campus Life: The campus, located along the Genesee River, offeres a beautiful and picturesque setting for me. I enjoy spending time in the libraries, student centers, and recreational facilities. Campus life includes involvement in student clubs, organizations, and cultural events. Community Engagement: The University of Rochester places importance on community engagement. I have participated in community service projects or collaborated with local organizations, contributing to both my personal growth and the betterment of the community.... Read 1,594 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 41%

• Net price $40,125

• SAT range 1370-1520

• Vestal, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  2,625 reviews

Senior: I have enjoyed my time at Binghamton University. I am pursuing medical degree after my undergraduate and have received a lot of support from Binghamton's academic advising to make sure that I am on track. Taking online classes during the pandemic shut down was an interesting way to start my journey at Binghamton University, but they managed to adapt to changing circumstances and deliver impeccable educational content. Binghamton offers many ways to get involved with the research and outreach that the university is engaged in. For example, I am a part of two of the psychological research labs on campus. One thing that I would like to see change at Binghamton is more work opportunities and resources offered to students who are struggling financially. I, like many of my peers, have put myself through school without contribution from family and more economically enriching opportunities would have helped me support myself through my education. Thank you!... Read 2,625 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 44%

• Net price $17,881

• SAT range 1310-1470

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  1,395 reviews

Senior: John Jay is a great choice for many students. I can personally speak to my experience as a STEM student in the Forensic Science major. The class sizes are small, so students have a more meaningful relationship with their mentors. There are lots of clubs and campus activities for students to partake in, and it's not unusual to be on my way to class to randomly see goodie bags or free food for an event in hound square! John Jay does not have a traditional campus feel (most of the population is made up of commuters) but makes up for it with its facilities. The JayWalk is a gorgeous courtyard where students often relax between classes and enjoy the weather. Furthermore, there are so many hidden gems for food and recreational activities in the blocks surrounding campus, which feel very safe. In fact, a few food places (shout out to Justino's Pizza) gives student discounts for food! CUNY is fantastic with internship/externship/research programs for undergraduate students. Best of luck!... Read 1,395 reviews

• grade A

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 45%

• Net price $5,077

• SAT range 1020-1160

• Dix Hills, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  143 reviews

Sophomore: As a Mass Communications major, the professors are great, support systems are mostly great, and you definitely gain hands on experience that’s crucial in the Mass comms field. We’re being prepared to handle the jobs ahead of us by having industry standard equipment and technology and becoming mini professionals with said equipment.... Read 143 reviews

• grade C

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $21,376

• SAT range 770-1000

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  2,414 reviews

Alum: CUNY Hunter College was great for me, as someone who went to college right out of high school but wasn't yet sure of what I wanted to major in. All of my professors were phenomenal and I was able to get a good overview of what options I had in the first two years; I did not declare a major until the summer before my Junior year. It's a commuter school so it's easy to not get too involved with the culture but even so, in most majors you'll be taking a lot of classes with the same people, so it's still not difficult to get to know people. If you do want to get involved though, there are so many clubs! The workload is not unreasonably rigorous. Some classes are difficult, but for the most part, professors understand you have other commitments.... Read 2,414 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $4,586

• SAT range 1170-1340

• New Paltz, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  1,458 reviews

Sophomore: I like how encouraging New Paltz is to its students! It feels like they really care about the student body. A decent amount of the professors just want their students to understand material and not be in crippling debt so they’ll do things like upload free resources or not require a textbook; it’s very much appreciated. The overall campus feels pretty safe too! It truly feels like they have our best interest in mind. Although New Paltz promotes equity amongst its student body, I would like to see that further enforced. Students from certain minority groups tend to be represented. However, I would like to see students of color to get the protection and acknowledgment they deserve. The student body is fairly white, which isn’t an issue until that ushers in ignorant comments and prejudice toward POC students. New Paltz tries to avoid racial biases, and negative interactions, but they do happen, and when they do, they aren’t taken that seriously. That definitely needs to change.... Read 1,458 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $15,318

• SAT range 1150-1280

• 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

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $39,101

• SAT range 1270-1450

• Stony Brook, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  2,849 reviews

Junior: Stony Brook University has so many intelligent, caring professors and staff who make your time as a student worthwhile. The quality of education we are able to receive for the price of a SUNY school is practically unheard of. Classes can be challenging, but I feel like those challenges have been fair and have helped me to grow and learn, both academically and as a person. Our student body is diverse in all meanings of the term, and the people here have taught me so much about the world at large. There are so many clubs with passionate e-boards who serve our campus by fostering accepting communities. I'm proud to be a Seawolf!... Read 2,849 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 48%

• Net price $16,445

• SAT range 1300-1480

• 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

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 49%

• Net price $42,578

• SAT range —

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  66 reviews

Junior: Creatively and academically engaging; a blossoming community overflowing with disciplined, motivated teachers and staff. Juilliard is an amazing institution because it fosters opportunities for collaboration between artistic disciplines. As a composer, I've worked with classmates who are actors, dancers, and musicians. There is a reason why the school is revered as one of the greatest arts schools in the world! (o:... Read 66 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 7%

• Net price $40,304

• SAT range —