2024 Most Liberal Colleges in America

• Washington, DC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  2,532 reviews

Freshman: Amazing professors with such interesting insight to their expertise. Clubs and involvement possibilities are plentiful for many different kinds of interests. Class sizes are perfect, there are some bigger lectures but most classes are capped at 35. Diverse selection of classes. What really drew me to American University is the CLEG major-communications, legal institutions, economics, and government. The variety of topics covered gives a full comprehensive education to plan for any path ahead, especially my goal of law school. Obviously being in the DC area is a large part of the American University experience, plentiful opportunities to work, intern, learn, and even just have fun. There are some struggles with freshman housing and food places receiving health code violations. There is a bit of a culture issue at American between some Greek life and general competitive nature of the University, but overall I have really enjoyed my time here. I can't wait to continue my education!... Read 2,532 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $28,622

• SAT range 1280-1440

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  2,200 reviews

Niche User: I love everything about Pace, the opportunities are endless, and the environment from both staff and students make you feel welcome. The energy was radiating positive vibes. Everything is up-to-date, they teach you current news and not old so you can understand current technology and information!... Read 2,200 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $30,632

• SAT range 1120-1310

• Macomb, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  1,763 reviews

Junior: Western Illinois is a tight knit, wonderful community. There is so much diversity here, including a multi-cultural center. All of the professors are more than willing to work with their students. Most will make some personal connection with students to make them feel comfortable and more at home. The campus is beautiful! There are so many events and things to do here if you seek things out. There are many nature reserves within a 10 mile radius of the town. The curriculum is fair and challenging at the same time, so you never feel like you have too much or too little on your plate. The campus has endless resources and friendly staff in each department. The town is not the biggest, but you won't ever be bored.... Read 1,763 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $11,666

• SAT range 950-1150

• West Haven, CT•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  2,409 reviews

Freshman: When I first started looking for colleges, I had an image in my head of what I wanted. I wanted to have a walkable campus, a beautiful quad, helpful professors and staff, and a diverse residency. The University of New Haven has all of these qualities! With a lively staff and an engaging academic program, I was guided and challenged to become the best version of myself. I was exposed to many different views and opinions that have helped me in my endeavors to find a career. U New Haven makes it their priority to prepare you for a career path that will not only help you, but the society that we live in today. If I could give any advice, it would be to join as many clubs as you can. U New Haven offers many clubs and extra-curricular activities to not only build your resume but to find something that interests you and will keep you motivated. Overall University of New Haven is a great school to inspire and prepare you for your future career.... Read 2,409 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $33,323

• SAT range 1100-1280

• Orangeburg, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.48 out of 5  1,200 reviews

Senior: Claflin is a very amazing college. The professor really care about your education! I am thankful that I have chosen this college to attend. I would like for the perimeter of the campus to be a lot brighter and safer on campus . The parking lot need more lighting and security to protect students and their vehicles.... Read 1,200 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 62%

• Net price $19,308

• SAT range 840-1040

• Stony Brook, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  2,837 reviews

Junior: It's been great so far! The campus is always overflowing with people, there are a lot of opportunities to connect with others and lots of fun events. Every year there are multiple festivals and carnivals that the university holds to keep the students engaged. There are also many programs that the university sponsors and supports in order to help the students achieve their personal professional goals. I am personally part of the DPLN program and pledging for BAP, and it has overall been a great experience. I feel like I am really getting the most out of my college education and it has been amazing.... Read 2,837 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 48%

• Net price $16,445

• SAT range 1300-1480

• San Francisco, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  2,483 reviews

Freshman: Overall I want to say that I am very impressed with this school! I feel like I fit in with the other students where creating art is concerned! However, I am a little disappointed in the way this school treats transgender students. My best friend is transgender and she has deal with being dead named constantly by her professors. She has tried to correct them a countless amount of time for this, but to no avail. She said that only her French teacher used her correct pronouns and name, which is saying a lot since she has been in this school for over a year and the majority of her teachers misgender her. Personally, I would like there to be a little more understanding and respect towards LGBTQA+ students. As a university that claims to be diverse in their commercials on YouTube, there still seems to be some stigma towards trans students.... Read 2,483 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $32,593

• SAT range —

• Riverside, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  3,645 reviews

Freshman: My experience at UCR has been great so far. First, I love the diversity we have here on campus! I was able to meet people from everywhere, and everyone is very friendly, so it was really easy to make a few friends along the way. Most of my professors have been great, and I could tell that they were really passionate about what they were teaching. Although I am not the biggest fan when it comes to long lectures, I feel like I am actually learning something, rather than when I was in high school. I also love the abundance of events that occur daily. The organizations/clubs are really awesome too, with most of them sounding very interesting to join. I am currently in two clubs and they are really fun. My only critique would probably have to be some professors not actually teaching, making it a less fun experience. But overall, I am happy I chose to be a student here, and I can't wait to see what the future holds!... Read 3,645 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $13,502

• SAT range 1080-1280

• Fayetteville, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  951 reviews

Sophomore: Fayetteville State University (FSU) is an exceptional Historically Black College and University (HBCU) that offers a vibrant and inclusive campus community. With dedicated faculty, diverse academic programs, and a commitment to community engagement, FSU provides students with a transformative education. The campus facilities are top-notch, and support services ensure student success. FSU's celebration of African American history and its emphasis on social progress make it an excellent choice for those seeking personal growth and academic excellence.... Read 951 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $6,718

• SAT range 830-1040

• Seattle, WA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  4,595 reviews

Junior: Love the campus! The coursework is rigorous no matter your major, but there's tons of classes that are so niche and interesting to explore! This school will give you a challenge for sure! Having to apply to your major is a huge downside-- there's a decent chance you might not get to study what you want if the major is competitive and your GPA and statements aren't competitive enough (there's just too many students). Similarly, you can't take major classes until you get accepted into the major (which usually isn't until your junior year), so that can delay the graduation process if you don't schedule and plan your degree right. Because of the large student body, everyone is clawing for everything-- registration for classes is a nightmare, long lines at dining halls and events, etc. (you can expect to sometimes wait more than an hour for food, applying to housing/registration takes hours as well because the server is being filled with so many students).... Read 4,595 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $8,701

• SAT range 1200-1470

• Albany, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  2,487 reviews

Senior: Hey, so I'm a senior at University at Albany, SUNY, and I'm loving it so far! The variety of academic programs is awesome, and I'm already eyeing some research opportunities. Campus facilities are pretty modern, but some classes are big. It'd be cool if they had smaller ones. Super diverse student body, which is great. Location-wise, being in Albany is sweet – lots of chances for internships and stuff. Maybe some more parking options would be nice, and I've heard mixed things about student support services. But overall, I'm excited to see how my time here unfolds! 😄🎓... Read 2,487 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $17,350

• SAT range 1090-1280

• Moon Township, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  1,159 reviews

Freshman: RMU College was a truly exceptional institution that left an indelible mark on my life and academic journey. From the moment I stepped onto the campus, I was greeted by a vibrant and inclusive community that embraced diversity and fostered an environment conducive to personal and intellectual growth. The faculty at RMU College were not only experts in their respective fields but also passionate mentors dedicated to nurturing the potential of each student. Their unwavering support and encouragement empowered me to explore new areas of interest and challenge myself beyond my comfort zone. Overall, RMU College was more than an educational institution; it was a second home that fostered personal growth, shaped my character, and prepared me for a future full of promise and possibilities. I am grateful for the profound impact it had on my life, and the memories forged there will remain with me forever.... Read 1,159 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $23,183

• SAT range 1040-1230

• Santa Cruz, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  3,986 reviews

Freshman: My experience at UC Santa Cruz has been fantastic! The campus is stunning, surrounded by nature, and I love exploring the redwood forests. The sense of community is strong, with approachable faculty and small class sizes for personalized attention. The diverse student body creates an inclusive learning environment. The academic programs offer a wide range of courses, allowing me to tailor my education. I appreciate the emphasis on interdisciplinary studies and research opportunities. While I'd like to see more resources for mental health and career support, overall, UCSC has contributed greatly to my growth.... Read 3,986 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $19,615

• SAT range 1160-1360

• Mahwah, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.43 out of 5  1,023 reviews

Freshman: The college overall was an excellent experience. The program I was a part of, however, was new and undeveloped. I felt as though I wasn't given a path that made me feel confident in following. The offices responded in a timely manner and were always willing to help. All of the professors that I encountered in my time at this college were very pleasant. This college sold me when I saw their housing, commitment to their students' safety, diversity, and welcoming community. The small campus allows for a close community between students and professors, and aids in lessening confusion as you learn to navigate campus. This college provides unlimited extracurricular opportunities and hosts a multitude of events weekly! I was also surprised to find that the TWO dinning halls were always preparing amazing food. Both the atrium and standard dinning hall offered excellent, diverse, options; this includes those who are vegetarian and vegan. They also have Dunkin' and Starbucks as great options!... Read 1,023 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $12,251

• SAT range 1100-1280

• Hayward, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  1,959 reviews

Senior: My Experience at California State University - East Bay was amazing! Right from the beginning, the University was supportive and informative as to what is expected of their students and how they will support your journey on and off campus. My Professors in the last 3 years try their hardest to be aware of their students and set them up for success in the class. It is clear in all courses through the University that they do not want to fail students but encourage their students to want more of their educators and the education. When looking for a University I made sure that I would end up in a spot where the transition from High School to College would be smooth and that my education would not be abandoned. CSU-East Bay has fulfilled everything I could imagine from my College Experience and has proven what their investment will bring into my academic/professional career once graduated. Thank you.... Read 1,959 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $12,631

• SAT range 800-1020

• Boston, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  3,583 reviews

Sophomore: I really enjoyed my time there! There are a lot of events for different types of people, like women and non-binary rock-climbing events, Asian student get-togethers, community fast breaking for Muslim students, Questbridge scholar movie nights, and many more. One thing I would like to see change is better advertisement and outreach for extracurriculars and clubs. Other than during Splash, it is difficult to see what kinds of different groups are doing and if you can join.... Read 3,583 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 19%

• Net price $25,852

• SAT range 1360-1520

• Laredo, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  1,367 reviews

Freshman: TAMIU is a great school for those just entering higher education. As a student who has attended since high school, in conjunction with the Early College Highschool in Laredo, I have gotten to see how accommodating TAMIU is for all of its students! The UNIV courses are tailored to connect you with student mentors, advisors, tutors, and other students to help you get comfortable and feel like you belong. TAMIU also has a lot of student engagement opportunities from chalk art with elementary students to booths about on-campus help like counseling and medical services. The professors at TAMIU are pioneers in their fields and have helped students succeed for years.... Read 1,367 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $5,155

• SAT range 910-1110

• Portland, OR•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  2,631 reviews

Senior: I am one term away from finishing my Criminal Justice Degree at Portland State University. I had a really good experience on campus and with the whole criminology program overall. I took many other criminology classes in addition to the required classes and they were all excellent. My favorite instructor was Jason Jones. What a valuable asset to PSU! What I liked the most about the criminology program at PSU was the fact that most of my instructors were actively working in law enforcement, so they are able to tell us what was going on in the Portland area presently and during the Covid pandemic era. I think the biggest thing I would like to see changed is tuition prices. Wow! Does it really need to cost that much to improve your life and contribute to the betterment of society? I went from living without any debt at all to facing a gigantic payment and losing sleep at night.... Read 2,631 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 98%

• Net price $13,015

• SAT range 1000-1250

• Hollywood, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.18 out of 5  413 reviews

Freshman: Although I’m a just in my first year working on my Bachelors’ of Science, I’m absolutely having a ball. When I say making the decision to go back to school after 15 years & 5 children. I can truly say: AWESOME decision. I’ve got a way to go, but their support team is hands down the best and I have no worries that I’ll have no problems getting through. Where do I start? In January, my family and I took a trip out to see what I was getting myself into. And oh my sweet hickory barbecue; I was impressed. Everything is so subtly organized and beautiful. Everyone we came in contact with were pleasant and friendly. Academically, yeah tuition fees are not for the meek let’s just say. But the way the academic advisors stay on your heel and foot every step of the way. Let me tell you, without them, I would be nothing! But seriously, these guys are amazing! So yeah… no need to sell me because moment I set foot on campus, I was buying all in. And one day, I hope you find a love of your own too!... Read 413 reviews

• grade C minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $33,990

• SAT range —

• Burlington, VT•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  1,915 reviews

Sophomore: As a second-year at the University of Vermont, I can't help but feel incredibly fortunate to have found this hidden gem tucked away in beautiful New England. Honestly, when I began my college search, I never imagined I'd fall so head-over-heels in love with a university - but UVM has truly captured my heart. What stands out the most for me is the sense of community at UVM. From the moment I stepped onto campus, I felt welcomed by the warm smiles and friendly "hellos" from students and faculty alike. The academic experience at UVM is equally phenomenal. With professors who genuinely care about their students, I feel challenged in all my courses. I've explored a variety of subjects, and discovered passions I never knew I had. UVM's commitment to sustainability and environment is another aspect I deeply appreciate. From the LEED-certified buildings to the abundance of eco-friendly initiatives on campus, UVM has a strong green ethos that permeates every aspect of student life. Go UVM!... Read 1,915 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $19,873

• SAT range 1240-1410

• Thousand Oaks, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  1,167 reviews

Sophomore: California Lutheran University is a private institution that has much to offer students of all types! I love that the community is small, just as the class sizes are. Its the perfect opportunity to make friends and make good close connections with amazing professors. Office hours are always easy to come by and there is always help at CLU for those who ask for it. And although this institution is affiliated with the Lutheran faith, CLU is accepting of all religions and backgrounds. I myself am Catholic, and nevertheless CLU has always felt like home. In addition, although tuition is very expensive, I have funded my entire education through the many scholarships they have. In this way, I view this institution as promising, and exciting no matter if your parents can fund your education or not, anything is possible. Right now for instance, I am only 8,000 in debt and I promised my parents I would fund my own education. All I can say is, come to CLU and meet the amazing community!... Read 1,167 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $24,065

• SAT range 1090-1290

• Cleveland, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.46 out of 5  246 reviews

Junior: I initially chose the CIA because I had grown up knowing about it and the accomplishments of its students, as my father’s employer had close connections to school alumni. I became further interested in CIA and art/design-based career paths while in my freshman year of high school. Later on, I would participate in the CIA Pre-College Program which cemented my love for the school as well as the surrounding community which includes small businesses, novelty shops, and some of the best restaurants in Cleveland! Overall my favorite aspect of CIA and the academic courses I have taken so far is the professional and hands-on experience that is essential to so much of my course material and course requirements. I feel that this has helped me prepare for and better understand my current and future career objectives and will be necessary for growing and sustaining my creative career.... Read 246 reviews

• grade C minus

• Acceptance rate 66%

• Net price $31,448

• SAT range 1040-1270

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  5,647 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 5,647 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $50,991

• SAT range 1450-1570

• Nashville, TN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.42 out of 5  1,729 reviews

Freshman: When I first visited Tennessee State University, it made me change my perspective on college in general. Because of the tour, my mind was then set on an HBCU (Historically Black College University) The way they embodied and embraced family at the school, made me more comfortable with my decision on going. I recently just experienced orientation there in June, and I can definitely say it made me more confident with leaving home behind. Honestly, there’s nothing I would change except maybe the distance away from home in Texas. Other than that, Tennessee State is truly the new home for me!... Read 1,729 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,880

• SAT range —

• Carrollton, GA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  2,764 reviews

Other: Success starts at the University of West Georgia! Just like Raequon Jones, alumni from UWG who is a registered nurse working at Emory in Atlanta. A major in Health and Community Wellness will allow me to turn my passion for helping people into a lifelong, rewarding career. When touring the campus, I instantly felt at home. I could feel the difference in the school and the students. Given that the people I saw were staying at school during break while their peers went home, everyone remaining on campus seemed truly delighted to be there. When I looked around, I saw people I could imagine myself befriending and spending time with, again making UWG a great fit for me.... Read 2,764 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $15,296

• SAT range 940-1130