2018 Top Public Universities in America

Best Colleges

755 results

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
4 Year
Ann Arbor, MI
3,938
1 Top Public Universities in America
Alum: The University of Michigan's motto is "Leaders and Best" and that's exactly what this school provides and produces. It provides the best professors, courses and college experiences and produces innovative leaders. My experience at this institution allowed for academic and personal growth, which has embedded quite a zealous spirit within me, especially in regard to the achievement of my future aspirations. I can't thank this school enough. To conclude, I recommend the University of Michigan to anyone willing to work hard, expand their mind and anyone who wishes to fulfil their dreams!
Read 3,938 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
29% Acceptance Rate
$16,107 Net Price
1310-1500 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
University of Virginia
4 Year
Charlottesville, VA
2,067
2 Top Public Universities in America
Sophomore: I never thought that I would love college this much! The University of Virginia is AMAZING. I have learned a great deal from each of my professors. (I recommend using ratemyprofessor and thecourseform to help you choose them). I actually enjoy going to classes that aren't based on regurgitating information but processing it and actually learning. Additionally, with thousands of clubs, there are plenty of ways to get involved. On another note, there are many stereotypes of people who come to the University, but I promise that not all of us are preppy, rich, and white, though a good portion is. The only problems I have with UVA are the prices of tuition and the honor code. Tuition is expensive and instead of giving grants UVA sometimes gives a lot of loans. Although I love the honor code and what it stands for, it seems to target minorities and foreign students.
Read 2,067 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
30% Acceptance Rate
$15,945 Net Price
1240-1460 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Georgia Institute of Technology
4 Year
Atlanta, GA
1,892
3 Top Public Universities in America
Sophomore: The application process is done in such a way that students that not only have academic prowess but also several other talents and passions makes this campus a truly diverse experience. There are a lot of philanthropic opportunities, as well as many clubs that give leadership lessons in whatever the student desires. Because Georgia Tech is a world-class campus, the opportunities offered to the students are many and are also well-funded for those who do not have a lot of money themselves. Because of this, over half of the student body participates in a program of campus before they graduate, which will normally be things like an internship, co-op, or studying abroad. The professors at this institute are extremely knowledgable in what they teach and most make an effort to meet the student where they need in order to further their academic progress. Overall, everyone on campus strives for greatness and bringing something into the world that helps them accomplish their dreams. Go Jackets!
Read 1,892 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
26% Acceptance Rate
$13,340 Net Price
1320-1500 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
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University of California - Los Angeles
4 Year
Los Angeles, CA
4,643
4 Top Public Universities in America
Freshman: The University of California, Los Angeles is a premier university that offers not only quality academic instruction, but also a plethora of opportunities to apply in real life whatever is picked up in lessons; this includes internship and undergraduate research prospects. UCLA boasts one of the largest and the most diverse student bodies in USA, and structures its funds in a very planned and careful manner to ensure that the student has the best experience while on campus. With Hollywood just down a few miles and the Santa Monica beach around, one can expect pleasant surprises almost every time! Overall, I feel proud to be a part of this great dream which is making significant contributions in making this world a better place. I hope I can be of service to the society of people in UCLA. All said, Go Bruins!
Read 4,643 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
18% Acceptance Rate
$14,236 Net Price
1160-1470 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Virginia Tech
4 Year
Blacksburg, VA
3,542
5 Top Public Universities in America
Niche User: Virginia Tech is an ideal institution for new opportunities and growth. There is such a huge amount of school spirit and pride for being a Hokie with the students, which I have never genuinely heard or seen from other institutions! Campus/student life is notably wonderful, and the majority of the students are incredibly lively and welcoming. There are so many different people on campus, and they all have their own amazing passions. The institution provides exposure to many experiences to explore like clubs, GobblerFest, athletics and football games, dorm activities, parties, hiking trails, and even checking out scenic spots on campus and throughout the town. From what I've already experienced through campus visits as a prospective Freshman for Fall 2018, I'm so stoked to fully experience and indulge in everything about my new second home!
Read 3,542 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
71% Acceptance Rate
$17,190 Net Price
1100-1320 SAT Range
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University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
4 Year
Chapel Hill, NC
2,212
6 Top Public Universities in America
Sophomore: UNC is a special place which I am proud to call my home. The school is large and diverse enough to find your niche, but is small enough to always see a familiar face when you're walking across campus. The courses here are challenging, but engaging. The support system of students and faculty is outstanding; I have never felt stranded at any point while I've been here. It also doesn't hurt that pretty much all of our athletic teams are successful (especially basketball)! My only complaint is that I didn't receive as much financial aid as I would have liked, but since I am an in-state student, the price is still manageable.
Read 2,212 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
27% Acceptance Rate
$10,077 Net Price
1210-1420 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
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University of California - Berkeley
4 Year
Berkeley, CA
3,785
7 Top Public Universities in America
Sophomore: Berkeley is just perfect balance between academics and fun! I have amazing professors in all of my classes and they never stress me out too much. It's rigorous enough to get me going but not up to the point where it is not enjoyable. I have plenty of time to destress and go crazy on frat row. Berkeley also provides very unique experiences with a campus ripe with freedom of self-expression. You meet all sorts of people. Also, Berkeley is the number 1 public university in the world so you are definitely getting your money's worth!
Read 3,785 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
17% Acceptance Rate
$17,160 Net Price
1270-1540 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
University of Texas - Austin
4 Year
Austin, TX
5,643
8 Top Public Universities in America
Junior: In one sentence:there.is.something.for.everyone! UT Austin is simply the best in making a large school feeling immediately smaller by the countless communities you can jump right into. From political to adventurous student organizations, to meeting the very brightest professors and students in your chosen field, you will never cease to be amazed by the unlimited amount of opportunities available to you. For instance, I am a double major in Government and International Relations and Global Studies and am continuously amazed at the amount of programs, events, lectures , courses, and books available just for students in those majors. Your college's department of Career Services will blow you away as well, they will provide any and all resources to ensure your success after graduation. Most of all, UT is a highly respected university in the state of Texas and beyond, a degree from UT will go a very long way! I highly recommend studying here.
Read 5,643 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
40% Acceptance Rate
$16,010 Net Price
1140-1410 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
College of William & Mary
4 Year
Williamsburg, VA
1,398
9 Top Public Universities in America
Sophomore: Thus far, my time at William and Mary has been absolutely wonderful. I love the student body, I find the campus gorgeous, and I consider Williamsburg to be a wonderfully unique college town. I'm also very much fascinated by all the history on and off campus, and love to build up my own reserve of fast facts about the campus. I have been blown away by the push to promote positive mental health at the school this past year, and I am excited to see what the future holds for the college. If you're considering applying here, I encourage you to come and see it in person. I fell in love with the school while on a walking tour a few summers back, and I hope you can as well. Above all (again, directed to prospective students), I wish you the best in your college search! Find a place that feels like home, because it will become just that.
Read 1,398 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
37% Acceptance Rate
$16,734 Net Price
1250-1470 SAT Range
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Southern Utah University
4 Year
Cedar City, UT
1,653
Senior: I love this school! I transferred from a different school and what a difference it's been. The professors really try to get to know you and they know your name by week two. They care very much about your education and you as a person. You can really connect with these professors. They make the lessons fun and interactive. The town is a great college town. There is so much to do outside here. Overall, this is a wonderful school!
Read 1,653 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
72% Acceptance Rate
$14,024 Net Price
890-1150 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
University of Wisconsin
4 Year
Madison, WI
2,924
10 Top Public Universities in America
Sophomore: I'm only through two years at the UW, but they've been awesome so far! Football season is great, really brings the city together, especially fresh off of an Orange Bowl win. It took some adjusting living away from my family, but I've made some great friends in Madison. I had a great roommate freshman year and have gotten involved in several clubs--cheese club, Badger Cru, Sconnie Sports Talk to name a few. One thing I would look to change is the emphasis that is placed on tests--I know it's unlikely to be changed, I just think it's tough for people, especially those who are bad test-takers, to have one test be 50% of their grade. Other than that, these two years have been great--go Badgers!
Read 2,924 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
53% Acceptance Rate
$15,874 Net Price
1200-1420 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
4 Year
Champaign, IL
4,214
11 Top Public Universities in America
Sophomore: UIUC is a great school with lots of options for everyone. There's always something new to do and see and the academics are nothing to complain about. I'm a physics major and some of our professors are simply fantastic! The only academic complaint I have is the intro math courses: unnecessarily competitive and disorganized. Other than that, I've never had a class I didn't enjoy. The physics department is particularly impressive, except for its distinct lack of coffee (it's time: get a cafe in/near Loomis already).
Read 4,214 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
60% Acceptance Rate
$16,683 Net Price
1285-1480 SAT Range
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University of Florida
4 Year
Gainesville, FL
6,891
12 Top Public Universities in America
Freshman: The University of Florida has provided me with the experience to not only growth in an academic perspective but also in my personal development. Through its rigorous academic elements and the high level of competition, this institution has allowed me to develop critical thinking skills that have made a difference in my everyday life. The diversity found in campus including clubs, greek life, and ethnicity have change the way that I perceived my community and has let me to become more involved with my surroundings. Although there's always room for improvement, I believe the University of Florida provides every student in campus with a great opportunity to achieve their goals and continue their path in striving for excellence. I will forever be grateful to be a part of the GATOR NATION!
Read 6,891 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
46% Acceptance Rate
$14,761 Net Price
1180-1370 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
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Colorado School of Mines
4 Year
Golden, CO
817
13 Top Public Universities in America
Freshman: Colorado school of Mines is a home. The engineering academics are unrivaled by any other public university, the environment is comfortable and beautiful, it’s the perfect place for any engineer major looking for a real challenge while still making the best of life. The amount of clubs and activities offered is unreal and unmatched. The campus is picture perfect, the admin are kind and really try their best to make sure you’re coming in prepared and are willing to help with any issues. The athletic teams are excellent and a good time. It’s an amazing place to be if you’re looking to be an engineer
Read 817 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
40% Acceptance Rate
$25,097 Net Price
1250-1420 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
University of Georgia
4 Year
Athens, GA
4,995
14 Top Public Universities in America
Sophomore: This is university is perfect for students hoping to have fun while at college. There are multiple avenues for one to de-stress, whether it be the exciting football games in Sanford Stadium or having a good time with friends at a Dawgs After Dark event. Academics meld well with the multitude of things to do in Athens. There is always something to do and always something that fits your taste. There are so many new faces on campus and you will for sure make lifelong friendships while at UGA! Overall, this university was perfect for someone like me: someone who wanted to focus on her studies but still have the opportunity to socialize and just have fun!
Read 4,995 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
54% Acceptance Rate
$14,956 Net Price
1140-1340 SAT Range
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Texas A&M University
4 Year
College Station, TX
6,353
15 Top Public Universities in America
Senior: This is a large school, however it feels small. The people are friendly and you often see people you know on campus. College Station is not the most interesting place, but it has everything you need. Game days in the fall as a student are incredible, there is nothing else quite like it! There are plenty of ways to get involved and find your niche, through clubs, organizations or Greek life. Most importantly, academics are great here. Programs are rigorous and the instructors are highly qualified. There are plenty of resources available to help you succeed. TAMU is also steeped in traditions that make it an incredibly unique college experience!
Read 6,353 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
67% Acceptance Rate
$15,455 Net Price
1070-1310 SAT Range
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Purdue University
4 Year
West Lafayette, IN
4,248
16 Top Public Universities in America
Junior: My experience at Purdue has been great! At Purdue, students are offered great opportunities to participate in research, student led organizations, and extra curricular activities on throughout the year. Because Purdue is a research university, students and faculty definitely can develop a rapport that fosters a students growth in obtaining certain knowledge and skills. Purdue also offers many great opportunities for students to develop leadership through becoming members of one of the hundreds organizations on campus. Lastly, Purdue students can attend many sports events whether it be for the school's football team or even an intramural team game. Purdue has may eateries and study spots so people can meet up for lunch or dinner then study for upcoming exams. Together, Purdue is a great school for people to cultivate connections and develop necessary leadership skills for their careers and in life.
Read 4,248 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
56% Acceptance Rate
$11,693 Net Price
1070-1320 SAT Range
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Penn State
4 Year
University Park, PA
6,407
17 Top Public Universities in America
Sophomore: Penn State is an amazing campus with a multitude of career paths to choose from. There are tons of possibilities that one can get involved in at Penn State through clubs, community involvement, or sports. As an engineer, I am very glad that I chose this particular school because our engineering department is one of the best in the United States, and the chances of finding a job upon graduation is quite high. There is one particular thing that I would like to see change in the future at Penn State and that particular change is with academic scholarships for students. Currently, Penn State only offers athletic scholarships at the main campus, and at branch campuses I was able to find out that they offer academic scholarships. There are particular scholarships offered through individual colleges at main, but for someone is graduates in the top percentage of their class there should be some sort of scholarship given. Overall, Penn State is a great school. We Are!
Read 6,407 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
56% Acceptance Rate
$25,055 Net Price
1090-1300 SAT Range
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Kean University
4 Year
Union, NJ
1,230
Junior: I am a first semester transfer student and so far i have really enjoyed my time here . Cannot beat the small class sizes and professor attention. Coming from Rutgers university i really appreciate that. Not as cutthroat as rutgers or other schools. I also actually like that each professor takes attendance and counts it as ten percent or more, of your grade. This encourages class attendance and pushes their students to do well. It is very possible to get a 4.0 if you show up to class and put in the effort, which for some classes requires less work than others. I gave 4/5 because of the parking situation although they are trying to improve this situation by adding across the street parking. Parking is available but you may need to walk a bit or take the shuttle from other parts of campus. I also received 150$ cougar dollars because i was taking a saturday course which is awesome and very helpful for a broke college students!
Read 1,230 Reviews
B-
Overall Niche Grade
74% Acceptance Rate
$16,164 Net Price
830-1010 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
University of California - Santa Barbara
4 Year
Santa Barbara, CA
4,190
18 Top Public Universities in America
Alum: I had a great experience attending UCSB! Professors, staff, and peers were all very supportive throughout my four years at this school. Courses were rigorous, but you learned a lot through the professors and the research being conducted. It is a very chill vibe considering you live next to the beach. Living on campus was great and made everything accessible, but living off campus in I.V. was great too since it's right next door to campus. The network created during undergrad and post graduation is amazing as well!
Read 4,190 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
36% Acceptance Rate
$15,149 Net Price
1120-1390 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
The Ohio State University
4 Year
Columbus, OH
4,902
19 Top Public Universities in America
Freshman: I have absolutely loved my time at Ohio State! When choosing a school my senior year of high school, I was very torn between OSU and another school. Ultimately, I knew Ohio State was the best fit for me, and it has way exceeded my expectations since arriving in August. The amount of school spirit everyone has is unlike anything I've ever experienced and everyone truly is just so happy to be a buckeye. The challenging coursework and excellent professors make Ohio State's academic experience one of a kind. My only complaint about my is experience is, my dorm is very old and lacks air conditioning and study spaces. But after the weather cools down it's not a problem! With alumni stretching to all ends of the Earth, I'm so thrilled to be part of the wonderful Ohio State community. Go bucks!
Read 4,902 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
54% Acceptance Rate
$17,971 Net Price
1160-1410 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
4 Year
Minneapolis, MN
4,015
20 Top Public Universities in America
Niche User: The University of Minnesota is a welcoming, lively, and beautiful university. They have amazing communication with the families of students and the students themselves. The campus looks like a campus that would be in a movie- absolutely stunning! The mixture of metropolitan landscape and wildlife and nature is perfect. You will never be bored at the University of Minnesota as there is always something to do, whether that be exploring downtown, going to a concert, or kayaking on one of Minnesota's thousands of lakes.
Read 4,015 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
44% Acceptance Rate
$16,242 Net Price
1180-1450 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Michigan State University
4 Year
East Lansing, MI
5,097
21 Top Public Universities in America
Junior: Heyyyyy, so let me tell you about MSU! Michigan State overall is a great school. The campus is very beautiful and spacious. The professors are nice and “most”of them genuinely care about you and how you perform in the classes. The food is okay nothing special, it gets very repetitive. The buses are pretty good, sometimes late but usually on time. Everyone on campus is overall pretty. Although their are sometimes some racial problems, that’s with every school. Overall MSU is a great school and should be one of your top choices!
Read 5,097 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
66% Acceptance Rate
$14,970 Net Price
990-1260 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
University of Washington
4 Year
Seattle, WA
3,930
22 Top Public Universities in America
Senior: The life is great and overall one of the best schools in Washington state. I love how divers the campus is. Has people from all different backgrounds and religions. There is everything there to explore their way of life. Even though there's not really a readily available "must see" list of places to visit on the campus, there is definitely one building you cannot avoid. And that's the Suzzalo library . Inside, you will find the largest book on campus, centuries upon centuries old. And if you venture to the reading room you will be in for a treat for this room is none other than the Hogwarts dining hall!
Read 3,930 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
45% Acceptance Rate
$10,068 Net Price
1120-1370 SAT Range
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University of Maryland - College Park
4 Year
College Park, MD
4,851
23 Top Public Universities in America
Senior: University of Maryland -College Park is one of the top universities for the science programs it has to offer. Given its high standards, the courses are also top notch. The campus life is also very lively. Faculty and Staff are very helpful to all the students and take special care of the students in need. The university is very diverse and accommodates for everyone. One of the best security feature they have are these emergency call booths where someone can press the emergency button and the campus police will be there under 90 seconds. For the people running away from danger, they can always see one emergency call booth from another. Overall the experience at University of Maryland has been amazing and would 100% recommend!
Read 4,851 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
48% Acceptance Rate
$15,757 Net Price
1210-1420 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
North Carolina State University
4 Year
Raleigh, NC
2,925
24 Top Public Universities in America
Junior: One thing that I love about North Carolina State University is the amount of diversity and school pride here on campus. The people here at State are so welcoming and friendly towards one another that it is easy to find someone to study with, party with, or just become friends with overall. I think NCSU has one of the best engineering and communication programs here on campus and they also have a lot of resources at our libraries and everywhere else on campus. Their database is incredible and the library has so much information for you to refer to when doing research or completing an essay. This University has a strong reputation of academic success as well competitive students, which is makes our school very exciting. Each student is engaged and passionate about something and NC State encourages that each student pursue those goals. I highly recommend NC State as a college to consider in your future!
Read 2,925 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
48% Acceptance Rate
$13,066 Net Price
1170-1350 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Clemson University
4 Year
Clemson, SC
2,955
25 Top Public Universities in America
Junior: As a transfer student, I was nervous about my upcoming experience at Clemson. I began to wonder from my previous year of college whether or not college was for me. However, within hours of starting Clemson I began to realize that college here was going to be great. My professors have embedded within me a love to read, and I have read more books that were not required by my classes, within my two years here, than I had in all of middle school and high school. Even though I did not focus on the social life at Clemson when I first started, I quickly was able to find friends from all backgrounds, some being from various clubs and fraternities, to those on the football team. College game day at Clemson is quite possibly the most exciting sports venue in the United States! Clemson has given me the ability to grow as a person, both academically and socially, and I see myself as being a better man since coming Clemson than I was two years ago before I enrolled here!
Read 2,955 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
51% Acceptance Rate
$17,797 Net Price
1150-1340 SAT Range
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1 of 31

2018 Top Public Universities in AmericaAbout this List

Best Programs

Students

Social Scene

Campus

Athletics

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

University of Virginia

Georgia Institute of Technology

University of California - Los Angeles

Virginia Tech

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

University of California - Berkeley

University of Texas - Austin

College of William & Mary

Southern Utah University

University of Wisconsin

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

University of Florida

Colorado School of Mines

University of Georgia

Texas A&M University

Purdue University

Penn State

Kean University

University of California - Santa Barbara

The Ohio State University

University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

Michigan State University

University of Washington

University of Maryland - College Park

North Carolina State University

Clemson University