2022 Top Public Universities in America

The Top Public Universities ranking is based on rigorous analysis of academic, admissions, financial, and student life data from the U.S. Department of Education along for millions of reviews from students and alumni. The ranking compares over 500 public colleges and state universities. This year's rankings have reduced the weight of ACT/SAT scores to reflect a general de-emphasis on test scores in the college admissions process. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

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Online categories are primarily based on the number of majors that can be completed online. For more information view the college's Niche profile or visit the college's website.

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A critical mass of the student body falls within the specified group, low and middle income students pay a reasonable net price, the school participates in tuition relief programs for veterans, and the school's overall Niche Grade is above a B-.

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Niche User: It's a blessing to go to any college, but especially UCLA. I have met some of the most empathetic, brilliant, and truly inspirational people on campus. The students are generally very friendly and down-to-earth. I've thoroughly enjoyed all my professors this quarter. Classes are rigorous, and some are tough. Yet, succeeding in them simply requires a set schedule, discipline, and effort. Make sure to attend office hours and review sessions! Remember God put you in this school for a reason. Do your part, and everything will turn out fine!...Read 5,277 Reviews
#1 Top Public Universities in America.
University of California - Los Angeles
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
LOS ANGELES, CA,
5277 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Niche User says It's a blessing to go to any college, but especially UCLA. I have met some of the most empathetic, brilliant, and truly inspirational people on campus. The students are generally very friendly and....
Read 5277 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 14%,
Net Price: $16,474,
SAT Range: 1300-1530,
Will You Get In?Compare
Freshman: The University of Michigan - Ann Arbor offers many amazing things for college students. First, the campus is naturally beautiful with many events and organizations taking place the first few weeks within central campus and even more on the diag. This campus is not only beautiful but also offers many spots to sit with your friends and study. Whether that be swinging in a hammock under some of the trees or sitting over by Ingalls Mall. Furthermore, the professors care for their students and find time to listen to advice and questions often asked by students. This allows for students to have a voice in some of the things they learn, how the class is conducted and allows for them to better understand the material. The University also has a very diverse and amazing social life in which there is something for everyone. Student Government, feeding squirrels, and even intermural sports, you can even create your own club if there isn't one that fits you!...Read 4,402 Reviews
#2 Top Public Universities in America.
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
ANN ARBOR, MI,
4402 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says The University of Michigan - Ann Arbor offers many amazing things for college students. First, the campus is naturally beautiful with many events and organizations taking place the first few weeks....
Read 4402 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 26%,
Net Price: $17,832,
SAT Range: 1340-1520,
Will You Get In?Compare
Alum: I really enjoyed my experience at UVA. Not only did I make more lifelong friends, I branched out and took the first few steps towards becoming an adult. I got a job, and for the first time in the life, I had to balance the stress of a job and schoolwork. Talk about adulthood! Not only does UVA have amazing places for students to study, they also have an arousing nightlife if you just want to take the night off. The Corner was always my favorite place to hangout because it contained my favorite restaurants: Bodo's Bagels ( I normally got the sausage and egg on plain bagel), Roots (I normally got the El Jeffe), and The White Spot (their signature burger is de-lish)! If I could go bac to undergrad, I would not do anything different. I had so much fun at UVA, and I had awesome friends that I made memories with...Read 2,282 Reviews
#3 Top Public Universities in America.
University of Virginia
4 Year,
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA,
2282 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I really enjoyed my experience at UVA. Not only did I make more lifelong friends, I branched out and took the first few steps towards becoming an adult. I got a job, and for the first time in the....
Read 2282 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 23%,
Net Price: $19,043,
SAT Range: 1320-1510,
Will You Get In?Compare
Sponsored
Junior: Behold the Green and Gold! Norfolk State University is a 4 year historically Black college that is known for its immaculate STEM and athletic programs. It has a very rich and diverse culture within its student body campus. This school is located in the Norfolk/ Hampton Roads area and is the highlight of Norfolk's education system. As a student at Norfolk State, you can always expect to be doing something on campus. The Spartan tradition offers daily activities during the day that are inclusive for all types of students. This type of learning environment offers hands-on and top of the line resources such as the new Writing Center and the Spartan Sucess center. The main goal for the students of Norfolk State is to create professional individuals to become leaders in the world. Therefore, If you are looking for a school with diversity, culture, and tradition; then, Norfolk State is for you!...Read 1,476 Reviews
Sponsored Result, Norfolk State University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NORFOLK, VA,
1476 Niche users give it an average review of 3.5 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Behold the Green and Gold! Norfolk State University is a 4 year historically Black college that is known for its immaculate STEM and athletic programs. It has a very rich and diverse culture within....
Read 1476 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: C+,
Acceptance Rate: 91%,
Net Price: $15,657,
SAT Range: 840-1020,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Sophomore: Georgia Institute of Technology gives its students an incredible, quality education. I love this place! First, the opportunities that the name "Georgia Tech" brings to its students are invaluable, and cannot be compared to any other institution. Many of my colleagues simply received interviews and offers solely because of the name on their resume. Its also important to mention how great the professors and staff are here, as well...Further, the community is awesome. I have met and will continue to meet incredible minds. There are so many different people and groups here that everyone will find a place. The friends that I have made here I hold close to my heart. ...Also, I want to mention its location. Atlanta is truly a beautiful city with many things to do after a long days of studying. There's the Coca-cola factory, Ponce City Market, and much more.Read 2,092 Reviews
#4 Top Public Universities in America.
Georgia Institute of Technology
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
ATLANTA, GA,
2092 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Georgia Institute of Technology gives its students an incredible, quality education. I love this place! First, the opportunities that the name "Georgia Tech" brings to its students are invaluable,...Further, the community is awesome. I have met and will continue to meet incredible minds. There are so many different people and groups here that everyone will find a place. The friends that I have...Also, I want to mention its location. Atlanta is truly a beautiful city with many things to do after a long days of studying. There's the Coca-cola factory, Ponce City Market, and much more..
Read 2092 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 21%,
Net Price: $17,410,
SAT Range: 1370-1530,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
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 460 Reviews
#5 Top Public Universities in America.
United States Military Academy at West Point
4 Year,
WEST POINT, NY,
460 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says 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....
Read 460 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 12%,
SAT Range: 1210-1440,
Will You Get In?Compare
Senior: UNC Chapel-Hill is definitely challenging academically, but overall an excellent institution! Despite lots of challenges with the COVID-19 year (part of my sophomore spring and entire junior year), I was able to complete most of my major, and will finish school on-time. Met some excellent professors in the EXSS department who truly care about my learning and success as a student, and was afforded the opportunity to begin research in the MOTION Institute, specifically regarding ACL reconstruction as an undergraduate RA, even in my senior year, when many told me it would be 'too late' to start. UNC also is close to the Newman Center for Catholic students, which is very welcoming and hosts weekly Wednesday night dinners as part of a social get-together for like-minded undergraduates - set-up, cooking, and cleaning all done by students!...Read 2,490 Reviews
#6 Top Public Universities in America.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
4 Year,
CHAPEL HILL, NC,
2490 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says UNC Chapel-Hill is definitely challenging academically, but overall an excellent institution! Despite lots of challenges with the COVID-19 year (part of my sophomore spring and entire junior year), I....
Read 2490 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 25%,
Net Price: $10,038,
SAT Range: 1280-1490,
Will You Get In?Compare
Sophomore: There's a reason the University of Florida is the top public university in the state. The academics are unbeatable, athletics are well-rounded, the campus is beautiful, and community and experience of attending UF is amazing. People will say there is nothing to do in Gainesville, but because it is predominantly college town, there's a lot to do catered specifically to college students, you just need to know where to look for it! There's a lot of beautiful trails and springs in the area if you like exploring nature as well. Lots of local restaurants and businesses located within close proximity to campus, and many walkable from campus. The student body is highly ambitious and involved, so you'll have no trouble finding people to study with or with similar interests. Overall, the University of Florida is one of the best public universities in the state and nation, and all the hard work put into getting in is worth it!...Read 7,682 Reviews
#7 Top Public Universities in America.
University of Florida
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
GAINESVILLE, FL,
7682 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says There's a reason the University of Florida is the top public university in the state. The academics are unbeatable, athletics are well-rounded, the campus is beautiful, and community and experience....
Read 7682 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 31%,
Net Price: $10,075,
SAT Range: 1290-1460,
Will You Get In?Compare
Freshman: UC Berkeley has a variety of student experiences academic opportunities. In terms of common/popular majors, seeing from my first year, many students study Computer Science/EECS, Data Science, Psychology, or Pre-Haas (Business). ...However, one of the biggest disadvantages of the Berkeley/Bay Area area is the high cost of living. In addition, UC Berkeley only guarantees dorm housing for first-years, so figuring out arrangements for off-campus housing in the future is a burden many students have to face early into their college experience. But as long as you stay on top of your research, and keep in mind your budget, that can be overcome. ...Overall, the key to success at UC Berkeley is awareness. Be grounded in your goals and taking the initiative to reach them!Read 4,184 Reviews
#8 Top Public Universities in America.
University of California - Berkeley
4 Year,
BERKELEY, CA,
4184 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says UC Berkeley has a variety of student experiences academic opportunities. In terms of common/popular majors, seeing from my first year, many students study Computer Science/EECS, Data Science,...However, one of the biggest disadvantages of the Berkeley/Bay Area area is the high cost of living. In addition, UC Berkeley only guarantees dorm housing for first-years, so figuring out arrangements...Overall, the key to success at UC Berkeley is awareness. Be grounded in your goals and taking the initiative to reach them!.
Read 4184 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 17%,
Net Price: $19,329,
SAT Range: 1310-1530,
Will You Get In?Compare
Junior: UT Austin is such an amazing campus and school! It is unique in that its students appreciate and are accepting of people from different backgrounds, beliefs, and culture. The school is located in downtown Austin where there are lots of opportunities to network. The curriculum can be rigorous and it can be difficult to connect with teachers due to larger class sizes, but if you are able to then the experiences are worth it. The only uncontrollable downsides are the increasing housing costs and the Texas heat during the fall. The school could also improve on its commitment to diversity. But for the quality of education I have received at its cost, I know I chose the right place...Read 6,333 Reviews
#9 Top Public Universities in America.
University of Texas - Austin
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
AUSTIN, TX,
6333 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says UT Austin is such an amazing campus and school! It is unique in that its students appreciate and are accepting of people from different backgrounds, beliefs, and culture. The school is located in....
Read 6333 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 32%,
Net Price: $16,892,
SAT Range: 1210-1470,
Will You Get In?Compare
Junior: William & Mary is an amazing school, and I feel so lucky to be surrounded by so many wonderful peers, professors, and others who have made my experience so great. For people that don't want to go to very big school but also don't want to feel like everyone knows everyone, it's a great size. Additionally, it's a school with a very active student body that is both very caring and involved in trying to constantly better the W&M community. If you are someone who cares a lot about learning but also wants to make some amazing friends and live in an area with a lot of really interesting history, I definitely suggest looking into studying here! One of my favorite things about W&M is how many student groups, of all different types and sizes, exist on campus; I really do think that there's something for everyone. Furthermore, the vast majority of my professors have been fantastic and extremely dedicated to helping students succeed in their courses...Read 1,539 Reviews
#10 Top Public Universities in America.
William & Mary
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
WILLIAMSBURG, VA,
1539 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says William & Mary is an amazing school, and I feel so lucky to be surrounded by so many wonderful peers, professors, and others who have made my experience so great. For people that don't want to go to....
Read 1539 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 42%,
Net Price: $18,588,
SAT Range: 1300-1490,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Senior: I really enjoyed my time here, the vast majority of my professors were attentive and cared about students on a personal level! There are a large number of extracurricular activities available, and there is lots of support in looking for graduate programs and career options as well. However, there is not a whole lot of diversity on campus which may make some students uncomfortable. Although everyone I know is very welcoming to diverse students, it may be uncomfortable to be in an environment where there aren't others that can relate to your experience on a deeper level...Read 5,515 Reviews
#11 Top Public Universities in America.
University of Georgia
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
ATHENS, GA,
5515 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says I really enjoyed my time here, the vast majority of my professors were attentive and cared about students on a personal level! There are a large number of extracurricular activities available, and....
Read 5515 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 48%,
Net Price: $16,580,
SAT Range: 1250-1460,
Will You Get In?Compare
Freshman: UW-Madison is a great college! I personally enjoyed the social scene and the beautiful campus. Not only are there multiple course options, but most of the courses offered are extremely interesting. The classes can be time-consuming and difficult depending on your major of study. The hard-work pays off though. Professors are really understanding, especially because of the current pandemic. Madison has a great support system for their students and offers really great resources for tutoring. There is also a great variety of extracurriculars at Wisconsin. If you are interested in joining a fraternity or a sorority, rest assured that Madison's Greek life is very active. If Greek life isn't your style, there are still plenty of other ways to make friends and have fun. Weekends are always a good time at Madison. The bar scene on-campus is fun as well. A good rule of thumb for future UW-Madison students is "Work hard, play hard." Attending UW-Madison will produce a fun college experience!...Read 3,260 Reviews
#12 Top Public Universities in America.
University of Wisconsin
4 Year,
MADISON, WI,
3260 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says UW-Madison is a great college! I personally enjoyed the social scene and the beautiful campus. Not only are there multiple course options, but most of the courses offered are extremely interesting.....
Read 3260 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 57%,
Net Price: $14,030,
SAT Range: 1260-1460,
Will You Get In?Compare
Senior: I love Virginia Tech! The college has a national brand and solid academics at a very reasonable in-state tuition rate. The Hokie Stone buildings give a very traditional vibe, while the attitude of the school is to push the limits technologically and otherwise. The engineering program is great, the athletics are competitive, and the college is both disability conscious and military friendly. The campus and surrounding areas are beautiful, and the people here are amazing. It is very easy to find great friends, whether you are more interested in physical fitness, gaming, studying, or playing Quiditch, trust me, there is a group on campus for you!...Read 3,970 Reviews
#13 Top Public Universities in America.
Virginia Tech
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
BLACKSBURG, VA,
3970 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says I love Virginia Tech! The college has a national brand and solid academics at a very reasonable in-state tuition rate. The Hokie Stone buildings give a very traditional vibe, while the attitude of....
Read 3970 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 66%,
Net Price: $20,247,
SAT Range: 1170-1370,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Freshman: The University of Illinois is a great school that has so much to offer its students, especially those looking to go into Engineering or any STEM field. The campus is lively and the Champaign-Urbana area has enough to keep you entertained and is only a short 2-hour drive from Chicago. Where the school falls short is the incompetence of its administration which fails to properly address student demands among many other shortcomings. For instance while the administration gets a pay raise, the students body has to pay higher tuition while receiving almost no benefit back. Don't get me wrong this school is great and if you're set on attending, don't let that deter you. But this school could be even better with some change!...Read 4,714 Reviews
#14 Top Public Universities in America.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
URBANA, IL,
4714 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says The University of Illinois is a great school that has so much to offer its students, especially those looking to go into Engineering or any STEM field. The campus is lively and the Champaign-Urbana....
Read 4714 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 63%,
Net Price: $13,517,
SAT Range: 1200-1460,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Freshman: This school has amazing scenery, which is vital for motivation to study. The environment here is friendly, and the professors truly care about students. The student resource building is especially helpful and welcoming, with free tutoring, a LGBTQIA+ space, printers, a women’s center, and other clubs! I would like to see more accessible resources to Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), as many students are not able to receive the mental health treatment they need. The waitlist for appointments is nearly 3 months, which is not ideal for struggling college students. Overall, this school is great for those who admire a sunny/ cool environment, and a welcoming space...Read 4,530 Reviews
#15 Top Public Universities in America.
University of California - Santa Barbara
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
SANTA BARBARA, CA,
4530 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says This school has amazing scenery, which is vital for motivation to study. The environment here is friendly, and the professors truly care about students. The student resource building is especially....
Read 4530 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 37%,
Net Price: $17,223,
SAT Range: 1230-1460,
Will You Get In?Compare
Senior: I love that is is close to home and has several opportunities to connect with other students with similar interests! For my major in particular the degree courses were less focused on material and more focused on real world application. I loved this because I have heard other college students complain about how what they are learning will not be used in their actual careers...Read 4,829 Reviews
#16 Top Public Universities in America.
Purdue University
4 Year,
WEST LAFAYETTE, IN,
4829 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says I love that is is close to home and has several opportunities to connect with other students with similar interests! For my major in particular the degree courses were less focused on material and....
Read 4829 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 67%,
Net Price: $12,294,
SAT Range: 1170-1420,
Will You Get In?Compare
Freshman: Being part of the Aggie family has been a great experience! Every Aggie I have met so far has been very kind, supportive, and happy to help each other out. Texas A&M has a very useful app, so I am always able to tell when the next bus is coming or where my classes are and what the best route to take to them is from my apartment. There is also food close by, both in and out of the university, and a lot of options to choose from. I have had an amazing experience, and while I would appreciate it if they increased the security for the dorms and apartments on campus, I think coming to A&M is one of the best decisions I have made...Read 7,272 Reviews
#17 Top Public Universities in America.
Texas A&M University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
COLLEGE STATION, TX,
7272 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Being part of the Aggie family has been a great experience! Every Aggie I have met so far has been very kind, supportive, and happy to help each other out. Texas A&M has a very useful app, so I am....
Read 7272 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 63%,
Net Price: $19,906,
SAT Range: 1160-1380,
Will You Get In?Compare
Junior: Florida state has a beautiful and diversified campus. They have so many opportunities for students all of interests. Most of the professors are so understanding. I have a chronic illness and have had a great experience with professors here. FSU is also great about inclusion and making everyone feel welcome. They have a zero-tolerance policy for any behaviors that hurt others. I’ve made so many life-long friends here. Because it’s a big university, you have people coming from all over. It’s so nice to meet people like you, and different. I would definitely recommend this university to anyone with passion. FSU is a huge sports school and the school sprint is phenomenal and contagious!...Read 7,298 Reviews
#18 Top Public Universities in America.
Florida State University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
TALLAHASSEE, FL,
7298 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Florida state has a beautiful and diversified campus. They have so many opportunities for students all of interests. Most of the professors are so understanding. I have a chronic illness and have had....
Read 7298 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 36%,
Net Price: $12,815,
SAT Range: 1220-1350,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Alum: I'm a student graduated in 2019. After graduating 2 years, I realized how great our university is. To be honest, I miss UC Irvine badly. Our campus is extremely beautiful, safe and clean, and there are unlimited opportunities there for you to discover, whether academic research projects or entertainment activities. Our professors are great, intelligent and amiable! They do care students and trying to help us as much as possible. Moreover, UCI also has abundant resources around interdisciplinary subject such as Human-Computer Interaction, and I've done two different research projects there with best professors in this area! Overall speaking, I absolutely love UCI and the 4 years I've spent in here is amazing and unforgettable. I spent my best youth in this best school!...Read 4,013 Reviews
#19 Top Public Universities in America.
University of California - Irvine
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
IRVINE, CA,
4013 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I'm a student graduated in 2019. After graduating 2 years, I realized how great our university is. To be honest, I miss UC Irvine badly. Our campus is extremely beautiful, safe and clean, and there....
Read 4013 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 30%,
Net Price: $13,106,
SAT Range: 1230-1430,
Will You Get In?Compare
Senior: Penn State University Park has been an incredible overall experience! I cannot say enough about the opportunities here. From greek life, to classes, to the numerous clubs and organizations. I truly have had the most incredible experience. THON sets this school apart and I would recommend to anyone coming to Penn State to get involved as either an organization member or on the committee side. I really feel as though my experience at Penn State is one I could not have had anywhere else, because of THON. I have be given the chance to find something I am passionate about, while sharpening my leadership skills. The culture and school spirit at Penn State is one of a kind. Happy Valley really is the happiest place on earth!...Read 7,162 Reviews
#20 Top Public Universities in America.
Penn State
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
UNIVERSITY PARK, PA,
7162 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says Penn State University Park has been an incredible overall experience! I cannot say enough about the opportunities here. From greek life, to classes, to the numerous clubs and organizations. I truly....
Read 7162 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 56%,
Net Price: $26,151,
SAT Range: 1160-1360,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Alum: NCSU is great university if you like a campus that is large and diverse! Your learning experience is enhanced as most of the professors hold doctorates. You are challenged as some of the classes are large, and your syllabus becomes your life line! The professors are really good at keeping their office hours and will help as long as they can see you are trying your best. If they have a teacher's assistant they can help you find tutoring services which are awesome. The opportunities are endless when it comes to networking! Overall, NCSU is a great university to build a strong education foundation!...Read 3,242 Reviews
#21 Top Public Universities in America.
North Carolina State University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
RALEIGH, NC,
3242 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says NCSU is great university if you like a campus that is large and diverse! Your learning experience is enhanced as most of the professors hold doctorates. You are challenged as some of the classes are....
Read 3242 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 46%,
Net Price: $14,600,
SAT Range: 1230-1410,
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Freshman: Even before I committed to The Ohio State University, they offered numerous programs that I can apply to which would help me become well-verse in OSU's staff and faculty, my major (Engineering), and so much more. They also provided me an OSU cite where I can search for scholarships to help pay for college. Now that I am committed to OSU, the possibilities to having new experiences and opportunities are endless. The only reason why I didn't give OSU 5 stars is because I haven't even stepped foot on the campus yet! But so far, they seem very welcoming and supportive...Read 5,533 Reviews
#22 Top Public Universities in America.
The Ohio State University
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4 Year,
COLUMBUS, OH,
5533 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Even before I committed to The Ohio State University, they offered numerous programs that I can apply to which would help me become well-verse in OSU's staff and faculty, my major (Engineering), and....
Read 5533 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 68%,
Net Price: $18,884,
SAT Range: 1210-1430,
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Freshman: If you're looking for a university with the perfect academic and social balance, then UCD is definitely the right fit for you. As an international student and being so far away from home, I was really nervous about fitting in. However, the university does a great job with creating the perfect atmosphere for students who are from different cultures and backgrounds where they can feel at home. There are clubs and numerous student associations that are very inclusive and people from different ethnicities join.For me personally, I like the quarter system better because it pushes you to stay on top of your studies by reviewing the lessons you take the day they are taught. Otherwise, you fall behind and it becomes a cycle. I feel like with semester schools you can afford to slack off and that can later become a habit. All in all, I"m very glad I chose to go to UCD and it has made moving so far away from home worth it!...Read 4,767 Reviews
#23 Top Public Universities in America.
University of California - Davis
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4 Year,
DAVIS, CA,
4767 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says If you're looking for a university with the perfect academic and social balance, then UCD is definitely the right fit for you. As an international student and being so far away from home, I was....
Read 4767 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 46%,
Net Price: $17,026,
SAT Range: 1160-1400,
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#24 Top Public Universities in America.
Colorado School of Mines
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4 Year,
GOLDEN, CO,
924 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Mines is a great school! Golden is beautiful and you are always surrounded by mountains. The school is very tough, so be ready to work! Everyone there is very supportive and encouraging though,....
Read 924 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 53%,
Net Price: $27,675,
SAT Range: 1270-1440,
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Junior: I'm a recent transfer student to the University of Minnesota and I absolutely love it compared to my previous university. The big thing going for the University of Minnesota is that it is located in a the metro area which means that it has lots of opportunities. Whether that be just things to do or possible internships. With that being said, however, since it is located in the metro area, this means that campus safety is not the best. You feel pretty safe on campus, but the minute you step into dinkytown (or just off campus in general) it definitely isn't as safe. Besides safety, almost everything else I've been able to experience has been great!...Read 4,540 Reviews
#25 Top Public Universities in America.
University of Minnesota Twin Cities
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4 Year,
MINNEAPOLIS, MN,
4540 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says I'm a recent transfer student to the University of Minnesota and I absolutely love it compared to my previous university. The big thing going for the University of Minnesota is that it is located in....
Read 4540 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 70%,
Net Price: $17,729,
SAT Range: 1240-1460,
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Alum: I was dual enrolled at Bluefield College online for three years. I was able to graduate with my Associate's Degree at the age of 17. The value of the classes was superb, and for the most part, I liked all my classes and professors. The faculty was always quick to answer questions and rectify problems, and the professors were gracious, understanding, and willing to help in any way they could. I enjoyed my time at Bluefield Online and would certainly recommend it to others...Read 203 Reviews
Sponsored Result, Bluefield University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
BLUEFIELD, VA,
203 Niche users give it an average review of 3.4 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I was dual enrolled at Bluefield College online for three years. I was able to graduate with my Associate's Degree at the age of 17. The value of the classes was superb, and for the most part, I....
Read 203 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: C minus,
Acceptance Rate: 76%,
Net Price: $22,038,
SAT Range: 900-1070,
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Junior: Small campus, personable environment, beautiful setting and very diverse student body and educational experience. Campus is very safe, professional atmosphere and professors are always willing to assist students. The Harrisonburg city is very safe and easy accessibility and convenient for shopping for groceries, hospital and medical needs. City is very safe and has a small hometown feeling...Read 348 Reviews
Sponsored Result, Eastern Mennonite University
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4 Year,
HARRISONBURG, VA,
348 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Small campus, personable environment, beautiful setting and very diverse student body and educational experience. Campus is very safe, professional atmosphere and professors are always willing to....
Read 348 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Acceptance Rate: 72%,
Net Price: $22,766,
SAT Range: 980-1230,
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About This List

Where Niche Grades come from and how Niche calculates rankings.

2022 Top Public Universities in America

Best programs

Students

Social scene

Campus

Athletics

University of California - Los Angeles

University of California - Los Angeles

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

University of Virginia

University of Virginia

Norfolk State University

Sponsored Result, Norfolk State University

Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Institute of Technology

United States Military Academy at West Point

United States Military Academy at West Point

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

University of Florida

University of Florida

University of California - Berkeley

University of California - Berkeley

University of Texas - Austin

University of Texas - Austin

William & Mary

William & Mary

University of Georgia

University of Georgia

University of Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin

Virginia Tech

Virginia Tech

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

University of California - Santa Barbara

University of California - Santa Barbara

Purdue University

Purdue University

Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University

Florida State University

Florida State University

University of California - Irvine

University of California - Irvine

Penn State

Penn State

North Carolina State University

North Carolina State University

The Ohio State University

The Ohio State University

University of California - Davis

University of California - Davis

Colorado School of Mines

Colorado School of Mines

University of Minnesota Twin Cities

University of Minnesota Twin Cities

Bluefield University

Sponsored Result, Bluefield University

Eastern Mennonite University

Sponsored Result, Eastern Mennonite University