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2021 Top Public Universities in AmericaAbout this List

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. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

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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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University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
4 Year
Ann Arbor, MI
Rating 3.9 out of 5 4,315 reviews
#1 Top Public Universities in America
Senior: Courses, professors, and student life at UM are all wonderful for the most part! There's nothing like getting a world-class education from instructors who are experts in their field on weekdays and enjoying a packed Michigan Stadium on Saturday's. No matter what you're trying to study, or even if you don't know what you want to learn about, there's a place for you here. UMich offers a diverse array of coursework and opportunities. Whether you want to launch a tech startup, tutor kids in the university's hospital system, or learn about Indigenous cultures in Nepal, Michigan has it all!
Read 4,315 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
23% Acceptance Rate
$17,357 Net Price
1340-1530 SAT Range
Will You Get In?Compare
University of California - Los Angeles
4 Year
Los Angeles, CA
Rating 3.94 out of 5 5,198 reviews
#2 Top Public Universities in America
Freshman: My first quarter at UCLA was not what I had dreamed it would be. However, the school is making the most of it! Traditional events are still held online to the best of their ability, and they offer many opportunities to socialize with others. There are many student organizations to join with interests in nearly everything. I was never drawn to Greek Life, but at UCLA, the sororities were very welcoming, and joining was the best decision I made this quarter. It was a gateway to meeting new people and making friends. In terms of academics, my professors were flexible with our schedules and empathized with us during this pandemic. The one thing that I would change, though, would be the tuition and fees. The payments are quite expensive for being online and not being able to use any of those resources in person. Overall, I do not regret my decision of attending UCLA and considering the circumstances, I enjoyed my first quarter!
Read 5,198 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
12% Acceptance Rate
$15,718 Net Price
1300-1530 SAT Range
Will You Get In?Compare
Georgia Institute of Technology
4 Year
Atlanta, GA
Rating 3.79 out of 5 2,069 reviews
#3 Top Public Universities in America
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 2,069 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
21% Acceptance Rate
$16,883 Net Price
1300-1510 SAT Range
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
University of Virginia
4 Year
Charlottesville, VA
Rating 3.87 out of 5 2,245 reviews
#4 Top Public Universities in America
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 2,245 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
24% Acceptance Rate
$17,579 Net Price
1340-1520 SAT Range
Will You Get In?Compare
United States Military Academy at West Point
4 Year
West Point, NY
Rating 3.63 out of 5 463 reviews
#5 Top Public Universities in America
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 463 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
12% Acceptance Rate
— Net Price
1160-1380 SAT Range
Will You Get In?Compare
University of California - Berkeley
4 Year
Berkeley, CA
Rating 3.67 out of 5 4,138 reviews
#6 Top Public Universities in America
Freshman: I am currently an out of state freshman at Berkeley over halfway through my second semester. I was wary of having high expectations of Berkeley and buying into the cultivated image of perfect inclusion, challenging and inspiring intellectualism, and care for social justice/activism. Even though I tried to manage my expectations, they were disappointed. THAT BEING SAID, I'm glad I am a student at Berkeley. It is the best and the worst, wonderful and terrible, and for me, that feels like a fairly accurate representation of how the world is today. If you would describe yourself as an idealistic person, yes, come to Berkeley! But be prepared to hold onto your values tightly.
Read 4,138 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
16% Acceptance Rate
$18,522 Net Price
1330-1530 SAT Range
Will You Get In?Compare
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
4 Year
Chapel Hill, NC
Rating 3.85 out of 5 2,439 reviews
#7 Top Public Universities in America
Sophomore: Going to UNC Chapel Hill was one of the best decisions I have ever made. For the first time in years, I felt comfortable being myself because I did not feel judged by others. The students are extremely welcoming and it did not take long for me to find friends. Although I did not know all of my suite mates upon moving in, we all quickly became best friends. There are countless resources available to the students, whether you need tutoring for certain classes, finding a job, community service opportunities, etc. Along with resources, there are many clubs for every hobby. In the fall, I joined a dance team called Kamikazi. I was ecstatic to have made the team because I had not had the chance to dance on a team for four years. Starting from the first practice, I felt right at home. No matter your interests, there is always a place for you at UNC Chapel Hill. The tight-knit community is positive, motivational, and, most of all, uplifting!
Read 2,439 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
23% Acceptance Rate
$10,085 Net Price
1310-1500 SAT Range
Will You Get In?Compare
William & Mary
4 Year
Williamsburg, VA
Rating 3.63 out of 5 1,525 reviews
#8 Top Public Universities in America
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 1,525 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
38% Acceptance Rate
$18,551 Net Price
1320-1510 SAT Range
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
University of Florida
4 Year
Gainesville, FL
Rating 3.87 out of 5 7,559 reviews
#9 Top Public Universities in America
Senior: Academically, UF is a great school. However, it is very competitive, and if you make it in, you will absolutely be pushed. I have found that the level of support you get from faculty really depends on your major--when I was in a large degree like biology, I felt left behind and replaceable (my current major is wildlife ecology and it is AMAZING). UF does have some great programs in place to help you succeed, but you are expected to pursue those on your own--no one will be checking in on you or holding your hand. Just like any big university, UF is a business--you are an academic and financial asset.
Professors here are brilliant, and most of them want to help you. There are fantastic study abroad opportunities, scholarship opportunities, and well-run extracurricular clubs. DON'T stay on campus or get a meal plan!
Read 7,559 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
37% Acceptance Rate
$10,457 Net Price
1310-1470 SAT Range
Will You Get In?Compare
University of Texas - Austin
4 Year
Austin, TX
Rating 3.95 out of 5 6,247 reviews
#10 Top Public Universities in America
Freshman: The Texas culture and Austin city vibes are very prominent at this university. There never seems to be a dull day since the city sights and diverse cuisine surround the campus at walking distance. And if it's a bit far, an Austin city electric scooter is definitely somewhere nearby as a fun alternative transportation method. The view of the Texas capital reminds Longhorns that this campus is a catalyst for change. The only qualm I have has to do with the small dorm rooms. But there are several apartment buildings near by that are top quality. And to make things even better, Austin bus transportation is free to UT Longhorns. If you are still hesitant about UT, take a tour of the campus or ask another current Longhorn about their experience to really get a sense of the community and lively energy I'm talking about!
Read 6,247 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
32% Acceptance Rate
$15,502 Net Price
1230-1480 SAT Range
Will You Get In?Compare
University of Georgia
4 Year
Athens, GA
Rating 3.96 out of 5 5,454 reviews
#11 Top Public Universities in America
Senior: The University of Georgia provides so many resources and outlets for students to grow their identity and passions. I love the atmosphere it provides for students to transition into the next stage of life with the tailgates, the athletics, the traditions, and the activities. Downtown Athens is a special place to many in the community, and it truly is like no other. This place draws the attention of those who enjoy food, sightseeing, and having fun. UGA is an incredible school with so many opportunities and genuine people. I have met some of my closest friends here, and I have also been able to challenge myself. The College of Education has pushed me to think beyond my comfort zone, and I am so thankful for the professors and experiences, especially study abroads! Something that I would love to see change is the diversity and integration of the Athens community with UGA students. It would be incredibly powerful for this community to unite and grow together while supporting one another!
Read 5,454 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
45% Acceptance Rate
$15,961 Net Price
1240-1420 SAT Range
Will You Get In?Compare
Virginia Tech
4 Year
Blacksburg, VA
Rating 3.96 out of 5 3,916 reviews
#12 Top Public Universities in America
Junior: I absolutely love Virgina Tech! It is a school that very diverse and inclusive. It does not matter what kind of field you are looking to into or from background you are from, Virginia is a home to all hokies and is the perfect university in allowing its student to reach their future goals with success. I am currently a junior at Virginia Tech with a major in biochemistry and a double minor in chemistry and philosophy in hopes to go into the medical field. I cannot stress enough how prepared I feel for whatever my future awaits. Virginia Tech offers academic rigor, no matter what major, that will prepare you for future endeavors, as well as amazing faculty who truly care about each and every student's success. The people I have met in my time at Tech have been absolutely amazing and I can definitely say that Tech has allowed me to makes friends that I will have for the rest of my life. There is no place like home, and there is no place like Virginia Tech. Go Hokies and Ut Prosim.
Read 3,916 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
70% Acceptance Rate
$18,449 Net Price
1180-1390 SAT Range
Will You Get In?Compare
University of Wisconsin
4 Year
Madison, WI
Rating 3.87 out of 5 3,196 reviews
#13 Top Public Universities in America
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 3,196 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
54% Acceptance Rate
$16,103 Net Price
1300-1480 SAT Range
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University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
4 Year
Champaign, IL
Rating 3.74 out of 5 4,644 reviews
#14 Top Public Universities in America
Alum: U of I is a great school for independent ambitious self-starters. If you seek academic support or nurturing faculty, look to your peers, as most profs teach to large lecture halls and rarely know students personally in the larger degree programs (Business, Engineering, etc. ) Made life-long friends at U of I - great people! Ambitious, hardworking, and high caliber.... U of I’s strong academic reputation is largely fueled by the highly selective nature of admissions, where top students produce top results for the school. Research is a priority for many of the profs.
Read 4,644 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
59% Acceptance Rate
$14,660 Net Price
1210-1470 SAT Range
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Purdue University
4 Year
West Lafayette, IN
Rating 3.78 out of 5 4,745 reviews
#15 Top Public Universities in America
Freshman: Becoming a Boilermaker this year has been all that I could have imagined. Although, some experiences are different due to Covid 19, I still feel like I am getting a memorable experience. Everyone that I've encountered have been incredibly kind and I've met many new friends. I also enjoy indulging in Purdue traditions. Jumping over the railroad tracks, doing the fountain run, and avoiding walking under the bell tower at all costs has made my experience worthwhile. I'm proud to become a Boilermaker!
Read 4,745 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
60% Acceptance Rate
$12,684 Net Price
1190-1440 SAT Range
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Colorado School of Mines
4 Year
Golden, CO
Rating 3.68 out of 5 905 reviews
#16 Top Public Universities in America
Sophomore: What I love most about CSM is its prestige. If you want to major in STEM this is the place to go. I have had great experiences with the professors and the community in general at Mines. In only two years Mines has not only molded me for the professional world, but for life as well.
At this school, it's okay and even cool to be a nerd. Being surrounded by brilliant people has helped me become who I really am. Not only is the academic side amazing but so is the recreational and the athletics side.
Our athletics are A1 and are extremely fun to take a study break and watch. The athletes on campus are also smart, just like you, so they aren't like jocks.
The location of the school is great, within walking distance from downtown Golden which is amazing!
Have no complaints besides the homework!
Read 905 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
53% Acceptance Rate
$26,856 Net Price
1160-1460 SAT Range
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Texas A&M University
4 Year
College Station, TX
Rating 4.01 out of 5 7,147 reviews
#17 Top Public Universities in America
Alum: I loved my time at TAMU. I won’t lie and say it was easy, but most of my classes really challenged me to become a BETTER student. I feel like I received a quality education and a lifetime of connections and support from fellow Aggies. The student experience is the best because there is a unique culture that thrives on tradition while accepting the new and diverse input from students. I wish I could do it all again!
Read 7,147 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
58% Acceptance Rate
$19,237 Net Price
1160-1390 SAT Range
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Penn State
4 Year
University Park, PA
Rating 3.86 out of 5 7,048 reviews
#18 Top Public Universities in America
Alum: The atmosphere at PennState is awesome. It is very much "work hard, play hard". There are some very interesting and unique courses available, and it is up to the student to make the most of their time there! The rec facilities/ gyms are excellent, and there are some really good group workout classes led by students. I loved going to these! Also, the campus is beautiful and walking to class is always a delight. There is a good variety of food at the dining halls, and they are cognizant about providing food for students with different dietary restrictions. It is the perfect college town- there is a lot to do downtown, but you are also not traversing through a big city just to get to your class.
Read 7,048 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
76% Acceptance Rate
$24,724 Net Price
1070-1310 SAT Range
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University of California - Santa Barbara
4 Year
Santa Barbara, CA
Rating 3.83 out of 5 4,494 reviews
#19 Top Public Universities in America
Alum: Santa Barbara was a dream! The location is beyond expectations, the facilities are well kept, the new library is beautiful and spacious and bike paths are plentiful. Plenty of delicious food options and a great variety of classes to take, both within major requirements and elective classes. I rated it 4 stars due to crowded and stuffy lecture halls and for the handful of professors I had that really seemed to not care due to their tenure and impending retirement. Other than that, most professors were very helpful and passionate about the classes they were teaching!
Read 4,494 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
30% Acceptance Rate
$16,767 Net Price
1230-1480 SAT Range
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North Carolina State University
4 Year
Raleigh, NC
Rating 3.8 out of 5 3,196 reviews
#20 Top Public Universities in America
Sophomore: NC State University is a very good school, especially if you are pursuing a career in STEM. There are lots of course options, majors, and minors to choose from and you can make as many appointments as you'd like to talk with your advisor about these classes and which ones would fit your schedule and plan to graduate the most. Furthermore, there are so many resources available to utilize such as the tutorial center which offers group tutoring, one on one tutoring, drop-in tutoring, a writing center, and more! There are also plenty of programs and certificates intended to help people who are trying to become more career-ready such as with mock interviews/resume building/finding opportunities, identifying a major that suits your interests, etc. I think that despite being a large school they give you opportunities to meet with professors or TAs via office hours or after class. Class registration can be a nightmare though, get there early and meet with your advisor before yours opens.
Read 3,196 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
45% Acceptance Rate
$14,958 Net Price
1250-1420 SAT Range
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The Ohio State University
4 Year
Columbus, OH
Rating 3.88 out of 5 5,433 reviews
#21 Top Public Universities in America
Freshman: My overall experience as a first-year has been interesting, especially since I haven’t been able to fully experience all the things this campus has to offer. One of the most beneficial resources OSU has provided me were peer mentors: I don’t think I’d be able to go through anything without them, especially since we hadn’t gotten a proper orientation. My professors were super accommodating and compassionate this semester, my coursework was easy to complete timely (since we can’t really go out much), and everyone I’ve interacted with have been nothing but kind! There are also a ton of resources and programs to get involved in. I really can’t wait for my next few years here!
Read 5,433 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
54% Acceptance Rate
$18,706 Net Price
1250-1460 SAT Range
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University of Washington
4 Year
Seattle, WA
Rating 3.77 out of 5 4,362 reviews
#22 Top Public Universities in America
Junior: The University of Washington, students here usually call it UW. It has many amazing buildings and a wonderful study environment. Every time I go to the library, I can quickly go into study mode because when you see everyone is studying, you get some amount of stress, which keeps you motivated. I think this type of "stress" is actually good for us. One of the previous research has stated that some amount of stress/anxiety will not cause health problems, instead, they can make people focus. Also, the UW has many research opportunities and volunteer works that you can do in your undergraduate or graduate years. These experiments can help students to understand what might be a good career for them, and boost up their resume in the meantime.
I think UW is an amazing school!
Read 4,362 Reviews
grade A
Overall Niche Grade
52% Acceptance Rate
$10,692 Net Price
1220-1470 SAT Range
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Florida State University
4 Year
Tallahassee, FL
Rating 3.84 out of 5 7,210 reviews
#23 Top Public Universities in America
Junior: This university houses many great people from the student body to the unforgettable professors you'll come across. It does live up to its reputation when it comes to party-life for those who prioritize this aspect of undergrad, but the academics and opportunities are vibrant as well. Compared to my experience at other schools, the professors I've had the pleasure of learning from at FSU really care about their work and actually go out of their way to assist you. Academic guidance and opportunities are also rife here! There are constant workshops and meetings for different majors that are extremely insightful and the academic advisors are like mentors to students if you pursue them. The student life is great here as well as there are plenty of friendly people who you can meet and share great experiences with. Overall, undergrad is what you make it, but what I've noticed is in schools like FSU there are so many more opportunities granted to you and if you're ambitious come visit!
Read 7,210 Reviews
grade A
Overall Niche Grade
36% Acceptance Rate
$12,568 Net Price
1200-1340 SAT Range
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University of Minnesota Twin Cities
4 Year
Minneapolis, MN
Rating 3.73 out of 5 4,443 reviews
#24 Top Public Universities in America
Freshman: My experience with the University of Minnesota so far has been excellent. There are many things that I enjoy about the school, some examples being the location and campus of the school, the challenging four year nursing program that is offered to incoming freshman, and the countless activities that one can participate inside and outside of school grounds. The location of the University of Minnesota is great because you are in the center of Minneapolis and there are plenty of things to do everyday such as museums, sporting events, and concerts. The campus and architecture is beautiful and gives students a wonderful university feel. The nursing program is awesome because it admits you immediately as a freshman and begins your career preparation right away! There are so many different clubs and activities that are available to all students at the U such as art clubs, book clubs, and intermural sports. I would not change one thing about this university!
Read 4,443 Reviews
grade A
Overall Niche Grade
57% Acceptance Rate
$17,279 Net Price
1260-1480 SAT Range
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Clemson University
4 Year
Clemson, SC
Rating 3.87 out of 5 3,295 reviews
#25 Top Public Universities in America
Senior: I love it here at Clemson, it's like one big family and friendly community. The professors and the courses can be challenging, but we are provided all resources and office hours necessary to help us all succeed, that is what I love about Clemson. Besides the academics, the leisures, amenities, and the get-togethers including football provided on campus, gives us all an opportunity to come together after days and weeks of studying to socialize and meet new people all around campus! Not only is the campus beautifully well-kept, but there are always positive vibes going around with plenty of places to sit down, study, and relax at like the Bowman field, amphitheater, and the President's park. It's hard to believe that this upcoming year is my last year here and I honestly am not ready to leave.
Read 3,295 Reviews
grade A
Overall Niche Grade
51% Acceptance Rate
$21,482 Net Price
1230-1400 SAT Range
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James Madison University
4 Year
Harrisonburg, VA
Rating 3.81 out of 5 3,006 reviews
Sophomore: James Madison University is an amazing 4-year college that offers a wide variety of majors, minors, extra-curricular activities, clubs, sports, and more. The staff and students are incredibly kind, fun, and caring. Most professor genuinely care about their students learning and succeeding. I would recommend James Madison University to anyone, it's an amazing school!
Read 3,006 Reviews
grade A
Overall Niche Grade
77% Acceptance Rate
$18,708 Net Price
1120-1290 SAT Range
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Freshman: ECPI University has an excellent practical nursing program. Although a bit pricey, ECPI University is definitely worth attending.
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University of Richmond
4 Year
University of Richmond, VA
Rating 3.87 out of 5 731 reviews
Sophomore: I am a rising sophomore. Overall, my freshman year was good, but not great. My expectations were too high. The truth is that college is completely what you make of it. At UR resources and opportunities are plentiful. Students must take the initiative in order to have a great college experience just like at any other university. The academics are challenging, but not overwhelming. One aspect that disappointed me was how dominating greek life is on campus and the VAST majority of frat bros/girls are rich white people who are very cliquey. (To ensure validity, this is coming from an upper-middle class white male not in a frat). I lost several close friends because they rushed frats and never hung out with me and my other friends every again... In summary, the social situation is not ideal, but you can still easily find your group of people and have a wonderful time! Other pros: the dining hall and gym are amazing and basketball games are hype! All campus workers are angels! Go Spiders!
Read 731 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
28% Acceptance Rate
$25,282 Net Price
1290-1460 SAT Range
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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. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

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