2023 Top Public Universities in America

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  5,410 reviews

Senior: If you can attend in-person classes, UCLA is a great school! The student dorms are on the expensive side, but well worth the price. There are several dining halls right next to the dorms that each cater to a different style (ie dine-in, to-go, vegan specialties), as well as a few restaurants on campus and the nearby Westwood Village. The campus itself is gorgeous (I love taking evening walks around sunset), and you can learn about the history of it from guided tours if you want. If you're looking for a rad party scene, just cross the street into frat row, and you'll find parties every week. In terms of academics, I will simply say that UCLA is a top school. You will have to work your butt off, sometimes in less-than-ideal circumstances, but the returns will be more than worth it. Most professors are great, but some are only there to do research and are forced to grudgingly teach a class or two, so look them up on Bruinwalk before enrolling in their classes. All-in-all, a great school!... Read 5,410 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 14%

• Net price $16,474

• SAT range —

• Ann Arbor, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  4,520 reviews

Sophomore: Michigan is truly the best of all worlds! World class academics? Check! Top tier athletics? Check! Great party scene? Check! It is so easy to get involved with a wide variety of interests. There's more clubs than I can name here. Opportunities are plentiful, especially involving research. STEM majors especially can easily get involved with the hospital and research facilities nearby. Complaints: diversity should be better, and some of the first-year facilities are average. That being said, this feels like a very accepting school compared to the surrounding areas, and most people tend to be very open minded. Otherwise, Ann Arbor is a great town. Campus feels safe to walk around, even at night, and the directly surrounding areas generally don't have issues. Honestly, I can't speak highly enough about how great this school is. I can't imagine going anywhere else. Go Blue!... Read 4,520 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 26%

• Net price $17,832

• SAT range 1340-1520

• Atlanta, GA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  2,133 reviews

Freshman: I really like the culture here: we emphasize both working hard and playing hard. Now, even for an introvert like myself, this is a great place to meet people, but also to hunker down and work. I really feel like my work matters here. Every assignment serves a purpose. I will say for a tech school, our digital infrastructure is laughable. Sure, our research is protected and secure, but not a day goes by that something does not crash. Not a huge problem, but very frustrating. BUT! Being a liberal arts major at Georgia Tech awards you countless advantages. Programs are small and deliberate, with so many hands-on, technical aspects to each class. Definitely the place to be for the modern liberal arts student!... Read 2,133 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 21%

• Net price $17,410

• SAT range 1370-1530

• Charlottesville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  2,340 reviews

Sophomore: The University of Virginia is a great school! There is a beautiful campus containing many of the brightest, most optimistic, and welcoming minds in the world. After finishing up my first year "On-Grounds," as all Wahoos call it, I have left more impressed than I came in. Professors and students alike extend themselves as learning resources and don't mind the extra effort to help a student who seeks it. As an African-American student though, I would love to see the diversity rate continue to trend upwards as the semesters and school years go by. UVA has a welcoming campus but at times, I feel that the "Unite the Right Rally" tragedy from 2017 still scares away students of color and other minority groups due to the false idea that UVA "isn't a protected campus."... Read 2,340 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 23%

• Net price $19,043

• SAT range 1320-1510

• West Point, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  463 reviews

Junior: Even though the past year has been tough because of COVID restrictions, I have had overall a pretty good time at West Point. The people here are mainly what makes it worth it--I've made friends that I know will last a lifetime. There are also endless opportunities (both during the semester and summer), especially if you want to get involved with research as an undergraduate. I have been able to publish my research in well known journals and conduct research alongside experts professors in the field I hope to pursue graduate school. The academics are not too hard, but it is very hit or miss in the core classes, because the instructors are randomly assigned and you don't get to choose. You might end up with someone not that great. However, in the upper division classes in the major, instructors are amazing and passionate about the subject. I really enjoy most parts about West Point and I look forward to commissioning as an army officer!... Read 463 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 9%

• Net price —

• SAT range 1210-1440

• Gainesville, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  7,854 reviews

Graduate Student: I am a remote graduate student, studying Arts in Medicine. My experience with UF has been loaded with skill building, networking and the confidence to push my new knowledge into my local community; strengthening my opportunities post-graduation. The online courses and engagement have been optimal for completing my MA, while having the flexibility to work full-time. I feel supported and encouraged from my instructors and peers. Meeting face to face at graduation will be extra special! I am confident that my remote relationships will continue to build and become strong references when advancing into my field.... Read 7,854 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 31%

• Net price $10,075

• SAT range 1290-1460

• Chapel Hill, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  2,557 reviews

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 2,557 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 25%

• Net price $10,038

• SAT range 1280-1490

• Austin, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  6,523 reviews

Sophomore: I think a lot of the campus resources are great, and I love my classes so far. A lot of the student organizations that you can join have long waitlists, so it’s good to plan early on the type of extracurricular environment you’d like to be a part of. The buildings on campus range from stellar architectural masterpieces to modern works of art. There are very few things lacking, but part of the package deal of living in Austin is the construction. The whole city, including a lot of campus as of now, is hard to navigate with all of the work being done. It’s very important to do the absolute utmost asap, as the course load and competitive environment encourage daily task building. Doing work as soon as possible is practically the only way to be able to experience social events. If you’ve studies in a smaller environment, especially for intro classes, you’ll run into some kinks trying to adapt to the larger class sizes. What starts here changes the world!... Read 6,523 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 32%

• Net price $16,892

• SAT range 1210-1470

• Berkeley, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  4,302 reviews

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 4,302 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 17%

• Net price $19,329

• SAT range 1310-1530

• Athens, GA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  5,617 reviews

Senior: I have loved my experience at the University of Georgia. I have truly had the best four years of my life at this school. There are ample opportunities and I have been able to meet so many people from all around the world through greek life, club events, academic events and my study abroad to the University of Oxford. The social life at UGA is truly remarkable and I have been able to flourish and grow into a better person because of the experiences I have had through UGA, including the national championship football team! I have really valued my education at UGA and believe I will be an incredible asset to the working world as my degree in psychology has prepared me to make a difference in the lives of many people. I have had a few concerns with the size of UGA and the lack of staff they have for the number of students attending the school. While the professors are caring, you do not get individualized attention or care from faculty. While this has been challenging, I truly love UGA!... Read 5,617 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 48%

• Net price $16,580

• SAT range 1250-1460

• Madison, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  3,353 reviews

Freshman: The student life here is amazing, and it's clear the university wants its students to feel comfortable on campus. TA's and professors have been mostly receptive to emails and eager to help out when needed. The location and surrounding resources are valuable and easy to take advantage of as a student. I wish professors were better equipped to use canvas or some other teaching website. Also, there should be a standardized attendance app or website that is used by all teachers rather than having to download two or three separate applications in a semester depending on which professors you have. Overall, a great experience!... Read 3,353 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $14,030

• SAT range 1260-1460

• Urbana, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  4,840 reviews

Graduate Student: As a working adult and someone who is somewhat cautious about recent COVID complications, a program that is online seemed the best route for me. I looked at a lot of different Universities that offered online programs, but price also was a big concern for me too. Through my searches I came across the University of Illinois and their iMBA program. After looking into the program and realizing what a great university the school was, I was also happy knowing it was within my home state of Illinois. Further, the iMBA program was offered at a reasonable price that ultimately made me go with University of Illinois. This is a great University that is well know and that offers a nationally top ranked learning experience! Their online iMBA program was just what I was looking for to continue my education. The are a lot of fellow working adults from all aspects of varying careers. Its a great opportunity to work with and learn from so many others who can offer a different view and perspective.... Read 4,840 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 63%

• Net price $13,517

• SAT range 1200-1460

• Tallahassee, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  7,459 reviews

Freshman: Florida State University has a beautiful campus, a plethora of academic and personal resources for students, and many opportunities to get involved in the FSU community. There is something for everyone to enjoy, whether its hanging out at the student union for a bowling tournament, a bite to eat, or an event at Club Downunder; hitting the gym for weight training, guided fitness classes, swimming, running the indoor track, or using the sauna; relaxing and unwinding on Landis Green, or even meeting friends. Every week there are so many events and club meetings to attend, so the student life is great. The only aspects I can say could be improved are the dining halls and housing situation. The dining halls aren't terrible, but they are often unorganized and don't have menu items they advertise. The older dorms are a bit outdated, and the walls are quite thin (so you can hear everyone coming back late at night). Either way, I've really enjoyed my time here so far!... Read 7,459 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 32%

• Net price $12,815

• SAT range 1220-1350

• Williamsburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  1,562 reviews

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 1,562 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 42%

• Net price $18,588

• SAT range 1300-1490

• University Park, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  7,315 reviews

Junior: I chose Penn State University because of the multitude of research and other science-related opportunities that are afforded to you when attending a large university. I also love the overall atmosphere regarding both my studies and social life. Regarding my studies, there are so many resources available to help me when needed including tutoring services, study groups, and more. When I'm not focusing on my studies, there are many events that I can go to for fun including fairs, lectures, concerts, and more. I have not given Penn State all five stars because they offer little financial aid to middle class incomes, however, I knew how much tuition was when accepting and was prepared to take out loans. Overall, love attending Penn State because of all the educational opportunities and fun events!... Read 7,315 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $26,151

• SAT range 1160-1360

• Irvine, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  4,131 reviews

Alum: Great university, with a safe campus located in a suburban area. The campus itself is small compared to other big universities, its easy to navigate with a great park in the center of the campus. Its easy to walk to class from most housing communities, but there is also a great university shuttle system with several routes. There are several resources for students whether academic or non academic. Several clubs and organizations for students to join. A shopping center across the street with several food places and stores. And there is an on-campus pub!... Read 4,131 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 30%

• Net price $13,106

• SAT range 1230-1430

• Blacksburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  4,051 reviews

Alum: I loved my time at Virginia Tech. All of my professors were extremely nice and some went out of their way to help me even in large classes where I thought they viewed me as "just a number." When I toured, the university seemed huge and intimidating, but as time went on, I realized that the school is quite small and really is "home." The food is AMAZING. The whole university is just a big family. There is nothing like Virginia Tech sports and jumping to Enter Sandman before games. Go Hokies! My freshman dorm had no A/C, but it was still the best experience, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. The campus offers many safety features such a "safe ride" where you can call the campus police to give you a ride across campus to ensure your safety getting from place to place.... Read 4,051 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 66%

• Net price $20,247

• SAT range 1170-1370

• Seattle, WA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  4,524 reviews

Junior: Love the campus! The coursework is rigorous no matter your major, but there's tons of classes that are so niche and interesting to explore! This school will give you a challenge for sure! Having to apply to your major is a huge downside-- there's a decent chance you might not get to study what you want if the major is competitive and your GPA and statements aren't competitive enough (there's just too many students). Similarly, you can't take major classes until you get accepted into the major (which usually isn't until your junior year), so that can delay the graduation process if you don't schedule and plan your degree right. Because of the large student body, everyone is clawing for everything-- registration for classes is a nightmare, long lines at dining halls and events, etc. (you can expect to sometimes wait more than an hour for food, applying to housing/registration takes hours as well because the server is being filled with so many students).... Read 4,524 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $9,661

• SAT range 1200-1470

• College Station, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  7,515 reviews

Alum: I studied Biomedical Sciences at TAMU, and had so many amazing professors. (I highly recommend looking them up on ratemyprof before registering to know what to expect.) I was not the most spirited student, but I do admit that the energy and liveliness of the campus is fantastic. Also, College Station is not as expensive to live in as SA or Austin and the traffic is nowhere near as bad. The traditions of TAMU are a great reason to become a student as well. Oh and the band! For band people, the Aggie band is phenomenal and so thrilling to watch. I think the school is a highly ideal place for students who want top-tier education, not-so-expensive living costs, a wide array of clubs/studento orgs, you name it. The campus is very safe except for a couple weird things that happen on West campus twice a year or so, and the pressure to party is not very strong. The only place to go is Northgate basically, and there aren't many bars. This college holds a special place in my heart!... Read 7,515 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 63%

• Net price $19,906

• SAT range 1160-1380

• La Jolla, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  3,814 reviews

Alum: Overall, my experience at UCSD was very positive. The academics can be intense at times, however I never felt helpless in my courses. There are many opportunities to seek guidance, but it is up to the students to find them. Even though my experience at UCSD was a great one, I have a lot of friends who had completely different experiences simply because they were in a different major or a different college within UCSD. The difference between the GE requirements per college is insane! Getting admitted into Revelle or ERC means you must be prepared for a rigorous writing series regardless of your major. I believe the UCSD experience is what you make of it. You can find your niche, but you have to be willing to put yourself out there to find it. Location wise you have easy access to the beach, a great selection of food and shopping, with reasonable housing prices, so in that regard UCSD has a lot going for it.... Read 3,814 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $15,222

• SAT range 1270-1480

• West Lafayette, IN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  4,950 reviews

Freshman: So far, I have really enjoyed my time at Purdue University. My courses have allowed me to gain hands-on experience even in my freshman year. There are clubs for practically anything you could dream of, and those clubs have already allowed me to have incredible opportunities! One club even allowed me to participate in bird banding- who can say they've done that? Purdue creates an inclusive environment that fosters learning and allows students to grow into impressive adults.... Read 4,950 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $12,294

• SAT range 1170-1420

• Columbus, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  5,679 reviews

Sophomore: I love THE Ohio State University. I fit in there all around. There are so many things that students can get involved in, from going to sporting events to volunteering your time to train dogs. The athletics at Ohio State are always fun to watch. I love watching volleyball and wrestling. There is something for everyone. I enjoyed my job at the coffee shop on campus, and really enjoyed my classes. My roommate and I really enjoyed the football games and getting to know everyone in our hall. My classes and professors that I have had are all great. I have learned so much, especially about myself already. The TA's are all very helpful and understanding, and usually always available. I have found different ways to study, and study groups have been successful. I have made lifelong friends at Ohio State. I knew that I could not go wrong with my choice. And I know after graduation, I will have a fraternity of Ohio State graduates supporting me around the world. Go Bucks!... Read 5,679 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $18,884

• SAT range 1210-1430

• Raleigh, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  3,343 reviews

Freshman: As a current undecided student, I think that NC State creates a very cohesive community amongst their students and staff. My current advisor truly cares about her students and wants to assist them in finding a major whilst providing them with opportunities to speak with professionals in their intended career. The professors are all very passionate about what they are teaching and are understanding of possible setbacks that a student can endure throughout their education. While the size of the university can be initially daunting, the campus is beautiful and the tight knit feeling makes the big campus feel like home very quickly. Of course with a large university like NC State, having resources for the students is very important. With a number of tragic student deaths this past semester, I think there needs to be a reevaluation on the importance of mental health with the implementation of more counseling resources and mental health days. However, I am so happy to be a part of the pack!... Read 3,343 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $14,600

• SAT range 1230-1410

• Davis, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  4,961 reviews

Junior: I love UC Davis! The teachers are mostly amazing, teach all of their own classes and are very approachable. Although students are highly motivated, no one is out to get you; it’s a very supportive environment. Moreover, I chose it over UC Berkeley because of the college town vibes and the welcoming atmosphere of the student body. It is a very peaceful, yet intelligent community, in which I feel safe. The campus is beautiful, and nice to bike on (you will find that the entire town which UC Davis basically rules is obsessed with biking…in a healthy way). UC Davis is also very diverse—-I can always count on hearing multiple different languages being spoken on campus, and I always have the opportunity to get to know someone with a completely different background than mine. Because people are so open, it’s actually pretty easy to make friends too! Furthermore, UC Davis will set you up with lots of internship and work opportunities (both prior and post graduation).... Read 4,961 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $17,026

• SAT range 1160-1400

• Santa Barbara, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  4,630 reviews

Sophomore: A unique thing that UCSB provides, besides an amazing location on the beach with great weather year-round, is a community for people from all walks of life. Whether that's religious, social, athletic, ethnic, or political, there are groups for everyone to belong to. I have not met a single person that has not found their niche in one way or another, which I think makes UCSB a special place. Lower-division classes are too large and difficult to sign up for, and the method of teaching can be overwhelming for some. Once you get to upper-divisions, classes tend to be smaller, more interesting, and teachers are more involved and passionate about their subject. Major and minor availability is also a bit lacking since there is no business, economics, and political science minor. Unlike other schools of this caliber, UCSB students are not competitive between each other, which makes for a very relaxing and encouraging learning environment. Overall, great school, opportunities and experiences!... Read 4,630 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $17,223

• SAT range 1230-1460