2024 Top Public Universities in America

• Long Beach, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  4,804 reviews

Alum: This school is full of wonderful people. There a lot of students from all over the world with a brilliant personalities. If you don’t fit in, they will help you to fit in and succeed. A lot of students from economically successful social groups in the third college generation. I witnessed freshmen who drive Maserati and Tesla. Some professors are incredible, polite and have a tendency to like all of their students and treat them like if they were their kids. The parking lots are great. You be late for 30 minutes before classes and always find a free spot. I’m so glad I graduated from that place. Beaches are nearby and it’s a beach life. If I will ever have kids, I will send them to CSULB instead of sending them to an expensive private college where they can experience bad influence from spoiled classmates or toxic environment of faculty and administration. Don’t hesitate and Go Beach!... Read 4,804 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $9,171

• SAT range 1020-1240

• Fayetteville, AR•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  3,587 reviews

Junior: When I toured the UofA I immediately fell in love with the campus because it reminded me of hallmark movies, therefore, it felt like a warm and welcoming place. I loved every minute, and I truly made the best decision to attend. I decided to go through the recruitment process, where I rushed ZETA. I have always been someone who is very involved and wants to be a leader in the community. Thus, this led me to be on our sisterhood committee and I now serve on our 2023 recruitment team. The sole reason I loved Arkansas was how amazing their nursing program was. That being said, it is extremely competitive. I am an individual who is hardworking, passionate and determined. I set goals and I work very hard to achieve them. However, despite maintaining a 4.0 with challenging courses like Ethics, Anatomy, and Physiology, I was not admitted into the nursing program. At first, I was devastated, but perseverance and self-growth will only make me stronger. I hope to be accepted this July. Woo Pig!... Read 3,587 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $15,218

• SAT range 1050-1220

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  1,388 reviews

Senior: John Jay is a great choice for many students. I can personally speak to my experience as a STEM student in the Forensic Science major. The class sizes are small, so students have a more meaningful relationship with their mentors. There are lots of clubs and campus activities for students to partake in, and it's not unusual to be on my way to class to randomly see goodie bags or free food for an event in hound square! John Jay does not have a traditional campus feel (most of the population is made up of commuters) but makes up for it with its facilities. The JayWalk is a gorgeous courtyard where students often relax between classes and enjoy the weather. Furthermore, there are so many hidden gems for food and recreational activities in the blocks surrounding campus, which feel very safe. In fact, a few food places (shout out to Justino's Pizza) gives student discounts for food! CUNY is fantastic with internship/externship/research programs for undergraduate students. Best of luck!... Read 1,388 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 45%

• Net price $5,077

• SAT range 1020-1160

• Storrs, CT•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  3,497 reviews

Sophomore: I truly believe there is a place for everyone at UConn. I know that everyone goes into college with different hopes and expectations, and UConn has so much to offer to achieve all of them. From academics, to social life, you’ll find whatever you look for at UConn. Sports fans have multiple events to look forward to during the week and there are constantly student organized events occurring across campus that make college life more enjoyable and exciting. The campus is quite large, and sometimes it may be a hike from class to class, however, the nature and the views along the way make it worth it. There are many spots on campus that offer beautiful views of the sunset, and those who enjoy the outdoors have many places where they can sunbathe when the weather is nice or do homework under the shade of a big tree. I truly believe that anyone can find a place for them at UConn and enjoy everything this university has to offer. Go Huskies!... Read 3,497 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $22,168

• SAT range 1230-1430

• Socorro, NM•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  549 reviews

Junior: Personally I love higher education, now does that mean that higher education is not a ruse and is more in line with as very expensive day care for young adults, I sure think that most institutes and colleges actually make employees rather than free thinkers, but hey that's another topic. New Mexico Tech among others might be an exception, I am currently studying to become a chemical engineer, regular bachelors, nothing crazy, I will leave here working for Sandia National laboratories making $118,000 annually starting pay. This is pretty astonishing when you consider this is starting and with only a bachelors. They really care at NMT (New Mexico Tech) they have some of the greatest minds, teachers that care, genuinely care, I believe the teacher to student ratio is 1 to 9, that's pretty good. Wonderful school, wonderful teachers, wonderful experience. Also Return on Investment is 11/5 stars by the way.... Read 549 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $12,471

• SAT range 1110-1320

• Columbia, MO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  3,356 reviews

Sophomore: Great university with lots of opportunities! Many possibilities of different mayors to choose from! Big campus with a large green area and many animals to see! Need basis scholarship for American and merit scholarships for international students like me College of engineering is very high tech with great professors and mentors available to help students on the way! Many possibilities to get involved in research projects. Also possible to work on ana off campus! Lots of students associations with regular meetings so students can get to know other cultures, get professional tips work on resumes or just hang out with friends. There is a catholic parish nearby were students can engage in volunteer work in the Columbia area and attend masses on weekends. Honors college with small size classes and many adventures during the semesters. Honors also offer scholarships, the possibility to work on research! They really make a effort to make students fell like home!... Read 3,356 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $18,249

• SAT range 1130-1350

• Lawrence, KS•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  3,407 reviews

Niche User: I am so excited to be attending there next year! They have an endless amount of opportunities for me as a Journalism major. Ranging from amazing equipment to amazing job opportunities within the school, one being KU Athletics. The school is huge which allows for many opportunities to meet all kinds of different people from all over. I get to learn about their cultures and ways of life that I didn't even know about before. The atmosphere not only on campus but Lawrence itself is unreal. The safety I feel within it allows me to be myself. It's my home away from home.... Read 3,407 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $18,608

• SAT range 1090-1330

• San Luis Obispo, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  3,950 reviews

Sophomore: Cal Poly SLO has an excellent academic program. This college strives for "Learn By Doing" and is seen within every major. Students are expected to learn hands-on in their field of choice. For example, for animal science majors there are fields of land where horses, cows, pigs, and more live. This is for the purpose of undergrads to gain experience. Cal Poly has well has a preschool located in front of the library to support students who have an interest in education. Child development majors participate in this preschool by being an observer and staff to the children. The preschool not only is able to make the "Learn By Doing" slogan true but as well brings in citizens to the school. Thus creating a closer community. The location of Cal Poly is beautiful as well. The school is surrounded by mountains with the ocean only being 10 minutes away! Downtown can be reached within walking distance from Cal Poly. Overall, great school.... Read 3,950 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 33%

• Net price $20,708

• SAT range 1240-1440

• Cincinnati, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  4,054 reviews

Graduate Student: As a current graduate of the University of Cincinnati, I am ecstatic to share my overwhelmingly positive experience! The university's commitment to academic excellence and supportive faculty truly stood out during my time there. The diverse and vibrant campus community fostered a welcoming environment, encouraging collaboration and cultural enrichment. Cutting-edge research opportunities and state-of-the-art facilities further enriched my learning journey. UC's emphasis on practical skills and real-world applications prepared me for a successful career ahead. I am forever grateful for the lifelong friendships and professional networks I developed. Without a doubt, the University of Cincinnati is an exceptional institution that has empowered me to achieve my dreams!... Read 4,054 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $20,827

• SAT range 1150-1350

• Manhattan, KS•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  3,471 reviews

Sophomore: Kansas State University couldn't be more perfect for me and for what I'm majoring in. They have so many resources for students for all kinds of situations including research opportunities, on-campus jobs, tutoring, financial assistance and so much more. All of the instructors that I've had have been very open about expectations and how to succeed, and there are many advisors, instructors, etc, that you can reach out to when needing assistance or information. Though it is a very large campus it feels like home and it is easy to find your niche!... Read 3,471 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $19,874

• SAT range —

• San Diego, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  5,318 reviews

Freshman: Beyond the excellent academics, SDSU has a great social and school spirit atmosphere with amazing athletics and clubs. As an out-of-state freshman, the transition to college has been tough; however, the many welcoming communities between fun or academic clubs, intramural, club, and D1 sports, and various other excellent programs. There are countless wonderful opportunities, including those at the Mission Bay Aquatic Center (MBAC). Students (and others) can take classes for surfing, wakeboarding, paddle boarding, and more! So far, the surfing class has been a major highlight for me. Getting around is also extremely easy, which is a big deal as a freshman without a car. The trolley and bus system is free to students under 20, which is a major bonus for getting around San Diego, going to the MBAC, and getting other important places in SoCal (like the airport)! I also feel that SDSU is a very safe campus, and has overall been a wonderful experience filled with growth and learning. Go Tecs!... Read 5,318 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 38%

• Net price $6,867

• SAT range 1090-1300

• Pullman, WA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  4,038 reviews

Freshman: My overall experience has been great! I feel very welcomed and accommodated on campus, and the support from staff and students is amazing! When I first arrived, I was immediatley offered help with moving into my dorm and my RA swiftly came to introduce herself to me and my family. Classes have begun this week, and my professors are all supportive of students and want to help everyone be successful in their classes. Although I am just starting out here, I can't imagine anything but great experiences in the future!... Read 4,038 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $11,877

• SAT range 1020-1210

• Tucson, AZ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  6,967 reviews

Sophomore: The University of Arizona has been a transformative experience for me. My involvement in Greek life offered not only memorable social events but also emphasized leadership and community service. The campus boasts a lively social scene, ensuring every student finds their niche. Academically, the English and Business departments were exceptional. The English department nurtured my literary passion, while Business provided practical real-world experience. However, I'd love to see more interdisciplinary courses and expanded mental health resources. Overall, UoA offers a perfect blend of rigorous academics and enriching social life. Highly recommended!... Read 6,967 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 87%

• Net price $17,242

• SAT range 1120-1370

• Vestal, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  2,609 reviews

Senior: I have enjoyed my time at Binghamton University. I am pursuing medical degree after my undergraduate and have received a lot of support from Binghamton's academic advising to make sure that I am on track. Taking online classes during the pandemic shut down was an interesting way to start my journey at Binghamton University, but they managed to adapt to changing circumstances and deliver impeccable educational content. Binghamton offers many ways to get involved with the research and outreach that the university is engaged in. For example, I am a part of two of the psychological research labs on campus. One thing that I would like to see change at Binghamton is more work opportunities and resources offered to students who are struggling financially. I, like many of my peers, have put myself through school without contribution from family and more economically enriching opportunities would have helped me support myself through my education. Thank you!... Read 2,609 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 44%

• Net price $17,881

• SAT range 1310-1470

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  3,501 reviews

Senior: University of Illinois Chicago is very diverse, which allows me to know people with different culture and background. The University is very open to hear students opinions and suggestions to changes that we believe are needed to better the school for everyone. Furthermore, the university takes great care of students overall mental health, thus multiple resources are available for students who needs help. One issue regarding the university is the doors on certain building are quiet heavy, hence student struggle to open them especially those with disability. I believe changing them will make things a lot easier for every students and including professors and adminstrators.... Read 3,501 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $10,725

• SAT range 1080-1310

• Houston, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  6,617 reviews

Senior: Overall, my experience with the University of Houston has been vey wonderful. The staff at the student center are very helpful. One time one of the staff members walked me all the way to the building where my class is being held at. The professors at the University of Houston are very helpful as well, considering that they have 50-100 students in their class. The University of Houston made me feel right at home the first time I showed up for orientation. One thing I would change about the University of Houston would be their parking permit. I believe the parking permits are a bit overpriced, considering that we pay a lot for tuition already, but other than that their are no complaints!... Read 6,617 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 66%

• Net price $14,339

• SAT range 1140-1330

• Newark, DE•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  3,583 reviews

Freshman: I believe that the University of Delaware is a 4/5 star school for many reasons! First and foremost, UD has a strong academic program. The professors are knowledgeable and engaging, and the course offerings are diverse and relevant. The school also has a number of resources available to help students succeed, including tutoring services, study groups, and writing centers. In addition to academics, UD has a vibrant campus life. There are a plethora of clubs and organizations to get involved in, as well as sporting events, concerts, and other social activities. The school is located in a beautiful and historic town, which provides plenty of opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. Despite these positives, the food on campus can be a bit of a disappointment. While there are a few dining options that are decent, many of the options are overpriced and not particularly tasty. The dining halls in particular often have limited and unappealing options, and the quality can be hit or miss.... Read 3,583 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $19,122

• SAT range 1150-1340

• St. Petersburg, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  542 reviews

Freshman: As a freshman here attending the University of South Florida - St. Petersburg, I can say that the overall experience is very great! All of the staff are welcoming and very hospitable, the upperclassmen are helpful, and the classes are great as well! On the topic of classes, because this campus is smaller than the main campus, it only takes less than 10 minutes to get to class. To add, It also not difficult to make friends either, especially through the many fun events and clubs that the university hosts.... Read 542 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 27%

• Net price $10,841

• SAT range 1140-1280

• Denver, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  1,859 reviews

Graduate Student: The University of Colorado Denver has a uniquely diverse and community-oriented campus that is made up of many cultures, backgrounds and orientations with a dedicated drive to engage everyone with one another for a satisfying college journey. There are various fields and areas of studies to choose from and passionate professors and advisors that will excel at guiding you towards the right direction of your education and fundamentally, career path. I got my undergrad degree and now pursuing my graduate degree from the same campus. I feel like I have emotionally, physically, critically and most importantly, professionally grown with the university and utilized the many resources that come with the experience. It is one of the best investments I've made and recommend anybody that is considering this university to go for it! You will not regret it.... Read 1,859 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $14,630

• SAT range 1030-1250

• Crookston, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  194 reviews

Sophomore: After my first year of attending college, I found that the University of Minnesota Crookston had a lot to offer. Between the variety of clubs available to join, to the on-campus activities that never seemed to end, there was always something to do or someway to get involved. The classes were taught in a professional manner and gave me plenty of opportunity to learn the material. The staff were willing to help you to the best of their ability, and seemed to always be willing to go above and beyond what they needed to do. The food and dining options were nothing to write home about, but occasionally there was something exciting available. There is not much I would change about how the school operates. Overall, my first year was exactly the kind of experience I was hoping to get coming to a smaller school. Looking forward to coming back next year... Read 194 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 48%

• Net price $11,925

• SAT range 1000-1180

• Mississippi State, MS•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  2,232 reviews

Freshman: MSU is a friendly, welcoming, and supportive college. Everyone here is willing to help and always available to answer any questions. Students here feel like family and make college life enjoyable! There are so many social events and activities that make college fun and exciting. The campus itself is very beautiful and well maintained. I enjoy sitting outside and relaxing under a shade tree. There’s so many places to study that are quiet and peaceful. The dorms are some of the best I’ve seen. They are very spacious and come equipped with a refrigerator, bed, dresser, and a desk. There is plenty of closet space along with storage under the bed for your extra belongings. There are kitchens and laundry rooms available to make living on campus more convenient. There are many great restaurants on campus like Panda Express, Pizza Hut, Subway, and Chick-Fil-A just to mention a few, not to forget the cafeteria. The food here is really good. The surrounding area has plenty of shopping as well.... Read 2,232 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $16,175

• SAT range 1030-1280

• Detroit, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  2,919 reviews

Alum: I had my tuition fully paid for by scholarships from the school, which was the main reason I decided to go there. I am so glad I did, and that I stayed on-campus in my first years, because it was a great experience to get my first taste of independence in a cosmopolitan city like Detroit. There were always fun events happening. I enjoyed all my classes, but some were especially interesting. I had some amazing instructors! One remains a close friend and mentor. I did have an issue with one professor who I and other students felt gave us lower grades than we deserved, and we submitted appeals, but the department chair quit without alerting us and our appeals expired. I am still a little bitter they dropped the ball like that. Still, overall, I highly approve of Wayne State University. However, like all institutions nowadays, I wish it was cheaper, even though I personally did not have to pay.... Read 2,919 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 63%

• Net price $15,710

• SAT range 1030-1260

• Corvallis, OR•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  3,087 reviews

Alum: The best online education experience I have ever had! Every course I took at OSU came with exemplary instruction by the professors that were very supportive towards student success. Canvas, the online paltform used for course instruction, was simple and organized which enabled me to stay on track of my weekly and daily tasks. In addition, my guidance counselor was always easy to make an appointment with and built a relationship with me which helped keep me motivated and on track to finish in time! Oregon State University was hands down the best choice I could have made to attain my BS in Natural Resources!... Read 3,087 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $20,318

• SAT range 1120-1370

• Baltimore, MD•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  2,058 reviews

Alum: I really enjoyed my time at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). I got involved in a scholars program, SGA, an LLC, and a couple of student organizations. I also attended both in-person and online during the pandemic. I think the school handled the pandemic really well. In terms of courses, my professors were all good, and kept the courses interesting. Though a lot of people do commute, there is a decent amount of things that occur for residential students. Overall, I had a great experience!... Read 2,058 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $6,912

• SAT range 1220-1410

• Portales, NM•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  752 reviews

Senior: I was quite nervous coming here as a non-traditional student. In fact, I had been to 3 other Universities prior to ENMU. I can honestly say that ENMU has far exceeded my expectations. As a STEM major, I was happy to find that the classes were on the small size. This was great because many of my professors made the effort to know their students name. I have never had this happen at my other Universities where the class sizes were 50+. Tip: Take advantage of everything ENMU has to offer!... Read 752 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 33%

• Net price $7,002

• SAT range 860-1100