2024 Top Public Universities in New York

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  1,394 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 1,394 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 45%

• Net price $5,077

• SAT range 1020-1160

• Vestal, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  2,622 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 2,622 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 44%

• Net price $17,881

• SAT range 1310-1470

• Stony Brook, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  2,849 reviews

Junior: Stony Brook University has so many intelligent, caring professors and staff who make your time as a student worthwhile. The quality of education we are able to receive for the price of a SUNY school is practically unheard of. Classes can be challenging, but I feel like those challenges have been fair and have helped me to grow and learn, both academically and as a person. Our student body is diverse in all meanings of the term, and the people here have taught me so much about the world at large. There are so many clubs with passionate e-boards who serve our campus by fostering accepting communities. I'm proud to be a Seawolf!... Read 2,849 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 48%

• Net price $16,445

• SAT range 1300-1480

• Buffalo, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  3,093 reviews

Alum: Overall pretty satisfied with my undergraduate experience, but SUNY Buffalo is definitely a school that might not appeal to everybody. If you're a fan of big schools like myself, then it's great; plenty of campus activities and sports, absolutely amazing food choices (the dorm even has a grocery store), different campuses with different vibes for different people, and so many groups of people from all different walks of life. However, it's definitely huge party school (a pro and a con), and there's some safety issues outside of South campus to be aware of. Likewise, due to the massive class size, it's essential to be self-reliant/driven in your studies, and I could definitely see the 500 person lecture halls and greater difficulty connecting with professors turning-off people from UB. Parts of North campus itself does look a bit visually unappealing, and parking is a constant issue among students as well. However, if you're looking for a city within a school feel, UB is the way to go!... Read 3,093 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $17,954

• SAT range 1180-1360

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  1,654 reviews

Sophomore: The Fashion Institute of technology is very welcoming and vibrant. The campus has a palpable creative energy. So far, my journey at FIT has been an incredibly transformative one. This institution has propelled me towards personal and professional growth. The professors at FIT are not only teaching you in classes but they bring in real-world knowledge into the class. They encourage you to think creatively and critically. Since I am an international student, I believe that the campus has a rich and diverse community of students. Interacting with the students from various cultures and backgrounds and helped me broaden my perspectives. FIT offers various opportunities to develop professionally. It has abundance of resources for students even though it’s a college covered in just one block. I believe that my experience over here is extraordinary and I cannot imagine what other opportunities the college has for me ahead!... Read 1,654 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 52%

• Net price $8,637

• SAT range —

• Syracuse, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  345 reviews

Alum: The school workload is challenging, but you will gain lots of experience, skills, and knowledge. The people are what really make the campus though. They are down to earth and some of the nicest humans on the planet. People are willing to help and give you guidance where they can. Here, earth day truly is every day!... Read 345 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $22,159

• SAT range 1130-1300

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  1,441 reviews

Alum: My overall experience at Baruch College was exceptional. I had experienced professors from corporations and media who educated me on the fundamentals of communications and interpersonal selling. In addition to this, I was educated on the importance of literature and how it applies to social interaction. According to the Greek philosopher Socrates, “To know, is to know that you know nothing.” One who claims to be always right is someone who is afraid to be corrected. Conversational intelligence can dictate the direction of the next emotion or instill a memory; hence, why communication should be taken seriously and used as an instrument to guarantee a profitable outcome. The importance of communication is not only allowing information to be exchanged but ensuring the information is received.... Read 1,441 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 51%

• Net price $3,793

• SAT range 1170-1360

• Bronx, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  1,112 reviews

Alum: Lehman was an excellent decision that I have made in my life. I have had received my BSN in 2015 and I can say the campus is great. It’s located in a quiet area! Near the buses and alll trains which was a plus point! Professors were always available and study areas were always available as well! Professors wanted you to learn and mainly understand the content instead of just reading off PowerPoints. Food is almost great there. There is a cafeteria and food trucks as well! A park in front of you want to sit in the park and study. We used blackboard at that time and it made it easier to Submit homework, take online test, contact professors. I’m pleased with this university.... Read 1,112 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 58%

• Net price $3,220

• SAT range 960-1080

• New Paltz, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  1,458 reviews

Sophomore: I like how encouraging New Paltz is to its students! It feels like they really care about the student body. A decent amount of the professors just want their students to understand material and not be in crippling debt so they’ll do things like upload free resources or not require a textbook; it’s very much appreciated. The overall campus feels pretty safe too! It truly feels like they have our best interest in mind. Although New Paltz promotes equity amongst its student body, I would like to see that further enforced. Students from certain minority groups tend to be represented. However, I would like to see students of color to get the protection and acknowledgment they deserve. The student body is fairly white, which isn’t an issue until that ushers in ignorant comments and prejudice toward POC students. New Paltz tries to avoid racial biases, and negative interactions, but they do happen, and when they do, they aren’t taken that seriously. That definitely needs to change.... Read 1,458 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $15,318

• SAT range 1150-1280

• Brooklyn, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  1,273 reviews

Freshman: The school year has just begun, but I can already say I love it! Right before school began, I got a sense of community from a peer mentor reaching out to ensure I had a smooth start to my freshman year. Getting enrolled in my classes was an easy process thanks to the staff. The campus is beautiful and has many areas available to students which is a freedom I admire. Most importantly, I feel challenged in my classes, and the professors, despite what others may think, provide a fair academic experience through informative lectures and grading. I will say, that I wish course options were more open to undergraduate freshmen. It's understandable that those who have been enrolled longer have priority over choosing courses, but it was disappointing to find out I didn't have complete freedom over my schedule.... Read 1,273 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 51%

• Net price $4,254

• SAT range 1020-1180

• Farmingdale, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  652 reviews

Senior: I am a senior student at Farmingdale State College, and my major is Architectural Engineering Technology. I followed a good path after getting my Associate Degree at Suffolk County Community College, and now I am excited to receive my Bachelor Degree soon. FSC has been a great experience overall. I have improved myself for my future career in many ways. The education, class times, professor were all great. I would only change the social life status at school. There might me more common gathering places for students to make friends. Other than that, a very good school!... Read 652 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $6,007

• SAT range 1010-1190

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  1,834 reviews

Alum: AMAZING education, amazing people, amazing environment. I just graduated with my bachelors and will go back for masters! If you are looking for a warm, welcoming university that emphasizes the importance of education in adults, I would recommend this college.There are various degrees and oppourtunite to succeed at CUNY CCNY. You will never feel like you are alone and you can always reach out to their amazing staff who is always there whenever you need them. The advising department as well as the financial aid department are super helpful and attentive to students. As far as student life goes, there are multiple events and clubs one can attend and become a part of. There is also a piano in the NAC building that is free for students to stop and play during their free times. Everyone I've met here are wonderful, kind hearted people and those are the ones that I will cherish forever. I have made many of my lifelong friends here and I am thankful for everything this college gave me.... Read 1,834 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $4,213

• SAT range 1050-1260

• Albany, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  2,500 reviews

Alum: UAlbany is a very diverse SUNY 4-year college. I liked how the campus is involved with their students. Starting with providing first year students with a 1-on-1 appointment with their advisor their first two semesters. Next, highlighting the importance of attending office hours with your professor. Lastly, the culture at UAlbany is like no other, you will be able to find the perfect club that peaks your interests. One thing I would like to see change, is the exposure to more majors and studies that would attract more students. Thank you for your time!... Read 2,500 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $17,350

• SAT range 1090-1280

• Queens, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  1,252 reviews

Sophomore: Currently a sophomore student at Queens College and it is great so far! There are lots of clubs & activities to do on campus, internship opportunities, very fun social events from time to time. The drama program is excellent, offering plenty of performance opportunities to work with professionals in the theater world. The professors are all very passionate about what they do. But something I would like to see changed are quicker responses to emails regarding financial aid/registrar inquiries. I would also love to see more vegan food options in the cafeteria. There is not really a party scene because most people are commuters so everyone seems to be doing their own partying or fun on their own. Overall, I am having a great experience!... Read 1,252 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 61%

• Net price $4,777

• SAT range 1040-1190

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  2,414 reviews

Alum: CUNY Hunter College was great for me, as someone who went to college right out of high school but wasn't yet sure of what I wanted to major in. All of my professors were phenomenal and I was able to get a good overview of what options I had in the first two years; I did not declare a major until the summer before my Junior year. It's a commuter school so it's easy to not get too involved with the culture but even so, in most majors you'll be taking a lot of classes with the same people, so it's still not difficult to get to know people. If you do want to get involved though, there are so many clubs! The workload is not unreasonably rigorous. Some classes are difficult, but for the most part, professors understand you have other commitments.... Read 2,414 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $4,586

• SAT range 1170-1340

• Oneonta, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  1,178 reviews

Alum: Oneonta was such an amazing experience. I had the opportunity to form with 4 other girls and it was great! We communicated and talked things out. The campus life was good too and meeting new people and talking to a lot of people. Also, having a campus job and interacting with a lot of students on campus. Loved taking acting and dance classes it’s a great way to wind down but also get credit. Always attend events and explore the campus.... Read 1,178 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $17,594

• SAT range 980-1150

• Plattsburgh, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  801 reviews

Junior: Hello! My name is Cesia Arzu and I am a junior at SUNY Plattsburgh. This is a great college for those who want to be far from the city but want to still be in the state. This college is great overall regarding diversity, faculty, and students. My favorite part about attending Plattsburgh would be the clubs that we have and the events. The events are true to the students and are a way to connect and make new friends. One event that I absolutely loved was the Black Solidarity event that we had, there were food and conferences about the black and brown culture that you barely hear about. It was a great educational experience for those of color and those who just wanted to learn more about black and brown cultures. Something else that I love about Plattsburgh is the small community that we have here. There are people for everyone. Here at Plattsburgh, we are friendly and we love making new friends. Lastly, the classes are good, and the faculty is good too. They are like family.... Read 801 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $15,421

• SAT range 1050-1240

• Saratoga Springs, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  493 reviews

Graduate Student: I am an older student and had concerns about returning to college after many years while caring for my disabled husband. Not only did SUNY Empire make it easy for me to attend but gave me the support and encouragement I needed. I find myself recommending this college to anyone and everyone. Each step of my journey was supported by other students, professors, office staff, even the president. If it wasnt for this supportive family I wouldn't have succeeded. I am truly thankful!... Read 493 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,557

• SAT range —

• Oswego, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  1,512 reviews

Junior: One of the most critical factors is the quality of education provide by Oswego. Oswego has strong academic programs, experienced and knowledgable faculty, and excellent resources to support student's learning . Oswego's curriculum has been both challenging and engaging, providing me with the skills and knowledge I need to succeed in my career. Another aspect that I have enjoyed is the campus culture. The campus culture is characterized by positivity , inclusitivity, and extremely supportive . While living on campus, I had access to comfortable housing, nutritious food options and reliable transportation. The quality of campus facilities and services significantly impacted my experience. Finally, and too many the most important factor, was the cost. Oswego gave me opportunities to attend an affordable college, allowed me with opportunities for scholarships and work study programs that not only helped with the cost but prepared me for my future career and responsibilities.... Read 1,512 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $15,078

• SAT range 1060-1280

• Fredonia, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,222 reviews

Senior: I love the small campus/community of Fredonia. Having a smaller campus makes it easier to connect personally to both other students and professors. I have been able to establish personal and professional connections that will benefit me in my future endeavors. I also love the new science center building. I have spent many hours in there studying! I would like to see some better options for advisement here at Fredonia. I have heard many negative experiences with advisement, so I make sure to do everything by myself. I think the school would be better if there were more opportunities for help with graduate programs.... Read 1,222 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $15,973

• SAT range 1090-1280

• Cortland, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  896 reviews

Senior: The atmosphere is incredible, there are so many amazing people here. If you’re coming for anything fitness related (phys ed, fit dev, ex sci) you’ve definitely found the right place. The campus is a big home to opportunities. Only thing is that the parking at the top of the hill is atrocious… but if you’re a junior or senior (or living on campus) you should have no problems as you’ll probably be at the lower end of campus or walking everywhere. Definitely buy a heated jacket bc it gets very cold. Hope to see you here!... Read 896 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $17,703

• SAT range 1090-1240

• Utica, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.44 out of 5  323 reviews

Alum: I liked majority of my teachers. They were all very helpful and eager to assist when needed. I also like the family like culture there, I met some of my best friends at SUNY Poly. It was very easy to schedule classes and check grades with everything online. It was easy to navigate. I was a part of a club and always felt included for the events. I was a business major and learned a lot about business from my time there. The dorms were nice and convenient to the main campus. I always felt safe and never in harms way. There were a lot of campus events to help people make friends and have fun. It is a smaller school so you get to know just about everyone on the campus. Everyone got along for the most part. The teachers took part in the activities and assisted when needed. I would definitely recommend SUNY Poly to a graduating senior. I had a great time there and would not have chosen a different school if I had to go back. You will definitely enjoy your time.... Read 323 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $10,245

• SAT range 1040-1400

• Delhi, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  475 reviews

Junior: Delhi has an extremely small student body, which creates an environment with small class sizes. This allows for students to get a more intimate educational experience, and assists in building relationships with faculty, peers, and anyone else who contributes to the SUNY Delhi culture. One thing I would like to see change in Delhi is more student involvement in athletics and larger student sections. Athletics is often looked down on by professors, and is disregarded and dismissed. I would love for there to be more support from students/teachers who aren't involved in the athletics department as players or faculty.... Read 475 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $16,625

• SAT range 920-1120

• Brockport, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  1,236 reviews

Freshman: It’s a welcoming community and a diverse one too. The admissions staff did the best job amongst all schools I applied to. Also, the quality of education here is great! Such quality at really affordable fees is something to be proud about. The alumni community also has a great record of successful people in their various career fields.... Read 1,236 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $15,384

• SAT range 1040-1230

• Potsdam, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  756 reviews

Junior: I am currently a Junior at SUNY Potsdam and have enjoyed my time here thus far. I personally have enjoyed the life-long friends I've made, the connections I've made with my professors/department, and with those in the local community (especially, at the local coffee shop - Jernabis!). SUNY Potsdam, like many colleges, is what you make it. If you put yourself out there, join activities you like/are passionate about, and apply yourself in your department, the chance of you enjoying your college experience increases. Potsdam has a variety of student clubs/organizations and sports teams to join to connect with peers outside of classes too. Academics at Potsdam vary in quality depending on the department you are in, so I highly recommend searching and reaching out to your department of choice before attending. Dorming at Potsdam is pretty good and food is average/has downgraded slightly since COVID, but PACES is actively trying to improve. I recommend checking out Potsdam!... Read 756 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $14,494

• SAT range —