2024 Best Colleges in America

• New Haven, CT•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.02 out of 5  1,049 reviews

Freshman: As someone who came from a low-income community and attended an underfunded high school, Yale is a dream come true. There are a plethora of resources for students with backgrounds like me, along with resources for the general student population. I like that Yale provides peer tutors for most STEM classes and writing tutors within the residential colleges (Hogwarts Houses) and the library's writing center. Additionally, the professors I've had thus far are wonderful and extremely helpful. They seem like they genuinely want their students to thrive and are willing to take some of their own time to help them. The student community at Yale is amazing and diverse. There is an astounding amount of clubs and activities for students to join, and I'm grateful for the many options I have. The housing at Yale can be hit-or-miss, especially when comparing the new residential colleges with the older ones. However, Yale's residential college system fosters a welcoming and tight-knit community.... Read 1,049 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 5%

• Net price $20,605

• SAT range 1480-1580

• Stanford, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  1,279 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at Stanford University was incredibly enriching and transformative. The academic rigor challenged me to push my boundaries and think critically in diverse fields of study. The vibrant campus culture fostered deep connections with peers and faculty, sparking countless engaging discussions and collaborations. The resources and opportunities available, from research initiatives to extracurricular activities, were unparalleled, allowing me to pursue my interests and passions fully. However, I believe there's room for improvement in terms of diversity and inclusion efforts, ensuring that all students feel equally supported and represented within the Stanford community. Additionally, enhancing accessibility to resources for students from various socioeconomic backgrounds would further enrich the university experience for all.... Read 1,279 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 4%

• Net price $14,402

• SAT range 1470-1570

• Cambridge, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  662 reviews

Sophomore: Great place to be challenged, learn, and grow. A safe environment to fall and fail. Lots of support and resources available but you need to take the initiative to reach out about them... Read 662 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 4%

• Net price $30,958

• SAT range 1510-1580

• Cambridge, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  846 reviews

Alum: Attending Harvard College was transformative. The housing system fostered a strong sense of community, facilitating academic support and social interaction. The rigorous academics, led by renowned faculty, challenged me to think critically and pursue my interests. Harvard's commitment to diversity enriched my experience, and the vibrant location in Cambridge provided endless opportunities for exploration and growth. Harvard College offered an unparalleled experience that has left an indelible mark on my life.... Read 846 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 4%

• Net price $13,910

• SAT range 1480-1580

• Princeton, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  467 reviews

Freshman: I am currently a first-year here at Princeton University and my experiences here have single-handedly changed my life. The school has offered me so much support in every facet of my life -- from academics, to finances, to extracurriculars. I feel that I am completely thriving here in a way that I was never able to before. Classes are suburb with professors who really care about not only about what we learn but also how we grow as individuals. Dining is amazing and we have the sweetest dining staff ever. There are so many options for clubs that you are never bored and can always find something for you. Overall, I feel like there is no better place for me than Princeton :).... Read 467 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 4%

• Net price $20,908

• SAT range 1460-1570

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  1,351 reviews

Junior: The campus is beautiful and the curriculum is challenging. However, the undergraduate professors do not care very much for undergraduate students, and you have to really advocate for yourself frequently. The deans are very helpful in getting professors in motion, so I recommend getting to know your deans and academic advisors. If your schedule allows you to go to office hours, do it!... Read 1,351 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 4%

• Net price $12,411

• SAT range 1470-1570

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  1,357 reviews

Freshman: It's important to acknowledge that college experiences vary greatly from person to person, and while some may face challenges or difficulties, others may find their time in college to be transformative and rewarding. Instead of focusing on the negatives, perhaps you could consider exploring constructive criticism or discussing specific areas for improvement in the college experience. This approach allows for a more balanced and productive discussion that can lead to positive changes and improvements in the education system. If you have specific concerns about your college experience, it might be helpful to address them directly with the appropriate channels within your institution or seek support from counselors or advisors. Remember, challenges are a natural part of any educational journey, and there are often resources available to help navigate them.... Read 1,357 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 6%

• Net price $14,578

• SAT range 1480-1570

• Hanover, NH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  745 reviews

Freshman: Great school! Not super diverse, but it’s easy to find your people. Profs are for the most part amazing and super inspirational. Definitely less competitive than the other Ivies. I have truly had the best time here and gotten to come out of my shell.... Read 745 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 6%

• Net price $24,078

• SAT range 1440-1560

• Houston, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.09 out of 5  1,120 reviews

Graduate Student: Going to Rice University to attend the Shepherd School of Music at a graduate level is an experience separate from the rest of Rice. The Opera Department at Rice University has been one of the best programs in the United States producing incredible singers in the industry for a while now. Financial aid has been decreasing from full rides to having to pay a couple of thousands to attend +fees for a Master of Music. It is case by case, however. Pros: BEAUTIFUL theater that is incredible to sing in, program's very YAP reminiscent (in good and bad ways), world-class faculty, great networking opportunity, masterclasses/private audition opportunities Cons: your soul/free-time belongs to the Opera Department; if a release conflicts with the opera schedule, tough luck; there have been many issues with casting opportunities/favoritism; if you're a person of color, be prepared to be a token on all promo material; TOO many irrelevant time-consuming academics; having a car is a MUST in Houston... Read 1,120 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 9%

• Net price $18,521

• SAT range 1490-1570

• Providence, RI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  1,079 reviews

Freshman: Attending Brown University was an enriching and transformative experience. I cherished the vibrant community that fostered intellectual curiosity and diversity. The open curriculum allowed me to explore a wide range of subjects, fostering interdisciplinary connections and personal growth. The faculty were not only experts in their fields but also approachable mentors who genuinely cared about students' academic and personal development. I appreciated the emphasis on critical thinking and the encouragement to question assumptions. However, I would suggest enhancing resources for mental health support and increasing accessibility to financial aid for students from underprivileged backgrounds. Overall, Brown provided a nurturing environment that empowered me to thrive academically and personally.... Read 1,079 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 6%

• Net price $25,028

• SAT range 1460-1570

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  150 reviews

Alum: The academic program and courses were very challenging, but there is a great sense of collaborative community.... Read 150 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 10%

• Net price $33,838

• SAT range 1480-1560

• Washington, DC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  1,274 reviews

Freshman: Amazing campus, beautiful area surrounding campus with lots of connections to history! GU boasts a strong reputation for academic rigor and excellence across various disciplines, including law, business, international relations, and public policy. Situated in Washington, D.C., Georgetown benefits from its proximity to numerous government agencies, international organizations, and cultural institutions, offering unparalleled opportunities for internships, research, and networking. I love the diverse and inclusive community, attracting students and faculty worldwide. Diversity enriches the cross-cultural understanding. Georgetown has a vast and influential alumni network, providing students with valuable connections and opportunities for mentorship and career advancement. Rooted in its Jesuit tradition, Georgetown emphasizes the importance of ethical leadership and service to others, instilling in students a sense of responsibility and commitment to making a positive impact on society.... Read 1,274 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 12%

• Net price $23,049

• SAT range 1410-1550

• Durham, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  1,205 reviews

Alum: Overall I highly recommend Duke University as an Undergraduate university because the sense of community is unbeatable and the professors are willing and able to help their students prosper. The athletics and school pride is shown often and proves to create community and garner relationships for a lifetime. One thing I would like to change about Duke University is the dorm situation. I think some dorms need to be remodeled. While many dorms are in the process of being remodeled and upgraded, it seems the school is not focused on making living situations better for all dorms, so I think one main place of improvement is living situations.... Read 1,205 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 6%

• Net price $27,297

• SAT range 1470-1570

• Nashville, TN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  1,345 reviews

Graduate Student: My time at Vanderbilt University was truly enriching. The academic atmosphere fostered a culture of excellence and intellectual curiosity that I found invigorating. The professors were not only knowledgeable but also deeply invested in the success of their students, providing invaluable mentorship and guidance. The campus itself is beautiful, with a vibrant campus life offering countless opportunities for personal and professional growth. I particularly enjoyed the plethora of extracurricular activities available, from student clubs to research initiatives. What stood out to me was Vanderbilt's commitment to diversity and inclusion, creating a welcoming environment for students from all walks of life. However, one area that could be improved is the accessibility of certain resources, especially for students from underprivileged backgrounds. Enhancing financial aid and support services for these students would further enhance the University.... Read 1,345 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 7%

• Net price $27,553

• SAT range 1480-1570

• Evanston, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,488 reviews

Alum: Northwestern has an incredible network of professors who are preforming cutting-edge work in all their fields. Impressively, after an entire undergrad career there is only one professor who I would name as not a good professor, and that review is simply isolated to their teaching ability, not their subject knowledge. The learning support system is also extensive, and students are incredibly supportive as well. There is a culture of enabling yourself and those around you to reach new heights. While all the academics and research are amazing, I would say Northwestern needs to work on its accessibility to mental healthcare and ties to the greater Chicagoland community. There could be many more community outreach programs designed to benefit the diverse and interesting Chicago population, from academics to student life.... Read 1,488 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 7%

• Net price $29,999

• SAT range 1470-1570

• Saint Louis, MO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  1,572 reviews

Sophomore: I am a sophomore at WashU. The depth of the education and the number of opportunities (if you seek them) can be life-changing. The business school is super good at hosting recruitment events if your interested in business careers, and the academics ARE HARD -- You will do a lot of work. CS department could be stronger; premed/ bio/chem/pre-law deps / olin are excellent. The undergraduate student body is tight-knit and mostly extremely friendly. People are very smart but not obnoxious or entitled. Campus life is great because many of the undergrads (freshmen, sophomores, and some juniors) live on campus. The housing is excellent, and many students have kitchens on campus. St Louis is certainly not a luxury city (i.e. NY or LA) but does have good restaurants (DRIVE NOT WALK AWAY) and a cheap cost of living (concerts are usually way cheaper). It is way better than being in the woods, but not the bestest place. The school has partially impeded on the fun with their attack on greek life.... Read 1,572 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $28,298

• SAT range 1490-1570

• Pasadena, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  133 reviews

Alum: I was in the Class of 1996. I had such a difficult time due to personal issues. I wish someone had been able to explain to me that it is okay to take a break. That would have been better than failing out and then taking a break. Also, peer support at the counseling center would have made a difference.... Read 133 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 4%

• Net price $30,162

• SAT range 1530-1580

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.23 out of 5  423 reviews

Junior: After three challenging, exciting, and transformational years at Pomona, I feel that I can confidently say that I wouldn't want to have studied anywhere else, and I'm already mourning that I'll have to leave this place after next year. Pomona maintains a truly unique culture among elite higher education. Students here are bright and academically top-notch, sure, but, more importantly, they are genuinely curious about the world, open-minded, and passionate about knowledge and justice. I have been challenged academically and personally, and grown more than I could have imagined as a result. The school has its problems, of course: for one, the administration is opaque and unresponsive to student needs. But the dedicated faculty, laidback California atmosphere, and student body more than make up for them. If you are given the opportunity to study here, seriously consider it: you will grow as a student and as a person.... Read 423 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 7%

• Net price $17,000

• SAT range 1470-1570

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  5,580 reviews

Alum: It was amazing! I came to UCLA as a 3rd year transfer student meaning I had more perks than some of those who came in as freshmen. The housing I did off-campus apartment dorms which was amazing. They are like luxury apartments with plenty of space for roommates with open kitchens and fully furnished. The campus has a strong sense of community and it's easy to find friends and people you can connect with both in and out of your majors and initial interests. The college town Westwood is built against Beverly Hills and close to Rhodeo Drive, meaning it's not uncommon to spot a celebrity here and there. The local theaters host recarpets and UCLA students are often given entry to the premiers. the professors in my major (Art History) were some of the kindest and most interesting people I will have the pleasure to meet. My only issue is the workload, if you get overwhelmed easily, it's not the school for you. The quarter system is a monster for any major.... Read 5,580 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $13,393

• SAT range —

• Pittsburgh, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  1,478 reviews

Freshman: Carnegie Mellon University suits those who believe in working hard, working hard, and playing hard occasionally. The academics are demanding and challenging, which ultimately creates dedicated, disciplined students, or burnout. Many people require some kind of passion to be here, as it takes passion to get through the intense workload. On the surface, the social life at CMU seems pretty dead. However, after actively looking for clubs, organizations, and student groups, I found there are a lot of opportunities to be part of communities that are passionate and welcoming. I also love that CMU is very invested in their student's success: it is easy to get help from academic advisors, pursue research positions, and take interesting opportunities to get your education outside the classroom. Overall, I am very proud and happy that I came here :).... Read 1,478 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 14%

• Net price $37,450

• SAT range 1480-1560

• Ann Arbor, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  4,704 reviews

Freshman: The University of Michigan has so many amazing things to offer. For starters, the academics are really good and well structured (with some exceptions of course). Additionally, the academic advisors in the nursing program are very helpful. I have heard from close friends that some departments, especially LSA are not as helpful as nursing advisors. The housing on campus isn't perfect and could use updating, but is overall a nice place to live and is convenient, especially as a freshman. There also could be an improvement in the amount of campus housing. The party and social scenes are also incredibly attractive to those who enjoy school spirit and involvement. There is always something happening on campus that you will have fun doing (although sometimes they can get overcrowded), as well as tons of student orgs to get involved with. Transportation around campus is also pretty good with an easily walkable, or bikable campus, and buses that run all over central and north campus.... Read 4,704 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 20%

• Net price $19,205

• SAT range 1340-1520

• Ithaca, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  2,072 reviews

Alum: Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Cornell University. I was within the Policy Analysis and Management Department. Our courses were rigorous, but our professors encouraged collaboration with our peers through group papers, presentation, and problem sets. In addition, my peers were often happy and excited to work together. Outside of the PAM department, I was heavily involved with the Einhorn Center for Community-Engagement. Through my role at the Center, I really learned how to integrate community-engagement within my classes and professional work. I found that Cornell had many opportunities for students to engage with the Greater Ithaca community.... Read 2,072 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 9%

• Net price $24,262

• SAT range 1450-1560

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  1,295 reviews

Sophomore: Starting out at this university was not easy for me since I had to face many challenges on my own, away from family and friends I had back home. However, I had adjusted to the quarter system and found my place at the college. UChicago academics have impressed me, even with the required core classes. The professors I have met so far all appear to be enthusiastic about their specific fields, and they can be especially helpful outside of class. Given that our campus is located within a neighborhood, there are plenty of community activities and restaurants that students can hang out at, such as a Mexican-Korean restaurant called Seoul Taco. There are multiple dormitory buildings on campus, and the southern one is especially convenient as it has a dining hall, gym, and a small store all in one general place. There are also plenty of clubs, called RSOs, ranging from many types of activities like boxing or Japanese drum practice (Taiko). I would like more transportation options to explore.... Read 1,295 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 6%

• Net price $33,727

• SAT range 1510-1580

• Baltimore, MD•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  1,406 reviews

Alum: Overall, my undergraduate experience at Johns Hopkins was great. The academics were challenging without being destructive to student mental health and there were always numerous clubs, involvement opportunities, and events on campus to attend in my free time. It was easy to find research opportunities at the hospital and in general, the professors were very supportive. I do wish that I had seen more of JHU's involvement in local communities and would love to see the college work to give back more to local communities in the future.... Read 1,406 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 8%

• Net price $20,680

• SAT range 1470-1560

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  432 reviews

Sophomore: Transferred in from a flagship state school and have no regrets. Found more welcoming communities, interesting professional/research opportunities, and more engaging classes. Facilities and the overall area (being in between LA County and San Bernardino) are somewhat underwhelming but can be made more enjoyable with a car. Food and residential life is good, and you'll find most people are friendly across the 5Cs. More specific to CMC, students love having profound conversations and engaging in multiple productive pursuits. It's definitely a grind, but a fulfilling one -- especially if you're pre-professional interested in IB/Consulting.... Read 432 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $21,663

• SAT range 1420-1530