2024 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America

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Freshman: Stanford University offers an exceptional academic environment with cutting-edge research opportunities and a vibrant campus life. The access to world-renowned faculty and a diverse, intellectually stimulating community are definite highlights. The collaborative atmosphere fosters innovation and personal growth. However, some areas for improvement could include increasing support for mental health services and addressing issues of diversity and inclusion more robustly. Additionally, enhancing financial aid programs to ensure broader accessibility for students from all economic backgrounds would be beneficial.... Read 1,289 reviews
#1 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
Stanford University
4 Year,
STANFORD, CA,
1289 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Stanford University offers an exceptional academic environment with cutting-edge research opportunities and a vibrant campus life. The access to world-renowned faculty and a diverse, intellectually...However, some areas for improvement could include increasing support for mental health services and addressing issues of diversity and inclusion more robustly. Additionally, enhancing financial aid....
Read 1289 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 4%,
Net Price: $18,279,
SAT Range: 1500-1580,
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#2 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
Duke University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
DURHAM, NC,
1212 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Duke is a great community! While classes were difficult, challenged us to think critically, and were competitive by nature, I believe Duke students worked hard to help each other learn and succeed.....
Read 1212 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 6%,
Net Price: $23,694,
SAT Range: 1490-1570,
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Junior: The University of Florida is a great school for online students. I am a student in the Fire and Emergency services program and have enjoyed my time here. Although I am an out of state student, the tuition rates for this school are more affordable than an in-state institution where I live in Tennessee. Also, the academics are sufficiently challenging. The professors that I've had have all been very helpful, welcoming calls or emails. There are a few programs noted for their fire science across the nation, such as Oklahoma State University but they are so much more costly. Another great aspect of being an online student at University of Florida is being treated like an on-campus student. You have access to all campus facilities, can purchase Florida Gators football student season tickets, etc. While many "colleges" that cater to fire and emergency services are basically degree mills and lack the reputation that the University of Florida offers. UF has instant name recognition.... Read 8,131 reviews
#3 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
University of Florida
4 Year,
GAINESVILLE, FL,
8131 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says The University of Florida is a great school for online students. I am a student in the Fire and Emergency services program and have enjoyed my time here. Although I am an out of state student, the....
Read 8131 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 23%,
Net Price: $11,740,
SAT Range: 1300-1490,
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Mary Baldwin University
4 Year·
STAUNTON, VA
·
Rating 3.43 out of 5 637
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Eastern Mennonite University
4 Year·
HARRISONBURG, VA
·
Rating 3.76 out of 5 364
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Virginia Commonwealth University
4 Year·
RICHMOND, VA
·
Rating 3.76 out of 5 4,788
Alum: I loved it! My major was biochemistry, and I had the greatest time in classes in labs, etc. I also was super appreciative of the alumni network USC provides students with, as it allowed me to use connections I made in the classroom to get jobs outside, like lab work or other. Football games and student life was awesome. Advising was super good, especially as a student looking to go to grad school. The only things I wasn't crazy about were the low diversity, and the unsafe area. USC did what it can to make the area safer with campus police and all, but there's still a pretty high crime rate compared to the rest of LA.... Read 4,072 reviews
#4 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
University of Southern California
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
LOS ANGELES, CA,
4072 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I loved it! My major was biochemistry, and I had the greatest time in classes in labs, etc. I also was super appreciative of the alumni network USC provides students with, as it allowed me to use....
Read 4072 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 12%,
Net Price: $36,808,
SAT Range: 1450-1550,
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#5 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
University of Notre Dame
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NOTRE DAME, IN,
1439 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Overall loved my time at Notre Dame. The quality of the academics and research opportunities is great. Socially there's also a lot of fun things to do on campus and around South Bend. Downsides for....
Read 1439 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 13%,
Net Price: $28,474,
SAT Range: 1450-1550,
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Other: I attended UNC-CH from 1981-1985 and had the time of my life! From the general area to student life and the local area, I met life-long friends in the dorm, in class, in the spiritual and Christian campus fellowships, cultural groups, choirs, and even off-campus. The professors and department workers were accessible and easy to get along with. They were knowledgeable, caring and helpful. If I had to go back and choose again, I would definitely choose this same school. Up 'til my final year, I did not have summer school experience, so I chose to take a few summer school courses and stay on campus, just to see what it was like. Getting an A was even easier for me during the summer, and since the student population was smaller, we seemed even closer and got to know more people better. My only regret was not attending summer school earlier before my last summer.... Read 2,686 reviews
#6 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CHAPEL HILL, NC,
2686 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Other says I attended UNC-CH from 1981-1985 and had the time of my life! From the general area to student life and the local area, I met life-long friends in the dorm, in class, in the spiritual and Christian....
Read 2686 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 17%,
Net Price: $10,614,
SAT Range: 1350-1530,
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#7 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
University of Virginia
4 Year,
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA,
2427 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says UVA is an amazing community! Both the University itself and the surrounding area are beautiful and lively places. I've been able to do many of the things I've been interested in, including sports,....
Read 2427 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 19%,
Net Price: $19,469,
SAT Range: 1400-1540,
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Sophomore: Entering college, I was head-over-heels excited to attend my dream school: University of Michigan. What I did not realize were the many factors that came along with starting this new path of life -- living away from home, party culture, the football game frenzy, endless schoolwork, and the underlying pressure of having to make connections and network with others. Although these aspects seemed as though they were going to slowly but surely destroy me, I found great solace in studying (and the occasional bi-weekly matcha latte from Sweetwaters:)). The vast amount of resources in any field from ballet to biochemistry was something truly unique and a gift for someone interested in a multidisciplinary career like me. Further the research opportunities available to even first year students were abundant in every field. One thing I would like to see change is the resources available for people struggling to make friends and find a community. However, I hope my experience improves!... Read 4,755 reviews
#8 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
ANN ARBOR, MI,
4755 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Entering college, I was head-over-heels excited to attend my dream school: University of Michigan. What I did not realize were the many factors that came along with starting this new path of life --....
Read 4755 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 18%,
Net Price: $19,318,
SAT Range: 1350-1530,
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Graduate Student: UCLA offers a rich and diverse academic experience, characterized by high-caliber professors renowned for their expertise. The faculty's approach varies, with some professors being exceptionally caring and supportive, while others maintain a more professional demeanor. A standout feature of UCLA is its diverse student body, providing a unique opportunity to interact with peers from various backgrounds, races, and cultures. This multicultural environment fosters a broader perspective on life and enhances the overall learning experience. The university's commitment to academic excellence, combined with its vibrant campus culture, creates an engaging atmosphere for personal and intellectual growth. Despite the occasional challenges of a large institution, UCLA's blend of top-tier education and cultural diversity makes it a rewarding choice for higher education.... Read 5,617 reviews
#9 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
University of California - Los Angeles
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
LOS ANGELES, CA,
5617 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Graduate Student says UCLA offers a rich and diverse academic experience, characterized by high-caliber professors renowned for their expertise. The faculty's approach varies, with some professors being exceptionally....
Read 5617 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 9%,
Net Price: $16,999,
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Sophomore: I really love the city of Austin! The "weirdness" of Austin jumps out at you in the best way. The countless times I've gone to the groovy thrift stores or south Congress Ave with friends have been some of the best moments of my young life. The culture at UT is one of a kind as well. I feel that every person attending college feels a certain amount of pride in their school, like its a part of their identity almost. With UT its that and then some. Being from Maryland, experiencing the lone star state has been otherworldly. The pride in Texans and in the school is like no other, and it has certainly rubbed of on me. Though I am only a sophomore I am a Longhorn though and through! On top of the great city, the larger than life students, the sports and the like, UT is an academic institution first. Classes can be tough, and you feel it. Having to juggle social life with the grueling curriculum is something I had to work very hard for and still haven't quite got the hang of yet.... Read 6,808 reviews
#10 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
University of Texas - Austin
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
AUSTIN, TX,
6808 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says I really love the city of Austin! The "weirdness" of Austin jumps out at you in the best way. The countless times I've gone to the groovy thrift stores or south Congress Ave with friends have been....
Read 6808 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 31%,
Net Price: $17,434,
SAT Range: 1230-1500,
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Senior: I have had an excellent experience at the University of Miami. I started at the school during the Spring semester of my Freshamn year which made it a bit hard to meet people initially, but I found my people after only a few shorts weeks. I played club field hockey and joined a sorority, which made the adjustment easy. Academically, I find the school very challenging, but I believe I'm receiving an excellent education. I'm majoring in Health Sciences and this summer I'm working at a hospital as a nursing assistant. I feel well prepared thanks to some of the courses I've taken at school. The one drawback for me was I only had the opportunity to live on campus for one semester. Housing is hard to secure, so I've had to live off campus which I would have ideally delayed until my junior or senior year. The campus is beautiful and I'm very happy. I will miss Miami after I graduate!... Read 3,095 reviews
#11 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
University of Miami
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CORAL GABLES, FL,
3095 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says I have had an excellent experience at the University of Miami. I started at the school during the Spring semester of my Freshamn year which made it a bit hard to meet people initially, but I found....
Read 3095 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 19%,
Net Price: $36,467,
SAT Range: 1310-1480,
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Senior: I have overall had a great experience with Vanderbilt University, and I am truly sad that it is my last year coming up in the fall. I think that community is something that Vanderbilt does well, as everyone is so collaborative and kind! I think what needs to change is the Chancellor's office needs to hear student voices. Often times, his office makes really weird and sometimes dumb decisions without considering what it will look like for students, and it is really frustrating to not have our voices heard and listened to.... Read 1,358 reviews
#12 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
Vanderbilt University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NASHVILLE, TN,
1358 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says I have overall had a great experience with Vanderbilt University, and I am truly sad that it is my last year coming up in the fall. I think that community is something that Vanderbilt does well, as....
Read 1358 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $25,606,
SAT Range: 1490-1570,
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Junior: Attending Northwestern University allows me to be of service to people in my community. Its strong emphasis on community service and social justice aligns perfectly with my goals of advocating for systemic change. By participating in Northwestern’s outreach programs and leveraging its vast network, I bring attention to the issues plaguing our community and work towards sustainable solutions. The process to switch majors within McCormick is seamless. Starting at Weignberg my freshman year, I had to wait a whole quarter before switching schools and major.... Read 1,495 reviews
#13 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
Northwestern University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
EVANSTON, IL,
1495 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Attending Northwestern University allows me to be of service to people in my community. Its strong emphasis on community service and social justice aligns perfectly with my goals of advocating for...The process to switch majors within McCormick is seamless. Starting at Weignberg my freshman year, I had to wait a whole quarter before switching schools and major..
Read 1495 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $22,095,
SAT Range: 1490-1570,
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Freshman: I absolutely love Villanova, I was very skeptical because it was a mid size university and I wasn’t sure about the area. However, very quickly I became attached to this university! Villanova has opened my eyes to so much in terms of new amazing friends, great athletics, demanding but rewarding academics, plenty of campus/organization sponsored events/activities through the year, vast networking opportunities, numerous research/internship programs, hundreds of clubs and organizations for everyone!! Villanova’s beliefs, traditions, and values are a huge part of the reason I love it here! The people here are loving, accepting, understanding and supportive! I’ve met the most amazing people (of course there’s always outliers) at Villanova and lifelong friends for sure! The professors and staff members that I’ve connected and worked closely with are some of the most caring and genuine individuals I’ve ever met in my entire life. Last but not least is the beautiful gothic architecture! V’s up... Read 1,577 reviews
#14 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
Villanova University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
VILLANOVA, PA,
1577 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says I absolutely love Villanova, I was very skeptical because it was a mid size university and I wasn’t sure about the area. However, very quickly I became attached to this university! Villanova has....
Read 1577 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 23%,
Net Price: $34,837,
SAT Range: 1360-1500,
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Freshman: Athens, Georgia, the home of the University of Georgia, remains a fond memory in my heart. Athens is not too big of a city to get lost in, but not so small that it gets boring. There's always events taking place on campus, and Saturdays in Athens are some nobody should ever miss! The students here are willing to talk to you, and the campus makes it easy to bump into each other often. Amidst all these wonderful attributes that makes UGA so special--not to mention the great weather--I believe the housing situation needs to be updated. They are working on renovating certain dorms over the summer, so perhaps the housing situation may be better for the incoming class of 2024. The university also needs to address the parking situation because thousands of students are without a parking permit on the campus and have to park illegally due to lack of parking spaces. I've witnessed tons of cars issued tickets/boots. Despite some issues, I had an amazing freshmen year staying on campus at UGA.... Read 5,797 reviews
#15 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
University of Georgia
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
ATHENS, GA,
5797 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Athens, Georgia, the home of the University of Georgia, remains a fond memory in my heart. Athens is not too big of a city to get lost in, but not so small that it gets boring. There's always events....
Read 5797 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 43%,
Net Price: $17,180,
SAT Range: 1220-1420,
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Freshman: Yale is amazing overall! Campus is full of activities and there's always something to do. New Haven may not be the greatest city in America, but that just makes students be more active on campus and creates a sense of community! Yale also has the perfect balance of academics, extracurriculars, and social life, or as we like to think about it, the 8/8/8 rule: 8 hours of studying, 8 of sleep, and 8 of social life.... Read 1,060 reviews
#16 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
Yale University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NEW HAVEN, CT,
1060 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Yale is amazing overall! Campus is full of activities and there's always something to do. New Haven may not be the greatest city in America, but that just makes students be more active on campus and....
Read 1060 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 5%,
Net Price: $18,647,
SAT Range: 1500-1580,
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Sophomore: Princeton University is certainly an academically rigorous college. It attracts students who hold themselves to high standards which, due to grade deflation, adds to the stress of most students. The campus is beautiful in the more historic part of campus. The newer buildings are very clean and there are several food options. I don’t ever feel the need to snack with the amount of options I have in the undergraduate meal plan. Many of the student organizations are wonderful and everyone is very passionate about their field. It is certainly not an athletic school but alumni are extremely passionate about Princeton pride.... Read 474 reviews
#17 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
Princeton University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PRINCETON, NJ,
474 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Princeton University is certainly an academically rigorous college. It attracts students who hold themselves to high standards which, due to grade deflation, adds to the stress of most students. The....
Read 474 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 6%,
Net Price: $18,698,
SAT Range: 1490-1580,
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Other: My time at Harvard University was truly an incredible experience. From the moment I stepped onto campus, I was struck by the intellectual energy and vibrancy of the community. The professors were brilliant, challenging us to think critically and push the boundaries of our knowledge. I loved the small, seminar-style classes where I could engage in deep discussions with my classmates - people from such diverse backgrounds who each brought unique perspectives to the table. That said, Harvard wasn't without its challenges. The workload was intense, and I sometimes struggled to maintain a healthy work-life balance. The university could do more to support student mental health and wellbeing, like better access to counseling services, more wellness programming, etc. But overall, my experience at Harvard was truly transformative. The knowledge and skills I gained have been invaluable, and the connections I made will continue to benefit me long after graduation.... Read 851 reviews
#18 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
Harvard University
4 Year,
CAMBRIDGE, MA,
851 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.
Featured Review: Other says My time at Harvard University was truly an incredible experience. From the moment I stepped onto campus, I was struck by the intellectual energy and vibrancy of the community. The professors were...That said, Harvard wasn't without its challenges. The workload was intense, and I sometimes struggled to maintain a healthy work-life balance. The university could do more to support student mental...But overall, my experience at Harvard was truly transformative. The knowledge and skills I gained have been invaluable, and the connections I made will continue to benefit me long after graduation..
Read 851 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 3%,
Net Price: $19,491,
SAT Range: 1490-1580,
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#19 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
Florida State University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
TALLAHASSEE, FL,
7677 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Campus is beautiful! There's always so much to do. There's so many unique stuff to do at FSU, like the Club Downunder events with awesome musical guests, the pottery place, the midnight movie....
Read 7677 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 25%,
Net Price: $14,003,
SAT Range: 1210-1370,
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Other: Visiting Georgetown University is a highly enriching experience that leaves a lasting impression. Georgetown's campus is beautiful. The buildings, cobblestone walkways, and scenic views are breathtaking. I would love to go to the McDonough School of Business as it is highly regarded for its Finance program. Georgetown is known for its diverse student body and vibrant campus life. There are numerous clubs, organizations, and activities that cater to a wide range of interests, including finance-related groups. The university hosts a variety of events, guest lectures, and conferences that provide valuable networking opportunities and insights into the finance industry. The vibrant culture, of Washington, D.C., enrich the overall student experience. What Would Make it better is being accepted. It would open doors to the world for me. If accepted, the academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and location would provide a strong foundation for your future career in finance.... Read 1,280 reviews
#20 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
Georgetown University
4 Year,
WASHINGTON, DC,
1280 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Other says Visiting Georgetown University is a highly enriching experience that leaves a lasting impression. Georgetown's campus is beautiful. The buildings, cobblestone walkways, and scenic views are breathtaking.I would love to go to the McDonough School of Business as it is highly regarded for its Finance program. Georgetown is known for its diverse student body and vibrant campus life. There are numerous clubs, organizations, and activities that cater to a wide range of interests, including finance-related....
Read 1280 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 12%,
Net Price: $35,566,
SAT Range: 1410-1560,
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Junior: Clemson is an academically challenging yet welcoming environment which has fostered some of the greatest experiences and relationships of my life. With a mix of great academics, athletics, and campus programs I could not be happier anywhere else. The majority of individuals who complain about Clemson life do NOT represent the majority here at Clemson. Clemson has a unique atmosphere where you can tell the majority of students prioritize their academics unlike other campuses I have been to. Additionally, I have never met a rude person at Clemson. Everyone is open, kind, and willing to offer academic or personal advice. Also, the career center on campus has been number one in the nation several times and can almost guarantee you work. As an ME student my academics are quite challenging compared to some of my other friends who are ME at other universities, however, I think that the numerous programs, academics, and athletics Clemson offers makes for the perfect college experience!... Read 3,677 reviews
#21 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
Clemson University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CLEMSON, SC,
3677 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Clemson is an academically challenging yet welcoming environment which has fostered some of the greatest experiences and relationships of my life. With a mix of great academics, athletics, and....
Read 3677 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 43%,
Net Price: $24,577,
SAT Range: 1220-1410,
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Junior: My experience as an Ohio State student has been incredibly fulfilling in many ways. I've loved the sense of community here; there's always something happening on campus, whether it's a big football game, a cultural event, or a club meeting. The diversity of academic programs and the quality of professors have allowed me to explore my interests deeply. I've had some amazing research and hands-on learning opportunities that have enriched my education. That being said, there are a few things I wish could be different. Sometimes, the large class sizes can make it challenging to connect with professors on a personal level, especially in introductory courses. It would be great to see more resources allocated to smaller discussion groups or more office hours. Additionally, while the campus is vibrant, there are areas where improvements could be made in accessibility and campus infrastructure. Ensuring all students feel included and supported is crucial for a positive university experience.... Read 5,929 reviews
#22 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
The Ohio State University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
COLUMBUS, OH,
5929 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says My experience as an Ohio State student has been incredibly fulfilling in many ways. I've loved the sense of community here; there's always something happening on campus, whether it's a big football...That being said, there are a few things I wish could be different. Sometimes, the large class sizes can make it challenging to connect with professors on a personal level, especially in introductory...Additionally, while the campus is vibrant, there are areas where improvements could be made in accessibility and campus infrastructure. Ensuring all students feel included and supported is crucial....
Read 5929 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 53%,
Net Price: $19,582,
SAT Range: 1310-1480,
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Alum: I believe that Dartmouth College provides every opportunity to have an enriching and enjoyable experience as long as you advocate for your own interests. In particular, the quantity and quality of activities that utilize the beautiful natural locations all around the campus cannot be understated. It is possible to find a supportive social circle within and outside of the greek system. Academic experiences vary by department, but in general professors are supportive and empathetic while still encouraging intellectual growth.... Read 750 reviews
#23 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
Dartmouth College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
HANOVER, NH,
750 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I believe that Dartmouth College provides every opportunity to have an enriching and enjoyable experience as long as you advocate for your own interests. In particular, the quantity and quality of....
Read 750 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 6%,
Net Price: $19,208,
SAT Range: 1500-1580,
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Sophomore: From the moment of stepping on to campus at Wake Forest, the overall engaging environment allowed me to feel connected to my peers in ways that I never felt before. I enjoyed the scenery and the calming nature around that could keep me at peace despite anything going on in my personal life. Wake Forest places brilliant scholars in their school who helped sharpen my intelligence this past year. Understanding the precious opportunity that attending Wake Forest holds, I was able to create meaningful relationships this past year that I hope to maintain for the rest of my life. The overall experience was pleasant, but I do believe that the Wake Forest community could benefit from expressing the events across campus more often.... Read 877 reviews
#24 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
Wake Forest University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
WINSTON-SALEM, NC,
877 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says From the moment of stepping on to campus at Wake Forest, the overall engaging environment allowed me to feel connected to my peers in ways that I never felt before. I enjoyed the scenery and the....
Read 877 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 21%,
Net Price: $26,197,
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Senior: Great academics, though a somewhat religious experience as its Jesuit curriculum requires 2 philosophy and 2 theology courses. Party scene is less of a plus-side for the school, but the classes, professors, community, and involvement opportunities are all strengths! While some Freshman live on Newston Campus, and others live on Upper Campus, each have positives and negatives and regardless make for a great first-year experience! Ascend Club is especially awesome too :)... Read 1,614 reviews
#25 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America.
Boston College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CHESTNUT HILL, MA,
1614 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says Great academics, though a somewhat religious experience as its Jesuit curriculum requires 2 philosophy and 2 theology courses. Party scene is less of a plus-side for the school, but the classes,....
Read 1614 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 17%,
Net Price: $30,559,
SAT Range: 1430-1540,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
SponsoredCollege
Bridgewater College
4 Year·
BRIDGEWATER, VA
·
Rating 3.57 out of 5 469
SponsoredCollege
Virginia Wesleyan University
4 Year·
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA
·
Rating 3.53 out of 5 762
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ECPI University - Richmond West, VA
2 Year·
RICHMOND, VA
·
Rating 4.79 out of 5 19

The Best Colleges for Student Athletes

College sports are not for the faint of heart. A student athlete has to show up for practice, play in high-pressure games, and meet the same academic standards as their classmates. Blood, sweat, and tears—and a sense of accomplishment beyond what most non-athletes can imagine—are the rewards.

At Niche, we believe in supporting dedication and effort. We've developed this list of the best colleges for student athletes. You'll find schools here with top-notch athletic and academic programs.

Benefits and Challenges of Being a Student Athlete

The student athlete's life isn't for everyone. For those who can handle the challenge, it trains you for real life in a way nothing else can. You'll build:

Discipline and time management. As a student athlete, you'll balance academics with responsibilities to your team. You'll figure out how to write that paper, pass the midterm, and still get to practice on time.
Strong social bonds. Playing on a college team is a great bonding experience. You come together almost every day, giving 100% to develop yourselves and work toward a common goal. Many students meet their lifelong friends on college teams.
Professional connections. College athletes are some of the most dedicated and driven people. The people you meet—on your team and competing teams—will be the heavy-hitters to know as you build your future career.
Top-notch fitness. Starting college is stressful. With added responsibilities and new independence, many students let their health slide. As an athlete, you'll have coaches and teammates pushing you to be stronger, faster, and healthier each day.
Dedication. Athletes always have new goals to reach. As a student athlete, you will learn to devote yourself to growth and giving 100% to your sport.

For every challenge in college sports, you will gain benefits that will last a lifetime.

Qualities of the Best Athletic Colleges

When we developed our list of the best colleges for student athletes, we considered the quality of academics and competitive sports at each school. We collected data from the schools and the U.S. Department of Education, and we reviewed student surveys.

The schools on this list have top-notch professors and top-ranking majors. The , known worldwide for its athletic programs, also ranks number two on our list of the country's best schools for accounting and finance. , our number-two school for student-athletes, ranks as the best school nationwide for public policy.

Each school also has well-funded sports teams with winning records. Students give these athletic programs high rankings on our surveys. If you want to learn more about how we do calculations, check out our .

The Best Colleges for Smart Athletes

The stereotype of the college jock is long gone—today's student athletes are intelligent, ambitious, and dedicated to their success. , which heads our list as the best academic and athletic college, is a NCAA Division I school ranked number three for academics nationally. It also has top-five programs in multiple fields of study.

But don't worry—not every school on our list is as hard as Stanford. We've listed public and private universities across the country, from in Connecticut to the in LA. Explore your options and find the perfect school for you at Niche.

2024 Best Colleges for Student Athletes in America

Best programs

Students

Social scene

Campus

Athletics

Stanford University

Stanford University

Duke University

Duke University

University of Florida

University of Florida

University of Southern California

University of Southern California

University of Notre Dame

University of Notre Dame

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

University of Virginia

University of Virginia

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

University of California - Los Angeles

University of California - Los Angeles

University of Texas - Austin

University of Texas - Austin

University of Miami

University of Miami

Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt University

Northwestern University

Northwestern University

Villanova University

Villanova University

University of Georgia

University of Georgia

Yale University

Yale University

Princeton University

Princeton University

Harvard University

Harvard University

Florida State University

Florida State University

Georgetown University

Georgetown University

Clemson University

Clemson University

The Ohio State University