50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2023

50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2023
By James Barham
Published:
Updated:

Small colleges are a great option for students interested in a more intimate campus experience, more personal attention from excellent professors, and more immediate access to support services. Whether the focus is on the technical (as at Caltech) or on the liberal arts (as at Sarah Lawrence), small colleges give you the chance to pursue a well-rounded education while working closely with classmates and professors in a dynamic community atmosphere.

10 Best Small Colleges in the US

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  1. California Institute of Technology
    2. 76%
  2. Amherst College
    3. 63%
  3. Wesleyan University
    4. 62%
  4. Swarthmore College
    5. 61%
  5. Oberlin College
    6. 61%
  6. Williams College
    7. 60%
  7. Barnard College
    8. 58%
  8. Wellesley College
    9. 58%
  9. Smith College
    10. 58%
  10. Clark University
    11. 58%
  1. Hope College
    2. 92%
  2. The Catholic University of America
    3. 86%
  3. Fairleigh Dickinson University
    4. 85%
  4. Samford University
    5. 84%
  5. Willamette University
    6. 80%
  6. Hampshire College
    7. 75%
  7. University of Tulsa
    8. 75%
  8. Calvin University
    9. 75%
  9. Ashland University
    10. 70%
  10. Illinois Institute of Technology
    11. 66%
  1. Ashland University
    2. 16 to 1
  2. Morehouse College
    3. 15 to 1
  3. Fairleigh Dickinson University
    4. 15 to 1
  4. Calvin University
    5. 12 to 1
  5. Samford University
    6. 12 to 1
  6. Hampshire College
    7. 12 to 1
  7. Spelman College
    8. 11 to 1
  8. The Catholic University of America
    9. 11 to 1
  9. Hope College
    10. 11 to 1
  10. Sarah Lawrence College
    11. 10 to 1
  1. Kenyon College
    2. $63,310
  2. Vassar College
    3. $62,870
  3. Reed College
    4. $62,730
  4. Colorado College
    5. $62,070
  5. Wesleyan University
    6. $62,049
  6. Colgate University
    7. $61,966
  7. Union College, New York
    8. $61,659
  8. Trinity College
    9. $61,370
  9. Haverford College
    10. $61,210
  10. Amherst College
    11. $61,150
  1. Claremont McKenna College
    2. $64,288
  2. Vassar College
    3. $61,940
  3. Colgate University
    4. $61,594
  4. Wesleyan University
    5. $61,449
  5. Williams College
    6. $59,728
  6. Occidental College
    7. $57,830
  7. California Institute of Technology
    8. $56,364
  8. Smith College
    9. $55,830
  9. The Catholic University of America
    10. $50,670
  10. Bryn Mawr College
    11. $48,328
  1. Calvin University
    2. 37%
  2. Ashland University
    3. 38%
  3. Hope College
    4. 38%
  4. Hampshire College
    5. 41%
  5. Macalester College
    6. 41%
  6. Willamette University
    7. 42%
  7. Bucknell University
    8. 42%
  8. Claremont McKenna College
    9. 43%
  9. Trinity College
    10. 43%
  10. Grinnell College
    11. 43%
  1. California Institute of Technology
    2. 4%
  2. Pomona College
    3. 7%
  3. Swarthmore College
    4. 8%
  4. Amherst College
    5. 9%
  5. Williams College
    6. 9%
  6. Bowdoin College
    7. 9%
  7. Harvey Mudd College
    8. 10%
  8. Claremont McKenna College
    9. 11%
  9. Barnard College
    10. 11%
  10. Grinnell College
    11. 11%
  1. California Institute of Technology
    2. 3 to 1
  2. Pomona College
    3. 6 to 1
  3. Williams College
    4. 6 to 1
  4. Amherst College
    5. 7 to 1
  5. Swarthmore College
    6. 7 to 1
  6. Yeshiva University
    7. 7 to 1
  7. Smith College
    8. 7 to 1
  8. Wellesley College
    9. 7 to 1
  9. Dickinson College
    10. 8 to 1
  10. Occidental College
    11. 8 to 1
  1. Ashland University
    2. $23,090
  2. Spelman College
    3. $28,181
  3. Morehouse College
    4. $29,468
  4. Fairleigh Dickinson University
    5. $33,114
  5. Samford University
    6. $35,360
  6. Hope College
    7. $36,650
  7. Calvin University
    8. $38,240
  8. Willamette University
    9. $44,234
  9. University of Tulsa
    10. $45,673
  10. Yeshiva University
    11. $47,500
  1. Dickinson College
    2. $3,750
  2. Ashland University
    3. $6,972
  3. Fairleigh Dickinson University
    4. $9,780
  4. Calvin University
    5. $11,880
  5. Trinity College
    6. $18,780
  6. Samford University
    7. $20,935
  7. University of Tulsa
    8. $24,282
  8. University of Richmond
    9. $25,620
  9. Mount Holyoke College
    10. $25,833
  10. Bucknell University
    11. $26,112

Key Takeaways

  • A higher learning institution with no more than 5,000 students is considered a small college or university. The average student body of small private and liberal arts institutions is 1,000. The average student body of a small public research institution is 3,000.
  • The best small colleges and universities offer a tight-knit community experience to their student body. These colleges give students more opportunities to get to know their professors and peers.
  • The best small colleges in America provide the same academic excellence as their counterparts. In fact, smaller colleges tend to invest more time in each student’s success. Additionally, these colleges offer a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees that provide a more tailored curriculum.

Featured Programs

When comparing a big college campus to a small college campus, consider that the latter offers more individualized experiences, including opportunities for illuminating classroom discussions, independent research, and one-on-one relationships with your instructors.

Best Small Colleges and Universities

Small Schools, Big Success

Others will be drawn to the experience that a small college and university can give, while many prospective students will yearn for vast campuses and the anonymity of a bustling student population. However, small universities may not receive the same exposure as their larger counterparts and have diverse student organizations due to size and budgetary differences. But even so, going to a small institution or university has many advantages.

Different kinds of small colleges offer undergraduate and graduate-level degrees. Before enrolling in one, students should know the differences between them.

Major Types of Small Colleges

Liberal Arts College

These universities provide a wide range of liberal arts courses, covering subjects like literature, history, languages, arithmetic, and the social sciences. The majority are private and provide four-year bachelor’s degree programs. These institutions can help you get ready for a range of jobs or graduate school.

However, a private liberal arts college may cost more than public technical schools. Thankfully, many private and national liberal arts colleges, such as Washington and Lee University, Union College, Mount Holyoke College, Swarthmore College, and Smith College, provide financial aid opportunities for students interested in pursuing liberal arts education.

Public And Private Colleges

Public universities receive funding from local and state governments and frequently charge less for tuition than private institutions, particularly for students who live in the state where the college is located. On the other hand, tuition, fees, and private money are the primary sources of funding for private colleges. Sometimes large financial aid packages for students are made possible by private donations.

Historically Black Colleges and Universities

A historically black university gives black children the chance to experience an educational community where they are finally the majority and celebrate African-American culture and empowerment.

Spelman College ranks as a leading Historically Black College and University. This small college is one of the few small HBCU colleges that produced African-American females who completed doctoral degrees.

Pros and Cons of Attending the Best Small Colleges and Universities

Attending a small college has both advantages and disadvantages. You must choose what matters most to you: culture, resources, or staff.

Cons:

  • Fewer party scenes
  • Limited resources and small facilities
  • Small colleges are mostly private and thus more expensive

Pros:

  • Smaller class size
  • Greater flexibility
  • Less competition
  • You won’t feel lost in the crowd

How to Choose the Best Small College or University For You

The decision of which college or university to attend is important. Many high school students may feel overwhelmed by the process due to the overwhelming number of schools to consider. Here are some crucial considerations to remember so you can choose wisely.

  • The major you plan to pursue.
  • Visit the campus and tour the university.
  • Know the academic level and college requirements.
  • Don’t reject a college based only on the cost of tuition.
  • Explore financial aid options.
  • Ask about internship and job placement opportunities
  • Review graduation rates

Remember that you want to be a fantastic fit while selecting a college. You should pick an institution that aligns with your values and who you are. You can attend a college that best suits your needs by using the following advice to organize your goals and interests.

Our ranking of the best small colleges and universities is composed mainly of four-year undergraduate schools (though many offer graduate programs). We’ve identified 1,069 small colleges in the US. In order to be included in this list of best small colleges and universities, a school must be a fully accredited non-profit institution, and must have a student body of 5,000 or fewer students.

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The Best Small Colleges and Universities in the US 2022

  1. #1

    California Institute of Technology

    Pasadena , CA
    #1 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2023 #1 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2023 #1 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2023 #14 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $59K

    Acceptance

    4%

    Graduation

    93%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1555/35

    What is California Institute of Technology known for?

    California Institute of Technology’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  3. #3

    Swarthmore College

    Swarthmore , PA
    #1 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #15 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2023 #15 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2023 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $56K

    Acceptance

    8%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1467/32

    What is Swarthmore College known for?

    Swarthmore College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  4. #4

    Wesleyan University

    Middletown , CT
    #2 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #1 Best Small Colleges in Connecticut 2023 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Connecticut 2023 #2 Best Private Colleges in Connecticut 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    19%

    Graduation

    91%

    Student body

    3K

    What is Wesleyan University known for?

    Wesleyan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  5. #5

    Reed College

    Portland , OR
    #3 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #10 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2023 #10 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2023 #18 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    44%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    1K

    What is Reed College known for?

    Reed College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  7. #6

    Amherst College

    Amherst , MA
    #4 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #20 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2023 #21 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2023 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $61K

    Acceptance

    9%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1495/33

    What is Amherst College known for?

    Amherst College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  8. #7

    Williams College

    Williamstown , MA
    #5 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #23 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2023 #24 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2023 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    9%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    2K

    What is Williams College known for?

    Williams College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  10. #9

    Wellesley College

    Wellesley , MA
    #8 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2023 #3 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2023 #10 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $61K

    Acceptance

    16%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1435/32

    What is Wellesley College known for?

    Wellesley College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  11. #10

    Oberlin College

    Oberlin , OH
    #9 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #1 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2023 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Ohio 2023 #2 Best Private Colleges in Ohio 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    34%

    Graduation

    82%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1315/30

    What is Oberlin College known for?

    Oberlin College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  13. #11

    Barnard College

    New York , NY
    #10 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #2 Best Small Colleges in New York 2023 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2023 #10 Best Private Colleges in New York 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    11%

    Graduation

    93%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1434/32

    What is Barnard College known for?

    Barnard College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  16. #14

    Vassar College

    Poughkeepsie , NY
    #15 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #3 Best Small Colleges in New York 2023 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2023 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degree
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    20%

    Graduation

    93%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1440/33

    What is Vassar College known for?

    Vassar College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  17. #15

    Haverford College

    Haverford , PA
    #16 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #25 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2023 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2023 #2 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $61K

    Acceptance

    18%

    Graduation

    90%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1440/33

    What is Haverford College known for?

    Haverford College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  19. #16

    Pomona College

    Claremont , CA
    #18 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #2 Best Small Colleges in California 2023 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2023 #7 Best Private Colleges in California 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $57K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    93%

    Student body

    2K

    What is Pomona College known for?

    Pomona College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  23. #20

    Middlebury College

    Middlebury , VT
    #23 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #1 Best Small Colleges in Vermont 2023 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Vermont 2023 #1 Best Private Colleges in Vermont 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    13%

    Graduation

    91%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1430/32

    What is Middlebury College known for?

    Middlebury College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  25. #21

    Bowdoin College

    Brunswick , ME
    #24 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #1 Best Colleges in Maine 2023 #1 Best Small Colleges in Maine 2023 #1 Best Private Colleges in Maine 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    9%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    2K

    What is Bowdoin College known for?

    Bowdoin College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  27. #23

    Colgate University

    Hamilton , NY
    #4 Best Small Colleges in New York 2023 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2023 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Education Degrees #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Philosophy Degrees
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    17%

    Graduation

    90%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1385/31

    What is Colgate University known for?

    Colgate University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  35. #30

    Claremont McKenna College

    Claremont , CA
    #4 Best Small Colleges in California 2023 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2023 #10 Best Private Colleges in California 2023 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    11%

    Graduation

    93%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1415/32

    What is Claremont McKenna College known for?

    Claremont McKenna College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  51. #43

    Sarah Lawrence College

    Bronxville , NY
    #7 Best Small Colleges in New York 2023

    Tuition + fees

    $59K

    Acceptance

    58%

    Graduation

    76%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1315/29

    What is Sarah Lawrence College known for?

    Sarah Lawrence College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni


Looking for a small college or university in your state?

You know by now that the best large universities are not always the best learning environment for students who prefer smaller, more personal settings.

If you want a top-notch education from a small college, but would like a school that is close to home, check out our list of the best colleges and universities in each state.

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Find the Best Small Colleges and Universities in Your Area of Interest

The best small colleges by discipline

Check out the College Admissions Process Guide for additional tips on finding, applying to, and getting into the college of your choice.

See our Resources Guide for much more on studying, starting your job search, and more.

Photo Credit: California Institute of Technology, Beckman Institute. By Canon.vs.nikon, via CC BY-SA 3.0.

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