50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025

Badge for BEST IN THE-US SMALL COLLEGES &-UNIVERSITIES
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Jenn Finley
Updated:

Featured Programs

Best Small Colleges and Universities

  1. California Institute of Technology
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 3 to 1
  2. Wesleyan University
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 7 to 1
  3. Amherst College
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 7 to 1
  4. Oberlin College
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 9 to 1
  5. Williams College
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 6 to 1
  6. Swarthmore College
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 8 to 1
  7. Smith College
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 8 to 1
  8. Wellesley College
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 7 to 1
  9. Bryn Mawr College
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 8 to 1
  10. Vassar College
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 7 to 1

Key Takeaways

  • A higher learning institution with no more than 5,000 students is considered a small college or university.
  • The best small colleges and universities offer students a tight-knit community and the opportunity to get to know their professors and peers.
  • Small colleges tend to invest more time in each student’s success than a larger university is able to.

Top 10 Small Colleges and Universities in 2025

  1. California Institute of Technology
  2. Wesleyan University
  3. Amherst College
  4. Swarthmore College
    +2
  5. Williams College
  6. Smith College
    +1
  7. Oberlin College
    –3
  8. Yeshiva University
    +4
  9. Wellesley College
    –1
  10. Barnard College
    +1

2025 Ranking Update

As we get closer to the 2025 school year, we see considerable movement in our ranking of the top small colleges in America. The school that made the most improvement was Yeshiva University, which broke into the top 10 after gaining 4 ranking positions. Swarthmore College, Smith College, and Barnard College all gained positions as well.

Why did Yeshiva University improve? One of the most significant developments is YU’s new Health Sciences Campus at Herald Square in Midtown Manhattan. This state-of-the-art, 160,000-square-foot facility is set to dramatically expand YU’s healthcare programs, offering new opportunities in fields like Nursing, Occupational Therapy, and Speech-Language Pathology. This expansion aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals and showcases YU’s commitment to leadership in health sciences education.

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.

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.

Small Schools, Big Success

Many students are drawn to the experience that a small college and university can give, while others may 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.

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.

Back to Top

The Best Small Colleges and Universities

  1. #1

    California Institute of Technology

    Pasadena , CA
    #8 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #12 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #12 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #12 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $61K

    Acceptance

    3%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at California Institute of Technology

    Cost of Degree: $63,255
    Expenses: $23,631
    Starting Salary: $106,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is California Institute of Technology known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Popularly known as CalTech, the California Institute of Technology is regarded as one of the world’s best universities for the pure and applied sciences.

    What we love about Yeshiva University:

    Its high proportion of graduate students exposes students to a lot of collaboration and advanced knowledge.

    California Institute of Technology is ideal for students who:

    Are highly intelligent in and passionate about the sciences.

    California Institute of Technology may not be ideal for students who:

    Don’t handle high-pressure academic workloads well.

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  2. #2

    Wesleyan University

    Middletown , CT
    #1 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Connecticut 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in Connecticut 2025 #2 Best Private Colleges in Connecticut 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $64K

    Acceptance

    14%

    Graduation

    93%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1415/32

    Career Outlook for degree at Wesleyan University

    Cost of Degree: $67,016
    Expenses: $21,704
    Starting Salary: $63,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Wesleyan University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Established as a men’s college by the Methodist Episcopal Church, Wesleyan University currently operates as a co-educational and secular institution.

    What we love about Wesleyan University:

    It’s academic excellence across all its fields of discipline.

    Wesleyan University is ideal for students who:

    Want a top-performing school that has a close-knit and welcoming community.

    Wesleyan University may not be ideal for students who:

    Might be looking for a school in a more vibrant location, perhaps.

    Compare school
  3. #3

    Amherst College

    Amherst , MA
    #3 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #5 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $64K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1485/33

    Career Outlook for degree at Amherst College

    Cost of Degree: $67,280
    Expenses: $20,360
    Starting Salary: $83,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Amherst College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Amherst College has exclusively four-year undergraduate offerings. Its roster of decorated alumni includes Nobel Prize laureates and Pulitzer Prize recipients.

    What we love about Amherst College:

    It’s a member of the Five College Consortium, which lets students take courses across member campuses, including UMass Amherst.

    Amherst College is ideal for students who:

    Are looking to study particularly in the literary and creative arts.

    Amherst College may not be ideal for students who:

    Might find its location too quiet or dreary, culturally.

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  4. #4

    Swarthmore College

    Swarthmore , PA
    #4 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #1 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #3 Best Private Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $59K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1500/33

    Career Outlook for degree at Swarthmore College

    Cost of Degree: $62,412
    Expenses: $21,691
    Starting Salary: $70,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Swarthmore College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Swarthmore College joins Haverford and Bryn Mawr Colleges as a member of the Tri-College Consortium. It is highly selective, and is one of the most prestigious small colleges in the country.

    What we love about Swarthmore College:

    Getting into Swarthmore opens students up to many golden academic opportunities.

    Swarthmore College is ideal for students who:

    Want an ideal environment that lets them explore their interests and passions.

    Swarthmore College may not be ideal for students who:

    Don’t have a clear idea yet of what they are curious about/passionate about.

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  6. #5

    Williams College

    Williamstown , MA
    #6 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #7 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    8%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1525/34

    Career Outlook for degree at Williams College

    Cost of Degree: $64,860
    Expenses: $20,000
    Starting Salary: $89,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Williams College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    A liberal arts college in Williamstown, Williams College almost exclusively offers undergraduate degrees, with the exception of a couple of master’s degrees.

    What we love about Williams College:

    Its location which sees it surrounded by mountains and forests.

    Williams College is ideal for students who:

    Genuinely enjoy intellectual discussions and pursuits.

    Williams College may not be ideal for students who:

    Are looking to study in an Engineering field.

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  7. #6

    Smith College

    Northampton , MA
    #7 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #3 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #7 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $59K

    Acceptance

    23%

    Graduation

    89%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1445/32

    Career Outlook for degree at Smith College

    Cost of Degree: $61,568
    Expenses: $24,462
    Starting Salary: $51,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 22 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Smith College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Smith College is a women’s liberal arts college and a member of the Seven Sisters Consortium. It has produced numerous distinguished alumnae throughout its history, including two US First Ladies.

    What we love about Smith College:

    It’s beautiful campus and overall quiet town location.

    Smith College is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a close-knit, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.

    Smith College may not be ideal for students who:

    Aren’t too great at dealing with an academically stressful environment.

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  8. #7

    Oberlin College

    Oberlin , OH
    #8 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #1 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Ohio 2025 #2 Best Private Colleges in Ohio 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    35%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1445/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Oberlin College

    Cost of Degree: $64,646
    Expenses: $22,758
    Starting Salary: $45,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 23 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Oberlin College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Aside from being a conservatory of music, Oberlin College holds the distinction of being the country’s oldest co-ed liberal arts college. Its conservatory is also the oldest continuously operating in the country.

    What we love about Oberlin College:

    Mostly free concerts almost daily, courtesy of the Oberlin Conservatory of Music.

    Oberlin College is ideal for students who:

    Want a supportive community of academically-driven peers.

    Oberlin College may not be ideal for students who:

    Might find an issue with its location and school culture.

    Compare school
  9. #8

    Yeshiva University

    New York , NY
    #20 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #1 Best Small Colleges in New York 2025 #6 Best Private Colleges in New York 2024 #8 Best Colleges in New York 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $49K

    Acceptance

    63%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1375/29

    Career Outlook for degree at Yeshiva University

    Cost of Degree: $49,900
    Expenses: $21,650
    Starting Salary: $78,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Yeshiva University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Yeshiva University primarily caters to the Orthodox Jewish community, though it has no acceptance restrictions. Yeshiva comes from the Hebrew word for “academy.”

    What we love about Yeshiva University:

    It has produced a majority of Jewish secular and religious leaders for decades now.

    Yeshiva University is ideal for students who:

    Want the best education in the Orthodox Jewish framework.

    This may not be ideal for students who:

    Might not conform to the school’s rules aimed at the Jewish community.

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  10. #9

    Wellesley College

    Wellesley , MA
    #9 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #4 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #10 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    14%

    Graduation

    90%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1490/34

    Career Outlook for degree at Wellesley College

    Cost of Degree: $64,320
    Expenses: $21,970
    Starting Salary: $71,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Wellesley College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Wellesley College is a women’s liberal arts college and began life in 1870 as a female seminary. It is part of the Seven Sisters Colleges (an informal grouping).

    What we love about Wellesley College:

    It’s a great environment for future women leaders and change-makers to get their start.

    Wellesley College is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a close-knit, passionate, and driven learning community

    Wellesley College may not be ideal for students who:

    Might find an all-women student body somehow lacking or not comforting.

    Compare school
  12. #10

    Barnard College

    New York , NY
    #10 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #2 Best Small Colleges in New York 2025 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2025 #10 Best Private Colleges in New York 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    9%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1495/33

    Career Outlook for degree at Barnard College

    Cost of Degree: $66,246
    Expenses: $23,562
    Starting Salary: $69,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Barnard College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Barnard College is a women’s liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University. It is a member of the Seven Sisters grouping of liberal arts colleges.

    What we love about Oberlin College:

    Its innovative and flexible Foundations Curriculum.

    Oberlin College is ideal for students who:

    Want a fulfilling and intellectually stimulating academic journey.

    Oberlin College may not be ideal for students who:

    May be unwilling to venture out of their comfort zones.

    Compare school
  13. #11

    Vassar College

    Poughkeepsie , NY
    #13 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #3 Best Small Colleges in New York 2025 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2025 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degrees 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $65K

    Acceptance

    19%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1482/33

    Career Outlook for degree at Vassar College

    Cost of Degree: $67,805
    Expenses: $19,665
    Starting Salary: $61,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Vassar College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    While Vassar College was one of the earliest women’s colleges in the country and is currently a Seven Sisters group of colleges) member. It became co-educational in 1969.

    What we love about Vassar College:

    The campus is a designated arboretum with its ecological preserve.

    Vassar College is ideal for students who:

    Want a school that gives them a lot of academic flexibility.

    Vassar College may not be ideal for students who:

    Might find the school too small, population-wise.

    Compare school
  14. #12

    Illinois Institute of Technology

    Chicago , IL
    #1 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2025 #3 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2025 #4 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2025 #4 Best Colleges in Illinois 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $51K

    Acceptance

    61%

    Graduation

    75%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1315/30

    Career Outlook for degree at Illinois Institute of Technology

    Cost of Degree: $50,917
    Expenses: $21,228
    Starting Salary: $78,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Illinois Institute of Technology known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Illinois Institute of Technology, or Illinois Tech, was formed through a merger in 1940 of its two parent institutions: the Armour Institute (est. 1890) and the Lewis Institute (est. 1895).

    What we love about the Illinois Institute of Technology:

    Well-connected since it’s in the city but still quiet and safe.

    Illinois Institute of Technology is ideal for students who:

    Want to study engineering or architecture.

    Illinois Institute of Technology may not be ideal for students who:

    Are looking to study the arts or social sciences.

    Compare school
  15. #13

    Bard College

    Annandale-On-Hudson , NY
    #14 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #4 Best Small Colleges in New York 2025 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $61K

    Acceptance

    46%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at Bard College

    Cost of Degree: $63,612
    Expenses: $21,240
    Starting Salary: $43,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 23 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Bard College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  16. #14

    Bryn Mawr College

    Bryn Mawr , PA
    #15 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #3 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #4 Best Private Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $59K

    Acceptance

    31%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1387/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Bryn Mawr College

    Cost of Degree: $62,560
    Expenses: $20,690
    Starting Salary: $61,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Bryn Mawr College known for?

    Bryn Mawr College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Bryn Mawr College, a women’s liberal arts college, is one of the Seven Sisters. Bryn Mawr is a Welsh word that literally translates to “large hill.”

    What we love about Bryn Mawr College:

    Its proximity to a major city, with its associated academic opportunities.

    Bryn Mawr College is ideal for students who:

    Want a small and vibrant learning community (think school traditions).

    Bryn Mawr College may not be ideal for students who:

    Might prefer a co-educational college.

    Compare school
  18. #15

    The Catholic University of America

    Washington , DC
    #13 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Small Colleges in DC 2024 #3 Best Christian Colleges in DC 2025 #5 Best Research Universities in DC 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $54K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    76%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for degree at The Catholic University of America

    Cost of Degree: $55,834
    Expenses: $21,950
    Starting Salary: $60,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is The Catholic University of America known for?

    The Catholic University of America’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The Catholic University of America is the only higher education institution founded by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and remains closely affiliated with the Catholic Church.

    What we love about The Catholic University of America:

    Its location gives access to a lot of culturally significant areas and sites.

    The Catholic University of America is ideal for students who:

    Value a faith-focused learning environment and the personal development it gives.

    The Catholic University of America may not be ideal for students who:

    Don’t like the rules and customs associated with Catholic schools.

    Compare school
  19. #16

    Clark University

    Worcester , MA
    #5 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #9 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025 #10 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $52K

    Acceptance

    50%

    Graduation

    76%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1340/30

    Career Outlook for degree at Clark University

    Cost of Degree: $55,160
    Expenses: $13,540
    Starting Salary: $54,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Clark University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Clark University is unique, having started as an all-graduate institution before accepting undergraduates in 1902. It is named after Jonas Gilman Clark, who gave the seed endowment.

    What we love about Clark University:

    Its campus is compact and architecturally cohesive.

    Clark University is ideal for students who:

    Genuinely want to make an impact on the world.

    Clark University may not be ideal for students who:

    Don’t find the New England weather agreeable.

    Compare school
  20. #17

    Reed College

    Portland , OR
    #1 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #17 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #1 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $65K

    Acceptance

    31%

    Graduation

    80%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1410/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Reed College

    Cost of Degree: $67,020
    Expenses: $19,520
    Starting Salary: $52,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 21 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Reed College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    A private liberal arts college in Portland, Reed College is well-renowned for having a very high proportion of its graduates eventually earning post-graduate & terminal degrees.

    What we love about Reed College:

    It is a strong contender for one of the most beautiful campuses of colleges its size.

    Reed College is ideal for students who:

    Want the perfect blend of excellent academics and a quiet and beautiful environment.

    Reed College may not be ideal for students who:

    Might not keep up with the school’s rigorous academics.

    Compare school
  21. #18

    Mount Holyoke College

    South Hadley , MA
    #18 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #6 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #11 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Education Degrees

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    40%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1445/32

    Career Outlook for degree at Mount Holyoke College

    Cost of Degree: $64,142
    Expenses: $20,838
    Starting Salary: $53,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 21 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Mount Holyoke College known for?

    Mount Holyoke College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  22. #19

    Sarah Lawrence College

    Bronxville , NY
    #5 Best Small Colleges in New York 2025 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $61K

    Acceptance

    50%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1355/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Sarah Lawrence College

    Cost of Degree: $63,678
    Expenses: $18,946
    Starting Salary: $48,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 22 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Sarah Lawrence College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  24. #20

    Haverford College

    Haverford , PA
    #19 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #2 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $64K

    Acceptance

    14%

    Graduation

    91%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1485/34

    Career Outlook for degree at Haverford College

    Cost of Degree: $68,020
    Expenses: $22,082
    Starting Salary: $75,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Haverford College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Haverford College is a liberal arts college founded by the Quakers. It is a member of the Quaker Consortium along with Bryn Mawr and Swarthmore Colleges, as well as the University of Pennsylvania.

    What we love about Haverford College:

    Its Honor Code that governs its unique student life.

    Haverford College is ideal for students who:

    Like close-knit and welcoming college environments.

    Haverford College may not be ideal for students who:

    Prefer larger and more bustling universities.

    Compare school

    25. Pomona College

    Claremont , CA
    #20 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #2 Best Small Colleges in California 2025 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #4 Best Private Colleges in California 2025

    Career Outlook for degree at Pomona College

    Cost of Degree: $62,326
    Expenses: $22,974
    Starting Salary: $77,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Pomona College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Among liberal arts colleges in the country, Pomona College is one of the most prestigious and has the lowest acceptance rate.

    What we love about Pomona College:

    Its need-blind financial aid and opportunities for low-income students.

    Pomona College is ideal for students who:

    Want an all-around good school with sunny weather to boot.

    Pomona College may not be ideal for students who:

    Might want somewhere with far more diversity of opinions

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    College of the Holy Cross

    Worcester , MA
    #1 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #22 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #25 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #2 Best Christian Colleges in Massachusetts 2024

    Career Outlook for degree at College of the Holy Cross

    Cost of Degree: $60,850
    Expenses: $19,650
    Starting Salary: $88,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is College of the Holy Cross known for?

    College of the Holy Cross’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    A Jesuit liberal arts institution, the College of the Holy Cross is one of the oldest Catholic educational institutions in the country.

    What we love about the College of the Holy Cross:

    It’s one of the Hidden Ivies, a collection of highly regarded liberal arts colleges and universities.

    College of the Holy Cross is ideal for students who:

    Want a top-tier, well-rounded college education.

    College of the Holy Cross may not be ideal for students who:

    Might have issues with it being a Catholic school.

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    Middlebury College

    Middlebury , VT
    #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Vermont 2025 #2 Best Private Colleges in Vermont 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in Vermont 2025

    Career Outlook for degree at Middlebury College

    Cost of Degree: $65,280
    Expenses: $20,600
    Starting Salary: $71,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Middlebury College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Middlebury College is the first college/university in Vermont, established back in 1800. It currently offers both undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

    What we love about Middlebury College:

    It serves as a strong support system for first-generation college students.

    Middlebury College is ideal for students who:

    Want a top-tier school that has the practicalities of college life covered.

    Middlebury College may not be ideal for students who:

    Might prefer a more urban/big-city campus.

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    Hampshire College

    Amherst , MA
    #4 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #8 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025

    Career Outlook for degree at Hampshire College

    Cost of Degree: $56,630
    Expenses: $17,644
    Starting Salary: $39,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 23 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Hampshire College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

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    University of Richmond

    University of Richmond , VA
    #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Virginia 2025 #2 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in Virginia 2025 #7 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Richmond

    Cost of Degree: $62,600
    Expenses: $18,720
    Starting Salary: $78,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Richmond known for?

    University of Richmond’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

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    Occidental College

    Los Angeles , CA
    #3 Best Small Colleges in California 2025 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #10 Best Private Colleges in California 2025

    Career Outlook for degree at Occidental College

    Cost of Degree: $63,446
    Expenses: $21,354
    Starting Salary: $59,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Occidental College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

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    Dickinson College

    Carlisle , PA
    #4 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024

    Career Outlook for degree at Dickinson College

    Cost of Degree: $63,450
    Expenses: $19,752
    Starting Salary: $64,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Dickinson College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school

    Samford University

    Birmingham , AL
    #5 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #12 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Alabama 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in Alabama 2025

    Career Outlook for degree at Samford University

    Cost of Degree: $38,144
    Expenses: $19,312
    Starting Salary: $59,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Samford University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Samford University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Liberal Studies
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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    Willamette University

    Salem , OR
    #2 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024 #2 Best Private Colleges in Oregon 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2025 #6 Best Colleges in Oregon 2025

    Career Outlook for degree at Willamette University

    Cost of Degree: $48,268
    Expenses: $19,233
    Starting Salary: $57,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Willamette University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

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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.

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

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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