The Best College in Every State: What They’re Looking For

The Best College in Every State: What They’re Looking For

For students who dream of attending a great college without straying too far from home, understanding the best options in their state is key. Each state has its standout schools, each with its own personality and type of student they’re eager to admit. If your home state’s options are limited, don’t worry—I’ll guide you to a nearby gem that checks all the boxes.

Let’s dive into the top colleges by state and the kind of students they’re looking for.

Alabama: Auburn University

Auburn is the heart of Alabama’s college pride. They’re looking for students who value tradition, school spirit, and community. STEM, business, and engineering are strong here, and leadership roles will boost your app.

Why Auburn? Because this is where school spirit lives. If you’re not ready to yell "War Eagle" at the top of your lungs, are you even trying?

Nearby Option: The University of Georgia offers a top-tier education if you’re willing to cross state lines.

Alaska: University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF)

Alaska’s flagship university specializes in environmental sciences, engineering, and Arctic studies. They’re looking for adventurous, research-minded students.

Why UAF? If you’ve got a thing for the great outdoors and groundbreaking research, this is your spot.

Nearby Option: The University of Washington offers a broader range of programs and is still in the Pacific Northwest.

Arizona: Arizona State University (ASU)

ASU’s Barrett Honors College provides a small liberal arts feel within a larger public university. They’re looking for high-achievers with entrepreneurial mindsets.

Why ASU? With innovation as their motto, they’re basically telling you to think big or go home.

Nearby Option: The University of California, San Diego (UCSD), is a short drive away for those looking for another West Coast option.

Arkansas: Hendrix College

This liberal arts college is perfect for curious, engaged students who thrive in close-knit communities. Hendrix values creativity and academic exploration.

Why Hendrix? You’ll find your people here if you’re all about collaboration and deep dives into learning.

Nearby Option: Washington University in St. Louis offers a similar vibe with broader resources.

California: Stanford University

Stanford is the obvious choice, blending world-class academics with sunny West Coast vibes. They’re all about innovation and leadership, and they want students who’ve got big ideas and the hustle to match.

Why Stanford? It’s the ultimate "dream big" school. You’re not just going here to learn; you’re going to change the world.

Other California Gems:

• University of California, Berkeley: Perfect for activists and thinkers who want to make waves.
• University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA): The right fit for students who want a blend of academic rigor and Hollywood flair.
• Pomona College: For students craving the intimacy of a liberal arts education with all the resources of the Claremont Colleges.
• University of Southern California (USC): A powerhouse for arts, business, and athletics. If you’re into networking and star power, USC’s Trojan network is unmatched.

Colorado: University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder)

CU Boulder attracts outdoorsy, adventurous students who are also serious about academics. Environmental studies and aerospace engineering are standout programs.

Why CU Boulder? Where else can you study for midterms and then hit the slopes?

Nearby Option: The University of Utah offers similar outdoor access with a smaller price tag for Western students.

Connecticut: Yale University

Yale is for the intellectually curious who love collaboration over competition. They value deep thinkers who can articulate their passions.

Why Yale? It’s got the best of both worlds: Ivy League prestige and a campus that feels like Hogwarts.

Nearby Option: Wesleyan University provides a liberal arts alternative with a creative edge.

Delaware: University of Delaware

Known for its chemical engineering program, UD seeks ambitious, well-rounded students. It’s a great option for those staying close to home.

Why UD? Because it’s the perfect mix of rigorous academics and approachable vibes.

Nearby Option: The University of Maryland offers a larger campus feel and strong academic programs.

Florida: University of Florida (UF)

UF is the academic powerhouse of the South. They’re looking for students with stellar GPAs, leadership, and a love of Gator spirit.

Why UF? You’re joining a school with an unbeatable mix of academics and sports culture. Plus, Gainesville has all the sunshine you could want.

Nearby Option: Florida State University (FSU) offers another strong in-state option with a vibrant campus life and excellent academic programs.

Georgia: Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)

Tech-minded students with a love for STEM will thrive here. Georgia Tech values problem-solvers and innovators.

Why Georgia Tech? Because you’ll be surrounded by the brightest minds tackling the biggest challenges.

Other Georgia Gems:

• Emory University: Perfect for students who value strong academics in a smaller, collaborative environment. It’s known for pre-med and business programs and a stunning campus.
• Clemson University offers a balance of strong academics and school spirit.

Hawaii: University of Hawaii at Manoa

UH Manoa attracts students passionate about marine biology, environmental science, and Hawaiian culture. They’re looking for community-minded individuals.

Why UH Manoa? Studying by the beach? Yes, please. Plus, you’ll be immersed in a culture like no other.

Nearby Option: The University of California system offers more diverse options for West Coast residents.

Idaho: University of Idaho

Idaho’s flagship university is ideal for students interested in agriculture, forestry, and engineering. They’re looking for hard-working, grounded students.

Why U of I? If you love nature and innovation, this is your place.

Nearby Option: Washington State University offers similar programs with a larger campus feel.

Illinois: University of Chicago

The University of Chicago is for students who love intellectual debates and rigorous academics. They’re looking for thinkers, writers, and future changemakers.

Why UChicago? It’s intense, but if you thrive in a challenging environment, this is the place.

Nearby Option: Northwestern University offers a slightly more pre-professional vibe while maintaining academic rigor.

Indiana: University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame is known for its strong sense of community, academic rigor, and commitment to service. They want leaders who value tradition and innovation.

Why Notre Dame? You’ll join a tight-knit alumni network and a school that values faith and intellect.

Nearby Option: Indiana University Bloomington provides a larger public option with excellent business and arts programs.

Iowa: Grinnell College

Grinnell College is perfect for independent thinkers and collaborative learners. Its financial aid packages are a major draw.

Why Grinnell? Small, supportive, and academically challenging—it’s everything a liberal arts college should be.

Nearby Option: Macalester College in Minnesota offers a similar vibe with a metropolitan edge.

Kansas: University of Kansas (KU)

KU is perfect for students who love a mix of spirited athletics and strong academics. Their honors program is exceptional, and their journalism and healthcare programs stand out.

Why KU? If you want a big-campus feel with personalized opportunities, KU delivers.

Nearby Option: The University of Missouri offers a similar mix of academics and sports culture.

Kentucky: University of Kentucky

The University of Kentucky is the go-to for students who want top-notch programs in healthcare, agriculture, and engineering. It’s also home to an amazing basketball culture.

Why UK? Strong academics and Wildcats basketball—what more could you want?

Nearby Option: The University of Cincinnati provides an urban alternative with similar academic rigor.

Louisiana: Tulane University

Tulane is for students who value service learning and a vibrant campus in the heart of New Orleans. Their focus on community engagement is unmatched.

Why Tulane? You’ll thrive if you’re passionate about academics and making a difference locally and globally.

Nearby Option: LSU offers a larger, more traditional college experience while staying in-state.

Maine: Bowdoin College

Bowdoin is a top-tier liberal arts college that values intellectual curiosity and community engagement. It’s perfect for students who want a rigorous academic environment in a beautiful coastal setting.

Why Bowdoin? Small classes, a stunning campus, and a focus on social responsibility make it stand out.

Nearby Option: Bates College provides another excellent liberal arts education in Maine with a focus on inclusivity.

Maryland: Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins is world-renowned for its research, particularly in medicine and public health. They’re looking for ambitious students with a strong academic foundation and a love for discovery.

Why Hopkins? If you want to be on the cutting edge of research, Hopkins is your place.

Nearby Option: The University of Maryland offers a more affordable but still prestigious education with strong STEM programs.

Massachusetts: Harvard University

Harvard is the definition of Ivy League excellence. They’re looking for students who are academically exceptional, passionate, and ready to lead. It’s not just about grades; they want thinkers, doers, and change-makers.

Why Harvard? It’s Harvard. The name alone opens doors, and the resources are unparalleled.

Other Massachusetts Gems:

• MIT: Ideal for tech enthusiasts and those wanting to innovate and engineer the future. MIT is just as prestigious as Harvard but with a sharper focus on STEM fields.
• Williams College: A top-tier liberal arts college perfect for students who love small classes and personalized attention.
• Amherst College: Known for its open curriculum and strong community vibe, Amherst offers unmatched flexibility and rigor.
• Tufts University: Blends a focus on global citizenship with strong academics, particularly in international relations and health sciences.

Michigan: University of Michigan (U-M)

Ann Arbor is home to one of the best public universities in the world. U-M excels in just about everything—engineering, business, arts, and athletics. They’re looking for students with strong academics and leadership potential.

Why Michigan? Go Blue! It’s the perfect mix of top-tier academics and an amazing college experience.

Nearby Option: Michigan State University offers strong academics with a more relaxed campus vibe.

Minnesota: Carleton College

Carleton is a liberal arts gem in the Midwest. They’re looking for intellectually curious students who thrive in a close-knit academic community.

Why Carleton? You’ll get personalized attention, challenging courses, and a supportive environment.

Nearby Option: The University of Minnesota offers a big-campus experience with excellent programs in science, engineering, and healthcare.

Mississippi: University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)

Ole Miss is steeped in Southern charm and tradition. They’re looking for students who value community, leadership, and school spirit. Their journalism and healthcare programs stand out.

Why Ole Miss? The Grove, SEC sports, and a friendly campus atmosphere make it a standout choice.

Nearby Option: Mississippi State University offers strong STEM programs with a more rural setting.

Missouri: Washington University in St. Louis (WashU)

WashU is a top-tier research university with a stunning campus. They’re looking for academically driven students who value collaboration and creativity.

Why WashU? The academic programs are elite, and the city of St. Louis offers plenty of cultural opportunities.

Nearby Option: The University of Missouri offers a larger, more traditional college experience.

Montana: Montana State University (MSU)

MSU is the place for students who love the outdoors and hands-on learning. They excel in agriculture, engineering, and environmental sciences.

Why MSU? The proximity to Yellowstone and an adventurous campus culture make it unique.

Nearby Option: The University of Montana offers a more liberal arts-focused education in a similar natural setting.

Nebraska: University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL)

UNL is the state’s flagship university, excelling in agriculture, engineering, and business. They’re looking for students who are hardworking and community-oriented.

Why UNL? Big Ten athletics and strong academics create a balanced college experience.

Nearby Option: Kansas State University offers similar strengths in agriculture and STEM.

Nevada: University of Nevada, Reno (UNR)

UNR offers strong programs in journalism, mining engineering, and business. They’re looking for students who want to make the most of their resources and stay close to the mountains.

Why UNR? Small class sizes and easy access to outdoor adventures make it a standout choice.

Nearby Option: The University of California, Davis (UC Davis), is just across the border with a focus on agriculture and environmental science.

New Hampshire: Dartmouth College

Dartmouth combines Ivy League prestige with a focus on community and undergraduate education. They’re looking for students who are adventurous, intellectually curious, and ready to embrace leadership.

Why Dartmouth? The tight-knit campus and beautiful setting create an unparalleled learning environment.

Nearby Option: The University of New Hampshire offers a more affordable option with strong academics and a supportive campus.

New Jersey: Princeton University

Princeton is all about academic excellence and close mentorship. They’re looking for students who thrive in small, discussion-based classes and want to dive deep into their passions.

Why Princeton? You’ll get an Ivy League education with some of the best undergraduate resources in the world.

Nearby Option: Rutgers University provides strong academics with a more urban feel.

New Mexico: University of New Mexico (UNM)

UNM is the go-to for students interested in healthcare, law, and Native American studies. They’re looking for students who value diversity and community engagement.

Why UNM? Albuquerque offers a vibrant culture, and the campus is beautiful with access to outdoor adventures.

Nearby Option: Arizona State University offers a more expansive academic and campus experience.

New York: Columbia University

Columbia is for students who thrive in the fast-paced environment of New York City. They’re looking for intellectuals who want to debate, discover, and disrupt. Bonus points if you love a good bagel.

Why Columbia? It’s in the heart of NYC. Need I say more? If you want to spend your breaks at Broadway shows or exploring Central Park, this is your spot.

Other New York Gems:

• Cornell University: Ivy League prestige meets upstate charm. Perfect for budding engineers, business leaders, or agriculture enthusiasts.
• New York University (NYU): Artsy, entrepreneurial, and unapologetically urban. If you love creative freedom, NYU’s your place.
• Vassar College: A liberal arts haven with strong academics and a creative vibe.
• Colgate University: A hidden gem for students who want the rigor of an Ivy League with a picturesque campus.

North Carolina: Duke University

Duke is a powerhouse known for its rigorous academics, vibrant campus life, and competitive athletics. They’re looking for well-rounded students who excel both inside and outside the classroom.

Why Duke? It’s a perfect mix of Southern charm and Ivy League-level prestige, with strong programs across the board.

Nearby Option: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) offers world-class academics with a more public-school feel.

North Dakota: University of North Dakota (UND)

UND is the state’s flagship university, excelling in aerospace engineering, nursing, and education. They’re looking for hardworking, community-minded students.

Why UND? It’s one of the best schools in the nation for aviation and offers a welcoming, close-knit campus.

Nearby Option: North Dakota State University offers strong engineering and business programs with a larger campus feel.

Ohio: Ohio State University (OSU)

OSU is one of the largest and most well-known public universities in the country. They’re looking for students who thrive in a big-campus environment and balance academics with extracurricular involvement.

Why OSU? Buckeye pride runs deep, and you’ll find incredible resources, from research opportunities to athletic programs.

Nearby Option: Case Western Reserve University offers a smaller, research-focused environment with strong STEM and health science programs.

Oklahoma: University of Oklahoma (OU)

OU is all about tradition, community, and leadership. They excel in journalism, meteorology, and energy-related fields.

Why OU? You’ll join a campus full of spirit and have access to nationally recognized programs.

Nearby Option: Oklahoma State University offers a more rural feel with equally strong programs in agriculture and engineering.

Oregon: University of Oregon (UO)

UO attracts students who are creative, athletic, and environmentally conscious. Their journalism and environmental science programs are top-notch.

Why UO? It’s perfect for students who love the outdoors and want a progressive, dynamic campus culture.

Nearby Option: Oregon State University is great for STEM students, particularly those interested in engineering and forestry.

Pennsylvania: University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)

UPenn blends Ivy League prestige with a practical focus on pre-professional education. They’re looking for ambitious students who want to make an impact in business, healthcare, or public service.

Why UPenn? The Wharton School alone makes it a top choice for aspiring business leaders, but every program here is stellar.

Nearby Option: Carnegie Mellon University offers a cutting-edge education in STEM and the arts.

Rhode Island: Brown University

Brown is known for its open curriculum and emphasis on student-directed learning. They’re looking for creative, independent thinkers who thrive on academic freedom.

Why Brown? It’s the place to design your own educational path while surrounded by a collaborative community.

Nearby Option: The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is perfect for aspiring artists and designers.

South Carolina: Clemson University

Clemson excels in engineering, agriculture, and business. They’re looking for students with strong academics and a love of school spirit and community service.

Why Clemson? You’ll get a strong education with the added bonus of beautiful surroundings and passionate sports culture.

Nearby Option: The University of South Carolina offers a more urban campus with equally strong programs in business and law.

South Dakota: South Dakota State University (SDSU)

SDSU is the state’s largest university and is known for agriculture, nursing, and engineering programs. They’re looking for practical, hardworking students.

Why SDSU? A friendly campus environment and affordable tuition make it a great choice.

Nearby Option: The University of South Dakota offers strong liberal arts programs and a smaller campus feel.

Tennessee: Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt is one of the top private universities in the South, with strengths in education, medicine, and the humanities. They’re looking for ambitious, well-rounded students.

Why Vanderbilt? It’s the perfect blend of academic rigor and a fun, music-filled Nashville location.

Nearby Option: The University of Tennessee offers a more accessible option with strong programs in engineering and agriculture.

Texas: University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin)

Hook ‘em Horns! UT Austin is where everything’s bigger—including the opportunities. They’re looking for ambitious students who balance academics with a love for school spirit and tacos.

Why UT Austin? Because it’s not just a college; it’s a lifestyle. You’ll get a top education and a front-row seat to all the action in Austin.

Nearby Option: Texas A&M University offers a strong sense of community and leadership opportunities.

Utah: University of Utah

The U of U is perfect for students who love the outdoors and innovation. Their strengths include healthcare, engineering, and entrepreneurship.

Why the U of U? The beautiful mountain setting and opportunities for research and internships make it a standout choice.

Nearby Option: Brigham Young University offers a strong academic reputation with a faith-based community.

Vermont: Middlebury College

Middlebury is a top-tier liberal arts college with a focus on environmental studies, international relations, and languages. They’re looking for curious, globally minded students.

Why Middlebury? The campus is stunning, and the academics are rigorous yet supportive.

Nearby Option: The University of Vermont offers a larger campus with strong environmental and healthcare programs.

Virginia: University of Virginia (UVA)

UVA combines a rich history with modern academic excellence. They’re looking for students who value leadership, service, and intellectual curiosity.

Why UVA? Thomas Jefferson founded it, and it remains one of the best public universities in the nation.

Nearby Option: The College of William & Mary offers a smaller, more intimate campus experience with equal academic prestige.

Washington: University of Washington (UW)

UW is a hub for innovation, especially in technology, healthcare, and environmental science. They’re looking for students who are driven and ready to contribute to cutting-edge research.

Why UW? It’s located in the heart of Seattle, offering incredible opportunities for internships and networking in tech and business.

Nearby Option: Western Washington University is great for students seeking a smaller campus with strong liberal arts and teaching programs.

West Virginia: West Virginia University (WVU)

WVU is known for its programs in healthcare, engineering, and energy. They’re looking for students who are ready to work hard and embrace school spirit.

Why WVU? The combination of academic opportunities and outdoor adventure makes it a fantastic option.

Nearby Option: Marshall University offers a more intimate campus with strong programs in education and liberal arts.

Wisconsin: University of Wisconsin-Madison

UW-Madison is one of the top public universities in the country, excelling in research, engineering, and agriculture. They’re looking for students with a strong work ethic and intellectual curiosity.

Why UW-Madison? From top-notch academics to the beautiful lakeside campus, it’s hard to beat.

Nearby Option: Marquette University offers a private-school alternative with a strong focus on business and healthcare.

Wyoming: University of Wyoming

The University of Wyoming excels in environmental science, agriculture, and energy research. They’re looking for students who love the outdoors and want a tight-knit campus community.

Why Wyoming? Affordable tuition and a beautiful, wide-open setting make it a unique choice.

Nearby Option: Colorado State University offers similar strengths in agriculture and engineering with a larger campus feel.