US University Ranking 2019 (Detailed List)

1 in National Universities Princeton University, Princeton, NJ

• $47,140 Tuition and Fees 5,394 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The ivy-covered campus of Princeton University, a private institution, is located in the quiet town of Princeton, New Jersey. Princeton was the first university to offer a "no loan" policy to financially needy students, giving grants instead of loans to accepted students who need help paying tuition.

2 in National Universities Harvard University, Cambridge, MA

• $50,420 Tuition and Fees 6,766 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Harvard University is a private institution in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just outside of Boston. This Ivy League school is the oldest higher education institution in the country and has the largest endowment of any school in the world.

3 in National Universities (tie) Columbia University, New York, NY

• $59,430 Tuition and Fees 6,162 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Columbia University has three undergraduate schools: Columbia College, The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), and the School of General Studies. This Ivy League, private school guarantees students housing for all four years on campus in Manhattan’s Morningside Heights neighborhood in New York City.

3 in National Universities (tie) Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA

• $51,832 Tuition and Fees 4,547 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Though the Massachusetts Institute of Technology may be best known for its math, science and engineering education, this private research university also offers architecture, humanities, management and social science programs. The school is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just across the Charles River from downtown Boston.

3 in National Universities (tie) University of Chicago, Chicago, IL

• $57,006 Tuition and Fees 6,264 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Chicago, situated in Chicago’s Hyde Park community, offers a rich campus life in a big-city setting. Since 1987, the private institution has hosted the University of Chicago Scavenger Hunt, a four-day event that is regarded as the largest scavenger hunt in the world.

3 in National Universities (tie) Yale University, New Haven, CT

• $53,430 Tuition and Fees 5,746 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Yale University, located in New Haven, Connecticut, offers a small college life with the resources of a major research institution. Yale students are divided into 12 residential colleges that foster a supportive environment for living, learning and socializing.

7 in National Universities Stanford University, Stanford, CA

• $51,354 Tuition and Fees 7,062 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The sunny campus of Stanford University is located in California’s Bay Area, about 30 miles from San Francisco. The private institution stresses a multidisciplinary combination of teaching, learning, and research, and students have many opportunities to get involved in research projects.

8 in National Universities (tie) Duke University, Durham, NC

• $55,960 Tuition and Fees 6,692 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke University is a private institution that has liberal arts and engineering programs for undergraduates. The Duke Blue Devils sports teams have a fierce rivalry with the University of North Carolina—Chapel Hill Tar Heels and are best known for their outstanding men's basketball program.

8 in National Universities (tie) University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA

• $55,584 Tuition and Fees 10,033 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded by Benjamin Franklin, the University of Pennsylvania is a private institution in the University City neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Students can study in one of four schools that grant undergraduate degrees: Arts and Sciences, Nursing, Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Wharton.

10 in National Universities (tie) Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD

• $53,740 Tuition and Fees 6,109 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Johns Hopkins University is a private institution in Baltimore that offers a wide array of academic programs in the arts, humanities, social and natural sciences, and engineering disciplines. The Hopkins Blue Jays men’s lacrosse team is consistently dominant in the NCAA Division I; other sports teams at Hopkins compete at the Division III level.

10 in National Universities (tie) Northwestern University, Evanston, IL

• $54,567 Tuition and Fees 8,278 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Northwestern University is a private school in Evanston, Ill., about 30 minutes outside of Chicago. Undergraduate students have about 100 options for majors or can design their own non-traditional degree program.

12 in National Universities (tie) California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA

• $52,362 Tuition and Fees 961 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The California Institute of Technology focuses on science and engineering education and has a low student-to-faculty ratio of 3:1. This private institution in Pasadena, California, is actively involved in research projects with grants from NASA, the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

12 in National Universities (tie) Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH

• $55,035 Tuition and Fees 4,410 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Dartmouth College, a private institution in Hanover, New Hampshire, uses quarters, not semesters, to divide the school year. Among more than 300 student organizations at Dartmouth is the Outing Club, the nation's oldest and largest collegiate club of its kind, which offers outdoor activities, expeditions, gear rentals and courses.

14 in National Universities (tie) Brown University, Providence, RI

• $55,656 Tuition and Fees 6,988 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

At Brown University, undergraduate students are responsible for designing their own academic study with more than 75 concentration programs to choose from. Another unique offering at this private, Ivy League institution in Providence, R.I. is the Program in Liberal Medical Education, which grants both a bachelor’s degree and medical degree in eight years.

14 in National Universities (tie) Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN

• $49,816 Tuition and Fees 6,885 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Vanderbilt University is a private institution in Nashville, Tenn. with four undergraduate colleges: the College of Arts and Science, the School of Engineering, Peabody College, and the Blair School of Music. About 40 percent of Vanderbilt students participate in Greek life.

16 in National Universities (tie) Cornell University, Ithaca, NY

• $55,188 Tuition and Fees 14,907 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Cornell University, a private school in Ithaca, New York, has 14 colleges and schools. Each admits its own students, though every graduate receives a degree from Cornell University. The university has more than 1,000 student organizations on campus.

16 in National Universities (tie) Rice University, Houston, TX

• $47,350 Tuition and Fees 4,001 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Rice University is located in the heart of the Museum District in Houston, TX. The private institution has a need-blind admissions policy and meets the full demonstrated need of any accepted student who requires help paying tuition.

18 in National Universities University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN

• $53,391 Tuition and Fees 8,576 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Notre Dame is a private, independent, Catholic institution in South Bend, Ind. Notre Dame’s athletic teams, known as the Fighting Irish, play in the NCAA Division I and are particularly competitive on the football field.

19 in National Universities (tie) University of California--Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA

• $41,294 (out-of-state), $13,280 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 31,002 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of California—Los Angeles is just five miles away from the Pacific Ocean. The public institution offers more than 3,800 courses and about 130 majors to undergraduate students.

19 in National Universities (tie) Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO

• $53,399 Tuition and Fees 7,675 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Students can study architecture, art, arts and sciences, business, and engineering at Washington University in St. Louis, a private research institution in Missouri. Outside of class, about 35 percent of the student body is involved in Greek life.

21 in National Universities Emory University, Atlanta, GA

• $51,306 Tuition and Fees 6,937 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Students can begin their education at the school's main location in a suburb of Atlanta, known as Emory College, or at Oxford College, a smaller campus about 40 miles away. This private institution offers about 70 majors in the arts and sciences, as well as degrees in business administration and nursing.

22 in National Universities (tie) Georgetown University, Washington, DC

• $54,104 Tuition and Fees 7,463 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Georgetown University is the oldest Catholic university in the country. The school's location in Washington, D.C. gives students many opportunities for internships throughout the nation's capital.

22 in National Universities (tie) University of California--Berkeley, Berkeley, CA

• $43,232 (out-of-state), $14,240 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 30,574 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of California—Berkeley overlooks the San Francisco Bay in Berkeley, Calif. Students at this public school have more than 1,000 groups to get involved in, including more than 60 fraternity and sorority chapters.

22 in National Universities (tie) University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA

• $56,225 Tuition and Fees 19,170 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Undergraduates study in the College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences at the University of Southern California, a private school based in Los Angeles. The USC Trojans compete in the NCAA Division I Pac-12 Conference and are particularly competitive in football.

25 in National Universities (tie) Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA

• $55,465 Tuition and Fees 6,896 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Carnegie Mellon University, a private institution in Pittsburgh, is the country’s only school founded by industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. The school specializes in academic areas including engineering, business, computer science and fine arts.

25 in National Universities (tie) University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA

• $48,891 (out-of-state), $17,350 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 16,655 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded by Thomas Jefferson, the University of Virginia is located in Charlottesville. It’s referred to among insiders as Mr. Jefferson’s University or simply The University. Only first-year students are required to live on campus, and many upperclassmen live in off-campus apartments or fraternity and sorority houses. Greek life is prominent at UVA with a membership that includes approximately 35 percent of the student body. The Cavaliers, known unofficially as Wahoos or ‘Hoos, are members of the NCAA Division I Atlantic Coast Conference and are well known for their consistently dominant men’s and women’s lacrosse teams.UVA’s graduate programs include the highly ranked Darden Graduate School of Business, Curry School of Education, School of Engineering and Applied Science, School of Law and School of Medicine. UVA houses one of the 25 remaining original copies of the Declaration of Independence, called a Dunlap Broadside, in its Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library. The school also has its own distinct lingo: The campus is referred to as the "grounds," the central quad is the "lawn," and students are either a first, second, third or fourth year. Former U.S. Senator Edward Kennedy, journalist Katie Couric and former NFL player Tiki Barber all earned degrees from UVA. Famous writer Edgar Allen Poe was forced to leave the school after losing his tuition money to gambling, but his dorm room on the lawn is still preserved and on display for visitors.

27 in National Universities (tie) Tufts University, Medford, MA

• $56,382 Tuition and Fees 5,541 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more Tufts University, located not far from downtown Boston, is comprised of the School of Arts and Sciences, and the School of Engineering that serves both undergraduate and graduate students, and a number of graduate and professional schools, including the highly ranked School of Medicine and Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. All freshmen and sophomores are required to live on campus. Students can participate in such student groups as cycling, which is a club sport; the Beelzebubs, an all-male a cappella group; and the Geological Society. About half of the student body participates in study abroad programs, and approximately a quarter of students are affiliated with Greek life. Tufts’ official mascot, Jumbo the elephant, is the only school mascot listed in Merriam-Webster dictionary. Tufts also has a permanent art collection that features works by Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol and John Singer Sargent.Questions & AnswersHow difficult is it to get accepted into Tufts University?It can be difficult to get accepted into Tufts, since it is a highly selective university. Overall, the school accepted 14 percent of applicants for fall 2016, according to U.S. News data. The average SAT score for freshmen was 713 for critical reading and 729 for math. The average ACT composite score was 32.How far is Tufts University from Boston?Tuft’s Medford/Somerville campus is 5 miles northwest of Boston. Tufts’ downtown Boston campus is home to the medical and dental schools, and the veterinary medicine school is located in Grafton, Massachusetts, about 45 miles outside Boston.How expensive is Tufts University?Tufts is more expensive than many private institutions, with tuition and fees for the 2017-2018 school year at $54,318, according to U.S. News data. About 36 percent of students received need-based financial aid in the 2016 school year.What majors does Tufts University offer?Based on the school’s website, students can choose from more than 90 undergraduate majors at Tufts, including classical studies, economics, international relations and religion.

27 in National Universities (tie) University of Michigan--Ann Arbor, Ann Arbor, MI

• $49,350 (out-of-state), $15,262 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 29,821 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The university boasts of Ann Arbor, only 45 minutes from Detroit, as one of the best college towns in the U.S. Freshmen are guaranteed housing but not required to live on campus. Students can join one of the school’s more than 1,500 student organizations or 62 Greek chapters. Athletics play a central role at Michigan, including the football team’s fierce rivalry with Ohio State. Michigan also offers highly ranked graduate programs, including the Stephen M. Ross School of Business, College of Engineering, Law School and Medical School, in addition to the well-regarded School of Dentistry and Taubman College for Architecture and Urban Planning. The University of Michigan Hospitals and Health Centers is ranked among the top hospitals in the country.Questions & AnswersIs it difficult to get into the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor?The University of Michigan—Ann Arbor’s acceptance rate for fall 2016 was 29 percent, meaning that roughly 1 out of every 4 students who applied was accepted. Prospective students can apply to the university using The Common Application or the Coalition Application. For more information about what is needed to apply to the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor, see the Applying section of the school’s profile page.When does the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor release admissions decisions?The university releases early action admissions decisions for freshman applicants no later than Dec. 24, according to the university’s website. Regular decision notifications are sent out in April.How does the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor compare to Michigan State University?The University of Michigan—Ann Arbor and Michigan State University are both public schools. UM—Ann Arbor had more than 28,000 undergraduate students in fall 2016 and Michigan State enrolled around 39,000 undergrads during that time. UM—Ann Arbor is the more selective of the two schools, accepting 29 percent of applicants for fall 2016, while Michigan State had an acceptance rate of 66 percent, according to U.S. News data. To further compare these two universities, use the U.S. News College Compare tool.How does the transfer process at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor work?The application deadline for prospective transfer students interested in fall admission to the university’s College of Literature, Science and Arts and the College of Engineering is Feb. 1. Deadlines and requirements for prospective transfer students applying to other schools and colleges within the university may differ, according to the UM—Ann Arbor website. For specific information regarding GPA requirements, transfer of credits and other aspects of the transfer application process, students should visit the website of the UM—Ann Arbor college or school they are interested in.

27 in National Universities (tie) Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC

• $53,322 Tuition and Fees 5,102 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Wake Forest University is located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, just a few hours by car from skiing in the Blue Ridge Mountains or relaxing on the beaches of South Carolina. Campus Recreation offers intramural sports and outdoor trips such as kayaking on the New River, mountain biking and sky-diving. The Demon Deacons, Wake’s athletic teams, are members of the NCAA Division I Atlantic Coast Conference. When Wake Forest played rival Duke University in 1922 and won, a local reporter described the Wake players as "Demon Deacons," and thus, the mascot was born. Students must live on campus for six semesters in one of the residence halls. Greek organizations play a big role at Wake Forest, with membership consisting of almost half of the student body.Wake Forest is made up of six schools. Its graduate programs include those in the highly ranked School of Law, School of Business and School of Medicine. Undergraduates are enrolled in either Wake Forest College or the business school. than 60 percent of students take advantage of Wake’s study abroad programs offered in more than 70 countries around the world. Notable alumni include the shortest NBA player of all-time, Muggsy Bogues; legendary golfer Arnold Palmer; and journalist and talk show host Al Hunt.

30 in National Universities (tie) New York University, New York, NY

• $51,828 Tuition and Fees 26,417 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

New York University’s primary campus is located in the lively Greenwich Village neighborhood of Manhattan. NYU is a true city school, with no borders separating a distinct campus from the streets of the Big Apple. Students are guaranteed housing for all four years in the many residence halls throughout Manhattan, but many upperclassmen choose to live off campus in apartments around the city. NYU has a small but active Greek life with more than 30 fraternity and sorority chapters. There are more than 300 student organizations on campus, such as WNYU, the student radio station which streams online and broadcasts on a local FM channel to the university community.NYU is divided into a number of schools and colleges, the largest of which is the College of Arts and Sciences. For those interested in drama or film, the renowned Tisch School of the Arts is the place to go, offering both undergraduate and graduate programs in acting, dance, dramatic writing, film, television and more. Former Tisch students include directors Martin Scorsese and Spike Lee. Other graduate programs include the highly ranked Stern School of Business; Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development; School of Law; School of Medicine; Silver School of Social Work; and Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service.

30 in National Universities (tie) University of California--Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA

• $42,486 (out-of-state), $14,472 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 22,186 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located 100 miles up the coast from Los Angeles, the University of California—Santa Barbara sits atop cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Students can get involved in any of the more than 400 clubs and organizations on campus, including a Greek community that comprises about 10 percent of undergraduate students. UCSB provides housing to about 30 percent of students in eight residence halls and several university apartment complexes.The UC Santa Barbara Gauchos compete primarily in the NCAA Division I Big West Conference and are known for their successful women’s basketball and men’s soccer teams. Non-varsity students can join a club team such as cycling, surfing, rugby or ski and snowboard.UCSB encompasses five schools and colleges, the largest of which is the College of Letters and Science, serving undergraduate and graduate students. Graduate programs at UCSB include the highly ranked College of Engineering. The Gevirtz Graduate School of Education and Donald Bren School of Environmental Science and Management are other notable graduate schools at UCSB. Undergraduate students can apply for admissions into the College of Creative Studies, which emphasizes focused studies in one of eight disciplines: art, biology, chemistry and biochemistry, computer science, literature, mathematics, music composition or physics. Musician Jack Johnson and actor Michael Douglas both graduated from UCSB.

30 in National Universities (tie) University of North Carolina--Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC

• $35,169 (out-of-state), $8,986 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 18,862 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of North Carolina—Chapel Hill, often referred to as UNC, offers a wide range of student activities. Popular student organizations include The Daily Tarheel, UNC’s student newspaper, and WXYC, the student-run radio station. Nearly 20 percent of students are members of Greek life. Chapel Hill, which surrounds UNC, is often considered one of the best college towns in the country, offering music, restaurants and shopping. Almost half of all undergraduates live on campus in one of the residence halls or apartment complexes. The North Carolina Tar Heels are members of the Atlantic Coast Conference and are known for their men’s basketball team, which maintains a storied rivalry with nearby institution Duke University and is one of the most successful programs in college basketball. Former players include Michael Jordan and Vince Carter.UNC is divided into a number of schools and colleges, the largest of which is the undergraduate College of Arts and Sciences. Graduate programs include the highly ranked Kenan—Flagler Business School, School of Education, School of Law, School of Medicine, Gillings School of Global Public Health, School of Social Work, Eshelman School of Pharmacy and School of Government. At least 82 percent of each freshmen class must be from North Carolina, as dictated by state law. Actor and former professional basketball player Rick Fox, the 11th president of the United States James K. Polk, and former U.S. Senator John Edwards all earned degrees from UNC.

33 in National Universities (tie) University of California--Irvine, Irvine, CA

• $43,530 (out-of-state), $15,516 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 29,307 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

he University of California—Irvine, a research institution in Orange County, specializes in areas such as cancer and neuroscience studies in conjunction with the highly ranked UC Irvine Medical Center. Graduate programs are highly regarded at UC—Irvine, too, with specialty offerings at the Paul Merage School of Business and the Henry Samueli School of Engineering. Students can participate in more than 500 student organizations, including nearly 50 fraternities and sororities. The Pacific Ocean is only 5 miles from campus. Known as a commuter school, the university offers on-campus residences. Freshmen are not required to live on campus but more than three-fourths do. The university has earned accolades for its eco-friendly measures, promoting green initiatives through student groups like the Anteaters for Recycling and Conservation.Questions & AnswersIs the University of California—Irvine expensive?UC—Irvine is inexpensive for in-state students but costly for out-of-state students. Undergraduates from California paid $15,516 in tuition and fees for the 2017-2018 school year, while non-California residents paid $43,530, according to U.S. News data. Room and board was $14,829.How difficult is it to get accepted into the University of California—Irvine?It can be very difficult to gain acceptance at UC—Irvine, since it is much more selective than other public institutions. For fall 2016, 41 percent of 77,816 applicants were accepted, according to U.S. News data. Out-of-state applicants should have at least a 3.4 GPA in college preparatory courses, but in-state applicants may have a minimum 3.0 GPA in those courses, according to the school’s website. The UC—Irvine admissions team also considers the number of Advanced Placement courses an applicant takes, AP scores, special talents and standardized test scores, among other criteria.What does diversity look like at the University of California—Irvine?UC—Irvine is a very diverse institution. During the 2016 school year, the student body was 36 percent Asian and 26 percent Hispanic, according to U.S. News data, but only 2 percent were African-American. Sixteen percent of degree-seeking students are from overseas, with many from China, South Korea and Taiwan.What majors does the University of California—Irvine offer?Based on its website, UC—Irvine offers more than 80 majors in subjects as varied as African-American studies, informatics and quantitative economics. The most popular major for 2016 graduates was biology, according to U.S. News data.How does a student transfer to the University of California—Irvine?UC—Irvine gives priority to students transferring from California community colleges. These applicants should have 60 semesters or 90 quarters worth of transferable units and at least a 2.4 GPA, according to UC—Irvine’s website. Competitive applicants have at least a 3.0 GPA. Transfer applicants who are not California residents must have at least a 2.8 GPA. Other admissions considerations for all transfer applicants include community service, extracurricular activities, responses to short answer questions and academic achievement within certain courses.

33 in National Universities (tie) University of Rochester, Rochester, NY

• $53,926 Tuition and Fees 6,546 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Rochester describes itself as one of the smallest and most collegiate schools among the nation’s top research universities. The Yellowjackets mainly compete in the University Athletic Association and participate in NCAA Division III sports. The school also offers more than 250 student organizations, and one quarter of students are affiliated with Greek life on campus. Rochester’s a cappella ensembles are among the country’s best. Freshmen and sophomores are required to live on campus, and two-thirds of the juniors and more than half of the seniors choose to remain on campus. Rochester’s main campus is located two miles south of downtown Rochester, N.Y., in the bend of the Genesee River.The University of Rochester’s graduate programs include the highly ranked William E. Simon Graduate School of Business Administration, Hajim School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Medical Center, Department of Political Science and Department of Economics. The well-regarded Eastman School of Music is home to more than 20 ensembles, including the first wind ensemble in the country. The Institute of Optics is the nation’s oldest educational program devoted to optics. The school’s unique "Take Five Scholars" program provides students an additional tuition-free semester or year studying topics of interest outside of their major. Notable alumni include former U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu and visual effects artist Michael Kanfer, who won an Academy Award for his work on the film "Titanic." more

35 in National Universities (tie) Brandeis University, Waltham, MA

• $55,395 Tuition and Fees 3,635 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Brandeis University is located in Waltham, Mass., just nine miles west of Boston. Students are guaranteed housing for their first four semesters. In addition to student-run TV and radio stations, Brandeis has religious and performance groups, service organizations, cultural awareness groups, performance groups and more. The Shapiro Campus Center serves as a hub of student activity on campus, housing a theater, bookstore, cafe, library, meeting rooms and a student art gallery. Cholmondeley’s, the campus coffeehouse, is another hotspot for concerts and comedy shows. The Brandeis Judges field more than 15 NCAA Division III teams and are known for their strong men’s soccer team. There is no Greek life on campus.Brandeis is comprised of the College of Arts and Sciences and four graduate schools. The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences offers highly ranked programs in English and history, and The Heller School for Social Policy and Management is notable for its programs in social policy, health policy and management, and international development. Nearly 50 percent of students participate in study abroad programs offered in about 70 countries around the world. The Steinhardt Social Research Institute at Brandeis provides research and information on contemporary Judaism and the Jewish community. Pulitzer Prize winner and New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman graduated from Brandeis, which was named for the first Jewish Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, Louis Dembitz Brandeis.

35 in National Universities (tie) Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA

• $33,020 (out-of-state), $12,424 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 15,573 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Georgia Tech, located in the heart of Atlanta, offers a wide range of student activities. The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, an NCAA Division I team, compete in the Atlantic Coast Conference and have a fierce rivalry with the University of Georgia. Since 1961, the football team has been led onto the field at home games by the Ramblin' Wreck, a restored 1930 Model A Ford Sport Coupe. Georgia Tech has a small but vibrant Greek community. Freshmen are offered housing, but aren't required to live on campus. In addition to its campuses in Atlanta and Savannah, Georgia Tech has campuses in France, Ireland, Costa Rica, Singapore and China.Georgia Tech has six colleges. Its highly ranked graduate schools include the College of Engineering and Scheller College of Business. Georgia Tech is very active in research. The Georgia Tech Research Institute conducts government and industry research, and the school's efforts are key to the Georgia Research Alliance, which plays a role in the state's economic development strategy. Famous alumni include Mike Duke, former president and CEO of Walmart; Bobby Jones, founder of The Masters golf tournament; and former professional baseball player Nomar Garciaparra. John Heisman was Georgia Tech’s first full-time football coach, and the Heisman Memorial Trophy was named in his honor. The school's newspaper for faculty and staff, The Whistle, is named for the steam whistle in the Tech Tower that blows in intervals with the campus class schedule, and each time the Yellow Jackets score a touchdown.

35 in National Universities (tie) University of Florida, Gainesville, FL

• $28,658 (out-of-state), $6,381 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 35,247 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Florida is about two miles away from downtown Gainesville, a college town bolstered by the school’s more than 50,000 students. The Florida Gators sports teams compete in the NCAA Division I Southeastern Conference, and are supported by mascots Albert and Alberta the Alligators. The Gator football team, which competes in Ben Hill Griffin Stadium – commonly called the "The Swamp" – is particularly notorious. The team became the namesake of popular sports drink Gatorade in 1965, after freshmen Gators participated in an experiment with the novel beverage. The annual Gator Growl, held each Homecoming weekend, has been called the largest student-run pep rally in the nation. About 15 percent of students are involved in the school’s 60-plus fraternities and sororities. Freshmen do not have to live on campus, though more than 75 percent opt to do so. All students can partake in Gator Nights, held every Friday, which offer free late-night entertainment and midnight snacks.The school has well-regarded graduate programs through the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, Warrington College of Business, Levin College of Law and the College of Medicine. The university is also integrated with retirement community Oak Hammock, where students can work, complete internships and find mentors. Famous graduates of the University of Florida include home repair television sensation Bob Vila, Heisman Trophy winner Steve Spurrier and former U.S. Sens. Bob Graham and Connie Mack.

38 in National Universities (tie) Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA

• $55,464 Tuition and Fees 9,358 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Boston College, located just outside downtown Boston, was founded by the Society of Jesus and has maintained its Roman Catholic Jesuit religious affiliation. The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching classifies it as a university with high research activity. BC has nine schools, which include such highly ranked graduate programs as the Lynch School of Education, Boston College Law School and Carroll School of Management. The school competes in nearly 30 NCAA Division I varsity sports in the Atlantic Coast Conference, and the BC Eagles have one of the highest graduation rates for student athletes in the country. Students can join more than 200 clubs and organizations, but there is no Greek system on campus. Freshmen are not required to live on campus, but the majority choose to do so. than 1,000 students participate in study abroad each year.Questions & AnswersHow many majors does Boston College have and which majors are most popular?Boston College offers more than 60 majors, according to its website. Based on U.S. News data, some of the most popular include economics, finance, and biology and biological sciences.How difficult is it to get accepted into Boston College?It is quite difficult to get into Boston College, since it is a very selective institution. About 31 percent of the almost 29,000 applicants were accepted for fall 2016, according to U.S. News data.Does Boston College offer financial aid or scholarships?Tuition and fees were $53,346 for the 2017-2018 school year, according to U.S. News data, and many students use financial aid and scholarships to pay for their education at BC.According to U.S. News data, for fall 2016, the average need-based grant award or scholarship was $38,479 for undergraduates. About 40 percent of students received need-based grant aid or a scholarship. Students can also obtain non-need-based scholarships or grants. The average for freshmen was $20,137 during fall 2016.Can non-Catholics attend Boston College?Boston College welcomes students from all faiths and backgrounds while also sharing tenets of Catholicism with the entire campus. Mass, the Catholic church service, is offered daily, and the college regularly offers lectures and symposia about the contemporary Catholic church.Who founded Boston College and when?The Jesuits, a Catholic religious order, founded Boston College in 1863. The school started out as a liberal arts college but has expanded to include graduate and professional programs.

38 in National Universities (tie) College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA

• $44,701 (out-of-state), $21,830 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 6,285 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The College of William and Mary, located in Williamsburg, Virginia, is the second oldest college in the U.S. King William III and Queen Mary II of England founded the school in 1693. The college has more than 30 undergraduate programs and more than 10 graduate and professional degree programs. Its highly ranked graduate schools include the Marshall-Wythe School of Law, the first law school in the U.S.; the School of Education; and the Mason School of Business. Students can join the Phi Beta Kappa fraternity, the nation’s first academic Greek society, as well as other fraternities and sororities. All freshmen are required to live on campus, and the majority of upperclassmen choose to live on campus as well.Questions & AnswersHow difficult is it to get accepted into William and Mary?It can be difficult to get accepted into the College of William and Mary, which is more selective than many other universities. For fall 2016, 14,382 students applied and only 37 percent were accepted, according to U.S. News data.Does the College of William and Mary offer in-state tuition?During the 2017-2018 school year, the College of William and Mary charged $20,287 for students who were Virginia residents, according to U.S. News data.What is the job outlook for graduates of William and Mary?Within six months of graduating, about 56 percent of 2016 graduates were working full time and 25 percent were attending graduate school, according to the college’s website. Communications, consulting and health care are some of the top industries for graduates.

38 in National Universities (tie) University of California--Davis, Davis, CA

• $43,458 (out-of-state), $14,463 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 30,145 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of California—Davis, one of 10 schools in the University of California system, was originally established as a farm school for UC - Berkeley. Located just 15 miles from Sacramento, UC Davis’s campus contains an airport, fire department and a collection of outdoor sculptures called Eggheads. There are more than 500 student organizations on campus in addition to a sizeable Greek community that comprises about 65 fraternity and sorority chapters. All freshmen are guaranteed housing, and after their first year students typically move off campus or live in university apartments. The UC Davis Aggies field more than 20 NCAA Division I teams, and students can join the Aggie Pack, the largest student spirit organization in the country.UC Davis offers a wide range of academic options within its undergraduate, graduate and professional schools and colleges. Among the school’s graduate programs are the highly ranked Graduate School of Management, School of Law, School of Medicine, College of Engineering and School of Veterinary Medicine. Other notable programs include the School of Education and the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing. Undergraduates can study in the College of Letters and Science, College of Engineering, College of Biological Sciences or College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences. The UC Davis Arboretum, technically a public park, encompasses 100 acres of gardens that stretch along a waterway.

41 in National Universities University of California--San Diego, La Jolla, CA

• $42,074 (out-of-state), $14,060 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 28,587 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of California—San Diego lies alongside the Pacific Ocean in the La Jolla community of San Diego. The UCSD Tritons compete in more than 20 NCAA Division II sports, mainly in the California Collegiate Athletic Association. The school has hundreds of student organizations, and the university hosts a thriving Greek community. All freshmen are eligible for guaranteed on-campus housing for two years, but they are not required to live on campus. The campus has an aquarium and is home to the Large High Performance Outdoor Shake Table, which tests structures’ ability to withstand simulated earthquakes.UCSD includes six undergraduate colleges, five academic divisions and five graduate and professional schools. Its School of Medicine and Jacobs School of Engineering are highly ranked. One UCSD tradition is the Sun God Festival, which began in the 1980s and includes concerts featuring popular musicians, carnival activities, vendors and student booths. UCSD is also known for its International House, where approximately 350 students from more than 30 countries live and learn together. Notable UCSD alumni include Guy "Bud" Tribble and Bill Atkinson, who helped create the first Apple Macintosh computer, and Mike Judge, an actor, writer, director and producer who created the film "Office Space" and the TV series "King of the Hill." more

42 in National Universities (tie) Boston University, Boston, MA

• $53,948 Tuition and Fees 18,080 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Boston University is one of the largest independent, nonprofit universities in the country. The BU Terriers have more than 20 NCAA Division I varsity sports. BU’s hockey team has won multiple NCAA national championships. BU also has nearly 500 student clubs, ranging from Ski Racing to the Juggling Association. BU created one of the first study abroad programs, and currently sponsors more than 90 international programs. Freshmen are required to live on campus, and about 80 percent of undergraduate students live on the main Boston campus, which lies along the Charles River.Boston University’s highly ranked graduate schools include the School of Law, School of Management, School of Medicine, College of Engineering and School of Education. BU’s School of Medicine is the nation’s first combined cancer research and teaching laboratory. BU is also the first university to open all divisions to female students in 1872. Notable alumni include Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; actresses Julianne Moore and Geena Davis; television personality Bill O’Reilly; radio host Howard Stern; and Tipper Gore, former wife of Al Gore. Another unique fact: the BU Bridge is the only spot in the U.S. where a plane can fly over a car driving over a train going over a boat, all at the same time.

42 in National Universities (tie) Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH

• $49,042 Tuition and Fees 5,150 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Case Western Reserve University is known for its world class research, but with more than 200 student organizations, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved outside the classroom, too. The Case Western Spartans varsity teams compete in the Division III University Athletic Association. The Greek system, which stresses a commitment to on-campus and community service, involves about one third of students. The campus is located about 20 minutes from downtown Cleveland, where students have free access to a handful of downtown museums like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Great Lakes Science Center. On campus, freshmen live in one of four themed residential communities, which are called Cedar, Juniper, Magnolia and Mistletoe. All students are invited to the annual SpringFest, a collection of music, carnival games and activities that is the largest student-run event on campus.Case Western Reserve University boasts a broad range of top-rated specialty graduate programs, like its health law curriculum at the School of Law. The university also has renowned offerings in biomedical engineering at the School of Engineering and nonprofit management at the Weatherhead School of Management. In addition to its suburban campus, the school owns University Farm, a 400-acre plot of land about 10 miles from campus where students research and take courses in biology, ecology and art. Notable alumni include former U.S. Representative Dennis Kucinich and Craig Newmark, creator and namesake of Web site Craigslist.

44 in National Universities (tie) Northeastern University, Boston, MA

• $51,387 Tuition and Fees 13,825 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

At Northeastern University, students gain substantial work experience before receiving their diplomas. than 90 percent of Northeastern undergraduates complete at least one professional co-op during their college career, working for one of more than 2,000 employers around the world, such as ESPN and MTV. Students can choose to complete their degree in four years, with the potential for two co-ops, or five years, building in time for three co-ops. Outside of the classroom and workplace, there are more than 400 clubs and organizations for students, including more than 30 fraternities and sororities. The Northeastern Huskies compete in the NCAA Division I Colonial Athletic Conference. than 3,000 students compete at the club and intramural sport level. Freshmen and sophomores are required to live on campus. Northeastern’s campus is spread out across 73 acres in the venerable college town of Boston. Northeastern has its own stop on Boston’s subway system, commonly called the T. The city, home to myriad colleges, is steeped in American history and full of activities for students.The university receives hefty research grants each year from the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health, as well as the Departments of Homeland Security, Energy and Defense. Undergraduates and graduates alike can get involved in research, and many present projects in the annual Research, Innovation and Scholarship Expo. Notable alumni include talk show host Wendy Williams and former astronaut and professor Albert Sacco. Napster founder Shawn Fanning attended but did not graduate from Northeastern.

44 in National Universities (tie) Tulane University, New Orleans, LA

• $54,820 Tuition and Fees 6,571 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more Tulane University, located in New Orleans, is divided between the main uptown campus and a downtown campus, which is the center for health science programs. The school has a well-regarded law school, and its School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine is the only specialty school of its kind in the U.S. Freshmen and sophomores must live on campus, with a few exceptions. Students can participate in more than 200 student organizations on campus. than 40 percent of students are involved in Tulane’s 24 sororities and fraternities. Female students at Tulane University receive extra support through the Newcomb College Institute, which hosts symposiums and guest speakers and offers mentors to young women. Notable alumni include former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, talk show host Jerry Springer and Douglas R. Ellin, creator of HBO’s hit show "Entourage."Questions & AnswersWhat is student life like at Tulane University?At Tulane, students can take advantage of a vibrant campus and city. They can try new foods at the local farmers market or food trucks, tour nearby alligator hatcheries and enjoy theatrical performances. Music is also a large part of the Tulane experience. Students can attend New Orleans’ Jazz Fest, Crawfest and Po-Boy Festival, as well as Mardi Gras celebrations that take over the city in winter.Is Tulane University expensive?Tulane is more expensive than many private institutions, with tuition and fees for the 2017-2018 school year at $52,960, according to U.S. News data. Room and board was $14,536.Does Tulane University offer financial aid and scholarships?Tulane offers a variety of financial aid and scholarship options. The scholarships and grants include the Leadership Award Scholarship, Louisiana GO Grant and Tulane Need-Based Scholarship. The average financial aid package for the 2016 school year was $33,003, and the school met 96 percent of student need, according to U.S. News data.How difficult is it to get accepted into Tulane?It can be difficult to get accepted into Tulane, since it is a highly selective university. Of the 32,006 applications for fall 2016, Tulane accepted 26 percent, according to U.S. News data. Excluding early decision and early action applicants, that percentage is 25.5 percent.

46 in National Universities (tie) Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA

• $53,932 Tuition and Fees 3,604 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Squeezed in among the Santa Monica Mountain foothills, Pepperdine University is a Christian college known for its picturesque location in Malibu, Calif. The school upholds the New Testament-based traditions of the Churches of Christ. Students must attend 14 spiritual events a semester and take at least three religion courses during their time at Pepperdine. There is a Church of Christ on campus, as well as a handful of student-led ministries. Outside of church, the school’s sports teams, the Pepperdine Waves, compete in the Division I West Coast Conference. Students can also play club sports, such as lacrosse, tennis and surfing, and a variety of intramural sports, from flag football to volleyball. Freshmen and sophomores must live in university housing on the dry campus, and student spiritual life leaders live in each residence hall. About a third of students are active in more than a dozen sororities and fraternities, though there is no official Greek housing on campus.In addition to its main campus in Malibu, Pepperdine University offers graduate courses at campuses in West Los Angeles, Irvine, Encino and San Jose. The school also has facilities in Germany, England, Italy, Switzerland, Argentina, China and Washington, D.C. Beverly Hills is 24 miles away and Disneyland is 54 miles away from Pepperdine’s Malibu campus. Los Angeles is about an hour’s drive away. The school has graduated dozens of top athletes, including baseball player Randy Wolf, golfer Jason Allred, basketball player Alex Acker and beach volleyball Olympic medalist Nicole Sanderson, among its many notable alumni.

46 in National Universities (tie) University of Georgia, Athens, GA

• $30,404 (out-of-state), $11,830 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 28,848 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

At its founding, The University of Georgia made history as the first public, state-supported college in America. These days, the school is known for its vibrant student community. UGA’s college town of Athens was rated among the best college towns in the country by U.S. News, and the competitive Bulldogs sports teams compete in the NCAA Division I Southeastern Conference. There are more than 600 student clubs and organizations, including about 60 Greek chapters that involve almost 25 percent of UGA students. Community service is a particularly big focus, with student-run philanthropies such as UGA Miracle, a yearlong fundraiser and 24-hour Dance Marathon for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. First-year students must live on campus, but Atlanta is 60 miles away for those itching for a road trip.The University of Georgia has renowned graduate programs in its College of Education and Law School. As both a land and sea grant university, UGA is active in research and promotion of agricultural and sea-based programs. One unique offering at UGA is the Eugene P. Odum School of Ecology, the first school of its kind when it was launched in 2007. Notable alumni of UGA include U.S. Sens. Saxby Chambliss and Johnny Isakson, Food Network personality Alton Brown and AFLAC CEO Dan Amos.

46 in National Universities (tie) University of Illinois--Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL

• $32,568 (out-of-state), $15,998 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 33,955 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Illinois is located in the twin cities of Urbana and Champaign in east-central Illinois, only a few hours from Chicago, Indianapolis and St. Louis. The school’s Fighting Illini participate in more than 20 NCAA Division I varsity sports and are part of the Big Ten Conference. The university boasts one of the largest Greek systems in the country, and almost a quarter of the student body is involved. It’s not hard to find something to do on campus with more than 1,600 student organizations, including professional, political and philanthropic clubs. All freshmen are required to live on campus.The University of Illinois—Urbana-Champaign comprises 15 colleges and schools. Its Graduate School of Library and Information Science, College of Engineering and Department of Psychology are among the best in the country. The school’s College of Business, College of Education and College of Law are also highly ranked. The University of Illinois is considered a school with the highest level of research activity, according to the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. It was the first school to provide disability access to all university services, curricula and facilities. Notable alumni include Pulitzer Prize-winning film critic Roger Ebert and the co-founder of YouTube, Steve Chen. more

49 in National Universities (tie) Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY

• $53,880 Tuition and Fees 6,366 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute was founded on the principles of bringing science to everyday life, and that ethos is still prevalent today. About a quarter of students are involved in Greek L.I.F.E., as the fraternity and sorority scene is known at the school, which stresses Leadership, Innovation, Fortitude and Evolution. students – more than 80 percent – play sports at the varsity, club or intramural level. True to the school’s mission, the varsity athletes are known as the Engineers, and compete in the Eastern College Athletic Conference and the Liberty League. There are also more than 200 student organizations. Freshmen must live on campus, usually in dormitories that only house first-year students. RPI’s campus, in Troy, N.Y., is nestled in an ideal location for nature lovers. The school overlooks the Hudson River, where waterfront activities abound, and is close to Grafton Lakes State Park, Lake George and the Adirondack Mountains. For an urban experience, Albany is 9 miles away.In accordance with its specialty, RPI has a highly ranked engineering program. The school also uses its scientific specialties to offer unique accelerated programs such as the B.S./M.D. Physician-Scientist Program, completed in seven years, and the B.S./J.D. in Science, Technology and Society Law, which takes six years to finish. The university hosts technical events like the annual GameFest, a showcase of computer games designed by students. These kinds of technical skills have led Rensselaer graduates to successful careers as entrepreneurs, inventors, scientists and more. Notable RPI alumni include George W. G. Ferris, creator of the Ferris Wheel, Howard P. Isermann, inventor of sunscreen and Myles Brand, former president of the NCAA.

49 in National Universities (tie) University of Texas--Austin, Austin, TX

• $37,480 (out-of-state), $10,606 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 40,492 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Texas—Austin is one of the largest schools in the nation. It’s divided into 18 schools and colleges, the biggest of which is the College of Liberal Arts. It also has highly ranked graduate programs, including the McCombs School of Business, Cockrell School of Engineering and School of Nursing. Students can participate in more than 1,300 clubs and organizations or in the sizable UT Greek system. The university has several student media outlets, and its sports teams are notorious competitors in the Division I Big 12 Conference. UT also offers hundreds of study abroad programs, with the most popular destinations being Spain, Italy, the United Kingdom, France and China. Freshmen do not have to live on campus.Questions & AnswersIs it difficult to get into the University of Texas—Austin?For fall 2016, the acceptance rate at UT—Austin was 40 percent, according to U.S. News data. Students apply to the university using the ApplyTexas application, which is a single application that can be submitted to multiple schools in Texas. For additional information about UT—Austin application requirements, see the Applying section of the school’s profile page.How does the University of Texas–Austin compare to other public schools in Texas?Texas is home to many colleges and universities, and UT—Austin is one of the highest-ranked National Universities in the state. To compare UT—Austin with other public universities in Texas – or other schools in the U.S. News college directory – use the College Compare tool.Does the University of Texas—Austin offer scholarships?Yes, some scholarships are available. Freshman applicants will be considered automatically for many of the university’s scholarships if they complete the scholarship section of their UT—Austin application, according to the school’s admissions website. Prospective students can also contact the individual schools or departments they are applying to within the university and inquire about any scholarship opportunities they offer, per the admissions website. Transfer students who have completed their application for admission may apply for the UT Austin Scholarship for Continuing & Transfer Students.What are the most popular majors at the University of Texas—Austin?Some of the most popular majors among 2016 UT—Austin graduates were engineering, social sciences, and business, management, marketing and related support services, according to U.S. News data. In all, the university offers more than 170 fields of study to its undergraduate students, according to the UT—Austin website. For more information about the university's academic offerings, see the Academics section of the university’s profile page.

49 in National Universities (tie) University of Wisconsin--Madison, Madison, WI

• $36,805 (out-of-state), $10,555 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 32,196 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Wisconsin—Madison lies along the southern shore of Lake Mendota in the city of Madison. The Wisconsin Badgers compete in more than 20 NCAA Division I sports and are part of the Big Ten Conference. Students can get involved in nearly 900 organizations on campus. There is also an active Greek life and social scene on campus, evident in Wisconsin’s reputation as one of the top party schools in the country. Freshmen are not required to live on campus, but many choose to do so. Students can opt to live in one of several residential communities where they learn and live with other students and faculty.The University of Wisconsin—Madison’s highly ranked graduate schools include the School of Education, Robert M. La Follette School of Public Affairs, College of Engineering, School of Business, School of Medicine and Public Health and Law School. The school’s legacy of public service was founded on the "Wisconsin Idea" that education should influence and improve people’s lives beyond the classroom. Notable Wisconsin alumni include renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly and author Joyce Carol Oates. Other past students include former Vice President Dick Cheney, aviator Charles Lindbergh, naturalist John Muir and architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

49 in National Universities (tie) Villanova University, Villanova, PA

• $53,458 Tuition and Fees 6,966 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Named for the Spanish Augustinian St. Thomas of Villanova, the university is still affiliated with the Augustinian Order. Located just outside Philadelphia, Villanova has six colleges, four of which serve undergraduate and graduate students. Graduate programs include those in the School of Business and the Charles Widger School of Law. Villanova offers more than 260 student-run organizations, such as the Blue Key Society, which gives admissions tours and hosts prospective student days. Villanova is also the host of the largest student-run Special Olympics event in the world, and students provide around a quarter-million hours of service to the community each year. They can also participate in about two dozen fraternities and sororities. The Villanova Wildcats – known for their successful men's basketball program – mainly compete in the NCAA Division I Big East Conference. Incoming freshmen are guaranteed housing for their first three years.Questions & AnswersHow many people apply to Villanova?For fall 2016, the Pennsylvania school received 17,272 applications, according to U.S. News data. Villanova also offers early action admissions.When does Villanova notify early action students?Prospective students can apply to Villanova through the early action admissions process, with applications due by Nov. 1, before the regular decision deadline. According to the university's website, early action admission is non-binding and is awarded to candidates with outstanding high school records and correspondingly high SAT and/or ACT scores. Early action applicants are notified of an admissions decision by Jan. 15. If their admission is deferred, applications are then considered in the regular decision pool and receive an admissions decision by April 1.How many majors does Villanova offer?Undergraduates at Villanova can choose from more than 45 majors split between the university’s School of Business, College of Engineering, College of Nursing and College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, according to the school’s website. Based on U.S. News data, business, engineering and social sciences are among the most popular majors.How difficult is it to get accepted into Villanova?It’s not easy to get into Villanova. For fall 2016, just 49 percent of applicants were accepted, according to U.S. News data.Who founded Villanova?Villanova is a Catholic university and was founded by the Order of Saint Augustine.

53 in National Universities (tie) Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA

• $52,930 Tuition and Fees 5,075 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Lehigh University is located in Bethlehem, Pa., 50 miles north of Philadelphia and 75 miles west of New York City. The Lehigh Mountain Hawks are members of the Patriot League, and compete in 25 NCAA Division I sports. Their biggest athletic rivalry is Lafayette College, located less than 20 miles away. A third of the student body is involved in fraternities and sororities. All freshmen are required to live on campus, and sophomores are also required to live on campus in a residence hall or Greek housing. Lehigh’s main campus is located on the wooded slope of South Mountain, and half of the campus is preserved as open space.Lehigh University has four colleges, with numerous undergraduate and graduate majors. Its well-regarded graduate programs include the College of Education and the P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science. The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act originated at Lehigh, requiring colleges to reveal crimes on campus. Lehigh folklore says the school colors of brown and white originated when a woman wearing brown and white stockings passed by a group of men discussing school colors, and the rest is history. Notable alumni include Jesse W. Reno, the inventor of the escalator; and Howard McClintic and Charles Marshall, whose construction company helped build the Golden Gate Bridge, the George Washington Bridge, the Panama Canal and New York’s Waldorf-Astoria Hotel.

53 in National Universities (tie) Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY

• $51,853 Tuition and Fees 15,252 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Few schools are associated with a color as strongly as Syracuse University. A brilliant shade of orange is tied into campus life, manifesting itself in student media outlets such as The Daily Orange, the student-run newspaper, and CitrusTV, the television studio. The school’s sports teams are known simply as Orange and compete in the NCAA Division I Atlantic Coast Conference, cheered on by school mascot Otto the Orange. The football team plays in Carrier Dome, famed as the only domed stadium in the Northeast.The school’s campus sits on University Hill, above the sprawling city of Syracuse in central New York state. With about 100 inches of snowfall each year, the bitterly cold winters at Syracuse University give students plenty of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding and sledding on nearby mountains. On campus, there are more than 300 student organizations. About 30 percent of Syracuse students are involved in Greek life. All freshmen and sophomore students must live in on-campus housing, though there are some exceptions. The free Connective Corridor bus shuttles transport students between campus and downtown Syracuse, where annual celebrations include a Winterfest and a Jazz Fest.Syracuse University offers undergraduates a variety of study abroad opportunities, including through the school’s overseas centers and programs with partner institutions. Freshmen interested in the liberal arts can spend their first semester studying abroad through the Discovery Programs in Madrid; Strasbourg, France; or Florence, Italy. Notable alumni of Syracuse include writer Joyce Carol Oates, actor Jerry Stiller, former professional football player Donovan McNabb and singer and actress Vanessa Williams.

53 in National Universities (tie) University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL

• $50,226 Tuition and Fees 10,832 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located in Southern Florida, the University of Miami has an ideal location for students who love the outdoors. With popular spots like South Beach, the Florida Keys and Everglades National Park nearby, students have plenty of opportunities for water sports, hiking and sunbathing. Downtown Miami, also near to the school, is a thriving sports and cultural center. On campus, 2,500 students are involved in nearly 30 fraternities and sororities. Students can also choose from more than 290 clubs and organizations to join. Freshmen are required to live on campus and can live in one of the school’s five residential colleges. Modeled after the housing setup at England’s Oxford and Cambridge universities, the different communities combine living and learning with communal meals, poetry readings, sports and other activities. Freshmen who don't live in university housing are paired with an on-campus representative through the Commuter Assistant Program to help ease the transition into college. University of Miami Division I sports teams are known as the Hurricanes and compete in the Coastal Division of the Atlantic Coast Conference. The school’s mascot is Sebastian the Ibis, a species of marsh bird that is known for weathering tropical storms.The University of Miami is known as a research institution, and research opportunities begin at the undergraduate level. Annual campus events include the Canes Film Festival, which showcases student-produced movies, and Sportsfest, a weekend of competition between residence hall teams. Undergraduates are also known for upholding school spirit with traditions like the Boat Burning Ceremony held on Lake Osceola during homecoming. Notable alumni of the University of Miami include actor Sylvester Stallone and entertainer Gloria Estefan.

56 in National Universities (tie) Ohio State University--Columbus, Columbus, OH

• $30,742 (out-of-state), $10,726 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 45,946 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

OSU offers more than 160 undergraduate majors, as well as a Personalized Study Program where students can design a nontraditional education. The university also offers a variety of graduate programs through such highly ranked schools as the College of Education and Human Ecology, Max M. Fisher College of Business and College of Medicine. Students can participate in more than 1,000 on-campus clubs and organizations, including about 65 fraternities and sororities, or volunteer through the Pay It Forward program. Sports are a big part of campus life, with the Ohio State Buckeyes competing in the NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference. All freshmen must live on campus, unless they are from Central Ohio and can commute. Students can also study abroad in more than 40 countries through OSU.Questions & AnswersHow many alumni does Ohio State University have?OSU has more than 500,000 alumni who live in the U.S. and abroad, according to the school’s website. than 50 societies and 200 local and international OSU alumni association clubs help graduates find career and volunteer opportunities, as well as offer networking.How difficult is it to get accepted into Ohio State University?It can be difficult to get accepted into OSU, since it is a more selective school. The fall 2016 acceptance rate at OSU was 54 percent, according to U.S. News data. Ohio State accepts The Common Application and requires SAT or ACT test scores. How does Ohio State compare to other Midwest schools?OSU is a large university with 45,831 undergraduates, more than 1,000 student clubs and organizations, and more than 200 majors, according to the OSU website. It is tied for No. 54 among National Universities in the 2018 Best Colleges rankings.Michigan State University and the University of Akron – nearby institutions that applicants sometimes consider – differ from OSU in several ways but also share some similarities. Michigan State is tied at No. 81 and has a comparable undergraduate population with about 39,000 bachelor’s-seeking students, according to U.S. News data. The University of Akron has a little more than 17,000 students, and its rank is not published in the 2018 U.S. News rankings, because it places in the bottom one-fourth of National Universities.The U.S. News College Compare tool can help applicants do further comparison.What kind of school is Ohio State University?OSU is known for its academic rigor as well as for its Ohio State Buckeyes, its sports program, which is a member of the Big Ten athletic conference.Although it’s a large university, with more than 45,000 undergraduates for the 2016-2017 school year, the student-faculty ratio is 19:1, according to U.S. News data. Students can join several enrichment programs, such as University Honors or the Morrill Scholarship Program, to enhance what they learn in their majors.Outside of class, many students enjoy attending Ohio State football games. In the last two years, the Buckeyes have sent 19 players to the NFL draft.What kind of scholarships does OSU offer?According to its website, OSU offers merit-based, housing, and diversity and inclusion scholarships, as well as scholarships for students studying specific subjects, such as biology, chemistry and engineering. Students at the Columbus campus may also be eligible for a paid fellowship. OSU also offers other types of financial aid.

56 in National Universities (tie) Purdue University--West Lafayette, West Lafayette, IN

• $28,804 (out-of-state), $10,002 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 31,006 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Purdue University's West Lafayette, Indiana, campus is the main campus in the Purdue University system, which encompasses four other campuses throughout the state. About 20 percent of students are affiliated with Greek life, and Purdue offers a wide range of activities and organizations. Performance groups include the "All American" Marching Band, six jazz bands and two symphony orchestras. The Boilermakers, Purdue’s athletic teams, compete in the Division I Big Ten Conference and are well known for their dominant men’s and women’s basketball teams. The Boilermaker Special, Purdue’s official mascot, is a railroad locomotive cared for and maintained by the student-run Purdue Reamer Club. Although no students are required to live in university housing, about one-third of undergraduates live on campus.Purdue is made up of 13 schools and colleges, many of which serve both undergraduate and graduate students. Professional and graduate programs include the well-ranked College of Engineering, Krannert School of Management, College of Education and College of Pharmacy. Purdue’s esteemed School of Aeronautics and Astronautics within the College of Engineering has acquired the nickname "Cradle of Astronauts." One popular university tradition: many students mark the beginning and end of their time at Purdue by running through any of the five campus fountains. Notable alumni include legendary college basketball coach and player John Wooden, popcorn entrepreneur Orville Redenbacher and the first man to walk on the moon, Neil Armstrong.

56 in National Universities (tie) Rutgers University--New Brunswick, Piscataway, NJ

• $31,282 (out-of-state), $14,974 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 35,641 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Rutgers University—New Brunswick, the flagship campus of New Jersey's state university, is split into five minicampuses, each with a unique setting and identity, student center and dining options. Freshmen are not required to live on campus. Students can join more than 400 student clubs and organizations, including more than 80 fraternities and sororities. The Rutgers Scarlet Knights compete in the NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference. Among its graduate offerings, Rutgers has a highly ranked Graduate School of Education. The university also awards one of the highest numbers of doctorate degrees a year among U.S. schools. As a public research university, Rutgers is home to unique institutions such as the Center for Advanced Infrastructure and Transportation and the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station, where students take hands-on courses in the sciences and work on community projects.Questions & AnswersIs Rutgers part of the Big Ten?After more than two decades in the Big East conference, Rutgers joined the NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference in 2014, where it competes with the University of Maryland—College Park, University of Iowa and other schools. It offers football, basketball, soccer, tennis, golf, wrestling, track and field, and a host of other sports programs. The women’s basketball team won the WNIT championship in 2014, and the men’s track team won its first Big East Outdoor Championship in 2005.How and when was Rutgers founded?Rutgers was founded in 1766 as Queen’s College, an all-male institution, and affiliated with the Dutch Reformed Church. It was renamed Rutgers College in 1825 and became a land-grant institution in 1864. Women were allowed to join the university in 1918. The university officially became The State University of New Jersey in the mid-20th century.What are some of the most popular majors at Rutgers?Some of the most popular majors are psychology, biology and biological sciences, and kinesiology and exercise sciences, according to U.S. News data.How difficult is it to get accepted into Rutgers?It is harder to get accepted into Rutgers than other universities. Rutgers had a 57 percent acceptance rate for the fall of 2016, according to U.S. News data. The university admits prospective students through a rolling admissions process.

59 in National Universities (tie) Pennsylvania State University--University Park, University Park, PA

• $34,858 (out-of-state), $18,454 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 40,835 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

There is rarely a dull moment on the Pennsylvania State University—University Park campus, also known as Happy Valley. With around more than 1,000 clubs and organizations, there are broad opportunities to get involved in campus life. The school mascot is the Nittany Lion, and teams compete in the Division I Big Ten Conference. The football team plays in Beaver Stadium, which is one of the largest arenas in North America, which seats nearly 107,000 fans. Penn State is home to a thriving Greek system with more than 70 sororities and fraternities. than 16,000 students volunteer in THON, the largest student-run philanthropy in the world. Students raise money for pediatric cancer research and awareness throughout the year and participate in a 46-hour dance marathon - no sitting or sleeping allowed. Freshmen must live in one of five housing areas on campus. Across the street from campus is State College, a bustling small town with an array of coffee shops, restaurants, shops and bars populated mostly by students. Surrounded by mountains, the school is also close to skiing, snowboarding and hiking opportunities.The land-grant institution, which originally was offered state land in exchange for agricultural courses and research, offers highly ranked graduate programs through the College of Education and the College of Engineering. Undergraduates produce the Daily Collegian newspaper, and students get free daily copies of The New York Times, USA Today and Centre Daily Times - the local paper - through the school’s Newspaper Readership Program. Notable alumni include John Cappelletti, a Heisman Trophy winner and former NFL player; and Valerie Plame Wilson, former CIA agent and author. more

59 in National Universities (tie) Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX

• $54,493 Tuition and Fees 6,452 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Despite its name, this private university in Dallas is nonsectarian in its teaching. The school was founded by what became the United Methodist Church in 1911, but it is now home to students of many religious affiliations. Outdoor activities are plentiful in Dallas, a city that boasts an average of 232 days of sunshine a year. Students can check out the Dallas International Film Festival, which draws 40,000 viewers annually, or explore the more than 400 parks in the city. Students are required to live on campus for their first two years at SMU. The campus is also home to the George W. Bush Presidential Center, which comprises a Bush administration museum, library and public policy institute, and frequently hosts speakers. The SMU Mustangs sports teams play in the Division I American Athletic Conference, supported by mascot Peruna, a black stallion Shetland pony. About 2,000 students are involved in SMU Greek life, and all students can participate in annual events such as the Festival of Lights, a candlelit assembly on the school’s Main Quad each December, and the Mane Event, a celebration of spring complete with bands and food.SMU has well-regarded graduate offerings at the Cox School of Business and its law school. Undergraduates can get a unique education through the SMU-in-Taos program, which sends students to the school’s campus in the mountains of New Mexico. In historic Fort Burgwin, students gain hands-on learning in courses such as anthropology, biology and astronomy. Notable SMU alumni include former first lady Laura Bush and the late television producer Aaron Spelling.

59 in National Universities (tie) University of Washington, Seattle, WA

• $36,898 (out-of-state), $11,517 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 31,331 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located north of downtown Seattle, the University of Washington is one of the oldest public universities on the West Coast. It is also a cutting-edge research institution, receiving significant yearly federal funding, and hosting an annual undergraduate research symposium for students to present their work to the community. The university has a highly ranked School of Medicine, College of Engineering and Michael G. Foster School of Business. Known as a commuter school, the university does not require freshmen to live on campus, but it encourages students who do to conserve energy and recycle. Students can join one of the 800-plus student organizations on campus, including about 70 sororities and fraternities. Nearly three-fourths of UW graduates remain in the state post-graduation.Questions & AnswersHow difficult is it to get accepted into the University of Washington?It can be difficult to gain admission to the UW’s main campus in Seattle, which had a 45 percent acceptance rate in 2016, according to U.S. News data. Prospective students must apply though the Coalition Application and complete additional UW questions, according to the UW office of admissions website.Does the University of Washington have other campuses?Beyond UW’s main campus in Seattle, the university has campuses in Bothell and Tacoma, Washington. The university was founded in Seattle in 1861, and the Bothell and Tacoma locations were established in 1990. All three UW campuses offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs.What is the University of Washington Honors Program?The UW Honors Program gives undergraduate students a chance to attend smaller classes, pursue special projects and have more interaction with UW faculty members. Students can choose between the interdisciplinary and departmental honors tracks. The first is more generally focused, and the latter provides an opportunity for in-depth study within a particular major. Extra-ambitious students can pursue both types of honors. Students can apply to the interdisciplinary honors program when they apply to UW or during the end of their freshman year. Students submit departmental honors applications after they choose their major.How does the University of Washington compare to other state schools?Prospective students can see how UW compares to public universities nationwide by exploring the Top Public National Universities ranking. And by using the U.S. News College Compare tool, students can make side-by-side comparisons between UW and other schools of their choice, both public and private.

59 in National Universities (tie) Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA

• $50,530 Tuition and Fees 4,435 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Among the 10 colleges located in Worcester, Mass., Worcester Polytechnic Institute stands out as a close-knit private school grounded in scientific education. The student body is actively engaged in campus activities, such as the rivalry contests like the gigantic tug-of-war held throughout the year that pit the freshmen class against the sophomores. than 30 percent of students are members of the school's 15 or so fraternities and sororities. Even more – close to 70 percent – are involved in campus sports at some level. The WPI Engineers compete in the NCAA Division III New England Men's and Women's Athletic Conference, supported by mascot Gompei, a goat. Though the original school mascot was the head of a once-live goat, the school now uses a man-made replica for a mascot. WPI students also come out in droves for the school's club sports and intramural program, and all students must take four physical education courses, ranging from lifeguarding to plyometrics.Freshmen do not have to live in campus residence facilities, which include standard dormitories and four houses with student-selected themes. A university seal is imprinted on the ground in the center of campus, but make sure not to step on it; school lore warns that any student who does won't graduate on time. Off campus, students can use Woo Cards to get discounts on food and activities around Worcester. Boston is 45 miles away, or about an hour's trip by train.At WPI, "MASH" is not just a decades-old hit television show; it is also the student-led tutoring program more formally known as Math And Science Help. The student population is decidedly male dominated, with men accounting for more than 70 percent of undergraduates. Notable WPI alumni include Robert Goddard, inventor of the liquid-fueled rocket, and Nancy Pimental, a writer for "South Park" and cohost of "Win Ben Stein’s Money." more

63 in National Universities (tie) George Washington University, Washington, DC

• $55,230 Tuition and Fees 11,999 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

George Washington University’s urban location in downtown Washington, D.C., is ideal for fans of politics and city life. The school is spread out across the D.C. Foggy Bottom neighborhood, near the State Department and about a mile away from museums on the National Mall and the Washington Monument. Freshmen and sophomores are required to live on campus, and, starting with the Class of 2018, juniors are required to live on campus as well. The school’s sports teams are nicknamed the Colonials, and compete in the Division I Atlantic 10 Conference. A costumed student called George, named for George Washington, is the school mascot, though an 10-foot inflatable character known as Big George and an on-campus statue of a hippopotamus are unofficial mascots. There are more than 400 organizations on campus, and students can start their own clubs with an original idea and nine other members. About 25 percent of students are involved in the school’s large Greek system. The TRAiL program takes students on outdoor excursions like hiking, kayaking and horseback riding. Student publications include the GW Hatchet, The Daily Colonial and The GW Patriot.The school has broad graduate offerings, and its Law School and Graduate School of Education and Human Development are particularly well regarded. Among the scores of famous GW graduates are politicians Harry Reid and Eric Cantor, former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell and performers including Kerry Washington. Alec Baldwin attended GW but did not graduate.

63 in National Universities (tie) University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT

• $38,098 (out-of-state), $15,730 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 19,241 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Connecticut, located in Storrs, was originally known as the Storrs Agricultural School ­— a fitting name for an institution surrounded by farmland. Storrs is a sleepy town about a 30-minute drive from Hartford; 60 minutes from Providence, R.I.; and 90 minutes from Boston. Without many activities off campus, students can get involved in the more than 450 clubs and organizations on campus, including more than 30 fraternities and sororities. They can also catch a film in the on-campus movie theater and skate for free in the school’s ice rink. Sports are a major focus for students; the UConn Huskies compete in the NCAA Division I American Athletic Conference, in which UConn’s basketball teams are especially ferocious competitors. Freshmen do not have to live on campus, though more than 70 percent of all undergraduates choose to do so. Each year before final exams, students gather for Spring Weekend, a fun-filled, multi-day celebration that began as the school’s Campus Community Carnival in the 1940s.The University of Connecticut has many graduate offerings, including the highly ranked Neag School of Education. UConn is the state of Connecticut’s sea grant institution and receives funds for research and outreach to the region’s waterways. Notable alumni of the University of Connecticut include WNBA star Sue Bird; George Harrison, former senior vice president at Nintendo; and David Lee, who won the Nobel Prize in Physics.

63 in National Universities (tie) University of Maryland--College Park, College Park, MD

• $35,216 (out-of-state), $10,595 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 29,868 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located between Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, the University of Maryland offers students a suburban lifestyle within easy reach of big-city experiences. The flagship campus in College Park, which has its own subway stop on the D.C.-area Metro transit system, is often considered a commuter school. Accordingly, freshmen do not have to live on campus. There are more than 800 clubs and organizations on campus, including nearly 60 fraternities and sororities. Students looking for additional activities can visit the university's "SEE UMD" website, which stands for "Student Entertainment Events" and offers movie screenings, comedy shows, lectures and more. Sports also offer yearlong distractions. The Maryland Terrapins compete in the NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference. The mascot, Testudo, is a Diamondback terrapin — a species of turtle that is the official state reptile. One of several Testudo sculptures on campus sits in front of McKeldin Library, and rubbing its nose is thought to bring good luck, particularly before exams.The University of Maryland has a highly ranked graduate program in education and the noted A. James Clark School of Engineering, as well as well-regarded offerings through the Robert H. Smith School of Business. The university regularly earns accolades for its sustainable and clean energy initiatives, such as its plan to be carbon neutral by 2050 and campus-wide efforts to compost dining hall waste. Famous Maryland alumni span the professional spectrum and include NASA scientist Charles Bennett, broadcast journalist Connie Chung and "Sesame Street" and "The Muppet Show" creator Jim Henson.

66 in National Universities (tie) Brigham Young University--Provo, Provo, UT

• $5,620 Tuition and Fees 31,233 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Student life centers on religion and responsibility at Brigham Young University—Provo, a school founded and supported by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (also known as the Mormon church). There are more than 300 clubs on campus and a student volunteer coalition completes community service projects around campus. There is no Greek system at BYU. The BYU Cougars mainly compete in the NCAA Division I West Coast Conference. The football team is known for the number of players drafted by the NFL: about 140 players and counting. All BYU students can participate in the intramural sports, and about 40 percent choose to do so. Freshmen do not have to live on the Provo, Utah, campus, though the school encourages it. All students live according to a strict honor code, which prohibits – among other things – camping with members of the opposite sex and growing a beard without a doctor's approval. Extramarital and gay sex are also prohibited. Situated at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, the campus is close to plentiful climbing, hiking and biking opportunities. Provo is also home to the Missionary Training Center, where students of the Latter-day Saints faith can enroll to learn and grow before serving at least 18 months around the world.Known for its excellence in language education, BYU regularly offers courses in 62 different languages. About 65 percent of students speak a second language. In addition to its main location in Provo, BYU has campuses in Idaho and Hawaii. Notable BYU alumni include former U.S. presidential candidate Mitt Romney, "Twilight" series author Stephenie Meyer and actors Jon Heder of "Napoleon Dynamite" and Aaron Eckhart of "Batman: The Dark Knight." more

66 in National Universities (tie) Clark University, Worcester, MA

• $45,730 Tuition and Fees 2,240 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Clark University in Worcester, Mass., is a small liberal arts institution in the midst of 11 other colleges and universities. Together, the schools make up the Higher Education Consortium of Central Massachusetts. All Clark students can get a WOO card: a pass that grants discounts at area attractions, baseball games and the local ski slope, Wachusett Mountain. Clark students can also ride the free intercampus shuttle to Becker College, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Assumption College, Worcester State University and College of the Holy Cross. Students can also hop aboard to get to Worcester Public Library, Worcester Art Museum and the local train and bus station. On campus, Clark students can choose from around 130 clubs and organizations, but the school does not have a Greek system. The Clark Cougars sports teams compete in the NCAA Division III New England Women’s and Men’s Athletic Conference. Freshmen and sophomores must live on campus, and all students are allowed to bring cars. For road trips, Boston is less than an hour’s drive away; New York City is a three-hour trip. Students can explore more than 50 study abroad options after declaring a major, and about one-third of Clark students participate.Research is a particular focus for students at Clark University. Undergraduates are encouraged to get involved, and students showcase their work each semester during Fall Fest and Academic Spree Day. The school's research expertise is a century-long tradition; on campus in 1909, Sigmund Freud gave his famous Clark Lectures about psychoanalysis, and university researchers have been responsible for discoveries that led to the birth control pill and the formula for the wind-chill factor. Notable alumni of Clark University include Matthew Goldman, cofounder of the performance art Blue Man Group; Hugh Panero, former CEO of XM Satellite Radio; Jeffrey Lurie, the owner of the Philadelphia Eagles; and Padma Lakshmi, host of Bravo’s "Top Chef." more

66 in National Universities (tie) Clemson University, Clemson, SC

• $36,724 (out-of-state), $14,970 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 19,402 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more Clemson University is a land-grant institution that conducts research for the betterment of the community. Students and faculty are involved in projects ranging from improving irrigation systems to lowering youth bullying rates in South Carolina schools. Sports and the color orange are a big part of Clemson, and the Clemson Tigers compete in the NCAA Division I Atlantic Coast Conference. Students can participate in more than 400 student clubs and organizations, with about 25 percent of students involved in the Greek system. Freshmen are required to live in university housing, and nearly half of all students choose to live on campus. Notable alumni include former U.S. Sen. Strom Thurmond, former Washington Redskins center Jeff Bostic and PGA Tour golfer Lucas Glover.Questions & AnswersHow difficult is it to get accepted into Clemson University?It can be difficult to get accepted into Clemson, since it is a more selective university. The school accepted about 51 percent of 23,506 applicants for fall 2016, according to U.S. News data.Does Clemson offer in-state tuition?Clemson offers both in-state and out-of-state rates for tuition and fees. For the 2017-2018 school year, local students were charged $14,712, and students outside of South Carolina were charged $35,654, according to U.S. News data.Which majors are most popular at Clemson University?Clemson offers more than 60 majors that range from accounting to youth development studies, according to its website. Two of the most popular majors, based on U.S. News data, are engineering and business.What is student life like at Clemson University?Clemson has many activities that can make college life enriching and engaging. On Fridays, students and faculty may wear orange to show their pride for the Clemson Tigers athletic teams, and if you’re walking around campus any day of the week, you’ll see the names of seniors engraved in the sidewalks. The annual International Festival highlights global diversity with food and entertainment, and the Underground Recreation Center lets undergrads bowl, play ping pong or just hang out.

66 in National Universities (tie) Texas A&M University--College Station, College Station, TX

• $36,636 (out-of-state), $10,968 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 53,065 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Ready to be an Aggie? All students assume the nickname at Texas A&M, an academic and athletic powerhouse in central Texas. Once an all-men’s school called the Agricultural and Mechanical College - now shortened to A&M - the university today is coed and offers a wide variety of majors and activities. Students can choose from more than 1,000 clubs and organizations, including nearly 60 fraternities and sororities. About 10 percent of students go Greek. students, about 25 percent, play in Texas A&M intramural sports leagues, one of the largest programs in the country. The school’s varsity sports compete in the NCAA Division I Southeastern Conference, cheered on by mascot Reveille IX, a collie. Miss Rev, as the collie is known, is also the highest-ranking member in the school’s Cadet Corps, the largest ROTC program in the nation (not including programs at service academies). First-year students interested in community service can get involved right away through the Freshmen in Service and Hosting program (FISH). All students can give back during The Big Event, the largest single-day, student-run volunteer effort in the country in which more than 22,000 Aggies work to improve the nearby cities of College Station and Bryan. For many students, these communities are also home; freshmen are not required to live on campus and many choose to live in College Station or Bryan.The university has highly ranked graduate offerings through its Dwight Look College of Engineering, Mays Business School and College of Education and Human Development. The school, which is known as a research institution, offers unique programs including the only veterinary medicine school in Texas. The school also has a campus in Qatar, where about 500 students enroll. Notable alumni of Texas A&M include dozens of politicians such as U.S. Reps. Joe Barton and Louie Gohmert, and a handful of beauty pageant winners, including Miss USA Kandace Krueger and Miss Louisiana USA Melissa McConnell.

70 in National Universities (tie) Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL

• $21,673 (out-of-state), $6,507 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 33,008 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

At Florida State University, a public school in Tallahassee, students have more than 550 organizations to consider joining. The Florida State Seminoles sports teams compete in the NCAA Division I and are especially known for baseball and football.

70 in National Universities (tie) Fordham University, New York, NY

• $52,248 Tuition and Fees 9,599 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

At Fordham University, "New York is [your] campus" as the school’s website says. With campuses throughout New York City, students live and learn in the thick of an urban experience. The school’s original Bronx campus, Rose Hill, is in walking distance to the Bronx Zoo, New York Botanical Gardens and Little Italy. Today, Fordham has two more campuses: Lincoln Center, which is close to Central Park, and Westchester campus, which is in West Harrison, N.Y. Freshmen do not have to live on campus, but any student who is promised housing upon admittance to the school is guaranteed a room for four consecutive years. Students can travel between campuses on the school’s Ram Van, a burgundy shuttle that runs every half hour. The van makes enough trips, the school has calculated, that it’s covered a distance equivalent to traveling around the world 18.5 times a year. The Fordham Rams play in the NCAA Division I Atlantic 10 Conference. Fordham University, a Jesuit institution, does not have a Greek system.Among Fordham’s graduate programs is the highly ranked Fordham School of Law, which is home to the first Fashion Law Institute in the country. Graduates and undergraduates alike may take advantage of the Louis Calder Center, a biological field station where environmental studies courses and research are conducted. A dozen graduate students a year can live in log cabins on the biological field station to be closer to their research. Notable alumni include NBA sportscaster Mike Breen, former U.S. Rep. Robert Giaimo of Connecticut and former U.S. Postmaster General John E. Potter.

70 in National Universities (tie) Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, NJ

• $52,202 Tuition and Fees 2,978 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Innovation and entrepreneurship is stressed at Stevens Institute of Technology, a research-intensive school primarily known for its engineering, science and management programs. The school also has a humanities division with eight majors. Undergraduate students are encouraged to get involved in research projects and develop new technologies through the school's Technogenesis philosophy. Students can opt for a cooperative education track, which is a five-year program with mostly alternating semesters of class and full-time, paid work. Students complete a full first and fifth year at Stevens, and pay for only four years of school. On campus, in Hoboken, N.J., there are more than 100 clubs and organizations, including about 15 fraternities and sororities. Housing is guaranteed for four years, and more than 60 percent of students choose to live on campus. The campus lies along the Hudson River, and New York City is a boat or subway ride away.The Stevens Ducks mainly compete in the NCAA Division III Empire 8 Athletic Conference, and, through the school’s Adopt-a-Team program, all student athletes have a faculty mentor to help them juggle sports and school work. Incoming freshmen are required to have the proper technology, and can use special school discounts to buy a laptop that can work with the software specialized to his or her major. The school was exclusively for male students until 1971, and now, females make up 30 percent of the student body.Stevens also has a campus in Washington, D.C., where graduate students interested in working in the government sector can study systems engineering, maritime security and more. Notable Stevens alumni include Alfred W. Fielding, one of the inventors of Bubble Wrap packaging material, and Frederick Winslow Taylor, widely known as the father of scientific management.

70 in National Universities (tie) University of California--Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA

• $41,963 (out-of-state), $13,949 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 17,577 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

At the University of California—Santa Cruz, one of 10 schools in the state's university system, residence life can define a student's experience. Nearly 100 percent of freshmen live on campus and choose one of 10 residential colleges to join. These small groups have their own campus locations, as well as unique architecture and programming. Kresge College, for example, is home to an organic garden where students can take classes; students who are members of the College Nine community are often active in volunteer efforts and the college's Alternative Spring Break trips. Students living in residence halls may only have overnight guests 15 times a school year, for a maximum of three nights each visit. Students also have the option to reside in single-occupant recreational vehicles in the Camper Park, a unique community of students who live in university-maintained, home-like vehicles and share a common bathroom and lounge.On campus, there are more than 25 miles of hiking and jogging trails, and more than 150 student clubs and organizations. Only about 1 percent of students are members of the school's small Greek system. The UC Santa Cruz sports teams are independent competitors in the NCAA's Division III. Athletes are cheered on by the Banana Slug, a nontraditional, yellow earthen creature that has been recognized among the best mascots in the country. For fun, students can tour Dead Central, a room full of Grateful Dead memorabilia donated by the band to UCSC, or explore the small beach town of Santa Cruz, located on Monterey Bay. There are rides and games on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and opportunities for swimming, sailing and kayaking on the bay. To get around, students can travel on the Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District buses for free with school ID. For longer road trips, Monterey is 45 miles away, and San Francisco is a 75-mile trip.In particular, this public research institution’s academic prowess looks to the skies. The school is nationally known for astronomy and space sciences programs. Other creative programs include a computer game design major, and UCSC was the first school in the University of California system to offer the degree. Female engineers are in especially good company at UCSC; the school is noted for offering one of the highest percentages of engineering graduate degrees to women. Notable alumni include Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Dana Priest, NPR broadcast producers Nikki Silva and Davia Nelson, known as The Kitchen Sisters, and romance novelist Jayne Ann Krentz, who often writes under the pseudonyms Amanda Quick and Jayne Castle.

70 in National Universities (tie) University of Massachusetts--Amherst, Amherst, MA

• $34,570 (out-of-state), $15,887 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 23,388 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Students at the University of Massachusetts—Amherst can choose from about 90 majors or can design their own. The school’s University Without Walls program offers flexible course schedules for adult students.

70 in National Universities (tie) University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA

• $32,052 (out-of-state), $19,080 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 19,326 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located in the Oakland neighborhood, Pitt’s campus is a 3-mile trip from bustling downtown Pittsburgh. The city is home to powerhouse professional sports teams, such as the Steelers and Penguins, and dozens of unique cultural centers, like the Andy Warhol Museum and Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Pitt students get free admission to these and other select museums throughout the school year. Because Pittsburgh is bordered by three rivers, kayaking, sailing and fishing opportunities are plentiful. City buses stop every 10 to 15 minutes on campus, and students can ride public transportation into the city for free with school ID. Freshmen do not have to live on campus. Pitt has a sizeable Greek community of nearly 40 fraternities and sororities. Students in Arts and Sciences majors can earn hands-on credits in internships, research and teaching with the help of the university’s Office of Undergraduate Research, Scholarship and Creative Activity. The Pittsburgh Panthers sports teams compete in the NCAA Division I Atlantic Coast Conference. Pitt students are notorious for their avid support at sporting events, particularly for forming a riotous cheering section known as the Oakland Zoo at basketball games. Students who attend the most home sporting events get priority purchasing when game tickets are in high demand through the school’s Loyalty Points system.The university earns national accolades for its highly ranked School of Medicine, School of Education and Swanson School of Engineering. The School of Medicine is particularly well regarded for its research, working in conjunction with the highly ranked University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, and the institution receives one of the highest amounts of funding from the National Institutes of Health. The university is well known for its focus on going green, too. Students and faculty work toward environmentally friendly neighborhood solutions at the school’s Mascaro Center for Sustainable Innovation. There are notable University of Pittsburgh alumni in almost every professional sector; some are famed football personalities Mike Ditka and Dan Marino; former U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Andrew Mellon; and Roscoe Robinson Jr., the first African-American four-star general in the U.S. Army.

76 in National Universities (tie) University of Minnesota--Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN

• $30,371 (out-of-state), $14,693 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 35,433 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Minnesota stretches across a major city – or two, to be exact. Minneapolis and St. Paul, known as the Twin Cities, are frequently recognized for sports, cleanliness and volunteerism. The school has a campus in each city, though the Minneapolis site is considered the main campus of the University of Minnesota. Freshmen do not have to live on campus, but the more than 80 percent who choose to can opt to live in traditional residence halls or one of more than two dozen Living Learning communities, such as the Healthy Foods, Healthy Lives House and La Casa De Español. Also on campus are more than 600 student organizations, including more than 30 fraternities and sororities. The Minnesota Golden Gophers compete in the NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference, and all athletic events are held in the Minneapolis campus's Stadium Village neighborhood. Goldy Gopher, the school mascot, energizes thousands of student fans as they chant "Ski-U-Mah," a rally cry that means "Victory UM." Under the Four-Year Graduation Plan, the university ensures that all necessary classes will be available for students to complete their degrees on time. If courses are not available in an undergraduate's four years of schooling, the university will pay for the extra credits.The university’s Carlson School of Management, College of Education and Human Development and law school are each ranked highly. The public research university begins to engage students at the undergraduate level. Some university applicants will even be guaranteed the opportunity to research when they receive their acceptance letters, and undergraduate researchers are paid for their work. For an off-campus experience, Gophers can study at one of about 200 other schools in U.S. and Canada through the National Student Exchange program, or can venture abroad with the help of the university’s large global study program. Notable alumni of the University of Minnesota include former U.S. Vice Presidents Hubert Humphrey and Walter Mondale, pianist Yanni and journalist Rick Sanchez.

76 in National Universities (tie) Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA

• $31,304 (out-of-state), $13,620 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 27,193 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Virginia Tech, a former military technical institute in Blacksburg, encourages students to “invent the future.” It is a research powerhouse, with seven research institutes and two university research centers that offer undergraduate and graduate students research opportunities. Graduate offerings include programs in the highly ranked College of Engineering. The university sports teams, known as the Hokies, compete in the NCAA Division I Atlantic Coast Conference. Students account for more than half the total residents in Blacksburg. They can participate in more than 600 clubs and organizations, including a large Greek system of more than 50 fraternities and sororities. Freshmen must live on campus, and the school has renowned dining facilities. Notable Hokie alumni include football player Michael Vick and talk show host Hoda Kotb.Questions & AnswersDoes Virginia Tech have support for international students?At Virginia Tech, about 5.8 percent of undergrads were from overseas in fall 2016, according to U.S. News data.The school’s Cranwell International Center provides intercultural programs for the entire campus, as well as helps international students with immigration and financial and academic concerns. It also advocates for undergrads from overseas, runs groups for practicing English and is home to the Global Ambassadors Program, a leadership development program that helps international students adjust to campus.How many majors does Virginia Tech offer?Virginia Tech offers more than 150 majors, according to its website. Based on U.S. News data, some of the most popular include engineering, business management and business marketing.How was Virginia Tech founded?Virginia Tech started out in 1872 as a land-grant institution for white students and was first named Virginia Agricultural and Mechanical College. It officially became Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in 1970. The university required every male student to serve in the Corps of Cadets until 1964. The university still has an active voluntary corps of cadets today.How difficult is to get accepted into Virginia Tech?It is harder to get accepted into Virginia Tech, since it is a more selective institution. Virginia Tech accepted about 71 percent of the 25,000 applicants for fall 2016, according to U.S. News data. The undergraduate enrollment for that semester was 25,791 students.

78 in National Universities (tie) American University, Washington, DC

• $48,459 Tuition and Fees 8,123 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Students at American University benefit from the school's location in the political hub of the nation. Washington, D.C., is a playground for the politically and socially oriented with its countless museums, restaurants, clubs and year-round events. The university, located in a suburban pocket of northwest Washington, is close to a stop on the D.C.-area Metrorail transit system. Rides downtown take about 15 minutes. Students at American have been rated among the most politically active in the nation, and there are more than 200 student clubs and organizations on campus. The school also has a sizeable Greek system, with about 30 fraternities and sororities.The American University Eagles sports teams compete in the NCAA Division I Patriot League, and the school’s mascot is, accordingly, an eagle. Catching a professional sports contest, such as a Redskins football game or a Nationals baseball game, is a quick trip from campus, too. The university is affiliated with the Methodist church, but its Kay Spiritual Life Center houses about 25 groups of different faiths. The confluence of opportunities on and off campus clearly works for most students: American University boasts a notably high freshmen retention rate of around 90 percent.American University has eight unique schools, including the well-regarded Washington College of Law. All students can take advantage of the school’s cultural hubs, such as the Katzen Arts Center and Greenberg Theatre. For time away from the nation's capital, more than 70 percent of undergraduates study abroad. American University's School of International Service is one of the top ten international affairs schools in the country. Dozens of politicians are alumni of American University, including U.S. Reps. Loretta Sanchez and Donald Manzullo and former U.S. Reps. Betsy Markey and Bill Shuster. Mike Panetta, the former shadow representative for Washington, D.C., is also an American University graduate.

78 in National Universities (tie) Baylor University, Waco, TX

• $45,542 Tuition and Fees 14,316 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The student community at Baylor University is bound together largely by religion and service. The Waco, Texas, school is a private, Baptist institution, and its student body is particularly active in volunteerism. Each semester, students donate a collective 12,000 hours of time to service projects through a one-day program called Steppin’ Out. Students can volunteer year-round through the school’s Urban Missions, which coordinates service projects in the local community, and Global Missions, which sends students abroad. The student body is also active in faith-based activities. Each year, students lead Be The Change, a week of speakers, breakout sessions and events that give religion a global focus. Freshmen are required to live on campus and must also take two semesters of Chapel, attending worship services every Monday and Wednesday. Students and faculty gather daily for a campus prayer at noon, and weekly for free ice cream floats during "Dr Pepper Hour."Students can also get involved in more than 300 student organizations on campus. There are about 40 fraternities and sororities, and the organizations compete in their own intramural sports leagues. Baylor is one of the only private schools in the NCAA Division I Big 12 Conference, but the sports teams, known as the Baylor Bears, stay competitive – especially in football. The school mascot, not surprisingly, is a bear. Baylor University also has its own holiday, Diadeloso, or "The Day of the Bear," a day when classes are canceled so students can participate in athletics tournaments and attend free concerts. Waco, which is 100 miles from Dallas and Austin, is a small city with outdoor recreation opportunities like hiking and mountain biking.Baylor University faculty and students are active in research. The university partners with the city of Waco in some of its research initiatives, including the Center for Reservoir and Aquatic Systems Research and the Waco Mammoth Site. For those who want to write about events on and off campus, the school newspaper, the Baylor Lariat, hires a small staff of student writers on a yearly basis. Famous Baylor University graduates include Angela Kinsey, an actress who portrayed the character Angela on "The Office," comedian and ventriloquist Jeff Dunham and Mark Hurd, former CEO of Hewlett-Packard.

80 in National Universities (tie) Binghamton University--SUNY, Binghamton, NY

• $24,488 (out-of-state), $9,808 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 13,728 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Outdoor recreation abounds in the southeastern New York location of Binghamton University. Despite its name, the university is actually located in Vestal, N.Y., a suburb of Binghamton. The campus includes a nature preserve, complete with a forest and pond where students can hike, bike and run around. Through the Adventure Resource Center and the Outdoor Pursuits program, students can participate in organized kayaking, climbing and camping trips or can plan an excursion of their own. Winter sports fans can go skiing and snowboarding at Greek Peak, a 30-mile trip from campus. On campus, annual student events include University Fest and Spring Fling, two outdoor celebrations with live music, carnival rides and food. There are more than 300 student organizations, including nearly 60 recognized fraternities and sororities.Freshmen must live on campus. One perk of living in the school's residence facilities: free laundry. The Binghamton Bearcats compete in the NCAA Division I America East Conference, and student fans form the BU Zoo cheering section during basketball games. The school mascot is a bearcat named Baxter. On average, more than nine in 10 students remain at SUNY Binghamton after freshman year, one of the highest first-year retention rates in the country.Binghamton University is ranked as one of the top schools in the state of New York. Highly ranked graduate programs include the Department of History, Department of Public Administration and Department of Psychology. In addition, the university is renowned for its sustainability efforts. Notable alumni include Madeleine Smithberg, the co-creator and former executive producer of "The Daily Show," Andrew Bergman, the screenwriter who penned "Blazing Saddles," and Tony Kornheiser, an ESPN commentator.

80 in National Universities (tie) Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO

• $38,584 (out-of-state), $18,964 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 4,794 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

For students who want to work in the sciences, opportunities abound at the Colorado School of Mines. A public engineering and applied sciences school in Golden, Colorado, Mines has 14 academic departments, including Mechanical Engineering and Geophysics. The school also offers courses in the Liberal Arts & International Studies and Economics & Business departments. When students aren’t studying, the school’s location is ideal for outdoor recreation. Golden is 13 miles from the state capital of Denver and lies in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, where students can bike, hike and climb. The campus also has a climbing wall for students to test their skills before attempting the Rockies. Cold-weather sports fans can partake in the annual Winter Carnival, a student-run affair packed with skiing and snowboarding at a local resort. The Mines sports teams, known as the Orediggers, compete in the NCAA Division II Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, which is mostly made up of other teams from Colorado. The school mascot is Blaster the burro, and a giant "M" emblazoned onto nearby Mount Zion signifies the school spirit. There are more than 140 student clubs and organizations, including seven fraternities and three sororities. First-year students are required to live on campus. Even the student newspaper, The Oredigger, is decidedly science based; sections include weekly roundups of new discoveries and a Geek of the Week feature.Research opportunities abound for undergraduate and graduate students at the Renewable Energy Materials Research Science and Engineering Center and the Unconventional Natural Gas and Oil Institute, two on-campus powerhouses for energy innovation. The school campus is also home to a geology museum, where admission is free and students can check out displays from moon rocks to fossilized dinosaur tracks. Mines alumni garner some of the highest-paid starting salaries in the country, and graduates have gone on to excel as engineers, scientists and entrepreneurs. Notable alumni include Andrew Swiger, senior vice president and principal financial officer of ExxonMobil, and Harold M. Korell, executive chairman of the board of Southwestern Energy.

80 in National Universities (tie) North Carolina State University--Raleigh, Raleigh, NC

• $28,444 (out-of-state), $9,101 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 24,150 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

North Carolina State University, known as NC State for short, is the largest four-year college in the state. Students have more than 100 degree programs and more than 580 clubs and organizations to choose from.

80 in National Universities (tie) Stony Brook University--SUNY, Stony Brook, NY

• $26,934 (out-of-state), $9,624 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 17,364 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Stony Brook University is one of 64 schools in the State University of New York (SUNY) system. Located on the North Shore of Long Island, the university is accessible by car, train and ferry, and many students choose to commute. Freshmen do not have to live on campus. Academic activity pauses each Wednesday from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. for Campus Life Time, when students can check out free concerts, sample free food and take a break from the rigor of classes. Annually, students gather for events like the Roth Pond Regatta, a race of student-made cardboard boats, and the Shirley Strum Kenny Student Arts Festival, a week of student work showcases. Students can also check out more than 300 student organizations on campus, including more than 30 fraternities and sororities. On the athletic fields, the Stony Brook Seawolves compete in the NCAA Division I America East Conference. For a workout off the field, students can bike and hike around Stony Brook’s large, wooded campus, which includes the Ashley Schiff Park Preserve. For an urban experience, New York City is about 60 miles away.Stony Brook is home to the only undergraduate journalism school in the SUNY system as well as the highly ranked Stony Brook University Medical Center. The university also has a location in Southampton and a classroom building in Manhattan. Notable alumni include Patricia S. Cowings, the first woman to be trained as an astronaut in the United States, and Craig Allen, a meteorologist for WCBS Newsradio 880 in New York City.

80 in National Universities (tie) Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX

• $46,950 Tuition and Fees 9,011 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Texas Christian University is the biggest religious university associated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and is open to students of any faith. There are more than 20 religious organizations for students to join, among more than 200 others. Greek life is a popular option, with close to 40 percent of the student body involved in more than 30 fraternities and sororities. Freshmen and sophomores must live on campus, unless they are older than 21 or commute from a parent's home. The Horned Frog sports teams are members of the NCAA Division I Big XII Conference and are especially competitive in football. The unusual mascot is a small lizard and is also the official state reptile of Texas. Volunteer activities are a particularly big draw for students, and the school’s Center for Community Involvement & Service-Learning coordinates excursions like service trips over spring break. The campus is about five miles from downtown Fort Worth, a historic area that still has an Old West feel. Students can check out live bull riding shows at Billy Bob’s, a restaurant that is billed as the world’s largest honky-tonk, or catch a rodeo at the Cowtown Coliseum. Dallas is about 35 miles away.The university is affiliated with the Brite Divinity School, a theological seminary. The university has its own specialty study abroad programs in London; Florence, Italy; and Seville, Spain, and coordinates with other schools for students wishing to study elsewhere. Notable alumni include journalist Bob Schieffer and Rod Roddy, a former announcer on "The Price is Right." more

80 in National Universities (tie) Yeshiva University, New York, NY

• $43,500 Tuition and Fees 2,728 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Yeshiva University is Jewish institution in New York City. The university is divided into three undergraduate colleges: Yeshiva College, the Stern College for Women and the Sy Syms School of Business, each at campuses throughout Manhattan. A university shuttle system transports students between campuses. The university also has a campus in Israel, where more than 600 students a year study through the S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program. All freshmen are required to live on campus. There are hundreds of student organizations on campus, from a computer science club to the Student Holocaust Education Movement. The Yeshiva Maccabees sports teams compete at the NCAA Division III level. The school has a Center for the Jewish Future, which sponsors projects like the YU Torah Online. Students participate in regular Shabbat programs on and off campus with guest speakers, social programming and meals. There are student publications at each campus, including newspapers The Commentator and The Observer.Yeshiva University earns accolades for its highly ranked research opportunities at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, and Yeshiva has a law school, too. The school has a number of graduate offerings specific to the Jewish faith through the Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish Education and Administration and the Bernard Revel Graduate School of Jewish Studies, which offers master’s degrees in areas such as Medieval Jewish History and Jewish Philosophy.

85 in National Universities (tie) Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI

• $39,750 (out-of-state), $14,460 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 38,996 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Michigan State University was the first land-grant institution in the country and became a model for similar schools. Michigan State is also home to one of the nation's only environmental journalism organizations, a solar car racing team and a student-run organic farm. Its graduate programs include the highly ranked College of Education and the well-regarded Eli Broad College of Business.Students can join more than 900 student clubs, including 60-plus fraternities and sororities. The university has one of the largest single-campus residence hall systems in the U.S., and freshmen must live on campus, with a few exceptions. Students can take advantage of more than 275 study abroad programs.Questions & AnswersWhat is the football program like at Michigan State University?The Michigan State Spartans compete in the NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference. Its football team has been a member of the conference since 1949 and competes against schools such as Purdue University, Northwestern University and the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities.It won the 2015 Big Ten Championship, and seven of its players went to the NFL between 2016 and 2017. It also has an award-winning mascot, Sparty.How does Michigan State University compare to the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor?MSU and the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor are both public institutions and members of the Big Ten athletic sports conference. They also have comparable student bodies. Michigan State had a total enrollment of 50,344 students for fall 2016, while the University of Michigan had 44,718 students, according to U.S. News data.The University of Michigan, however, has a more competitive admissions process, having accepted just 29 percent of applicants for fall 2016; Michigan State accepted 66 percent of applicants. The four-year graduation rate is 52 percent at Michigan State and 76 percent at the University of Michigan, according to U.S. News data.How difficult is it to get accepted into Michigan State University?It is harder to get accepted into MSU, since it is a more selective institution. About 66 percent of prospective students who applied for fall 2016 were accepted, according to U.S. News data. than 37,000 students applied. The university uses rolling admissions, but the priority application deadline is Nov. 1.What is the transfer process like at Michigan State University?The university suggests prospective students apply at least six months before the semester in which they would like to enroll. Because of space restrictions, not every semester will be open for students to submit transfer applications, according to the school’s website.Competitive applicants have at least a 3.0 grade point average, 28 transferrable credits and completed certain math and writing courses. Transfer students with at least 42 credits must declare a major, and certain majors may require more or different prerequisites than others.

85 in National Universities (tie) University of California--Riverside, Riverside, CA

• $42,879 (out-of-state), $13,887 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 20,069 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Despite its setting in Southern California, UCR has a distinctly Scottish feel. All residence halls at the University of California—Riverside are named for landmarks in Scotland, including Aberdeen-Inverness and Pentland Hills. Student athletes compete as UCR Highlanders in the NCAA Division I Big West Conference. The school's original mascot was a live Scottish terrier; today, sports teams are supported by a kilt-clad bear named Scotty. Members of the student Pep Band don plaid berets and sashes as they play the "Brave Scots" fight song at sports matches, and students who play the bagpipes or drums can join the school's Pipe Band as well.About 70 percent of UCR students are commuters, and freshmen do not have to live on campus. Students may want to hang around after class, however, for notable annual events like the fall Block Party and Spring Splash. There are more than 300 student organizations to check out, too, including about 40 fraternities and sororities. Freshmen can ease into college with the help of the First Year Success Series, a combination of seminars and workshops that teach students study and time management skills. Riverside is in an ideal location for road trips, with Disneyland and Orange County within a 40-mile drive and Los Angeles about 60 miles away.UCR is one of 10 schools in the University of California system and was the official UC Citrus Experiment Station before becoming a university. In the years since, faculty researchers have bred several new types of fruit, including the Melogold grapefruit and the Golden Nugget orange. Today, the university offers well-regarded graduate programs through the Bourns College of Engineering and Graduate School of Education. Notable alumni include Pulitzer Prize-winning editorial cartoonist Steve Breen, best-selling mystery novel author Elizabeth George and Nobel Prize-winning chemist Richard Schrock.

85 in National Universities (tie) University of San Diego, San Diego, CA

• $49,358 Tuition and Fees 5,774 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of San Diego is a Roman Catholic institution open to students of all faiths. The school overlooks Mission Bay, and downtown San Diego is about a 15-minute trip away. On campus, there are more than 100 student organizations, including more than 10 fraternities and sororities. Most of the San Diego Torero sports teams are members of the NCAA Division I West Coast Conference; the football team competes in the NCAA Division I-AA Pioneer League. Athletic teams are cheered on by the school's mascot, a costumed bullfighter named Diego Torero. The University Ministry coordinates retreats and immersion trips and hosts daily Mass services, including a special Mass for Peace on Wednesday nights.After class, students can relax at nearby beaches, like La Jolla and Pacific Beach, or explore Balboa Park, the biggest urban cultural park in the country, which is home to 15 museums, the San Diego Zoo and the Old Globe Theatre. Opportunities to kayak, sail, wind surf and more are nearby. Students can join group excursions, led by the school’s Outdoor Adventures program, or rent kayaks, surfboards and snorkel equipment on campus for trips on their own. Freshmen must live on campus, and for students around on the weekends, the school hosts a Friday Night Movies series.The University of San Diego has a variety of graduate programs, including a Tier 1 School of Law and an accredited paralegal program. Some enrichment programs are specific to the school's religious foundation, like the Center for Christian Spirituality and the Oscar Romero Center for Faith in Action. Notable alumni include Lowell McAdam, chairman and CEO of Verizon Communications; Theo Epstein, president of baseball operations for the Chicago Cubs; and Andrew Firestone, a former contestant on ABC’s "The Bachelor." more

89 in National Universities (tie) Howard University, Washington, DC

• $26,756 Tuition and Fees 6,354 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Howard University is a historically black college located in Washington, D.C. Despite its urban setting, students are permitted to bring cars to campus – though freshmen may not apply for on-campus parking.

89 in National Universities (tie) Indiana University--Bloomington, Bloomington, IN

• $35,456 (out-of-state), $10,681 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 33,429 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

No one quite knows what a "Hoosier" is, but a murky definition does not stop students at Indiana University— Bloomington from fiercely identifying with the term. The school's sports teams are notorious competitors in the NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference, and, since Indiana University does not have a mascot, all teams are known simply as Hoosiers. There are more than 750 student organizations on campus, and more than 8,200 students go Greek in the school’s large community of fraternities and sororities. Freshmen must live on campus for at least two semesters, though there are some exceptions. The Midwestern college town of Bloomington, or B-town, as it is known to many, is home to a lively cultural scene. Arts and entertainment performances, such as the annual Lotus World Music & Arts Festival, take place year-round. Students can explore the surrounding area through the Indiana University Outdoor Adventures program, which coordinates hiking, whitewater rafting and rock climbing trips. Active students can compete in the annual Little 500, the largest collegiate bike race in the nation and a fundraiser for university scholarships, or spend 36 hours on their feet in the IU Dance Marathon, a fundraiser for Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis.Among IU Bloomington’s many graduate-level programs are the highly ranked Kelley School of Business, School of Education and Maurer School of Law. Distinguished Indiana alumni include composer and songwriter Hoagy Carmichael, who penned “Georgia on My Mind;" screenwriter and producer Jeri Taylor, who wrote for "Star Trek;" and author Meg Cabot, who wrote "The Princess Diaries" series.

89 in National Universities (tie) Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL

• $44,048 Tuition and Fees 11,420 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Loyola University Chicago is the largest Jesuit school in the country. The university has two locations in Chicago, known as Lake Shore and Water Tower, as well as an international campus in Rome.

89 in National Universities (tie) Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI

• $41,870 Tuition and Fees 8,335 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Marquette University, a private Catholic, Jesuit school, is in walking distance of downtown Milwaukee, a city known for its restaurants, zoo and athletics. The Marquette Golden Eagles are members of the NCAA Division I Big East Conference and are especially competitive in basketball. The men's basketball team plays in the Wisconsin Entertainment & Sports Center, which is also home to the NBA's Milwaukee Bucks. There is no varsity football team, but enthusiasts of the sport can play at the intramural level. Other sports options include a tennis singles league, indoor volleyball and intramural innertube water polo. Students have almost 300 clubs and organizations to get involved in, and about 15 percent of the student body takes part in the Greek system, which includes more than 20 fraternities and sororities. To kick off each spring semester, the university holds the Winter Flurry, a week of games and activities that culminates in a semiformal dance known as Snowball. Freshmen and sophomores must live on campus, unless they reside locally with a family member or guardian. Lake Michigan is a mile from campus, and students can travel on Milwaukee County Transit System buses for free with a pass.Marquette has more than 25 academic centers and institutes on campus, including the Thermofluid Science and Energy Research Center and National Sports Law Institute. The Les Aspin Center for Government, located on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., brings students to study and intern in the nation’s capital for a semester. Notable Marquette alumni include Gail Collins, a New York Times columnist; Patrick Eugene Haggerty, cofounder of Texas Instruments; and Chris Farley, an actor who starred on "Saturday Night Live" and in "Tommy Boy." (In that film, Farley’s character, Tommy Callahan, is also a Marquette graduate.) more

89 in National Universities (tie) University at Buffalo--SUNY, Buffalo, NY

• $27,758 (out-of-state), $10,028 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 21,020 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1846, University at Buffalo--SUNY is a public institution. University at Buffalo--SUNY offers a Greek system, where 2 percent of the student body is involved in a sorority and 2 percent is involved in a fraternity.

89 in National Universities (tie) University of Delaware, Newark, DE

• $34,310 (out-of-state), $13,680 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 18,946 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

For students interested in attending the University of Delaware, it pays to live in the state. The University of Delaware admits all Delaware residents whose academic records predict success, and about 65 percent who apply will be accepted. About half (45-55 percent) of all out-of-state applicants are admitted. For all who receive admission, there are more than 400 student clubs and organizations on the school’s lush campus in downtown Newark. Nearly 20 percent of students are involved in the school's large Greek system, which has about 40 fraternities and sororities. The Fightin' Blue Hens sports teams, named after a Delaware Revolutionary War battalion with the same nickname, compete in the NCAA Division I Colonial Athletic Association. The mascot is a costumed bird named YoUDee, and a group of live Blue Hen chickens reside on the school farm. Freshmen must live on campus, unless they commute from a parent's local home. When students want to leave campus, Wilmington is about 12 miles away. Philadelphia is a 45-mile drive and Baltimore is 55 miles away. The University of Delaware ran the nation's first study abroad program in 1923, and, these days, about a third of undergraduates opt to spend time in another country.The University of Delaware offers more than 150 graduate degree programs, including some through the highly ranked School of Education and College of Engineering. In addition to its main location in Newark, the university has campuses throughout Delaware. The school also has a sea-faring research facility, a 146-foot ship called Hugh R. Sharp. As a land, sea and space grant institution, the University of Delaware receives federal funding for research in all three areas. Notable University of Delaware alumni include U.S. Vice President Joe Biden; Robert Gore, the inventor of Gore-Tex; and Chuck Lewis, founder of the Center for Public Integrity. more

89 in National Universities (tie) University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA

• $30,609 (out-of-state), $8,965 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 24,503 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Iowa offers top-notch academic programming in more than 100 areas. Students looking to hone their leadership skills have many options, too: They can enroll in the LeaderShape Institute, a six-day getaway workshop; or participate in one of the many programs offered through the Center for Student Involvement & Leadership, including arts and entertainment, and multicultural programs. Freshmen do not have to live on campus, but about 95 percent choose to do so. Campus life may pose a challenge to tobacco users, as Iowa is a smoke-free campus. Students have more than 500 clubs and organizations from which to choose, and close to 10 percent of students go Greek as members of the school's more than 50 fraternities and sororities. Sports are another big focus of campus life; even in the competitive NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference, the Iowa Hawkeyes are notorious players. Four blocks from campus is Iowa City, a Midwestern metropolis that has been recognized among the nation’s best for its scenery, greenery and sustainable energy efforts.The University of Iowa has many well-ranked graduate programs, including degrees offered through its College of Law, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, Henry B. Tippie School of Management and College of Education. The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics is a very highly ranked facility as well. Famous Iowa alumni include George Gallup, founder of the public opinion Gallup Poll; George Nissen, inventor of the trampoline; and Diablo Cody, screenwriter of "Juno" and "Jennifer’s Body." Actor Ashton Kutcher was briefly a Hawkeye who studied biomedical engineering before a modeling agent spotted him.

96 in National Universities (tie) Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL

• $47,646 Tuition and Fees 2,900 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The Illinois Institute of Technology, a private university in Chicago, provides a variety of options for students interested in the sciences. IIT offers a wide range of engineering degree programs, as well as degrees in architecture, political science and more.

96 in National Universities (tie) Miami University--Oxford, Oxford, OH

• $33,577 (out-of-state), $14,825 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 17,147 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Miami University students make up three-fourths of the population of the approximately 7-square-mile town of Oxford, Ohio. Freshmen must live on campus, which is also home to more than 400 student organizations. The Greek system constitutes a large part of campus life, with about a third of the student body involved in nearly 50 fraternities and sororities. In fact, the school often gets the moniker “Mother of Fraternities” because the Beta Theta Pi, Phi Delta Theta, Phi Kappa Tau and Sigma Chi organizations were founded at Miami University. The school is also known as the "Cradle of Coaches" for the number of professional and collegiate coaches who once competed for Miami. The RedHawks, who compete in the Division I Mid-American Conference, were known as the Redskins until 1997. The name was changed after years of controversy and a request from the Miami Indian Tribe. (The tribe is the namesake of the university.) To help ease the transition into freshman year, older students often create a guide to life at Miami University, called the "M Book." Student couples who marry are known as "Miami Mergers" and are reminded of their alma mater each Valentine's Day, when the admissions office sends cards to congratulate former students on finding love at school.To travel around campus and Oxford, students can use the Butler County Regional Transit Authority buses, free with student ID, and the door-to-door SafeRide shuttle service after dark. Cincinnati and Dayton are 35 and 45 miles away, respectively. Notable alumni of Miami University include Paul Brown, Hall of Fame NFL coach; Richard Smucker, chief executive officer of The J.M. Smucker Co.; and Benjamin Harrison, former president of the United States.

96 in National Universities (tie) University of Colorado--Boulder, Boulder, CO

• $37,288 (out-of-state), $12,534 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 29,091 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Colorado Boulder, called CU­--Boulder for short, lays against the majestic backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Boulder is a lively college town with more than 80 miles of biking and walking trails. In the evenings, students can travel anywhere within the city limits for free in CU NightRide shuttles, which run until 1:15 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 12:15 a.m. all other nights. On campus, there are more than 450 student clubs and organizations and about 20 fraternities and sororities. Freshmen must live on campus. The Colorado Buffaloes compete in the NCAA Division I Pac-12 Conference. The student athletes, called Buffs for short, are supported by two buffalo mascots: a costumed student called Chip and a live animal named Ralphie V. The university stresses its commitment to volunteer efforts like Better Boulder Day of Service, a day of community service in the surrounding neighborhoods. For trips off campus, there are 11 ski slopes within 3 hours of campus, and Rocky Mountain National Park is 45 miles away. A bit closer is Denver, the state capital, where students can catch professional sports matches or concerts in the unique outdoor concert hall, Red Rocks Amphitheatre.CU--­Boulder is the only school in the Rocky Mountain Region to make it into the Association of American Universities, an elite group of 62 research universities. The university has highly ranked graduate programs through the College of Engineering and Applied Science and School of Education. Its Law School stresses experiential learning through clinics, externships, competitions and pro bono work. CU--­Boulder graduates are immediately inducted into the dues-free alumni association, Forever Buffs, whose particularly distinguished members include "South Park" creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone and sportscasters Chris Fowler and Jim Gray.

96 in National Universities (tie) University of Denver, Denver, CO

• $50,556 Tuition and Fees 5,765 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more The University of Denver, known as DU, has a women’s college that female students can opt to enroll in and still receive a degree from DU. The university is also home to the well-regarded Sturm College of Law. Students can participate in more than 100 student clubs and organizations, including about 15 fraternities and sororities. Freshmen and sophomores must live on campus, with some exceptions. Student athletes compete on the Denver Pioneers sports teams, members of the NCAA Division I Summit League. The school's ski team has won more national championships than any other program in the country. Notable alumni include former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice; comedian David Adkins, known as Sinbad; and Peter Coors, former CEO of MillerCoors.Questions & AnswersIs the University of Denver expensive?DU is more expensive than other private institutions, with tuition and fees for the 2017-2018 school year at $48,669 and room and board at $12,612, according to U.S. News data. However, the average financial aid package for the 2016 school year was $30,824.How does the University of Denver compare with Colorado State University and the University of Colorado—Boulder?DU, Colorado State University and the University of Colorado—Boulder are all National Universities, but they vary in rank and other aspects of college life. DU is tied for No. 87 in the 2018 U.S. News Best Colleges rankings, with UC—Boulder tied at No. 90 and Colorado State not far behind, tied at No. 124.DU is a much smaller university, with only 5,754 undergraduate students for the 2016 school year compared with 25,177 and 27,846 at Colorado State and UC—Boulder, respectively. Almost half, or 45 percent, of DU students also chose to live on campus in 2015, whereas this figure was less than 30 percent at the other two schools.How difficult is it to get accepted into the University of Denver?Applicants may have a better chance of getting accepted into the University of Denver, since it is not as selective as other institutions. For fall 2016, DU accepted 53 percent of 20,322 applicants, according to U.S. News data.What majors does the University of Denver offer?Based on its website, DU offers dozens of majors in art, theater, engineering and other concentrations. About 30 percent of 2016 graduates studied business, according to U.S. News data.

96 in National Universities (tie) University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA

• $48,066 Tuition and Fees 6,847 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of San Francisco is a Jesuit institution located in the California Bay Area. USF is committed to giving back to the surrounding community and offers service-learning semesters for students interested in volunteer work.

96 in National Universities (tie) University of Vermont, Burlington, VT

• $42,516 (out-of-state), $18,276 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 11,339 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Nestled between the Adirondack and Green Mountains is the University of Vermont, a quasi-public school founded in 1791. It is known colloquially as UVM, which is Latin for Universitas Viridis Montis, or University of the Green Mountains. Students who want to take advantage of the surrounding nature in Burlington, Vermont, can rent skis, snowshoes, canoes and camping equipment on campus. Students don’t have to go far for an adventure, though; UVM has an adventure ropes course and an indoor rock climbing wall. There are more than 170 student organizations on campus, including about 15 fraternities and sororities. Fewer than 10 percent of students go Greek. Freshmen and sophomores must live on campus. The Catamounts athletic teams compete in the NCAA Division I America East Conference, cheered on by a mountain cat mascot named Rally. In Burlington, students can explore the outdoor Church Street Marketplace, a collection of restaurants and boutiques, or relax on the shores of Lake Champlain. For a more urban experience, Montreal and Boston are about 100 and 220 miles away, respectively.Among the university's programs for graduate students is the highly ranked College of Medicine. In addition to traditional classrooms on campus, the University of Vermont has the Rubenstein Ecosystem Science Laboratory, a waterfront campus with a floating classroom on Lake Champlain. Students can study lake ecology aboard the Melosira, a research vessel. The university also owns four farms, where students can research agricultural topics. Among the ranks of the university's distinguished alumni are John Dewey, an educational philosopher; Jody Williams, a Nobel Peace Prize-winning activist for her campaign against land mines; and Jon Kilik, the film producer responsible for "Malcolm X" and "Babel." more

102 in National Universities (tie) Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY

• $49,444 Tuition and Fees 3,090 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Clarkson University is a private institution in northern New York, where students can attend several annual events, get involved with Greek life, and explore numerous varsity and recreational sports. Off campus, Clarkson students can discover the nearby Adirondack Mountains and Lake Placid, drive an hour to Canada or take a day trip to New York City.

102 in National Universities (tie) Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA

• $52,002 Tuition and Fees 13,272 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Drexel University was established in 1891 as a private institution. Drexel University follows a quarter-based academic calendar and students can receive on-the-job experience through the cooperative education program.

102 in National Universities (tie) Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY

• $44,130 Tuition and Fees 12,429 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The Rochester Institute of Technology emphasizes co-op experiences in many of its academic programs. Students may also complete accelerated degree programs to earn both a bachelor's and a master's degree.

102 in National Universities (tie) University of Oregon, Eugene, OR

• $35,478 (out-of-state), $11,898 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 19,340 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

University of Oregon students have a variety of extracurricular options to choose from, including joining fraternities and sororities, cheering on the Ducks athletic teams, and checking out local art performances. than 20 percent of students participate in Greek life.

106 in National Universities (tie) New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ

• $31,918 (out-of-state), $16,898 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 8,483 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1881, New Jersey Institute of Technology is a public institution. New Jersey Institute of Technology offers a Greek system, where 6 percent of the student body is involved in a sorority and 6 percent is involved in a fraternity.

106 in National Universities (tie) Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO

• $43,996 Tuition and Fees 7,411 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

St. Louis University is a Catholic, Jesuit school that is open to students of any faith. The Campus Ministry organizes specialized retreats and mission trips throughout the year, and the on-campus church holds a daily Mass. In addition to religious extracurriculars, students can also choose from more than 150 student organizations at SLU, including more than 20 fraternities and sororities. Freshmen and sophomores must live on campus, unless they commute from a parent's home, are married or have been in the military for at least two years, among other exemptions. In total, about 90 percent of freshmen live on campus – all in halls exclusively for first-year students. Students can get involved in campus leadership positions as early as the second semester of freshman year.The St. Louis Billikens compete in the NCAA Division I Atlantic 10 Conference. The Billiken is an unusual mascot – a smiling, gnome-like figure that is a considered to be a good-luck charm. Off campus, students can explore downtown St. Louis, home to the Grand Center arts district, the Anheuser-Busch Brewery and several professional sports teams. On the nearby Mississippi Riverfront, students can bike, sail and check out the Museum of Westward Expansion.In addition to its main location in Missouri, the university also has a campus in Madrid, Spain, where students can study for the entirety of their college career or for just a semester. At the main campus, graduate students can enroll in the university's law school or medical school. Notable alumni include Enrique Bolanos, former president of Nicaragua, and August Busch IV, former president and CEO of Anheuser-Busch Inc.

106 in National Universities (tie) SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY

• $18,218 (out-of-state), $8,568 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 1,792 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry offers students a niche education with the benefits of life at a large institution. ESF, as the small school is known for short, offers about 20 Bachelor of Science degrees ranging from aquatics and fisheries science to paper engineering, as well as a landscape architecture program. Students can get a broader experience, however, through neighbor school Syracuse University. The two institutions, both located in Syracuse, New York, have a collegiate partnership. ESF students can enroll in courses, live in residence halls, use campus facilities and join student organizations at Syracuse University. ESF and Syracuse students even graduate in a joint commencement ceremony each May. All ESF freshmen must live on the school’s campus, however. The school has its own array of about 35 clubs. The ESF Mighty Oaks sports teams compete in the United States Collegiate Athletic Association, made up of small schools, and students can take part in club and intramural sports at Syracuse. ESF has an additional campus in the Adirondack Mountains, called the Ranger School, where students can study forest technology, land surveying technology, and environmental and natural resources conservation. The Ranger School offers associate degree programs, as well as courses toward a bachelor's degree. Earth Day is a weeklong celebration at the environmental school, with events like yoga on the campus quad, student-wide barbecues and volunteer clean-ups of local streams.ESF is one of 64 schools in the State University of New York system. The university is often recognized for its sustainability efforts, and its faculty is highly engaged in research projects. ESF has produced notable graduates, including Reginald Balch, a Canadian photographer and scientist, and Sol Feinstone, a historian and author.

106 in National Universities (tie) Temple University, Philadelphia, PA

• $28,426 (out-of-state), $16,666 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 29,550 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Temple University is an urban college in Philadelphia that offers around 300 student organizations. Center City, a hub of shopping and city life, is about two miles from campus.

106 in National Universities (tie) University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ

• $32,449 (out-of-state), $11,644 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 35,123 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Arizona offers its students a wide variety of ways to get involved, from joining the ZonaZoo cheering section at Wildcats sports games to checking out the burgeoning Greek scene with more than 30 fraternities and sororities. more

106 in National Universities (tie) University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH

• $33,879 (out-of-state), $18,499 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 12,967 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located near the coastline of the state, University of New Hampshire (UNH) is a public institution located in the city of Durham. Students at UNH can participate in many clubs, Division I sports and a freshmen camping trip during the summer before classes begin. more

106 in National Universities (tie) University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC

• $32,362 (out-of-state), $12,262 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 26,362 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

At the University of South Carolina, freshmen students are eased into college life through University 101, a transition program pioneered at the school. The Columbia campus is the flagship location for the University of South Carolina system.

106 in National Universities (tie) University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA

• $48,040 Tuition and Fees 3,548 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of the Pacific is a private college in Stockton, Calif. The school’s picturesque campus has been featured in films including All the King’s Men, Porgy & Bess, and Flubber.

106 in National Universities (tie) University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK

• $39,552 Tuition and Fees 3,343 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Students at the University of Tulsa leave with two transcripts: an academic one and a co-curricular one. The CCT, as the latter is known, is a log of all membership in clubs, any leadership positions and any marketable skills a student has gained while in college. To beef up a CCT, students can get involved in more than 200 student clubs and organizations. The school’s Greek system has more than 10 fraternities and sororities. Freshmen and sophomores must live on campus, unless they commute from a parent's home within 20 miles of campus. Students who are at least 21 years old or married may live off campus, too. The Golden Hurricane sports teams are members of the Division I American Athletic Conference, and the school’s mascot is a superhero named Captain Cane. Students can join in Hurricane Thursdays, campus celebrations that alternate between carnivals, concerts and more. The TU campus is two miles away from downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma, a city of about half a million people that is home to performing arts centers, museums, shops and nightclubs. The state capital of Oklahoma City is about 100 miles away.The University of Tulsa is known for its petroleum engineering programs, which are taught in a $16 million facility complete with drilling simulator. Any student, regardless of major, can get involved in research projects as early as freshman year. TU is also home to one of the first college campus mosques in the country, which was built with the help of private funds. Notable TU alumni include Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Lovie Smith. Television psychologist Dr. Phil (Phillip McGraw) attended the University of Tulsa before transferring to another school.

115 in National Universities (tie) Arizona State University--Tempe, Tempe, AZ

• $28,336 (out-of-state), $10,822 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 42,427 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Arizona State University’s Tempe campus offers more than 200 research-based programs in the arts, business, engineering and more. The campus is located just outside of Phoenix, in the suburb of Tempe, Arizona.

115 in National Universities (tie) Auburn University, Auburn, AL

• $30,524 (out-of-state), $11,276 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 23,964 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Auburn, Alabama, has been ranked one of the best places to live, and life at Auburn University can be similarly enjoyable for students. Football is a particularly big attraction in the fall, as fans support the Auburn Tigers with the help of school mascot Aubie the Tiger. The Tiger sports teams compete in the NCAA Division I Southeastern Conference, and the influx of football fans makes Auburn the fifth-largest city in the state on game days. Pep rallies are held in the downtown Toomer's Corner, and the area is covered in toilet paper by fans after every big victory. There are more than 300 organizations on campus, and about 6,000 students are involved in the school's Greek system. Auburn freshmen ease into the college transition through Camp War Eagle, a two-day, overnight summer orientation program. Transition help continues on Hey Day, an annual effort to get students to wear name tags and say hello to one another. Freshmen do not have to live on campus; in fact, a dorm room isn't even guaranteed. Because of space restraints, first-year students are awarded on-campus living assignments on a first-come, first-served basis.As a land, sea and space grant institution, Auburn University receives federal funding for research projects that benefit the larger community. The school has an Urban Studio, where students can participate in community projects, and a Rural Studio, aimed at finding housing solutions for residents of West Alabama. Research projects include storage facilities for nuclear waste. The university also offers unique programs, such as the first wireless engineering program in the country. Notable Auburn alumni include famed college football coach Vince Dooley and a handful of NASA astronauts – such as Kathryn Thornton, the second American woman to walk in space.

115 in National Universities (tie) Rutgers University--Newark, Newark, NJ

• $30,717 (out-of-state), $14,409 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 8,551 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey—Newark is located in the largest city in the state. than 60 percent of students complete majors in the Newark College of Arts and Sciences.

115 in National Universities (tie) University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN

• $31,196 (out-of-state), $13,006 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 22,317 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Tennessee is a public research institution in Knoxville, one of the state’s largest cities. The UT sports teams compete in the NCAA Division I Southeastern Conference and traditionally draw large crowds during football season.

119 in National Universities (tie) DePaul University, Chicago, IL

• $39,975 Tuition and Fees 14,816 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

DePaul University is a large institution spread across six campuses in and around Chicago. The university offers a variety of academic programs, including the School for New Learning, which caters exclusively to adult students.

119 in National Universities (tie) Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA

• $38,178 Tuition and Fees 5,942 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1878, Duquesne University is a private institution. Duquesne University follows a semester-based academic calendar and its admissions are considered more selective.

119 in National Universities (tie) Iowa State University, Ames, IA

• $23,392 (out-of-state), $9,002 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 30,406 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Iowa State University dwarfs Ames, the small town in which it resides. The large school offers more than 850 student organizations, and sports are a big part of campus life. The Iowa State Cyclones compete in the NCAA Division I Big 12 Conference and share a special rivalry with the University of Iowa Hawkeyes. Despite the Cyclones moniker, the school mascot is a cardinal named Cy because a cyclone was hard to put into costume form. There are more than 60 fraternities and sororities at Iowa State, and most chapters have their own houses. Freshmen do not have to live on campus.There are more than 100 undergraduate majors offered at Iowa State, and, through the Soar in 4 initiative, advisers work with students to ensure they graduate in four years. For a study break, students can take a stroll through the roses in Reiman Gardens or check out more than 2,000 works of art around the campus – one of the largest collections at any school in the country. For trips off campus, Des Moines is 30 minutes away.Iowa State University offers highly ranked graduate programs through its College of Veterinary Medicine and College of Engineering, and qualified undergrads can take special courses in human-computer interaction. The university is a land-grant institution, meaning faculty and students work on research projects that better the community as a whole. At the university's Iowa Agriculture and Home Economics Experiment Station, researchers work on air quality, biorenewable, crop and livestock, environmental and human health projects. The campus is also home to the Ames Laboratory, a research center for the U.S. Department of Energy. Notable alumni include Bruce Roth, inventor of the medication Lipitor, and Carrie Chapman Catt, co-founder of the League of Women Voters.

119 in National Universities (tie) Seton Hall University, South Orange, NJ

• $42,170 Tuition and Fees 5,969 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

A private, Catholic school in South Orange, N.J., Seton Hall University is about a 30-minute train ride to New York City. Many students take advantage of the university’s location by interning and job hunting in the nearby city while still enjoying the clubs, Greek life, and Division I sports on campus. more

119 in National Universities (tie) University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT

• $29,215 (out-of-state), $9,222 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 24,635 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Utah is known to students as the U of U or simply The U. Its campus is located in the state capital, Salt Lake City.

124 in National Universities (tie) University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK

• $24,443 (out-of-state), $9,062 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 22,819 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Oklahoma is a large, public research institution in Norman. Its campus is also home to the National Weather Center, where undergraduates can find research and study opportunities.

124 in National Universities (tie) University of South Florida, Tampa, FL

• $17,324 (out-of-state), $6,410 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 31,772 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of South Florida, or USF, is a large public school that is committed to research. The school has a sizeable commuter population and offers bus transportation and a commuter network to accommodate students who don’t live on campus.

124 in National Universities (tie) University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, MN

• $41,133 Tuition and Fees 6,199 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1885, University of St. Thomas is a private institution.

127 in National Universities (tie) San Diego State University, San Diego, CA

• $19,368 (out-of-state), $7,488 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 30,165 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1897, San Diego State University is a public institution. San Diego State University follows a semester-based academic calendar and its admissions are considered more selective.

127 in National Universities (tie) University of Dayton, Dayton, OH

• $42,900 Tuition and Fees 8,499 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located about an hour away from both Cincinnati and the Ohio state capital of Columbus, the University of Dayton is a private school that encourages its students to practice their Catholic faith on campus. Students can also get involved in more than 200 organizations, the campus radio and television stations, and Division I varsity sports.

129 in National Universities (tie) The Catholic University of America, Washington, DC

• $45,804 Tuition and Fees 3,315 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The Catholic University of America is the national university of the Catholic Church. With the school’s location in Washington, D.C., students have easy access to national landmarks.

129 in National Universities (tie) University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL

• $29,230 (out-of-state), $10,780 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 33,305 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

As the flagship campus of the University of Alabama system, the Tuscaloosa campus is often referred to as "The Capstone." UA students have more than 500 student organizations to get involved in on campus – and freshmen have to live there, too. There are close to 70 fraternities and sororities in the school's influential Greek system, made up of more than 11,500 students. The Alabama Crimson Tide sports teams are notorious competitors in the NCAA Division I Southeastern Conference, cheered on by an costumed elephant mascot named Big Al. There is also a men's and women's wheelchair basketball program. Students can boat and fish in the nearby Black Warrior River. For a road trip, the city of Birmingham is about 60 miles away.The university has a highly ranked School of Law in Tuscaloosa and School of Medicine in Birmingham. As a research institution, UA offers opportunities for all students to get involved in projects. There is an annual Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity Conference that showcases individual work. Undergraduates can get a leg up on networking, too, through Future Alumni for Tradition and Excellence, or FATE. And speaking of alumni, notable UA graduates include legendary football coach Paul "Bear" Bryant, New York Yankees sportscaster Mel Allen and "Forrest Gump" author Winston Groom.

129 in National Universities (tie) University of Illinois--Chicago, Chicago, IL

• $27,672 (out-of-state), $14,816 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 19,448 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Illinois—Chicago, also known as UIC, is a large, public research institution. Each spring, students present their findings at the Student Research Forum.

129 in National Universities (tie) University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS

• $27,358 (out-of-state), $11,148 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 19,338 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1865, University of Kansas is a public institution. The school has 47.3 percent of its classes with fewer than 20 students, and the student-faculty ratio at University of Kansas is 17:1.

129 in National Universities (tie) University of Missouri, Columbia, MO

• $26,949 (out-of-state), $9,879 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 23,817 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Students at the University of Missouri live in a unique botanical garden, with more than 40,000 plants across campus. than a third of high school seniors from Missouri attend Mizzou each year, and all freshmen must live on campus. As the only Division I-A sports school in the state, the Missouri Tigers teams are a big focus of campus life. The teams compete in the NCAA Division I Southeastern Conference and are particularly competitive in football. The school mascot, Truman the Tiger, is named after former President Harry Truman, who was born in Missouri. Mizzou has more than 600 clubs and organizations for students. than 20 percent of students join the school's Greek system, which is made up of 50-plus fraternities and sororities. Students also have a vast array of degree options, with more than 280 majors, nearly 70 of which can be completed online. The university's hometown of Columbia is in central Missouri and is host to annual events like the Roots 'n Blues 'n BBQ music festival and Art in the Park, a large creative works showcase. To travel around campus and the town on the weekends, students have free access to STRIPES, a transportation service that delivers riders to their homes from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. Thursday through Sunday.The University of Missouri has highly ranked graduate programs at the College of Education and Robert J. Trulaske, Sr. College of Business, as well as a School of Medicine and a Tier 1 School of Law. This public research university offers opportunities for students to team up on faculty-led projects as early as their freshman year. Among the scores of notable Mizzou alumni are actor Jon Hamm, singer Sheryl Crow and U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill. Playwright Tennessee Williams, who won the Pulitzer Prize for "A Street Car Named Desire," attended but did not graduate.

129 in National Universities (tie) University of Nebraska--Lincoln, Lincoln, NE

• $25,038 (out-of-state), $9,242 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 20,954 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Nebraska—Lincoln, or UNL, is a large, public research institution that offers about 150 undergraduate majors. There are more than 400 student organizations to join, as well as a large community of fraternities and sororities.

129 in National Universities (tie) University of Texas--Dallas, Richardson, TX

• $36,876 (out-of-state), $13,034 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 18,388 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1969, University of Texas--Dallas is a public institution. The school has 23.5 percent of its classes with fewer than 20 students, and the student-faculty ratio at University of Texas--Dallas is 23:1.

136 in National Universities (tie) George Mason University, Fairfax, VA

• $35,922 (out-of-state), $12,462 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 24,987 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

George Mason University is a suburban school not far from the District of Columbia. Students can get involved in hundreds of student clubs and organizations, including the school’s varsity sports teams, which compete in the NCAA Division I Atlantic 10 Conference.

136 in National Universities (tie) Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI

• $33,726 (out-of-state), $15,646 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 5,917 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located on Lake Superior's Keweenaw Peninsula, the Michigan Technological University campus is in the small town of Houghton, about 100 miles north of the Wisconsin border. Students at Michigan Tech have many opportunities to conduct research and participate in annual events such as the Winter Carnival.

136 in National Universities (tie) University of California--Merced, Merced, CA

• $41,641 (out-of-state), $13,627 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 7,375 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 2005, University of California--Merced is a public institution. The school has 25.1 percent of its classes with fewer than 20 students, and the student-faculty ratio at University of California--Merced is 20:1.

136 in National Universities (tie) University of La Verne, La Verne, CA

• $43,050 Tuition and Fees 2,753 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1891, University of La Verne is a private institution. University of La Verne offers a Greek system, where 3 percent of the student body is involved in a sorority and 6 percent is involved in a fraternity.

140 in National Universities (tie) Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO

• $29,884 (out-of-state), $11,982 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 25,903 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Colorado State University, also known as CSU, is located at the base of the Rocky Mountains in the city of Fort Collins. CSU students have opportunities to conduct research with faculty, join one of the hundreds of campus organizations or cheer on more than 15 Division I sports teams.

140 in National Universities (tie) Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY

• $45,700 Tuition and Fees 6,861 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Attending Hofstra University, a school in Long Island, New York, means students are in close proximity to the attractions and internships available in New York City. The university runs a variety of academic institutes, including the Peter S. Kalikow Center for the Study of the American Presidency.

140 in National Universities (tie) Louisiana State University--Baton Rouge, Baton Rouge, LA

• $28,627 (out-of-state), $11,950 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 25,444 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

LSU, or Louisiana State University—Baton Rouge, is a public institution in the southeast region of the state, near the Mississippi River. Students at LSU can explore more than 350 student organizations or visit several free museums and an arboretum. more

140 in National Universities (tie) Mercer University, Macon, GA

• $36,894 Tuition and Fees 4,747 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located in central Georgia, Mercer University is a private school that offers a variety of degrees for both undergraduate and graduate students. Outside of the classroom, students celebrate the university's history by participating in several traditions, such as climbing and signing the school's tallest building.

140 in National Universities (tie) Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR

• $30,141 (out-of-state), $11,166 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 25,838 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located in the city of Corvallis, Oregon State University is about 90 minutes south of Portland and an hour drive from the Pacific coast. OSU students can get involved in hundreds of clubs and Greek life and attend events such as the "Civil War" football game against University of Oregon.

140 in National Universities (tie) University at Albany--SUNY, Albany, NY

• $24,436 (out-of-state), $9,756 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 13,508 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University at Albany, part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system, offers a wide range of academic programs, including many highly ranked graduate degrees such as criminal justice and public affairs. Notable Albany alumni include Harvey Milk, the first openly gay man elected to a major political office in America and the subject of the movie "Milk," starring Sean Penn.

140 in National Universities (tie) Washington State University, Pullman, WA

• $25,820 (out-of-state), $11,584 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 25,277 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Washington State University is a public school that is committed to research. In addition to its campus in Pullman, the school has regional locations in Spokane and the Tri-Cities, as well as in Vancouver.

147 in National Universities (tie) Adelphi University, Garden City, NY

• $38,660 Tuition and Fees 5,266 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1896, Adelphi University is a private institution. Adelphi University follows a semester-based academic calendar and its admissions are considered selective.

147 in National Universities (tie) Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS

• $25,492 (out-of-state), $10,135 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 18,488 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Kansas State University is located in the northeast region of the state and is home to the Biosecurity Research Institute, where students can train to research infectious diseases, and the Landon Lecture Series, which has hosted many prestigious speakers, including five former U.S. presidents.

147 in National Universities (tie) The New School, New York, NY

• $48,631 Tuition and Fees 7,203 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The New School is a private institution.

147 in National Universities (tie) University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH

• $26,334 (out-of-state), $11,000 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 26,608 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Students at the University of Cincinnati (UC) can explore more than 300 campus organizations, join Greek life, or play Division I sports. Notable UC alumni include Joseph Strauss, who designed the Golden Gate Bridge, and Abe Bookman, who invented the Magic 8-ball toy. more

147 in National Universities (tie) University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY

• $29,168 (out-of-state), $12,180 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 22,425 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located in the city of Lexington, the University of Kentucky offers Division I sports, Greek life, and nearly 350 student organizations. Off campus, Lexington can also be a source of fun for students, who can shop, golf, tour a museum, browse the farmers’ market, or spend a day at the horse track.

152 in National Universities (tie) St. John Fisher College, Rochester, NY

• $34,310 Tuition and Fees 2,759 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1948, St. John Fisher College is a private institution. The school has 41.2 percent of its classes with fewer than 20 students, and the student-faculty ratio at St. John Fisher College is 12:1.

152 in National Universities (tie) St. John's University, Queens, NY

• $41,760 Tuition and Fees 16,766 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

St. John's University is a Catholic institution spread across three residential campuses in New York City. A university shuttle transports students between the main campus in Queens and locations in Staten Island and Manhattan.

152 in National Universities (tie) Union University, Jackson, TN

• $32,610 Tuition and Fees 2,153 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1823, Union University is a private institution. Union University follows a semester-based academic calendar and its admissions are considered more selective.

152 in National Universities (tie) University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR

• $25,168 (out-of-state), $9,130 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 23,044 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located in the city of Fayetteville, the University of Arkansas is a public school with many opportunities for students on campus, including several media outlets and events featuring famous speakers and musical acts. Graduate students can choose from several programs, including those in the law school, where Bill and Hillary Clinton taught before they moved to the White House.

152 in National Universities (tie) University of Mississippi, University, MS

• $23,554 (out-of-state), $8,290 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 18,737 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Mississippi, better known as Ole Miss, is a large public institution in the college town of Oxford. About 35 percent of the student body is active in Greek life.

157 in National Universities (tie) Biola University, La Mirada, CA

• $40,488 Tuition and Fees 4,048 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1908, Biola University is a private institution. Biola University follows a 4-1-4-based academic calendar and its admissions are considered more selective.

157 in National Universities (tie) Missouri University of Science & Technology, Rolla, MO

• $27,701 (out-of-state), $9,839 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 6,920 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Missouri University of Science & Technology largely focuses on engineering and science degrees. Engineering majors include aerospace, mining, petroleum, nuclear and more.

157 in National Universities (tie) Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK

• $24,538 (out-of-state), $9,017 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 20,978 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Oklahoma State University is a large public institution in Stillwater. The OSU Cowboys and Cowgirls compete in the NCAA Division I Big 12 Conference.

157 in National Universities (tie) University of Alabama--Birmingham, Birmingham, AL

• $24,630 (out-of-state), $10,710 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 13,134 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1969, University of Alabama--Birmingham is a public institution. University of Alabama--Birmingham follows a semester-based academic calendar and its admissions are considered more selective.

157 in National Universities (tie) University of Hawaii--Manoa, Honolulu, HI

• $34,002 (out-of-state), $11,970 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 12,881 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Hawaii—Manoa is a public school near downtown Honolulu on the island of Oahu. Students can take advantage of the school’s location through sailing and surfing classes, kayaking and snorkeling excursions, and more.

157 in National Universities (tie) University of Massachusetts--Lowell, Lowell, MA

• $32,827 (out-of-state), $15,180 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 14,013 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1894, University of Massachusetts--Lowell is a public institution. The school has 50 percent of its classes with fewer than 20 students, and the student-faculty ratio at University of Massachusetts--Lowell is 17:1.

157 in National Universities (tie) University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI

• $30,862 (out-of-state), $14,138 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 15,092 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located in the village of Kingston, the University of Rhode Island has clubs and Division I sports on campus and nearby beaches off campus. Notable URI alumni include oceanographer Robert Ballard, who discovered the sunken Titanic. more

157 in National Universities (tie) Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA

• $35,138 (out-of-state), $14,490 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 24,010 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Virginia Commonwealth University, or VCU, is a public school in Richmond. Cheering on the school's Division I sports teams, the VCU Rams, is a popular outlet for students.

165 in National Universities (tie) Edgewood College, Madison, WI

• $29,500 Tuition and Fees 1,564 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1927, Edgewood College is a private institution. The school has 83.5 percent of its classes with fewer than 20 students, and the student-faculty ratio at Edgewood College is 9:1.

165 in National Universities (tie) University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL

• $22,467 (out-of-state), $6,368 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 56,972 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Central Florida is based in Orlando and has regional campuses throughout the middle of the state. The school has more than 350 clubs and organizations for students to consider joining.

165 in National Universities (tie) University of Idaho, Moscow, ID

• $25,500 (out-of-state), $7,864 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 9,885 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

At University of Idaho in Moscow, students can explore restaurants and festivals in the city, or get involved with more than 200 clubs and Division I sports on campus. Idaho’s silver-and-gold sports teams are called the Vandals, thanks to an old newspaper account of the 1917 basketball team vandalizing its opponents on the court.

165 in National Universities (tie) University of Maryland--Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD

• $26,892 (out-of-state), $11,798 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 11,234 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

University of Maryland— Baltimore County offers more than 40 undergraduate majors and more than 30 graduate programs. Students can have fun outside of academics by participating in about 250 student organizations, pledging one of the nearly 20 fraternities and sororities and playing Division I sports.

169 in National Universities (tie) Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ

• $20,578 (out-of-state), $12,970 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 16,852 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located about 14 miles west of New York City in New Jersey, Montclair State University offers about 300 academic programs. Students can make the most of their studies by visiting the school's Center for Career Services and Cooperative Education to get help planning for their future.

169 in National Universities (tie) Seattle Pacific University, Seattle, WA

• $42,939 Tuition and Fees 2,911 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

A small Christian school, Seattle Pacific University (SPU) offers more than 60 bachelor’s degree programs. Students at SPU can volunteer through the John Perkins Center, participate in about 50 campus clubs, and play Division II sports.

171 in National Universities (tie) Ball State University, Muncie, IN

• $26,468 (out-of-state), $9,896 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 17,004 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

At Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, undergraduate students can choose from about 180 majors, including the highly ranked entrepreneurship program. Notable alumni include late-night talk show host David Letterman, who created a scholarship for creative Ball State media students with average grades.

171 in National Universities (tie) Illinois State University, Normal, IL

• $26,014 (out-of-state), $14,490 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 18,330 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located about 130 miles southwest of Chicago, the Illinois State University campus is in the town of Normal. First-year students at ISU can take the Learning in Communities seminar, allowing them to attend one of their first college courses in small groups with their peers and learn about each other and the university.

171 in National Universities (tie) Ohio University, Athens, OH

• $21,656 (out-of-state), $12,192 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 23,323 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Ohio University is a public school in Athens where extracurricular activities abound. Students are required to live on campus for four semesters unless they commute from a parent's nearby home, among other exemptions.

171 in National Universities (tie) Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ

• $21,890 (out-of-state), $13,422 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 15,401 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Rowan University started out as a teacher preparation college and is now a leading research institution for eco-friendly initiatives. Since 2007, the school has received at least 13 awards for green initiatives. It also offers a range of degree options for undergraduate and graduate students. Students study a host of subjects, such as whether blood tests can reveal Alzheimer’s and how to improve the safety of lithium-ion batteries. The school also promotes diversity in science, technology, engineering and math. Freshmen and sophomores are required to live on campus unless they can commute from a nearby guardian’s home, and many upperclassmen live off campus. Student athletes can represent the Rowan Profs in the NCAA Division III New Jersey Athletic Conference and intramural sports.Questions & AnswersHow difficult is it to get accepted into Rowan University?It is not as difficult to get accepted into Rowan as it is with more selective institutions. Of the 13,382 applicants for fall 2016, 58 percent were admitted, according to U.S. News data. Rowan admissions officers consider applicants’ standardized test scores as well as letters of recommendation, grade point averages and personal essays.Does Rowan University offer in-state tuition?Yes, New Jersey residents can pay less in tuition and fees than out-of-state students. In-state tuition for the 2017-2018 school year was $13,108, around $8,000 less than the out-of-state price, according to U.S. News data.How does a student transfer to Rowan University?On Tuesdays, the admissions staff at Rowan hosts seminars to help prospective transfer students learn how to be strong applicants. According to the school website, transfer applicants must submit transcripts from their previous institution as well as their high school transcripts if they have fewer than 12 credits. They can also write a personal statement. Applicants receive a decision about two weeks after submitting their application and transcripts.How does Rowan compare to other New Jersey schools?Rowan University, the College of New Jersey and Rutgers University—New Brunswick are all public institutions. Rowan tied for No. 171 among National Universities in the 2018 U.S. News Best Colleges rankings, while Rutgers tied for No. 69 in that category. The College of New Jersey tied for No. 4 in the Regional Universities (North) category. Of the three universities, Rowan offers the lowest tuition and fees for in- and out-of-state students.

171 in National Universities (tie) University of Houston, Houston, TX

• $26,340 (out-of-state), $10,890 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 37,215 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

With its campus situated in one of the largest cities in the country, the University of Houston puts its students in an ideal location to find internships and research opportunities. Options exist on campus, too, with about 40 research centers.

171 in National Universities (tie) University of Louisville, Louisville, KY

• $26,286 (out-of-state), $11,264 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 15,547 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

At the University of Louisville in Kentucky, students can participate in Division I sports, Greek life and more than 250 clubs. The campus is also home to an art museum, planetarium and Auguste Rodin's original sculpture of The Thinker.

177 in National Universities (tie) Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, FL

• $41,850 Tuition and Fees 3,635 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The Florida Institute of Technology originally started as a training facility for space industry professionals and now offers a wide range of degree programs to undergraduates. About half of the student body enrolls in the school’s College of Business.

177 in National Universities (tie) Maryville University of St. Louis, St Louis, MO

• $28,470 Tuition and Fees 3,183 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1872, Maryville University of St. Louis is a private institution. The school has 72 percent of its classes with fewer than 20 students, and the student-faculty ratio at Maryville University of St. Louis is 14:1.

177 in National Universities (tie) Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS

• $23,250 (out-of-state), $8,650 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 18,312 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

At Mississippi State University, students value school traditions by participating in The Drill pep rally, and by cheering with Bully, the live bulldog mascot. Notable MSU alumni include bestselling author John Grisham, who earned a degree in accounting.

177 in National Universities (tie) Pace University, New York, NY

• $45,330 Tuition and Fees 9,000 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Pace University students can choose from the school's two campuses: one in the Financial District of New York City, the other in suburban Pleasantville, New York. "Inside the Actors Studio," a television show on Bravo, is filmed at the school's urban location.

177 in National Universities (tie) Suffolk University, Boston, MA

• $38,566 Tuition and Fees 5,117 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Visitors to the Massachusetts State House in the heart of downtown Boston have surely come across the campus of Suffolk University, situated in the historic neighborhood of Beacon Hill. Students are not required to live on campus during their career at the university, and the majority of undergraduate students live off campus in apartments or commute from home. The Suffolk Rams are members of the NCAA Division III Great Northeast Athletic Conference and the Eastern College Athletic Conference. The school hosts about a dozen varsity sports and provides seasonal intramural sports for its student body.The university comprises Suffolk University Law School, the College of Arts and Sciences and the Sawyer Business School. It also has an international campus in Madrid, as well as a satellite campus in Lawrence, Massachusetts. For students who find final exams to be stressful, the university offers a celebration of the semester's end with "Relaxation Day," when students are offered massages, sleep masks and smoothies, as well as tips to stay focused on studying. Notable Suffolk alumni include past World Series of Poker champion Dan Harrington and author and journalist James Bamford, who writes about U.S. government intelligence agencies.

177 in National Universities (tie) University of Maine, Orono, ME

• $30,970 (out-of-state), $11,170 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 9,279 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

At the University of Maine, students participate in annual events such as Maine Day, when the school hosts a parade, and then together, everyone helps clean the campus. Notable UMaine alumni include bestselling horror author Stephen King, who wrote "Carrie" and "The Green Mile." more

183 in National Universities (tie) Immaculata University, Immaculata, PA

• $27,350 Tuition and Fees 1,482 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1920, Immaculata University is a private institution. Immaculata University offers a Greek system, where 1 percent of the student body is involved in a sorority and 3 percent is involved in a fraternity.

183 in National Universities (tie) Lesley University, Cambridge, MA

• $27,850 Tuition and Fees 2,096 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1909, Lesley University is a private institution. Lesley University follows a semester-based academic calendar and its admissions are considered selective.

183 in National Universities (tie) Robert Morris University, Moon Township, PA

• $30,300 Tuition and Fees 4,243 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1921, Robert Morris University is a private institution. The school has 40.6 percent of its classes with fewer than 20 students, and the student-faculty ratio at Robert Morris University is 15:1.

183 in National Universities (tie) University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY

• $17,490 (out-of-state), $5,400 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 9,791 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

At the University of Wyoming, students can study in nearly 200 programs, including those in the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS). Through this program, students can explore many interesting places and activities in courses such as Alaska Mountaineering, Himalaya Backpacking and Baja Sea Kayaking.

187 in National Universities (tie) Florida International University, Miami, FL

• $18,956 (out-of-state), $6,558 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 47,586 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Florida International University is a public school in Miami. Hispanic students make up about 60 percent of the student body.

187 in National Universities (tie) Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA

• $29,432 (out-of-state), $10,858 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 25,790 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Georgia State University, located in downtown Atlanta, is one of the largest universities in Georgia. To help ease the college transition, first-year students can opt into the Freshman Learning Communities program, which groups students based on shared interests.

187 in National Universities (tie) Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX

• $23,495 (out-of-state), $11,045 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 30,737 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Texas Tech University is a large public school in the college town of Lubbock. The Red Raiders sports teams compete in the NCAA Division I Big 12 Conference and are particularly well known for football and basketball.

187 in National Universities (tie) University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM

• $22,966 (out-of-state), $7,322 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 19,516 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1889, University of New Mexico is a public institution. University of New Mexico follows a semester-based academic calendar and its admissions are considered selective.

191 in National Universities (tie) Kent State University, Kent, OH

• $19,456 (out-of-state), $10,756 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 23,178 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located about 40 miles south of Cleveland, Kent State University offers more than 200 campus organizations, including Greek life, leadership programs for underclassmen and community service clubs. In the classroom, Kent State students can choose from nearly 300 academic programs, including peace and conflict studies.

191 in National Universities (tie) Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL

• $30,900 Tuition and Fees 4,497 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1964, Nova Southeastern University is a private institution. The school has 72.4 percent of its classes with fewer than 20 students, and the student-faculty ratio at Nova Southeastern University is 17:1.

191 in National Universities (tie) University of Massachusetts--Boston, Boston, MA

• $33,966 (out-of-state), $14,167 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 12,660 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more Founded in 1964, University of Massachusetts--Boston is a public institution.

194 in National Universities (tie) Andrews University, Berrien Springs, MI

• $29,288 Tuition and Fees 1,704 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1874, Andrews University is a private institution. Andrews University follows a semester-based academic calendar and its admissions are considered more selective.

194 in National Universities (tie) East Carolina University, Greenville, NC

• $23,465 (out-of-state), $7,188 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 23,265 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located in Greenville, North Carolina, East Carolina University offers more than 100 undergraduate degrees and 75 master's programs. Notable ECU alumni include actress Sandra Bullock, who won an Academy Award for her role in "The Blind Side." more

194 in National Universities (tie) Indiana University-Purdue University--Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN

• $29,821 (out-of-state), $9,465 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 21,610 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Better known as IUPUI, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis hosts many events for students to attend, including the annual International Festival. Students at IUPUI can also get involved in Division I sports and Greek life.

194 in National Universities (tie) Lipscomb University, Nashville, TN

• $32,144 Tuition and Fees 2,987 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1891, Lipscomb University is a private institution. Lipscomb University follows a semester-based academic calendar and its admissions are considered more selective.

194 in National Universities (tie) University of Hartford, West Hartford, CT

• $40,694 Tuition and Fees 5,069 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located in central Connecticut, the University of Hartford is a private school where students value annual traditions. U of H students can participate in events such as the Spring Fling party and the Martin Luther King Jr. celebration or stay involved with clubs and Division I sports throughout the year.

194 in National Universities (tie) University of North Carolina--Charlotte, Charlotte, NC

• $20,813 (out-of-state), $6,854 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 23,914 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1946, University of North Carolina--Charlotte is a public institution. University of North Carolina--Charlotte offers a Greek system, where 7 percent of the student body is involved in a sorority and 11 percent is involved in a fraternity.

194 in National Universities (tie) Widener University, Chester, PA

• $45,948 Tuition and Fees 3,427 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

At Widener University in Chester, Pennsylvania, many students help the community by mentoring local children, building houses and donating blood. Notable Widener University alumni include esteemed film director Cecil B. DeMille.

201 in National Universities (tie) Regent University, Virginia Beach, VA

• $18,108 Tuition and Fees 4,660 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1978, Regent University is a private institution. Regent University follows a semester-based academic calendar and its admissions are considered selective.

201 in National Universities (tie) University of Montana, Missoula, MT

• $24,959 (out-of-state), $7,244 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 9,323 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Among the University of Montana's academic offerings are programs devoted to American Indian culture and an internship on the school’s farm. Notable alumni of the University of Montana include Carroll O’Connor, who starred as Archie Bunker in the "All in the Family" television show.

201 in National Universities (tie) University of Nevada--Reno, Reno, NV

• $22,397 (out-of-state), $7,925 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 18,348 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The University of Nevada—Reno is located on the western edge of the state on the border between the Great Basin and the Sierra Nevada. Off campus, Nevada students can visit nearby Lake Tahoe, check out the museums and festivals of Reno and drive just a few hours to Sacramento, California, or the San Francisco Bay Area.

201 in National Universities (tie) University of North Carolina--Greensboro, Greensboro, NC

• $22,494 (out-of-state), $7,248 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 16,439 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

At the University of North Carolina—Greensboro, students can get involved in about 200 organizations and Division I sports. Notable UNCG alumni include Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Claudia Emerson and Tony Award-winning actress Beth Leavel.

205 in National Universities (tie) Azusa Pacific University, Azusa, CA

• $37,506 Tuition and Fees 5,671 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Founded in 1899, Azusa Pacific University is a private institution. The school has 54.3 percent of its classes with fewer than 20 students, and the student-faculty ratio at Azusa Pacific University is 10:1.

205 in National Universities (tie) California State University--Fresno, Fresno, CA

• $12,723 (out-of-state), $6,585 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 22,221 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

At California State University—Fresno, students can explore the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada range and the San Joaquin Valley. On campus, Fresno State students can join more than 200 organizations and play Division I sports.

205 in National Universities (tie) Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI

• $12,510 (out-of-state), $12,510 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 17,845 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

The main campus of Central Michigan University is located in Mount Pleasant, although it has about 50 other locations across North America. On the main campus, CMU students participate in many annual events and traditions, including Native American Heritage Month, when the school celebrates its relationship with the local Saginaw Chippewa Tribe.

205 in National Universities (tie) Montana State University, Bozeman, MT

• $24,849 (out-of-state), $7,421 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 14,725 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Montana State University is home to many unique research facilities, such as the Plant Growth Center and the Center for Bison and Wildlife Health. Notable alumni include Jan Stenerud, one of the few Pro Football Hall of Fame placekickers.

205 in National Universities (tie) University of Colorado--Denver, Denver, CO

• $32,005 (out-of-state), $11,395 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 15,586 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

University of Colorado—Denver offers about 130 areas of study, including top-ranked health and medical graduate programs at the Anschutz Medical Campus. In their free time, CU Denver students can get involved in more than 100 campus organizations, as well as student government, ROTC and volunteer opportunities.

205 in National Universities (tie) University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND

• $20,891 (out-of-state), $8,827 (in-state) Tuition and Fees 11,000 Undergraduate Enrollment SAT, GPA and more

Located on the eastern edge of the state in the city of Grand Forks, the University of North Dakota offers nearly 300 academic fields, including a highly ranked rural medicine program. Notable UND alumni include Sally Smith, CEO of the Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant franchise.