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Top 10 Party Schools of 2015-2016

Posted by Unknown Posted on 1:14 PM with No comments

Whether you hate to love or love to hate it, you cannot help but keep your eyes peeled each year to find out which schools made the cut for the Princeton Review’s Party Schools 2015-2016.

The long awaited top party schools list is out and while many students will immediately rush to submit their applications to the schools that party the most, others are turned off at the mere mention of the college party scene.

Whichever end of the spectrum your personality lands under, it’s important to remember that there’s much more than meets the eye (or ranking) at each of these schools.

So, as we count down the top ten of the Princeton Review’s Party Schools, we’ll also take an in-depth look at what these schools have to offer other than a great toga party.

10. Colgate University – Hamilton, NY

The 2,890 undergraduate students in attendance at Colgate University must be doing something right. Not only is the school ranked #10 on the “Party Schools” list, but the school is also known for its “very rigorous academic curriculum.” In fact, 44 percent of admitted students have a 3.75 GPA or higher!

It sounds like these students know how to work – and play – hard.

The university’s undergraduate student body is comprised of a vast majority, 73 percent, of out-of-state students and Greek life tends to play a major role on campus.

In addition to holding the #10 party school spot, Colgate University also landed on plenty of brag-worthy Princeton Review College Rankings this year, including being ranked at #11 for “Best Financial Aid,” #17 for “Great Financial Aid,” landing the #9 spot for “Most Beautiful Campus,” the #19 ranking for “Best Career Placement” and #22 on the “Top 50 Colleges That Pay You Back” list.

Colgate University additionally made the cut for other ranked lists which include “The Best 380 Colleges,” the “Best Northeastern’’ Colleges, “Colleges That Pay You Back,” “Green Colleges” and “Private Schools.”

9. Tulane University of Louisiana – New Orleans, LA

Tulane University comes in at #9 this year and, while the school has been ranked on previous party school lists (Tulane even ranked #1 in 1993), wasn’t on last year’s top ten “Party Schools” list.

The university is well-known for a lot, including being known for its research worldwide, being a historical institution (the university was founded in New Orleans in 1834), and being one of the most well-respected universities in the United States. The school’s 6,488 undergrads hail from all 50 states and many international countries.

Plus, Tulane University has the highest percentage of students that travel the farthest to school compared to any other college/university in the nation. Over 75 percent of Tulane’s freshman students travel from more than 500 miles away, so it makes sense that Tulane would be rated #14 on the Princeton Review’s “Their Students Love These Colleges” list.

Beating out it’s #9 ranking on the “Party Schools” list, the university was also ranked #1 on two of the Princeton Review College Rankings lists: #1 - College City Gets High Marks and #1 - Lots of Hard Liquor.

But, Tulane’s rankings didn’t stop there. Tulane University also landed other college ranking spots, too. Tulane came in at #5 on the “Students Most Engaged in Community Service” list, ranked #10 on the “Happiest Students” list, #12 on the “Best Quality of Life” list and #15 for “Easiest to Get Around Campus.”

Tulane University also ranked on other lists including “The Best 380 Colleges,” the “Best Southeastern’’ Colleges, “Colleges That Pay You Back,” “Green Colleges” and “Private Schools.”

8. University of Georgia – Athens, GA

Coming in at #8, the University of Georgia, finally made an appearance again after being left off last year’s top ten. In 2011, the school was ranked #1 on the “Party Schools” list.

The University of Georgia enrolls 26,278 undergraduate students, only 8 percent of which come from out-of-state, though 125 foreign countries are still represented.

The university has good graduation rates for its undergraduate student body - 58 percent of which graduate in four years and 81 percent of which graduate in five.

The student body is active, especially in intramural sports, which landed the university the #20 spot on the Princeton Review’s “Everyone Plays Intramural Sports” list. In fact, 49 percent of the student body participates in an intramural sport and 2 percent participates in intercollegiate sports.

In addition to being ranked as the #8 Party School, the University of Georgia also received some additional Princeton Review College Rankings, many of which we’re party-related (sorry, faculty and staff). The university landed at #4 on the “Lots of Hard Liquor” list, #16 on the “Students Study the Least” list and ranked #18 on the “Lots of Beer” list.

Additionally, the University of Georgia also made the list for one of the “Best Southeastern’’ Colleges, “The Best 380 Colleges,” “Colleges That Pay You Back,” “Public Schools” and “Green Colleges.”

7. West Virginia University – Morgantown, WV

West Virginia University, commonly known as WVU, was ranked as the #4 Party School last year, falling to #7 this year. WVU was ranked at #1 in 2013, 2008 and 1998.

About 22,600 undergraduate students call West Virginia University home, over 90 percent of which are full-time students.

But, WVU does offer more than just a great time. The school boasts a wonderful sense of school spirit, with a student body that seems to unanimously describe a sense of pride they feel for their school so it’s no surprise that WVU landed the #8 spot on the Princeton Review’s “Students Pack the Stadiums” list.

One such student quoted on the Princeton Review stated, “West Virginia University is all about combining such high academic standards with the atmosphere of Mountaineer pride, only something you can feel at a football game singing ‘Country Roads’ with 50,000 of your closest friends.”

WVU’s rankings make it clear that students definitely know how to throw a great bash, but the school has plenty of other great aspects, too. It’s also listed in the Princeton Review College Rankings at #9 for “Best Athletic Facilities,” #14 for “Best College Newspaper” and ranks as #18 on the “Best College Library” list.

In addition to landing spots in ranked lists, WVU also landed on some of the other Princeton Review College lists as one of the “Best Southeastern’’ Colleges, “The Best 380 Colleges” and “Green Colleges.”

6. University of California - Santa Barbara – Santa Barbara, CA

Falling from the #3 spot last year, the University of California – Santa Barbara, commonly referred to as USCB, comes in at the #6 Party School spot for 2015-2016’s list.

The University of California - Santa Barbara is home to just over 20,000 undergraduate students who must be smarty pants because they got in – 83 percent of high school applicants admitted have over a 3.75 GPA. Plus, the school boasts an impressive average high school GPA of 3.98 and an acceptance rate of 36 percent.

The small urban campus is full of life, with students actively participating in one or more of the university’s 425 registered student organizations, 12 honor societies and plenty of Greek and religious organizations as well as both men and women’s athletics to choose from.

Plus, students get to experience perks like enjoying the views from the cliffs of the Pacific and the college’s very own lagoon. Perhaps this helps enhance the students’ appreciation of nature and that’s why the university is ranked #3 on the Princeton Review’s “Top 50 Green Colleges” list.

The school’s Princeton Review College Rankings demonstrate a mix of work and play, it’s ranked as #12 on the “Happiest Students” list, #23 on the “Colleges That Pay You Back (Without Aid)” list and also ranked #32 on “Colleges That Pay You Back.”

The University of California – Santa Barbara also ranked on some other Princeton Review lists, including “The Best 380 Colleges,” the “Best Western” Colleges, “Colleges That Pay You Back,” “Green Colleges” and “Public Schools.”

5. Syracuse University – Syracuse, NY

Syracuse University dropped from last year’s coveted #1 “Party Schools” spot all the way to #5 this year.

This university isn’t just home to just over 15,200 dedicated partiers – they’re impressive undergraduates, too. In fact, the Princeton Review ranked the university at #6 for “2015 Top Entrepreneurial Programs: Undergraduate.”
The university also holds two top ten spots within media lists, for those of you looking to pursue careers in those fields: #9 for “Best College Newspaper” and #10 for “Best College Radio Station.”

Plus, Syracuse University is also named one of The Best 380 Colleges, amongst the “Green Colleges” and a Best Northeastern College by the Princeton Review. And, believe it or not, none of that has to do with partying on campus.

Syracuse also ranks #7 on their “Students Pack the Stadiums” list, #11 on the “Lots of Greek Life” list and #15 for “Most Popular Study Abroad Program” – all of which bring unique aspects to student life at the university.

4. Bucknell University – Lewisburg, PA

Somebody brought their party game this year. Jumping from the #9 spot last year to the #4 spot this year, Bucknell University students apparently proved they can party hardier than ever before.

With just over 3,500 undergraduates, Bucknell is a small private liberal arts university which was founded in 1846 as a “literary institution.” Today, it offers much more than its original literary roots – the school has expanded to offer academic programs in everything from the arts and humanities to social and natural sciences including almost 50 majors and over 60 minors.

The school’s size allows for an impressive student-to-faculty-ratio (9:1) and classes tend to range anywhere from 10-19 students, allowing for individualized attention. Perhaps this is why the university also boasts impressive graduation rates: 85 percent of Buckell’s students graduate in four years and 88 percent within five.

There’s a massive Greek life presence on the small village-like campus – the Princeton Review ranks the university at #1 on the Lots of Greek Life list. In fact, 41 percent of the student body joins a fraternity and 47 percent join a sorority.

Bucknell’s other Princeton Review College Rankings this year includes the #6 spot on the “Little Race/Class Interaction” list (over 83 percent of the student body is Caucasian), the #17 spot for “Most Beautiful Campus” and landing the #21 ranking on the “Best Alumni Network” list.

It was also ranked by The Princeton Review as a “Best Northeastern College,” among “The Best 380 Colleges,” “Colleges That Pay You Back,” “Green Colleges” and “Private Schools.”

3. University of Wisconsin - Madison – Madison, WI

Another school that brought its A-game to the party scene, the University of Wisconsin - Madison sailed from last year’s number #8 spot all the way to the top tier of collegiate partying: #3.

Commonly known as UW Madison, this university offers it’s over 31,000 undergraduates much more than just a party scene. The university boasts high rankings by the Princeton Review in important areas for students, such as #5 on the “Best Health Services” list and #10 on the LGBTQ-Friendly list.

Additional Princeton Review College Rankings including the #14 spot for the “Best College Library,” coming in at #15 for the “Best College Newspaper”and, last but not least, #16 on the “Best Alumni Network” list.

It was also ranked by The Princeton Review as a “Best Midwestern College,” among “The Best 380 Colleges,” “Colleges That Pay You Back,” and “Public Schools.”

2. University of Iowa – Iowa City, IA

For the second year in a row, the University of Iowa is the runner-up in the Princeton Review’s Top Party School Rankings. But, that doesn’t seem to get in the way of students having a good time.

Fun fact: the University of Iowa was ranked #1 in 2014.

And, as with most of the Big Ten schools, you’ll find that the Hawkeyes fans and school spirit plays a major role on campus. That’s likely why the school ranked #4 on the Princeton Review’s “Students Pack the Stadiums” list.

The school has a strong Greek life presence, in addition to packing stadiums with sports fans game after game – as any great Big Ten school does. It landed at #12 on the “Lots of Greek Life” list, with 14 percent of students joining a fraternity and 19 percent joining on of 23 social sororities to choose from.

However, this university boasts a lot more than tailgating on game days or kegs at frat parties. With more than 5,000 courses offered each year, the University of Iowa offers a broad range of more than 200 areas of study for its students, including the infamous Iowa Writer’s Workshop.

Not only is it ranked as a top party school and students packing stadiums, the University of Iowa also ranked on some other Princeton Review lists, including the #17 spot on the “Best Health Services” list, ranking #15 on “Students Study the Least” and #19 for the “Best College Newspaper.”

The university also landed on other Princeton Review College Rankings lists such as, “The Best 380 Colleges,” “Best Midwestern” Colleges and was among one of the “Green Colleges.”

1. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign – Champaign, IL

New to number one, this is the first year is the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has ever claimed the top party school spot in the Princeton Review’s “Party Schools” rankings.

Last year, the school was ranked #5 on the “Party Schools” list.

In addition to being the college party headquarters of 2015-2016, the University of Illinois claims some other high ranking spots on some Princeton Review College Rankings lists.

Nearly 33,000 undergraduate students attend the school, which is known for being one of the founding members of the Big Ten conference. Placing an importance on athletics is likely what also landed this school the #3 spot on the “Best Athletic Facilities” list.

Also, Greek life is pretty big on campus. With 36 social sororities to choose from, 23 percent of students join a sorority (23 percent of students also join a fraternity). That’s likely why the school ranked at #2 on the “Lots of Greek Life” list.
Around 140 miles south of Chicago, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is considered a “Public Ivy” and is research-intensive – it’s even designated as a RU-VH Research University (very high research activities).

Amongst the many prestigious academic rankings, this university is also ranked on some other Princeton Review lists, including a mix of both party-centric and student life topics.

The university landed at #3 on the “Lots of Hard Liquor” list, #5 on the “Lots of Beer” list, ranked at #10 on the “Financial Aid Not So Great” list, came in at #17 for “Colleges That Pay You Back (Without Aid),” listed at #20 for “Best Career Services,” and, finally, ranked #24 on the “Top 50 Green Colleges” list.

It’s also ranked by The Princeton Review as a “Best Midwestern” College, among “The Best 380 Colleges,” one of the “Colleges That Pay You Back” and amongst the “Public Schools” and “Green Colleges.”

PLEASE NOTE: Princeton Review rankings (and all college rankings, for that matter) should be taken with a grain of salt, a sense of humor and the awareness that rankings are opinion-based and not factually-based. The Princeton Review surveys students and their answers determine how the school ranks.

According to the Princeton Review, “Most of the lists are based on students' answers to one survey question: some lists are based on students' answers to several questions. But all of our lists are based on our student survey results. They are the sole factors that determine which schools make it onto our 62 ranking lists and at what rank.”

As a result, please note that these rankings are compiled solely based on student opinions and should be taken as such. While administrators do have an opportunity to review rankings and respond with comments, objections and corrections, the Princeton Review makes changes “when warranted.” To learn more about the methodology used in the Princeton Review survey or how ranking is determined, please visit the Princeton Review’s “How It Works” page.

Does the top party schools list make any difference to you? Are there schools on here that you think should or should not be listed? Let us know what you think! Tweet us @PayingForSchool using #TopPartySchools

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Top 10 Party Schools of 2016

Posted by Unknown Posted on 10:01 AM with No comments

Whether you hate to love or love to hate it, you cannot help but keep your eyes peeled each year to find out which schools made the cut for the Princeton Review’s Party Schools 2016.

Whichever end of the spectrum your personality lands under, it’s important to remember that there’s much more than meets the eye (or ranking) at each of these schools.

So, as we count down the top ten of the Princeton Review’s Party Schools, we’ll also take an in-depth look at what these schools have to offer...other than a great toga party.

10. Colgate University – Hamilton, NY

It sounds like these students know how to work – and play – hard.

The university’s undergraduate student body is comprised of a vast majority, 73 percent, of out-of-state students and Greek life tends to play a major role on campus.

9. Tulane University of Louisiana – New Orleans, LA

8. University of Georgia – Athens, GA

Coming in at #8, the University of Georgia, finally made an appearance again after being left off last year’s top ten. In 2011, the school was ranked #1 on the “Party Schools” list.

The University of Georgia enrolls 26,278 undergraduate students, only 8 percent of which come from out-of-state, though 125 foreign countries are still represented.

The university has good graduation rates for its undergraduate student body - 58 percent of which graduate in four years and 81 percent of which graduate in five.

7. West Virginia University – Morgantown, WV

West Virginia University, commonly known as WVU, was ranked as the #4 Party School last year, falling to #7 this year. WVU was ranked at #1 in 2013, 2008 and 1998.

About 22,600 undergraduate students call West Virginia University home, over 90 percent of which are full-time students.

6. University of California - Santa Barbara – Santa Barbara, CA

Falling from the #3 spot last year, the University of California – Santa Barbara, commonly referred to as USCB, comes in at the #6 Party School spot for 2015-2016’s list.

5. Syracuse University – Syracuse, NY

Syracuse University dropped from last year’s coveted #1 “Party Schools” spot all the way to #5 this year.

4. Bucknell University – Lewisburg, PA

Somebody brought their party game this year. Jumping from the #9 spot last year to the #4 spot this year, Bucknell University students apparently proved they can party hardier than ever before.

It was also ranked by The Princeton Review as a “Best Northeastern College,” among “The Best 380 Colleges,” “Colleges That Pay You Back,” “Green Colleges” and “Private Schools.”

3. University of Wisconsin - Madison – Madison, WI

Another school that brought its A-game to the party scene, the University of Wisconsin - Madison sailed from last year’s number #8 spot all the way to the top tier of collegiate partying: #3.

It was also ranked by The Princeton Review as a “Best Midwestern College,” among “The Best 380 Colleges,” “Colleges That Pay You Back,” and “Public Schools.”

2. University of Iowa – Iowa City, IA

For the second year in a row, the University of Iowa is the runner-up in the Princeton Review’s Top Party School Rankings. But, that doesn’t seem to get in the way of students having a good time.

Fun fact: the University of Iowa was ranked #1 in 2014.

The university also landed on other Princeton Review College Rankings lists such as, “The Best 380 Colleges,” “Best Midwestern” Colleges and was among one of the “Green Colleges.”

1. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign – Champaign, IL

New to number one, this is the first year is the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has ever claimed the top party school spot in the Princeton Review’s “Party Schools” rankings.

Last year, the school was ranked #5 on the “Party Schools” list.

In addition to being the college party headquarters of 2015-2016, the University of Illinois claims some other high ranking spots on some Princeton Review College Rankings lists.

Amongst the many prestigious academic rankings, this university is also ranked on some other Princeton Review lists, including a mix of both party-centric and student life topics.

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Top Party Schools Ranked: 2016-2017

Posted by Unknown Posted on 1:16 PM with No comments

It’s been a highly anticipated (or highly dreaded list) of students and college administrators across the nation since 1993: the Princeton Review’s annual list of top party schools.

The 2016-2017 have been ranked and, while many students will immediately rush to submit their applications to the schools that party the most, others are turned off at the mere mention of the college party scene.

The methodology behind the rankings is fairly simple and straightforward. According to the Princeton Review, the data is compiled from surveys of 143,000 students at the 381 schools and rankings reflect the tallied results.

SPOILER ALERT: for the first time in a decade, UW-Madison is the top party school in the nation, bumping last year’s top party school, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign to number two this year.

Whether you hate-to-love or love-to-hate the list, it’s vital to keep in mind that there’s much more than meets the eye (or ranking) at each of these schools. That’s why include aspects these schools have to offer...other than a great frat party.

10. Colgate University – Hamilton, NY

The nearly 2,900 undergraduate students in attendance at Colgate University must be doing something right. Not only is the school ranked #10 on the “Party Schools” list, but the school is also known for its very rigorous academic curriculum. In fact, 48 percent of admitted students have a 3.75 GPA or higher! It sounds like these students know how to work – and play – hard.

The university’s undergraduate student body is comprised of a vast majority, 73 percent, of out-of-state students and Greek life tends to play a major role on campus.

In addition to holding the #10 party school spot, Colgate University also landed on plenty of brag-worthy Princeton Review College Rankings this year, including being ranked at #7 for “Great Financial Aid,” #10 for “Best Financial Aid,” landing the #9 spot for “Most Beautiful Campus,” the #18 ranking for “Best Career Placement” and #15 on the “Top 50 Colleges That Pay You Back” list.

Colgate University additionally made the cut for other ranked lists which include “The Best 381 Colleges,” the “Best Northeastern’’ Colleges, “Colleges That Pay You Back,” “Green Colleges.”

9. Tulane University of Louisiana – New Orleans, LA

Tulane University comes in at #9 this year and, while the school has been ranked on previous party school lists (Tulane even ranked #1 in 1993), it holds the same slot as last year’s “Party Schools” list.

The university is well-known for a lot, including being known for its research worldwide, being a historical institution (the university was founded in New Orleans in 1834), and being one of the most well-respected universities in the United States. The school’s nearly 7,000 undergrads come from all over – 76 percent are from out of state including and 37 from foreign countries.

Beating out it’s #9 ranking on the “Party Schools” list, the university was also ranked #1 on two of the Princeton Review College Rankings lists: #1 “Most Engaged in Community Service” and #1 on the “Lots of Hard Liquor” list. At least these students know how to balance their lifestyles!

But, Tulane’s rankings didn’t stop there. Tulane University also landed other college ranking spots, too. Tulane came in at #2 on the “College City Gets High Marks” list and #6 on the “Best Quality of Life” list.

Tulane University also ranked on other lists including “The Best 381 Colleges,” the “Best Southeastern’’ colleges, “Colleges That Pay You Back,” and “Green Colleges.”

8. Syracuse University – Syracuse, NY

Syracuse University dropped from having coveted #1 “Party Schools” spot two years ago, to #5 last year and fell to #8 this year. Though the partying may have gone down within the past few years, students at Syracuse still know how to have a great time.

In fact, this university isn’t just home to just over 15,000 dedicated undergraduate partiers – they’ve got spirit, too. The school landed the #1 spot on “Students Pack the Stadiums” list.

Syracuse also holds two top ten spots within media lists, for those of you looking to pursue careers in those fields: #5 for “Best College Newspaper” and #6 for “Best College Radio Station.”

Plus, Syracuse University is also named one of The Best 381 Colleges, amongst the “Green Colleges” and a “Best Northeastern” college by the Princeton Review. And, believe it or not, none of that has to do with partying on campus.

7. University of Mississippi – University, MS

The University of Mississippi made this year’s top ten list at #7 – and wasn’t even within last year’s top ten.

Commonly known as Ole Miss, the school enrolls nearly 19,000 undergraduate students. Also ranking in at #7 for the school where “Students Study the Least,” the school also landed the #11 spot for “Lots of Greek Life, and took spots on both the “The Best 381 Colleges” and the “Best Southeastern” colleges lists.

6. University of Iowa – Iowa City, IA

For the previous two years, the University of Iowa was the runner-up in the Princeton Review’s Top Party School Rankings. This year, however, the school dropped several slots to #6. But, that doesn’t seem to get in the way of students having a good time. (Fun fact: the University of Iowa was ranked #1 in 2014.)

After all, what’s there to do in Iowa besides go to class? Party, of course! Located in Iowa City, this school is part of the Big Ten but still manages to feel like a smaller college, despite having just over 23,000 undergraduate students in attendance. This sense of community is likely why the school ranked #5 on the Princeton Review’s “Happiest Students” list.

The school has a strong Greek life presence, in addition to packing stadiums with sports fans game after game – as any great Big Ten school does. It landed at #14 on the “Lots of Greek Life” list, with 13 percent of students joining a fraternity and 18 percent joining a sorority.

However, this university boasts a lot more than tailgating on game days or kegs at frat parties. The University of Iowa offers a broad range of options for its students, including the infamous Iowa Writer’s Workshop.

Not only is it ranked as a top party school, the University of Iowa also ranked on some other Princeton Review lists, including the #5 spot on the “Best College Library” list, ranking #8 on “Best Health Services” and #11 for the “Best College Newspaper.”

The university also landed on other Princeton Review College Rankings lists such as, “The Best 381 Colleges,” “Best Midwestern” Colleges and was among one of the “Green Colleges.”

5. Bucknell University – Lewisburg, PA

Jumping from the #4 spot last year to the #5 spot this year, Bucknell University students may have cooled down the party scene - a bit.

The school’s size allows for an impressive student-to-faculty-ratio (9.2:1) and classes and labs generally range anywhere from 10-19 students, allowing for individualized attention. Perhaps this is why the university also boasts impressive graduation rates: 85 percent of Buckell’s students graduate in four years and 89 percent within five.

There’s a massive Greek life presence on the small village-like campus – the Princeton Review ranks the university at #1 on the Lots of Greek Life list. In fact, 42 percent of the student body joins a fraternity and 49 percent join a sorority.

Bucknell’s other Princeton Review College Rankings this year include the #2 spot on the “Little Race/Class Interaction” list (over 76 percent of the student body is Caucasian), the #4 spot for “Most Beautiful Campus” and landing the #12 ranking on the “Best Alumni Network” list.

It was also ranked by The Princeton Review as a “Best Northeastern College,” among “The Best 381 Colleges,” “Colleges That Pay You Back,” and “Green Colleges” list.

4. Lehigh University – Bethlehem, PA

Lehigh University skipped being in the top ten last year but came back with a vengeance this year, landing the #4 spot.
As a small, urban university, the school is home to just over 5,000 undergraduates. Clearly that doesn’t stop students from having a great time in college.

It was also ranked by The Princeton Review as a “Best Northeastern College,” among “The Best 381 Colleges,” “Colleges That Pay You Back,” and “Green Colleges.”

Lehigh’s other Princeton Review College Rankings include the #7 spot for “Lots of Greek Life” and the #8 spot on the “Best Science Lab Facilities” list.

3. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign – Champaign, IL

Dropping from the #1 spot last year, which was the first year is the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has ever claimed the top party school spot in the Princeton Review’s “Party Schools” rankings, this school takes this year’s #3 spot.

In addition to being one of the top college party headquarters, the University of Illinois claims some other high ranking spots on some Princeton Review College Rankings lists.

Also, Greek life is pretty big on campus. In fact, the school was also ranked #8 on the “Lots of Greek Life” list. With plenty of Greek organizations to choose from, 23 percent of students join a sorority (23 percent of students also join a fraternity).

Around 140 miles south of Chicago, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is considered a one of the most diverse within the Big Ten. It’s research-intensive – it’s even designated as a RU-VH Research University (very high research activities).

Amongst the many prestigious academic rankings, this university is also ranked on some other Princeton Review lists, including a mix of both party-centric and student life topics.

The university landed #5 on the “Best Athletic Facilities” list and was listed at #20 for “Best Career Services.” It’s also ranked by The Princeton Review as a “Best Midwestern” College, among “The Best 381 Colleges,” “Green Colleges” and one of the “Colleges That Pay You Back.”

2. West Virginia University – Morgantown, WV

West Virginia University, commonly known as WVU, was ranked as the #7 party school last year and jumped to the #2 spot this year. WVU was ranked at #1 in 2013, 2008 and 1998 – so they’re slowly but steadily regaining their party school status.

A little over 22,000 undergraduate students call West Virginia University home, over 90 percent of which are full-time students.

But, WVU does offer more than just a great time. The school boasts a wonderful sense of school spirit, with a student body that seems to unanimously describe a sense of pride they feel for their school so it’s no surprise that WVU landed the #2 spot on the Princeton Review’s “Students Pack the Stadiums” list.

WVU’s rankings make it clear that students definitely know how to throw a great bash, but the school has plenty of other great aspects, too. It’s also listed in the Princeton Review College Rankings at #6 for “Best Athletic Facilities,” and ranks as #6 on the “Students Study the Least” list.

In addition to landing spots in ranked lists, WVU also landed on some of the other Princeton Review College lists as one of the “Best Southeastern’’ Colleges, “The Best 381 Colleges” and “Green Colleges.”

1. University of Wisconsin - Madison – Madison, WI

This university brought its A-game to the party scene this year. The University of Wisconsin - Madison sailed from last year’s number #3 spot all the way to the top tier of collegiate partying: #1.

Commonly known as UW Madison, this university offers it’s over 31,000 undergraduates much more than just a party scene. The university boasts high rankings by the Princeton Review in important areas for students, also taking the #1 ranking on the “Best Health Services” list and #4 on the LGBTQ-Friendly list.

Additional Princeton Review College Rankings including the #13 spot for the “Best College Library,” and ranks at #10 for the “Best College Newspaper.”

It was also ranked by The Princeton Review as a “Best Midwestern College,” among “The Best 381 Colleges,” and “Colleges That Pay You Back.”

PLEASE NOTE: Princeton Review rankings (and all college rankings, for that matter) should be taken with a grain of salt, a sense of humor and the awareness that rankings are opinion-based and not factually-based. The Princeton Review surveys students and their answers determine how the school ranks.

According to the Princeton Review, “Schools that make it onto any of our 62 top 20 lists are those at which the surveyed students (as a group) indicated a very high consensus of opinion about that topic.”

As a result, please note that these rankings are compiled solely based on student opinions and should be taken as such. To learn more about the methodology used in the Princeton Review survey or how ranking is determined, please visit the Princeton Review’s College Ranking Methodology page.

Does the top party schools list make any difference to you? Are there schools on here that you think should or should not be listed? Let us know what you think! Tweet us @PayingForSchool using #TopPartySchools to join the conversation.

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The 10 Most Luxurious Dorms in the U.S.

Posted by Unknown Posted on 10:54 AM with No comments

Forget the image of tiny rooms that resemble jail cells - these residence halls aren’t your typical dorms. These building feature the comforts of home or, perhaps even, an upgrade from home. Many of these dorms are more like five-star luxury resort hotels than typical college residence halls!

Students living within these luxe residence halls at any the following schools are seriously living the dream. It’s unlikely anyone would look forward to graduating from these schools – if it were us, we’d stay as long as possible!

While some of these colleges have one ultra-fancy dorm, others have dorms that are so luxurious; it’s hard to pick just one.

According to BestCollegeValues, here are the ten of the most luxurious dorms in America.

Count down to see how your school’s residence life measures up:

10. Durfee at Yale University

Location: New Haven, Connecticut

Price Range: about $14,000 per year

Students can focus easily in this residence hall, since it was designed to feature single rooms with walk-in closets in 80 percent of the building.

The single rooms are grouped into six or nine suites, which share bathrooms and a common area for students to gather. The common rooms aren’t too shabby, either: they each have a fireplace and gorgeous architecture.

If you’re lucky enough to get on the fifth floor, you’ll find that there’s no overhead lighting – the ceilings feature skylights which light the rooms.

And, for those with a sweet tooth, there’s Durfee’s Sweet Shop, to satisfy students’ snacking habits.

Fun fact: this dorm was where Anderson Cooper spent his first year as an undergraduate. Also, you know this dorm is amazing if it’s where parts of the television show, Gilmore Girls, was filmed.

Discover residence life at Yale University here.

9. North Lake Village at Florida Gulf Coast University

Location: Fort Meyers, Florida

Price Range: $2,410 – $3,398

Dubbed a “lake village” because it sits on an 80-acre lake, students can relax with water-based recreational activities. Or, if the lake isn’t your thing, there’s also a swimming pool.

Students can choose from floor plans that vary between single rooms and four-rooms which include a living room, kitchen and, depending on the choice, one or two bathrooms.

If that doesn’t sound like enough, don’t worry – there’s more! Students can access areas for grilling (with gas grills, of course), play on the tennis courts or recreation fields and focus in the computer labs and study centers.

When students get sick of all the awesome amenities in the dorms, they can head to the Gulf Coast which is just a quick 15 minutes away.

Discover residence life at Florida Gulf Coast University here.

8. Simmons Hall at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (M.I.T.)

Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts

Price Range: $4,164 – $4,714 per semester

Sure, most students don’t attend MIT for the residence halls. But, if you find yourself looking into MIT, know that Simmons Hall at MIT is THE place to live.

Nicknamed “The Sponge” because of the exterior, the building is not only is the building known for its architectural awards, it contains lounges with huge TVs, PS3s and Rokus for streaming music or movies.

Additionally, most floors have their own dining hall, movie theaters and laundry rooms. And, for when students get really stressed, there’s a giant ball pit to play in.

Discover residence life at MIT here.

7. Morgens Hall at The University of Cincinnati

Location: Cincinnati, Ohio

Price Range: $3,137 – $4,259 Per Semester

The apartment-like dorms at Morgan’s Hall feature floor to ceiling windows, their own kitchen and the building are eco-friendly, with each apartment having its own heating and cooling features due to specialty window insulation. The windows can even be adjusted to become opaque if you want to drown out the sun!

Of course, these wouldn’t be luxury dorms without study lounges and recreational equipment available for student use as well.

Learn more about residence life at The University of Cincinnati here.

6. The Metropolitan at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM)

Location: Los Angeles, California

Price Range: About $1,000 per month

Technically, this one isn’t a residence hall – it’s owned by private companies but, since it’s still available to students and regulated like a dorm, it made the list. It’s like a dorm, assuming by “dorm” you mean five-star hotel.

Not only is this housing located in LA, it’s super close to FIDM and comes with a fully-equipped kitchen, Balcony, vanity and great views from spacious windows.

But, what’s really amazing are the community amenities: a heated pool, sundeck and covered-spa area, an outdoor grilling courtyard, and a private theatre and billiards lounge.

Plus, since the school is fashion-focused, students are able to work on their studies in design and drawing rooms!

Learn more about residence life at FIDM here.

5. Calhoun Lofts at the University of Houston

Location: Houston, Texas

Price Range: $4,146 – $5,881 Per Semester

Live in a one- or two-bedroom loft that has 10-foot ceilings, a kitchen with granite countertops (and is full-equipped with a refrigerator, microwave, stove and dishwasher) and students have the option to move into furnished or unfurnished rooms.

In addition, there’s a huge, 10,500 square foot retail center with a market, subway and book store. If that’s not enough to do, don’t worry! The lofts wouldn’t be complete without their roof terraces, “sky lounges,” fitness center and private courtyards.

Learn more about residence life at the University of Houston here.

4. Ivy House & Windsor Hall at the University of Florida

Location: Gainesville, Florida

Price Range: $529 – $859 Per Month

Obviously these are amazing if the name is “Luxury Residences of the University of Florida.” No matter where you end up, all of the dorms are loaded with amenities.

For example, Ivy House is the female-only residence hall that boasts a sun deck with private and hot tubs. Inside, students have their own living room with a fireplace and large screen television and a gourmet kitchen.

The co-ed house, Windsor House, isn’t too shabby either. The rooms are even bigger than at Ivy House, have their own kitchenettes and luxury bathrooms attached to each room.

Plus, you can’t beat the prices on either of these amazing housing options or the location right by campus.

Learn more about residence life at the University of Florida here.

3. The Callaway House at University of Texas, Austin

Location: Austin, Texas

Price Range: $5,990 – $8,740 Per Semester

The Callaway House has eight different housing plans to choose from so chances are, whether you’re living alone or with roommates, you’ll find something you like. All of them come fully furnished with deluxe leather couches, updated stainless steel appliances, a kitchenette and even hardwood flooring!

Plus, there’s a maid service. Yes – a maid service.

As if that’s not enough, students can access exclusive study and computer labs, iPad stations, a pool with a patio, a fitness center and a theater room. With so much to do, who has time for class?

Learn more about residence life at University of Texas here.

2. The University of North Florida’s Osprey Fountains

Location: Jacksonville, Florida

Price Range: $1,130 – $5,000 per semester

The putting green, fitness center, aerobics room, lap pool, running track, swings, tennis, volleyball and basketball courts are nothing compared to the six-themed lounges for students. The lounges include “Joe’s Diner”, a 50’s themed diner, “The Morgue,” a quiet study room, “The Upper-Deck,” a rec room with plasma screens, “The Spotlight,” a karaoke lounge, “The Galaxy,” a gaming room with televisions and desks and “The B.L.O.C.,” a laid-back lounge with beanbags.

Learn more about residence life at University of North Florida here.

1. Hub at Tuscon at The University of Arizona

Location: Tucson, Arizona
Price Range: $1,490 – $5,405 – per unit, per month (Split between roommates for 2-5 bedroom units)

Features: Living in these dorms gets you private beds and baths, an amazing, fully-equipped kitchen complete with a Keurig, walk in closets and, even, private washers and dryers.

The building also has awesome amenities like a game room, fitness center, meeting rooms and a spa that has a steam room, sauna and tanning beds! Plus, students can cool off in the infinity roof top pool.

When students get sick of those amenities, they can hang out by the 22-foot LED TV, grill out on the gazebo, chill in the hammocks and play volleyball on the sand court.

If you don’t want to play volleyball but want to watch, no worries, they have stadium style seating for that, too.
Learn more about residence life at University of Arizona here.

Would you choose a college based on its amenities or residential life?

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Where 50 Celebrities Went to College

Posted by Unknown Posted on 3:47 PM with No comments

If you were rich and famous, would you still find value in a college education? These celebrities certainly do!

James Franco, Ashley Judd and Natalie Portman are among the many celebrities who moonlight as brainiacs – offering beauty and brains. Sometimes, life just isn’t fair.

In a star-obsessed society, with hopes in the form of articles like, “stars-they’re-just-like-us,” we rarely actually regard stars as being just-like-us.

Perhaps the following stars may pleasantly surprise you since they see the true value in a college education.

Check out the following celebrities who graduated from college, many of whom still continue their education on the off-season.

1. Elizabeth Banks

Pre-Hunger Games, Elizabeth Banks attended the University of Pennsylvania, where she was in a sorority and graduated magna cum laude in 1996. She also earned a Master of Fine Arts in 1998 from the American Conservatory Theater.

2. Sacha Baron Cohen

Comedian Sacha Baron Cohen studied history at the University of Cambridge before taking on alter-egos like Ali G.

Who knew that Borat was such a smarty pants?

3. Julie Bowen

Before she was the matriarch of a Modern Family, Bowen majored in Italian Renaissance studies at Brown University. She even spent her junior year of college studying abroad in Florence, Italy.

4. Zach Braff

The Scrubs actor and writer, director, producer and star of Garden State, graduated from the Northwestern University School of Communication in 1997.

5. Steve Carell

The Office actor and The 40-Year-Old Virgin star earned his bachelor’s degree in history from Denison University.

6. Kristin Chenoweth

The tiny actress with the powerhouse vocals, attended Oklahoma City University where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in musical theatre and a master’s degree in opera performance.

7. Kenny Chesney

The country music heartthrob earned a bachelor’s degree in advertising from East Tennessee State University.

8. Common

The American hip-hop artist known as Common (formerly known as Common Sense) attended Florida A&M University, thanks to a two-year scholarship, where he majored in business administration.

9. Kristin Davis

The former Sex and the City start graduated from college in 1987, with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in acting from the Rutgers University Mason Gross School of the Arts.

10. Rachel Dratch

Best known for her hilarious character roles on Saturday Night Live, Dratch is no Debbie Downer in real life. She’s actually got a degree from Dartmouth College, where she studied drama and psychology.

11. David Duchovny

Best known for playing a writer on Californication, Duchovny likely understands parts of his character from his own experiences pursuing and obtaining a master’s degree in English literature at Yale University. He’s still working toward his Ph.D., too!

12. Will Ferrell

Coming to you, live! It seems like our favorite funnyman was always destined to be in front of the camera. He even studied sports broadcasting at University of Southern California, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in sports information in 1990.

13. Tina Fey

This comedienne always had the fame bug, even before Saturday Night Live and 30 Rock. Fey attended the University of Virginia, where she studied acting and playwriting and earned her bachelor’s degree in drama in 1992.

14. Jodie Foster

Foster attended Yale University where she earned her bachelor’s degree in literature in 1985, even after having to take a leave of absence for a semester.

15. James Franco

In addition to his bachelor’s degree in English from UCLA and a Master of Fine Arts from Columbia, he recently worked towards his doctorate in English from Yale University. He’s also taken film-making courses at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, fiction writing at Brooklyn College and poetry at North Carolina’s Warren Wilson College. He also plans to attend the Rhode Island School of Design.

By the way, this is all in addition to teaching courses at USC, UCLA, CalArts and NYU.

Yikes! This guy really gets around – academically speaking, of course.

16. Art Garfunkel

Yes, it’s that Garfunkel as in, “Simon and.” Before he joined the infamous duo, he studied architecture at Manhattan’s Columbia College and earned his bachelor’s degree in art history and a master’s in mathematics. He also completed work towards his doctorate in mathematics education.

17. Jennifer Garner

Before Alias, Jen earned a bachelor’s degree in drama from Denison University.

18. Ricky Gervais

The hilarious creator of The Office attended University College London, where he earned a bachelor’s in philosophy. Maybe that’s why The Office is so deep…

19. Paul Giamatti

He’s got an impressive acting background, but did you know his academic background is equally as impressive? The actor earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Yale University and continued on to earn a Master of Fine Arts degree from the Yale School of Drama.

20. Maggie Gyllenhaal

Setting the bar for her little brother Jake, Maggie studied literature and Eastern religions, earning a bachelor’s degree from Columbia University. She also studied at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Art.

21. Jonah Hill

You’ll likely know Hill from comedies like Superbad and Get Him to the Greek, but many don’t know that he also studied music and sports at The New School in New York.

22. Rashida Jones

Known for roles on The Office and Parks and Recreation, Jones graduated from Harvard University, where she studied religion and philosophy.

23. Ashley Judd

As a result of her successful acting career, it took Judd awhile to earn her undergraduate degree from the University of Kentucky.

She then went on to attend Harvard University, where she earned her master’s degree in public administration in 2010.

24. Kourtney Kardashian

After attending Southern Methodist University for two years, the oldest Kardashian sister transferred to the University of Arizona, where she majored in theatre arts and minored in Spanish. Do you think that her bachelor’s degree comes in handy during her on-screen family feuds?

25. John Krasinski

Talk about brains! After teaching English in Costa Rica, Krasinski earned his bachelor’s degree from Brown University in theatre arts.

After graduating from Brown, he studied at the National Theater Institute in Connecticut, The Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford-upon-Avon, England and The Actors Center in New York City.

26. Lisa Kudrow

The former Friends star can offer a lot more than a rendition of “Smelly Cat” (though that’s pretty great, too) since she earned her bachelor’s degree in biology from Vassar College. She even delivered the school’s 2010 commencement address.

27. John Legend

His high school salutatorian, Legend had his choice of offered scholarships to Harvard University, Georgetown University and Morehouse College. He decided upon the University of Pennsylvania, where he studied English with an emphasis on African American literature.

28. David Letterman

Though you’d never know it now, The Late Show host was a self-described average student at Ball State University, where he later created a scholarship for “C-students.”

29. Lil Wayne

After going back to school to earn his GED, Wayne enrolled and studied at the University of Houston before transferring to the University of Phoenix, where he earned a degree in psychology. How does that make you feel?

30. Lucy Liu

Originally enrolled at New York University, Liu transferred to the University of Michigan where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Asian languages and cultures.

31. Ron Livingston

Just one Ivy League degree wasn’t enough for the Office Space actor. He attended Yale University, where he received his bachelor’s degrees in theater and English.

32. Eva Longoria

A bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from Texas A&M University at Kingsville wasn’t enough for this onscreen housewife. She later returned to college, earning her master’s in Chicano Studies from California State Northridge.

33. Rachel McAdams

This beauty has brains to boot, and should be recognized for a different type of notebook. The Notebook star graduated with a bachelor’s degree from York University’s four-year theatre program in 2001.

34. Edward Norton

Did you know that Edward Norton was a competitive rower in addition to acting in university productions with Paul Giamatti and Ron Livingston at Yale University? The actor graduated in 1991 with a Bachelor of Arts in history and can even speak some Japanese!

35. Conan O’Brien

It turns out this funnyman likes to hit the books. O’Brien attended Harvard University, where he studied history and literature and graduated magna cum laude in 1985. He was also a writer for the Harvard Lampoon humor magazine during his college years, which he was made president of his sophomore and junior years there.

36. Shaquille O’Neal

Shaq definitely has brains and brawn, since he’s got an impressive academic record with a bachelor’s degree from Louisiana State University in general studies, an MBA from the University of Phoenix and is working towards his Ph.D. in leadership and education. Maybe his brain is scaled to size with his body?

37. Amanda Peet

In addition to being a critically-acclaimed actress in obscure indie films (Igby Goes Down) as well as comedies (The Whole Nine Yards), Peet studied and obtained her degree in history at Columbia University.

38. Amy Poehler

This comedienne began her improv comedy career while attending Boston College, where she was a member of America’s oldest collegiate comedy troupe, “My Mother’s Fleabag.” She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in media and communications in 1993 before going on to a bright career on Saturday Night Live and a starring role on the television show Parks and Recreation.

39. Natalie Portman

Talk about a multi-tasker! Portman worked towards her college degree while simultaneously working as an actress, beginning in 1999. In 2003, she officially earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Harvard University. She also took graduate courses afterwards at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and, as a lover of foreign languages, has studied French, Japanese, German and Arabic.

When asked about her decision to attend college, Portman reportedly told the New York Post, “I don’t care if [college] ruins my career. I’d rather be smart than a movie star.”

40. Paul Rudd

The actor, comedian and screenwriter went to the University of Kansas. He also spent some time studying Jacobean drama at the British American Drama Academy, in Oxford, U.K.

41. Brooke Shields

This actual model was apparently a model student, as well, earning a degree in French literature from Princeton University in 1987.

42. Steven Spielberg

It took him more than 35 years, but the director, despite struggling with dyslexia, still earned a bachelor’s degree from California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) in film production and electronic arts with an option in film/video production. Spielberg proves that it’s never too late to earn that degree!

43. Jon Stewart

The political satirist graduated from Virginia’s College of William and Mary in 1984. While he was in college, he played on the school’s soccer team and studied chemistry before ultimately switching and earning his degree in psychology.

44. Julia Stiles

This actress went from studying and achieving her degree in English literature at Columbia University to roles in both dark and rom-com films.

45. Meryl Streep

One of the most celebrated and talented actors of our time, Streep received her bachelor’s degree in drama from Vassar College and also enrolled in classes Dartmouth College for a quarter as an exchange student. Afterwards, she earned her Master of Fine Arts from the Yale School of Drama.

It looks like that drama degree came in handy, since she has received more Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations that any other actor in the history of either award (amongst many other award achievements).

46. Jerry Springer

The television host attended Tulane University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in political science. Springer subsequently earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from Northwestern University.

47. Christy Turlington

Really? A supermodel with brains? Not that we’re stereotyping – it just isn’t fair! But, Turlington can prove she’s got brains with her bachelor’s degree in religion and Eastern philosophy from New York University.

As if that weren’t enough, she later went back to school and obtained a master’s in public health from Columbia University.

48. Carrie Underwood

After high school, Underwood put her singing aspirations on hold to attend Northeastern University, where she graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in mass communication with an emphasis in journalism. That didn’t stop her from achieving her dreams, though. Underwood went on to become the season four winner of the popular reality singing competition, American Idol.

49. Denzel Washington

The undeniably handsome actor not only earned his bachelor’s degree in drama and journalism from Fordham University, but also played collegiate basketball for the school as a freshman. He also attended graduate school at San Francisco’s American Conservatory Theatre.

50. Oprah Winfrey

Growing up in a low-income, abusive household, Winfrey escaped her situation by becoming an honors student who secured a full scholarship to Tennessee State University, where she studied communication.

Then, she went on to become Oprah.

Does this change your opinion regarding the value of a college education?

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Top 10 Happiest Colleges in the Country

Posted by Unknown Posted on 6:54 PM with No comments

Happiness to a college student may come in the form of cancelled classes on Friday afternoon, free pizza just for coming to an informational session or cuddles from companion puppies during finals week. But being a college that’s known for having the happiest students is so much more than that.

From academics to extracurriculars to social life, these colleges know what it takes to make their students happy. Check out the top 10 happiest colleges according to The Princeton Review.

NOTE: Annual costs include tuition, fees and room and board.

10. Tulane University

Location: New Orleans, Louisiana

Undergraduate students: 8,339

Annual costs: $63,110

Average financial aid package: $29,417

Student at Tulane tell The Princeton Review that they are driven and ambitious but do an excellent job of balancing both academics and social life. Student also attribute their love of Tulane to its location in New Orleans.

Learn more about Tulane University.

9. Rice University

Location: Houston, Texas

Undergraduate students: 3,910

Annual costs: $56,703

Average total financial aid package: $36,025

Student at Rice attribute their happiness to the inclusivity at Rice. They say, “People are free to do whatever they want with whoever they want.” “On any given Friday night you might find various religious organizations meeting, a group of friends playing board games in the commons space, a crowd of people heading to a party, and a carload of students heading off-campus to see a movie.”

Learn more about Rice University.

8. Whitman College

Location: Walla Walla, Washington

Undergraduate students: 1,470

Annual costs: $59,100

Average total financial aid package: $30,721

Whitman’s proximity to the great outdoors provides a plethora of social options for students on and off campus. The campus and student body are also very small, providing a close-knit community feel.

Learn more about Whitman College.

7. Clemson University

Location: Clemson, South Carolina

Undergraduate students: 18,016

Annual costs: $23,908 (in-state)

Average total financial aid package: $8,946

Clemson has a very strong sense of tradition, which helps to unite students of all backgrounds and interests. Students can be found supporting their athletic teams, hiking the Clemson-owned trails in the mountains and studying abroad during their time there.

Learn more about Clemson University.

6. University of Dayton

Location: Dayton, Ohio

Undergraduate students: 8,665

Annual costs: $39,090

Average total financial aid package: $22,645

According to The Princeton Review, students feel as if UD is a second home and the student body, faculty and staff are like family. One student says that everyone is “committed to the pursuit of knowledge, the betterment of the community, and the quest for an education of the whole person.”

Learn more about University of Dayton.

5. St. Mary’s College of Maryland

Location: St. Mary’s City, Maryland

Undergraduate students: 1,746

Annual costs: $27,175 (in-state)

Average financial aid package: $9,771

St. Mary’s students claim that they’re never bored. Between open mic nights, movies and free boating on the water, there is plenty to do on campus. When asked about being part of the school community, many of the students refer to one another as “family.”

Learn more about St. Mary's College of Maryland.

4. Kansas State University

Location: Manhattan, Kansas

Undergraduate students: 19,859

Annual costs: $18,636

Average total financial aid package: $4,298

Kansas State students tell The Princeton Review that the campus has a very inclusive feel, and a lot of that has to do with the investment made in freshmen students as well as the professors. One student shares that K-State’s professors commit beyond the classroom. Not only are they catalysts for my learning, they push me as a person and always give me the support I need in the most genuine way.”

Learn more about Kansas State University.

3. Claremont McKenna College

Location: Claremont, California

Undergraduate students: 1,301

Annual costs: $61,900

Average financial aid package: $40,438

Students share with The Princeton Review that Claremont McKenna has phenomenal academics, perfect weather and brilliant professors. One students confesses, “When you take both academics and quality of life into account, I can’t believe I almost went to an Ivy over this place.”

Learn more about Claremont McKenna College.

2. Virginia Tech University

Location: Blacksburg, Virginia

Undergraduate students: 25,384

Annual costs: $19,105

Average financial aid package: $6,809

Students at Virginia Tech attribute their happiness to the pride students have in their school. Many students tell The Princeton Review that most students wear Virginia Tech gear all day, every day. And there’s only one place you can find Hokies in the fall – Lane Stadium.

Learn more about Virginia Tech University.

1. Vanderbilt University

Location: Nashville, Tennessee

Undergraduate students: 6,883

Annual costs: $61,864

Average aid award: $40,267

Students at Vanderbilt University, the happiest university in the country this year, say that life as a student is split equally between academics and going out. Between the Greek system, university-sponsored events and the nightlife in Nashville, there is always something going on. Of the campus itself, students told The Princeton Review that the social life is “extremely fun and inclusive.” Students are supportive of one another. One student states that the “atmosphere of individual achievement instead of competition. The students are academic…but at the same time they are not ’showy’ about it.” They’re also involved elsewhere. Students say, “Everyone takes academics seriously, but everyone has other interests, too. No one is just a student. Everyone is involved in something.”

Learn more about Vanderbilt University.

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Summer Programs for High School Students

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If you haven’t decided how to spend your summer, you may want to think about the possibility of participating in a summer program.

Not only is it an exciting way to spend your summer, but you’ll get to experience life on a college campus, explore new and exciting fields you may want to pursue as for college majors, make friendships with students from around the globe and, perhaps, even earn college credit for the courses you take.

If summer programs interest you, you should act soon! Application deadlines come early in the year.

To get you started on the process, check out the following directory of popular summer programs for high school students.

Keep in mind that, if you do not like any of the programs listed below, there’s no need to worry. There are hundreds of summer programs offered each year at colleges all over the country. No matter where you live or what your interests are, chances are that there's a program offered at a college near you.

Summer Programs For High School Students:

Abbey Road Overseas Programs

These summer immersion programs for high school students facilitate cross-cultural understanding.

Students are able to spend several weeks within an exciting new country choosing from Italy, Spain, France or, even a Western Civilization Travel Program that allows students to travel throughout different countries.

The immersion programs allow students to undergo intensive language immersion, travel to historic sites and focus on linguistic and cultural immersion.

The pre-college programs have a greater emphasis on academics (culture, history, art, literature, etc) and take place on college campuses.

Learn more about the Abbey Road Overseas Programs.

Academic Connections at the University of California - San Diego

This three week program helps prepare high-achieving high-school students for success by allowing them to experience college-level academics. Students are able to immerse themselves in study of a particular academic subject taught by graduate students and/or renowned faculty researchers within the field of study.

The program is specific to college-bound high school students, so students must be in high school, grades 9-12, and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.3 or above.

Learn more about Academic Connections at the University of California - San Diego.

American Collegiate Adventures

American Collegiate Adventures offers programs in both the United States and abroad. The programs range anywhere from one to five weeks, all of which are details on their web site (linked below).

Their 4-week program, for example, takes place over the summer in Wisconsin and details the college admissions process.

Learn more about American Collegiate Adventures.

Bentley University Summer Athletic Camps

Bentley University’s Summer Athletic Camps have earned the reputation as being one of New England’s the best teaching camps for athletics. The college offers summer athletic camps for high school students within the sports of basketball, volleyball, field hockey and more.

Providing both a fun and interactive setting, along with state-of-the-art facilities, Bentley’s camps offer students an opportunity to learn games strategies and skills from quality players and top coaches.

Learn more about Bentley University Summer Athletic Camps.

California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS)

California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS) is a four-week summer residential program that gives high school students who have demonstrated skills within STEM subjects (science, technology, mathematics and engineering) opportunities to explore beyond their usual high school curriculum.

Students are able to work on advanced topics with renowned faculty members, scientists and researchers as well as experience state-of-the-art lab environments and facilities.

Participants will also have the opportunity to take university-level courses and gain an awareness of both educational and career options within the STEM fields.

The students attending the program live in campus housing with other program participants. Full and partial scholarships are available.

Learn more about California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science.

Carnegie Mellon University - Summer Programs for Diversity

Carnegie Mellon’s Pre-College programs allow students to explore college life both in the classroom and outside to see what’s going on outside of campus.

Students are able to mingle with people from all over the world and participate in exciting summer activities that include architecture, art, design, drama, music and even advanced placement and early admission.

The best part? There are no tuition housing or dining fees for students who are selected to attend the Summer Programs for Diversity!

Learn more about the Carnegie Mellon University - Summer Programs for Diversity.

Carnegie Mellon University - Summer Academy for Math + Science (SAMS)

The SAMS programs if for high school students entering their junior or seniors year of high school who are interested in math-based disciplines, such as engineering or science.

The hands-on six-week program takes place at Carnegie Mellon University and focuses on technical areas of study, building on both academic and personal skills which are required for admission to top colleges and universities.

Learn more about the Carnegie Mellon University - Summer Academy for Mathematics and Science (SAMS).

Columbia College of Chicago – High School Summer Institute

Columbia College of Chicago’s High School Summer Institute offers college level courses to students who have completed their sophomore, junior or senior years of high school but have not yet attended college and are interested in the fields of art and communications.

The courses do transfer as electives to Columbia College of Chicago and to some other colleges or universities, depending on the discretion of the particular school.

Students even have the option of living on campus. If you would like to apply for housing, options are limited, so early application is encouraged. There is an extra cost for housing, which includes a meal plan.

Program participants are able to choose from a variety of courses, all of which take place in July.

Learn more about Columbia College of Chicago – High School Summer Institute.

Concordia Language Villages

Concordia Language Villages is a language and culture education program. Their mission is to prepare young people for responsible citizenship in the global community.

The villages have adopted an innovative approach using immersion techniques to teach language. Participants may choose from 15 world language programs: Arabic, Chinese, Danish, English, Finnish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish and Swedish.

Programs are offered for every age and level of ability as well.

Learn more about Concordia Language Villages.

Cornell Summer College

Cornell Summer College offers both three- and six- week pre-college programs for high school sophomores, juniors and seniors.

Program participants are able to earn anywhere from three to six college credits, work with world renowned Cornell faculty, attend college fairs, receive one-on-one admissions counseling and experience college life first hand.

Students are also able to experience living within a residence hall and a roommate, meeting other students from more than 40 countries and enjoy summer activities.

Learn more about Cornell Summer College.

Duke University's TIP Academy for Summer Studies

Duke University's TIP Academy for Summer Studies provides students with an academic and social experience so that they are able to experience both challenging coursework and build lasting friendships with other academically gifted students.

The program is available to the top five percent of students within a grade level and all courses were developed with gifted students in mind. Only students within grades 8-10 are eligible for the academy.

The summer studies take place at various sites including Rice University, University of Georgia, Wake Forest University and Duke University.

Learn more about Duke University's TIP Academy for Summer Studies.

Experience Christendom Summer Program (ECSP)

The Experience Experience Christendom Summer Program (ECSP), is a program which attracts students from all across the country and various foreign countries.

Students attending the Front Royal, VA, campus for a week (Sunday through Saturday) and take part in academic, social, recreational, and spiritual activities, led by current students as counselors.

Each year, high school students spend a week on campus and, by the end of the week as “one of the best weeks of their lives,” and have ranked the program on average 4.75 out of 5 on a survey. Not just of the summer, but ever.

The program consists of an average of 45-50 students in each session and runs six of these one-week sessions.

The cost of the program is just $500 (all inclusive – other than travel), and generous financial aid is given to students who request it/qualify. The program is for students who will be entering their senior year of high school in the fall.

According to the website, summer 2016 will mark the 18th year of this wildly popular program, which boasts over 1,900 alumni since 1999.

Registration for the 2016 Experience Christendom Summer Programs is now open.

Note: the past three years have had waiting lists, so if you’re interested, don’t delay in signing up!

Learn more about the Experience Christendom Summer Program.

Harvard’s Pre-College Program & Secondary School Program (SSP)

If you’re wondering what college is like, Harvard offers college programs just for high school students who are curious.

Harvard’s high school programs allow you to take real courses along with college students and actually earn college credit.

You’ll be able to learn about subjects they don’t teach within your high school curriculum, study with Harvard faculty, have use of Harvard labs and other state-of-the-art libraries and equipment.

While you’re there, you’ll meet other students from around the work, attend college prep events and participate in fun and exciting activities.

The program is open to high school students who meet the application and admission criteria (see the web site for details; linked below).

Financial aid is available for qualifying students.

Learn more about Harvard’s High School Programs.

Indiana University - High School Journalism Institute (HSJI)

Indiana University’s High School Journalism Institute (HSJI) was designed for high school students who would like to explore the field of journalism as an academic or career interest.

Students are able to participate in a series of five-day workshops (not for credit) that examine subjects involving the journalism field. Participants will examine the role of the media, analyze their own and other student publications, and develop the skills needed to produce quality publications.

Workshop participants will learn, develop and grow new skills or sharpen their existing talents. Additionally, some will even begin to prepare their own schools' publications and media projects for the coming school year.

Learn more about Indiana University - High School Journalism Institute.

Miami University of Ohio - Summer Scholars Program

Miami of Ohio’s Summer Scholars Program is an intense two-week program providing an early college experience for academically gifted rising high school juniors and seniors.

Students who participate in the program can expect to become immersed within an academic setting focused around a specific topic of interest, learning alongside the college’s leading faculty and experts.

Additionally, participants will be provided with a complete collegiate experience through living in a residence hall, eating within a dining hall and enjoying access to all campus facilities.

Workshops on college processes such as the college admissions process, financial aid, test prep, college essay writing and applying for scholarships are also available.

Learn more about the Miami University of Ohio - Summer Scholars Program.

Mathcamp

Mathcamp is an intensive five-week summer program in which students are able to explore various principles of mathematics. Students are able to learn about undergraduate and graduate-level topics while bonding with a diverse group of people who share the common love of mathematics.

The program offers courses, problem-solving sessions and lectures by leading mathematicians. The program is open to students ages 13 to 18. A qualifying quiz is required of all applicants.

Mathcamp is free to students with qualifying family incomes. Financial aid is also available.

Learn more about Mathcamp.

National Youth Science Camp (NYSC)

The National Youth Science Camp (NYSC) is an intense month-long camp for young scientists the summer after high school graduation.

Students must demonstrate academic proficiency in either mathematics or the sciences as well as other documented leadership skills.

Located within a rustic setting, students from around the country are challenged in lectures, hands-on studies and are able to participate in an outdoor adventure program.

Because special events are planned to surprise participants each day, the camp does not publish detailed program calendars.

Learn more about the National Youth Science Camp.

New York Film Academy's Summer Film and Acting Camps

These immersion workshops range from four-week programs to full-year programs. Programs are designed to introduce students of all ages to the creative and technical demands of telling stories with moving images.

Students have the opportunity to write, direct, shoot, edit and, even, star within short films, depending upon the student’s interest.

Award-winning instructors, abundant equipment and small classes provide students with the individual attention and support necessary to complete their own work.

Learn more about the New York Film Academy's Summer Film and Acting Camps.

Rhode Island School of Design Pre-College Program (RISD)

The six-week RISD summer Pre-College Program introduces high school students to the focused curriculum of a college of art and design experience.

Program participants follow college-level studio curriculum are immersed in experiencing the elements of a complete RISD education in one of the school’s 21 majors.

Students live in residence halls, attend social activities and study a particular subject in the fine or visual arts. Participants must be high school students between the ages of 16-18 years old.

Learn more about the Rhode Island School of Design Pre-College Program.

Smith College Precollege Summer Programs

Smith College Precollege Summer programs offer intellectually stimulating and unique opportunities for high school girls and international students who wish to pursue their academic interests in the classroom and beyond.

Annually the programs offer around 200 young women the freedom to explore challenging and intriguing subjects to strengthen their college applications and increase exposure to undergraduate experiences.

Each summer, Smith welcomes young women from many nationalities and diverse racial and socio-economic backgrounds that together form an extraordinary intellectual community. The learning environment is hands-on, collaborative, exploratory, challenging and rich in role models.

Professors who are excellent scholars offer personal attention in the classroom while encouraging students’ interests and passions, helping them to develop their academic skills.

Programs include Science and Engineering; Young Women’s Writing Workshop; Discovering Women’s History; Field Studies for Sustainable Futures and a College Admission Workshop.

Smith College is a place where young women are taken seriously and inspired to excel—as scholars, scientists and leaders.

Learn more about the Smith College Precollege Summer Programs.

Summer Study Programs

The Summer Study Programs at Penn State University, The Colorado State University, Fordham University NYC, American University DC, and The Sorbonne in Paris combine academically challenging courses with the fun and excitement of campus and study abroad life.

High school students can choose from a variety of programs, ranging from 2 to 5 weeks.

Learn more about the Summer Study Programs.

Summer Science Program (SSP)

For over fifty years, the Summer Science Program in Ojai, California, has enlightened selected high school students in advanced college-level topics in astronomy, physics, calculus and programming. In turn, students are able to develop both intellectually and socially while being challenged academically.

The program takes place on two campuses: at the New Mexico Institute of Technology in Socorro and University of Colorado, Boulder, with 36 participants per campus.

Learn more about the Summer Science Program (SSP) .

Telluride Association Summer Programs (TASP)

TASP is a six-week educational experience for high school juniors. Students participate in seminars led by college and university members and participate in educational and social activities outside the classroom.

Telluride Association seeks students from all kinds of educational backgrounds who share a passion for learning – students who attend want both a personal and intellectual challenge. The programs offer no grades or college credit.

Telluride Association Summer Programs are completely free; every student awarded a place in a TASP attends the program on a full housing, dining and tuition scholarship.

Learn more about the Telluride Association Summer Programs (TASP).

Tufts Summer Study for High School Students

Tufts attracts top high school students who wish pursuing academic excellence while gaining a head start on their college career.

Tufts summer study programs offer benefits like small affordable tuition, small course sizes, financial assistance, college credit options and more.

The programs offered to high school students include: Tufts Summer Writing Program, Foundation of Law & Ethics, Health Science Honors, Biomedics Inquiry through Sequencing (BIOSEQ) and College Courses for Seniors.

Learn more about the Tufts Summer Study for High School Students.

University of Chicago - The Young Scholars Summer Program (YSP)

The University of Chicago’s Department of Mathematics offers an enrichment program, entitled the Young Scholars Program, which focuses on the subject of mathematics.

The Summer Program is a free four-week day camp; mainly for Chicago Public School students (select suburban and private school students are admitted) from 7th to 12th grade.

Students attend daily seminars given by University professors and solve mathematics problems based on these seminars. Topics include number theory, theory of field extensions, geometry and probability. Students also learn computer skills.

Tuition is free for those accepted.

Learn more about the University of Chicago - The Young Scholars Program.

University of Dallas High School Summer Programs

The University of Dallas' programs use European travel to stimulate careful reading, writing and thinking about life's most serious questions.

The programs offer college credit and are held on our main campus in Irving, TX and sister campus in Rome, Italy. They're designed to show students the great and lasting pleasures that accompany a good educational experience.

Courses are led by experienced university faculty and staff.

Learn more about the University of Dallas Summer Study in Europe.

University of New Hampshire Upward Bound Summer Program

University of New Hampshire Upward Bound Summer Program was created to help eligible students achieve their goal of higher education through a free, federally funded, college preparatory program.

During their six-week summer residential program, students live on the campus of the University of New Hampshire and take academic courses, participate in enriching activities, receive tutoring as well as attend career workshops, college visits and help through navigating the college application process and financial aid system.

Learn more about the University of New Hampshire Upward Bound Summer Program.

University of Pennsylvania Programs for High School Students

Penn's summer programs combine rigorous classroom and lab work with a wide range of social activities, trips and tours. Opportunities are available for those wishing to live on campus or commute.

Penn's summer programs for high school students provide a college-level experience that eases the transition from high school to college.

Learn more about University of Pennsylvania Programs for High School Students.

Tulane University Emerging Scholars
Environmental Health Sciences Summer Research Academy

Tulane University's accepts 11th and 12th graders to participate in a summer research academy which is focused on environmental health issues in the region of Southeast Louisiana.

Additionally, upon successful completion of the program, the students receive a $4,000 award.

Students are mainly recruited from local areas including: Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, and Jefferson parish public/charter/magnet high schools.

The program is funded as a result of the BP medical settlement, GRHOP.

Learn more about Tulane University Emerging Scholars Environmental Health Sciences Summer Research Academy.

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10. Colgate University – Hamilton, NY

9. Tulane University of Louisiana – New Orleans, LA

8. University of Georgia – Athens, GA

7. West Virginia University – Morgantown, WV

6. University of California - Santa Barbara – Santa Barbara, CA

5. Syracuse University – Syracuse, NY

4. Bucknell University – Lewisburg, PA

3. University of Wisconsin - Madison – Madison, WI

2. University of Iowa – Iowa City, IA

1. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign – Champaign, IL

RELATED ARTICLES

10. Colgate University – Hamilton, NY

9. Tulane University of Louisiana – New Orleans, LA

8. University of Georgia – Athens, GA

7. West Virginia University – Morgantown, WV

6. University of California - Santa Barbara – Santa Barbara, CA

5. Syracuse University – Syracuse, NY

4. Bucknell University – Lewisburg, PA

3. University of Wisconsin - Madison – Madison, WI

2. University of Iowa – Iowa City, IA

1. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign – Champaign, IL

10. Colgate University – Hamilton, NY

9. Tulane University of Louisiana – New Orleans, LA

8. Syracuse University – Syracuse, NY

7. University of Mississippi – University, MS

6. University of Iowa – Iowa City, IA

5. Bucknell University – Lewisburg, PA

4. Lehigh University – Bethlehem, PA

3. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign – Champaign, IL

2. West Virginia University – Morgantown, WV

1. University of Wisconsin - Madison – Madison, WI

10. Durfee at Yale University

9. North Lake Village at Florida Gulf Coast University

8. Simmons Hall at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (M.I.T.)

7. Morgens Hall at The University of Cincinnati

6. The Metropolitan at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM)

5. Calhoun Lofts at the University of Houston

4. Ivy House & Windsor Hall at the University of Florida

3. The Callaway House at University of Texas, Austin

2. The University of North Florida’s Osprey Fountains

1. Hub at Tuscon at The University of Arizona

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Summer Programs For High School Students:

Abbey Road Overseas Programs

Academic Connections at the University of California - San Diego

American Collegiate Adventures

Bentley University Summer Athletic Camps

California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS)

Carnegie Mellon University - Summer Programs for Diversity

Carnegie Mellon University - Summer Academy for Math + Science (SAMS)

Columbia College of Chicago – High School Summer Institute

Concordia Language Villages

Cornell Summer College

Duke University's TIP Academy for Summer Studies

Experience Christendom Summer Program (ECSP)

Harvard’s Pre-College Program & Secondary School Program (SSP)

Indiana University - High School Journalism Institute (HSJI)

Miami University of Ohio - Summer Scholars Program

Mathcamp

National Youth Science Camp (NYSC)

New York Film Academy's Summer Film and Acting Camps

Rhode Island School of Design Pre-College Program (RISD)

Smith College Precollege Summer Programs

Summer Study Programs

Summer Science Program (SSP)

Telluride Association Summer Programs (TASP)

Tufts Summer Study for High School Students

University of Chicago - The Young Scholars Summer Program (YSP)

University of Dallas High School Summer Programs

University of New Hampshire Upward Bound Summer Program

University of Pennsylvania Programs for High School Students

Tulane University Emerging Scholars Environmental Health Sciences Summer Research Academy

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