Best Colleges in New York

New York, the Empire State, with the motto “Ever Upward,” is a Northeastern state that’s home to the Statue of Liberty, the US symbol of freedom, democracy, and opportunity. New York City, The Big Apple, has, likewise, become known as a place of entrepreneurship, social tolerance, cinemas, and Broadway, and claims more than 40% of the state’s population. There are more than 200 colleges in New York, dozens of which are a part of either the State University of New York (SUNY) or the City University of New York (CUNY) systems. The oldest institution in the state is Columbia University, which was originally chartered as King’s College, and it’s also the most selective. New York has two federal service academies, Roman Catholic, Protestant, and Judaism institutions. Financial services claims the top industry spot in NY, but its closely followed by health care, professional and technical services, and retail trade. Standard attractions for New York include the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building, as well as Watkins Glen State Park, Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, and the Enchanted Mountain region.

How Were the Top Schools in New York Chosen?

Appily determines “Best Colleges” based on publicly-available information from the US Department of Education. Several factors include, but are not limited to, data about admitted students’ academic calibers, students’ expected career outcomes after graduation, and colleges’ investments toward making their institution accessible to all students.

Explore the Best Universities in New York with Appily!

Create a Appily account to start saving schools to your personal list. Wondering where you stand when applying to the best universities in the USA? You can also see your chances of acceptance and get insights into your target, reach, and likely schools.

SUNY Brockport

Founded in 1835, the College at Brockport is a 4-year public liberal arts college in western New York State. A member of the State University of New York system, Brockport confers undergrad degrees in over 45 academic majors and minors. In addition...

“…

So far, the academics at this school are not too challenging, but the professors do keep me on my toes. As part of the Honors Program I was given many opportunities and was able to adjust rather quickly into college life and academics.

” – Caitlin from Greenwich, NY
Alfred University

Founded in 1836, Alfred University is a 4-year private school situated in a valley in western New York State. Alfred hosts five colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in 40 academic majors. In addition to classroom facilities, Alfred...

“…

This review is being written in complete and total contrast from 'Tulane Tom'. I am not sure if he is even describing the same university. Tom says that the ceramic engineering program, regarded as one of the best in the world, is built up to nothing...

” – Matthew from Russell, PA
Mannes School of Music at The New School

Mannes School of Music has transformed the traditional music conservatory by integrating rigorous classical training with real-world experience and cross-disciplinary learning. Work hands-on with award-winning faculty to develop as an artist at one...

“…

Sounded like a wonderful place to study music when I visited. Great location in NYC and wonderful faculty members!

” – Garrett from Medway, ME
School of Drama at The New School

The School of Drama is home to a dynamic group of directors, writers, actors, and creative technologists. Our award-winning faculty works directly with playwriting, directing, and acting students, providing highly skilled artistic training, project...

“…

I have never met a more empathetic school. If you want to become an artist with passion professors wanting you to succeed in your future this is the school for you!

” – Julia from New York, NY
School of Jazz and Contemporary Music at The New School

The School of Jazz and Contemporary music is renowned across the globe for its artist-as-mentor approach. We offer legendary musicians as mentors, small ensemble-based performance, a progressive curriculum, as well as access to unique musical...

“…

This program is simply amazing. So many incredible teachers and fellow students you will meet; the community is just wonderful. Highly recommended for students seeking to develop their own voice in the Jazz capital of the world!

” – James from Milton, DE
St. John's University-New York

The St. John’s 150-year legacy is Catholic, Vincentian, metropolitan, and global. Graduates are not only employable, but, when they leave campus, they take with them all of the hope, compassion, awareness, and courage that can only come from knowing...

“…

Thanks to the professors, St. John's is a school that helps students for their particular career field. Many of the teachers have had experience in your field, so they are willing to give you tips that go a long way. This college is not for the...

” – MusicStudent
Pace University

Originally founded as a one room accounting school, Pace University is a 4-year research institution in Manhattan. Pace is home to six colleges and schools conferring bachelor’s degrees in over 65 academic majors. In addition, the Manhattan campus...

“…

Pace University has an amazing staff. Professors are dedicated to helping students during class and outside of the classroom setting. The class size is just right to be able to learn and focus.

” – Nichole from Brooklyn, NY
Roberts Wesleyan University

Established in 1866, Roberts Wesleyan College is a private, Christ-centered institution established in the suburbs of Rochester, New York. The college is home to over 80 undergraduate and graduate programs, many of which can be completed through...

“…

I got to sit in a class to see how classes were run here and the professors know what they're talking about and they really care about their students.

” – Z from NY
Adelphi University

Adelphi University is a private university that calls Garden City, NY, home. On top of the main campus, AU also provides learning hubs in Manhattan, Hudson Valley, and Suffolk County, as well as online programs.The Princeton Review lists Adelphi...

“…

in the end, it is what you make of it. adelphi really tries hard to make students feel welcome. the parties are not crazy, but again, you can make them fun for you.

” – Thelma from New York, NY
SUNY College at Potsdam

Discover a life-changing education in the shadow of the Adirondacks. At SUNY Potsdam, you'll be inspired by an unconventional community of teachers and mentors who will encourage you to pursue your passions. You'll figure out pretty quickly that our...

“…

The professors here are exceedingly helpful. They are always available by phone or office hours and show concern for your grades. They even cordially invite you and other students to their houses for smores and pizza! It's a reassuring feeling to be...

” – Patricia from Stillwater, NY
Manhattan College

Founded by the Brothers of the Christian Schools, Manhattan College is a Lasallian Catholic school in The Bronx modeled after the philosophy of the patron saint of teachers. Manhattan is home to six schools hosting more than 100 academic programs...

“…

My professors have been really excellent, especially my the those in my education program. They are extremely experienced and caring people with so much to offer. One of my professors, for example, has had decades of experience as a teacher...

” – MC Student
Davis College
Pottersville, NY
College placeholder image

Davis College is a private, Christ-centered institution established in Johnson City, New York, with 13 satellite teaching sites throughout New York, Maryland, and Ohio. Davis offers two certificates in Bible and Teaching English as a Second Language...

Molloy University
Rockville Centre, NY
Molloy University

Molloy University is a coeducational Catholic institution on Long Island. Molloy confers degrees in over 50 undergrad and graduate programs and the college is home to one of the largest nursing programs in the United States. As a Catholic university...

“…

At Molloy, you have to be try to not get involved in the campus life. There is always a ton of events going on and although it is a small school, the campus life is easily comparable to any larger school. I have been given opportunities here that I...

” – Robert from Smithtown, NY
Pace University - Westchester Campus

Pace University Westchester is a 4-year, liberal arts institution in New York City’s metropolitan area. Founded in 1906, Pace has three campuses, the original in downtown NYC, and then ones in Lower Manhattan and Pleasantville (Westchester), and all...

“…

Pace University - Westchester Campus is a small campus. Its warm and welcoming environment will make you feel right at home. The clubs and many organizations at Pace University will provide life long experiences you will never forget.

” – Bryan from Mount Vernon, NY
University of Mount Saint Vincent

Founded by the Sisters of Charity of New York, the University of Mount Saint Vincent is a Catholic liberal arts college in New York City. From its campus overlooking the Hudson River, the Mount offers undergrad degrees in over 70 academic programs...

“…

It is a wonderful school with great people who I know are forever friends. The school fosters education to its max as well as intergrating sports and socialization in. It is everything I dreamed a college to be.

” – Colleen from Manchester Center, VT
Niagara University
Niagara University, NY
Niagara University

Founded by the Vincentian Community in 1856, Niagara University is a Catholic liberal arts college in northwestern New York State. Niagara is home to colleges of Arts & Sciences, Business Administration, Education, and Hospitality granting degrees in...

“…

niagara university has a great teaching staff; some of which work int the field they teach. they are very good about keeping you aware of current and up coming events. biggest criticism the current parking arrangement; be prepared to walk about 2-3...

” – Dawn from Niagara Falls, NY
The King's College

The King's College is a nondenominational Christian institution focused on a liberal arts curriculum. It is located in the Financial District in New York City. All students must sign an honor code to not “lie, steal, cheat, or turn a blind eye to...

“…

~Get in the habit of wearing business casual.
~Attend the Inviso event.

” – Student from NY
SUNY Maritime College

SUNY Maritime College is an institution based in the Bronx borough of NYC that prepares students to join the Navy or Marine Corps. It is the largest maritime college in the US and is one of only seven maritime academies in the nation that can confer...

“…

There are numerous opportunities for students to take advantage of on and off campus. The school is for individuals who have a very good idea of what they want to do in the future. Also, graduates are benefit from an enormous alumni base and most are...

” – Drew from Tully, NY
SUNY Buffalo State University

Founded in 1871, SUNY Buffalo State is a public school in Buffalo and the largest 4-year college in the State University of New York System. SUNY Buffalo State is home to schools of Arts & Humanities, Education, the Professions, and Sciences, and is...

“…

The professors I have had since beginning Fall 2008 have been extremely helpful. They are available before and after class if you would like to speak with them and also through email. No matter what your problem is, they do what they can to assist...

” – Jessica from Rochester, NY
Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology

Located next to LaGuardia Airport,Vaughn College is a school of aeronautics and aviation in New York City. Vaughn confers bachelor’s degrees in 14 aviation and engineering-related fields and is the only college in New York State to offer a degree in...

“…

Most Defeinitely because it specifies in my interest, Aeronautical Engineering.

” – Devyn from Baltimore, MD