<span>28 ACT Colleges: Best Schools That Accept a 28 ACT Score</span>

28 ACT Colleges: Best Schools That Accept a 28 ACT Score

The ACT is a college entrance exam used during the admissions process to measure proficiency in Math, Science, English, and Reading. Taking 2 hours and 55 to complete, the ACT is composed of 215 questions, along with an optional Writing portion, and is graded on a scale of 1 to 36. The national average ACT score is 20.8. 

 

Is a 28 ACT Score (88th Percentile) Good?

A score of 28 places you in approximately the 88th percentile of all high school students. With a 28, you’re an extremely competitive candidate at a majority of schools, as well as able to consider applying to more selective institutions as well. Since one of the purposes of taking the ACT is to generate a large number of college options to choose from, a score of 28 accomplishes this goal.

Looking at this from that percentage angle, an ACT score of 28 puts you at the 88th percentile — that means you scored higher than 88% of all test takers, of which there are nearly 2 million. All that considered, a 28 is definitely a good score! Congratulations! 

 

What Colleges Can I Get Into with an ACT Score of 28?

With an ACT score as high as 28, you’re a competitive candidate at a majority of institutions and we’ve put together a sample list of them below. Be aware that a standardized test score alone is not a guarantee of acceptance, but all of these institutions have a history of admitting students who earn a 28 on the ACT.

 

Should I Retake the ACT with a 28 Score?

There’s no pressure to retake the ACT with a score of 28. The one primary reason a student would retake the ACT at this juncture would be if their ideal school wants a point or two higher. Otherwise, you’re eligible for merit aid and are competitive at a wide variety of schools, so retaking it isn’t necessary.

If you’re a junior and your ACT score is in the 90th percentile for the colleges and universities you’re interested in, concentrate on doing as well as possible in all classes during your remaining time in high school. Devote more study time to any courses that feel especially difficult to ensure that your GPA remains at a good level. Most colleges weigh ACT scores on an equal basis with GPA so it’s important to put in the work and finish high school strong.

Several more selective colleges use an ACT score of 30 as an approximate benchmark for admission, but don’t let that deter you from applying. Just be sure to also apply to Likely and Target colleges, too. If you opt to retake the ACT to improve your odds, you have a good amount of time to do so before college application season. Review the breakdown of your current score, study up on sections that weren’t your best, and consider getting a tutor to help you reach your goal score.

For seniors, concentrate on the rest of your application to ensure that it’s as marketable as an ACT score of 28. Pay particular attention to the personal essay and list of after school activities. Have your college counselor look over your essay and offer suggestions and critique. For more feedback, show it to a trusted teacher or mentor. Furthermore, contact any teachers who’ve impacted your high school career and ask them to write letters of recommendation. Try to ask your favorite teachers since the more personalized the letter gets, the more help it will be in getting into college.

 

28 ACT to SAT Equivalent

A 28 SAT score is equivalent to earning a 1310-1340 on the SAT. There are a few key differences between these two tests, so what you score on one may not be what you score on the other, but this is a good tool for comparison. 

 

Scholarships for a 28 ACT Score

Earning a 28 ACT score makes you eligible for merit aid both from your potential institution and from third-party scholarship providers. Start applying for scholarships today — and not only ones for merit, either. 

Find scholarships based on your location, life circumstances, extracurriculars, future major, and so much more on our extensive scholarship database. College comes with a variety of costs outside of tuition and having a nest egg will help offset the extra dollar signs! 

 

View all scholarships

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 28 a good ACT score?

A 28 ACT score makes you eligible to apply at a vast majority of schools as a competitive candidate, making it a good score. It also makes you eligible for a good amount of merit aid, which is definitely good! 

 

What colleges can I get into with a 28 ACT score?

With a 28 ACT score, you’re eligible to apply at more selective institutions as Target schools, including Pennsylvania State University, Texas A&M University-College Station, and Purdue University. Check out all of your options and make sure the rest of your college application just as impressive as your ACT score! 

 

What percentile is a 28 ACT score?

A 28 ACT score puts you at the 88th percentile, meaning you scored higher than 88% of all test takers. 

 

What is the SAT equivalent of a 28 ACT score?

A 28 ACT score is equivalent to earning a 1310 to 1340 on the SAT

 

What scholarships can you get with a 28 ACT score?

A 28 ACT score makes you eligible for merit scholarships, as well as merit aid from potential colleges and universities. Make sure to also apply for scholarships based on your location, extracurriculars, life circumstances, passions, future majors, and more! 

 

View all scholarships

 

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Founded in 1862, the University of South Dakota is the state’s oldest public university and is a designated R2 research university by the Carnegie Foundation. The Vermillion campus is located along the bluffs of the Missouri River and home to seven...

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From day one the teachers are really excited about teaching. Many professors, while not able to get to know students in class, welcome office visits with open arms. The class variety makes it easy to explore options and get a taste of other majors...

” – Anne

Xavier University of Louisiana is an historically black college and university (HBCU) located in New Orleans. This 4-year, liberal arts institution is one of 10 to receive a Building Infrastructures Leading to Diversity (BUILD) award for their...

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At Xavier professors care, they are always available to you. Xavier being a small school your classes are a lot smaller and you get the chance to interact with your professors and really get an understanding of what they are teaching. Also when you...

” – Antoinette from Washington, DC

Regent University is a private, non denominational evangelical institution based on the coast of Virginia Beach, VA. It is a military-friendly university with a “selective” admissions process. Many students choose to study communications, biblical...

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With seven different schools, stretching from psychology and law to theater and cinema production (offered at both grad and undergrad levels), Regent University is the place to be if you are a blossoming Christian leader. The learning environment...

” – Lauren from Senoia, GA

Founded in 1907, the University of Central Arkansas is a 4-year public school and one of the oldest universities in the state. UCA awards undergraduate degrees in 86 academic programs and is one of the largest producers of teachers in Arkansas. For...

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I am a second semester freshman. In the classes i have taken so far, I have learned so much! The science department here is a really great one. If you are struggling in any of your classes there are people, including your professors that are here and...

” – Megan from Sherwood, AR

Saint Mary’s College is a private, Catholic, women’s college in Notre Dame, IN with a focus on “creating leaders & women of action.” The college offers more than 50 academic programs, which include six nationally accredited programs, and four...

“…

My current intended major is Nursing, but I'm learning so many other great things that I feel more informed about the world than ever before. Not only is St. Mary's good at teaching her students about the past, but also on keeping us updated about...

” – Allison from Battle Creek, MI

Founded by the Reformed Presbyterian Church in 1887, Cedarville University is a 4-year Baptist school in southwest Ohio. Cedarville offers undergraduate degrees in more than 150 biblically integrated academic programs and each program features a...

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Cedarville University has much to offer its students in everything from academics to volunteer ministry opportunities. Its faculty are all top notch, with most having their doctorate in their chosen fields. They are all passionate about teaching and...

” – Melody from De Pere, WI

The University of Central Oklahoma is a 4-year public school in the Oklahoma City metro area and one of the oldest universities in the southwest United States. UCO oversees six colleges granting bachelor’s degrees in 121 areas of study and operates...

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The classes here are challenging, but the instructors understand that you have other classes so they don't overload you.

” – Lauren from Bixby, OK

Northern Kentucky University is a 4-year public university in the greater Cincinnati area. NKU confers bachelor’s degrees in over 70 academic fields of study. In addition to classroom facilities, the Northern Kentucky campus is home to a laser...

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The school is quickly becoming well-known for its academics now more than ever.

” – Olivia from Cincinnati, OH

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...

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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

Founded in 1842, Willamette University is a liberal arts institution in northwest Oregon and the oldest university in the western half of the United States. Willamette’s College of Liberal Arts offers undergraduate degrees in over 40 academic fields...

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Each day at Willamette I have anywhere from two to five hours of class, at least this semester, and for each class I come out learning something new. Of course some days I learn more than others, but everyday I go to class I know that I will learn a...

” – Zachery from California

Founded by The Society of Jesus, Le Moyne College is a Jesuit institution in Syracuse, NY. The first co-ed Jesuit college in the United States, Le Moyne offers degrees in over 100 majors, minors and special programs. For students interested in the...

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At Le Moyne since it is a small school all the teachers know you on a personal level, and are very understanding. Teachers make sure that you are understanding the lessons and if you need extra help most of the time they are available for help during...

” – Kristin from Putnam Valley, NY

Hanover College’s campus is nestled along the banks of the scenic Ohio River. Founded in 1827, Hanover is the oldest private college in Indiana. Our stunning natural campus is just an easy drive from one of 3 major metropolitan areas- Indianapolis...

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Hanover is more than a college, it's a community. I've never felt so accepted and welcomed in such a great environment. I feel like I wouldn't be the same person without my liberal arts education I've received here.

” – Shana from Hanover, IN

Houston Christian University is a 4-year institution located on 100 acres of land just outside of its namesake town in Texas. The university promotes academic, spiritual, and academic excellence centered around their central confession “Jesus Christ...

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HBU has a lot to offer and has a very well rounded academic selection.

” – rohana from Houston, TX

With campus overlooking the St. Mary’s River,  St. Mary’s College of Maryland is a liberal arts institution in the Chesapeake Bay region. One of only two public honors colleges in the nation, St. Mary’s offers bachelor’s degrees in 24 academic majors...

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I am consistently challenged at St. Mary's. Each of my classes has been interesting and informative, even in areas that I had already studied previously. As a sophomore, I have already learned so much academically, and I've also learned a lot about...

” – Rachel from Marriottsville, MD

Founded in 1847, Saint Francis University is a Catholic liberal arts institution in western Pennsylvania and is the oldest Franciscan Catholic university in the United States. Saint Francis confers undergraduate degrees in 50+ academic fields of...

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Saint Francis University has been great in transitioning me from living at home, to living away from family members. The environment is very welcoming and all of the faculty and staff are more than willing to help any student in need. Saint Francis...

” – Jordan from Pittsburgh, PA

At York College of Pennsylvania, we believe that a life of passion and purpose is built by learning and experiencing every day. At York College, our approach to education is practical and experiential, focusing on real-world experiences that allow...

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so far i have only taken core classes but they were very useful to my major. The college will not put you in classes you don't need.

” – Hilary from West Deptford, NJ

Founded in 1889, Eastern Connecticut State University is a 4-year liberal arts institution and the third oldest public university in Connecticut. ECSU confers bachelor’s degrees in 36 academic majors and all students are required to fulfill...

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It's not UConn, but that's a part of its draw. I doubt you'll take any classes with more than thirty people, whereas your freshman classes at UConn might have upwards of fifty, maybe a hundred. I'm not saying it's a bad school, but UConn is a...

” – Miles from Storrs Mansfield, CT

Founded in 1855, Berea College is a liberal arts college in Kentucky and the first coed and interracial college in the south. Berea confers bachelor’s degrees in 32 academic majors and the college provides free tuition to all students through the...

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The professors all make sure that you are keeping up, but at the same time, you are expected to keep up to the rigorous pace they set. We currently operate on a 4-1-4 calendar year. That means that fall semester is 4 months, we have a January Short...

” – Morgan from Campbellsville, KY

Founded in 1819 and situated near the Great Smoky Mountains, Maryville College is a 4-year liberal arts college in east Tennessee. Maryville confers bachelor’s degrees in more than 60 academic programs. Surrounded by a 140-acre forest, Maryville...

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Maryville College taught me how to write a premier college paper. MC also taught me how to manage my time through my freshman classes, faculty, and student body. Maryville College made school interesting and fun through the activities that occur in...

” – Ryan from Knoxville, TN

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Messiah College is a private liberal arts and sciences institution based in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. It was founded by the Brethren in Christ Church and has a “more selective” admissions process. Students are required to sign a Community Covenant...

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Mostly my classes have been small enough to be able to get to know the teacher, yet large enough to have a discussion that has representatives from many different worldviews. Even the lecture classes have been small, especially considering what...

” – Messiah Student, Health and Exercise Science Major

Ohio Northern University is a private institution based in Ada, OH, associated with the United Methodist Church. ONU is a sister university of a private school in Seoul, South Korea, the Dankook University. ONU offers one of the only pharmacy...

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Smaller school but a lot of majors to choose from. Teachers will take an interest in their students

” – HS Senior looking for the right college

Dallas Baptist University is a private Christian institution that features a “Christ-centered,” liberal arts curriculum with “selective” admissions. DBU operates three campuses around Texas in Dallas, Hurst, and Plano. A majority of students choose...

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Looks like a great place to be, and is perfect for pursuing my call to Ministry.

” – David from Center, TX

The University of Nebraska at Omaha is a public institution and doctoral/research facility according to the Carnegie Foundation. It is home to a Biomechanics Research Building, Barbara Weitz Community Engagement Center, and Baxter Arena. UNO is a...

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The professors at UNO are exceptional and all those I have had are extremely knowledgeable in their fields. Also the course offerings are extremely diverse giving me a lot of new knowledge.

” – Stephanie from Smithville, MO

The University of Maryland-Baltimore County is a 4-year public institution based in Baltimore and part of the University of Maryland system. UMBC is home to seven colleges and schools hosting over 55 undergraduate degree-granting programs. In...

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I did not expect to learn much due to entering this college with AP credits, but I have still learned many new things due to the immense variety of classes. In my internship, 90% or more of my daily activities were taught.

” – Roxanne from Glen Burnie, MD

Founded in 1885, Goucher College is a private liberal arts institution based in Towson, Maryland. Goucher College places academic focuses on the “3Rs: Relationships, Resilience, and Reflection.” The campus is listed on the National Register of...

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Goucher is a place where students honestly learn as much inside as outside the classroom about people, society, and our country's role in the world. My professors were all incredibly accessible and ready to answer any questions i had and offer any...

” – Grace from Philadelphia, PA

North Central College is a private comprehensive institution located just 30 miles west of Chicago in Naperville, Illinois. Founded in 1861, North Central offers nearly 100 different majors, minors and programs that serve the needs and interests of...

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The classes have been small and very informative. I have had no problems scheduling classes when I want them or changing time/day if I need to. I was also allowed to apply to the teacher education program before starting my sophomore year. The...

” – Tyler from Sandwich, IL

The University of Montevallo is the only public liberal arts college in Alabama and is part of the Council of Public Liberal Arts Colleges. The center of campus is a designated National Historic District, which features the James Wylie Shepherd...

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I am currently a sophomore at the University of Montevallo and am definitely learning a lot in my classes. Due to the small teacher to student ratio, all of the teachers will at least recognize you as one of their students, if not know you by name...

” – Catherine from Cropwell, AL

Founded in 1829, Illinois College is a 4-year liberal arts college in western Illinois and the first college in the state to offer a degree. Illinois confers undergraduate degrees in over 45 academic fields of study. For students who wish to learn in...

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Illinois College offers majors in a wide variety of subjects, whether your field be science, art, English, theater, education, etc. Pretty much you name it and they can probably find a way to make it work for you. As a liberal arts school, students...

” – Sarah from Virginia, IL

Western Connecticut State University is a 4-year institution calling Danbury, CT, home. The university is comprised of two campuses within 3 miles of each other: a 34-acre campus downtown called Midtown and a 364-acre campus called Westside. WCSU is...

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With professors that are clearly knowledgeable in their respective profession, a quality education is sure to be attained while attending WestConn. Not only do every one of the teachers I have studied under have given me a quality education with...

” – Michael from Charlton, MA

Chatham University is a liberal arts college based in Pittsburgh, PA. CU offers 60 majors and programs, also providing Integrated Degree Programs to complete a bachelor’s and master’s more quickly. The university is comprised of three campuses, the...

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Classes are very nice. I am only taking first year courses at the moment, but everything I am learning is either going to be beneficial to me in the real world, or help me in my career. It is nice because if Chatham doesn't offer the class you want...

” – Anonymous Reviewer

Otterbein University is a 4-year, liberal arts institution located in Westerville, OH, minutes from the 14th largest city in the US, Columbus. Founded in 1847, Otterbein has been co-educational from the beginning and takes pride in its diversity and...

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The small class sizes and individual attention from one's professor (as opposed to a graduate assistant as is the case at most large schools) sets students up for success. It's impossible to just blend in during a class.

” – Tara from Columbus, OH

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Otis College of Art and Design is a private school of fine arts and fashion design in Los Angeles. Otis grants bachelor’s degrees in seven art & design-centered majors such as Digital Media, Fashion Design, and Architecture. Additionally, all first...

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OTIS is an amazing place, I went to a few other schools before settling down here and I learned more in the first weeks at OTIS than I did in and entire year at some other schools.

” – Nicole from Los Angeles, CA

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Saginaw Valley State University is a public institution based in University Center, Michigan. SVSU has a “selective” admissions process. Many students choose to study elementary education, nursing, or kinesiology and exercise science. The school also...

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Class sizes are pretty close to high school, there are plenty of opportunities to get help from the professors.

” – from elkton, MI

Georgia College and State University is a public liberal arts university located in Millegdeville, GA, and a member of the University System of Georgia. Georgia College is home to schools of Business, Education, Arts & Sciences, and Health Sciences...

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I knew I wanted to go to a college with small classes before I even applied to colleges. My favorite part about my classes is that my teachers know who I am because the classes are so small. Another plus to the classes being small is you know the...

” – Jennifer from Hiram, GA

Founded by the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration as a teaching school for nuns, Viterbo University is a Franciscan Catholic liberal arts college in western Wisconsin. Viterbo is home to three colleges of Business, Education, and Health...

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many of the classes i took this past semester i had some background knowledge in but the liberal arts education that viterbo provides its students with is amazing. the academics are challenging at times depending on what program you are in. the...

” – Laura from Stillwater, MN

Founded in 1856, Albright College is a 4-year liberal arts college in eastern Pennsylvania and the oldest institution of higher learning in its home county. Albright confers bachelor’s degrees in over 45 academic majors and also features an...

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All of the professors are extremely helpful and they really want you to succeed which is great. Many of the tests have reviews beforehand that tell you exactly what is on each test and most of the time there are no tricks when the actual test comes...

” – Meghan from Bowmansville, PA

The University of Mary is a 4-year Benedictine university in the North Dakota state capital of Bismarck and the only Catholic university in the state. Mary grants undergraduate degrees in over 60 academic majors. In addition to classroom facilities...

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As a music major, I am incredibly pleased with the music faculty. They are incredibly knowledgeable, and are very willing to help in everything they can. Other professors are just as willing to do so and are fully qualified to teach their subjects...

” – Taylor from Mayville, ND

Pacific Lutheran University educates 3,100 students for lives of thoughtful service, leadership, inquiry and care. We purposefully integrate the liberal arts, professional studies, and civic engagement through 40+ majors and 50+ minors. Students take...

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The programs are rigorous, but wonderfully small and provide many resources for help and additional learning. The homework and reading are heavy, and going the extra mile in your studies pays off.

” – Tiffany from Buckley, WA

Monmouth College is a private, 4-year established in the state of Illinois. Each student at Monmouth is enrolled in one of many bachelor-of-arts programs, some of which are pre-professional programs, which are designed to prepare students with the...

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The class size is normally less than 25, and I even have one class with only 4 other people. It's really close and fun, and makes learning really easy.

” – Rebecca from Roscoe, IL

University of Evansville is the first in Indiana to be designated as an Ashoka U Changemaker Campus, which empowers students to improve the world around them as UE Changemakers. UE has an array of majors in business; engineering; the arts and...

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After only a single semester I feel like I've learned a lot from all of my classes so far. Even classes that I thought I would hate have something to learn from. The professors are amazing and willing to talk to you and answer questions you may have...

” – Alexander from Williamston, MI

Founded in 1891, George Fox University is a private institution based in Newberg, Oregon. It is affiliated with the Religious Society of Friends and integrates the Christian faith into their curriculum. All students must sign an honor code that...

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I am finally being challenged in the classroom again. I almost floated through high school, but George Fox pushes me in the classroom. It expands my thinking, and the teachers are friendly. The ratio of teachers to students is low, so it's really...

” – Dana from Harrisburg, OR

Founded in 1889 by the Order of Saint Benedict, Saint Anselm College is a Catholic school in southeast New Hampshire and the third-oldest Catholic institution in New England. Saint Anselm grants undergraduate degrees in 45 academic majors dedicated...

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Great school which has many different options. Great professors that will help you out all the time. An amazing campus that is comfortable and has a lot of activities.

” – Ivan from Hooksett, NH

Founded in 1826, Mississippi College is the oldest university in the state and has “more selective” admissions. It is affiliated with the Baptist Church and houses the Provone Chapel, which was used as a hospital during the Civil War. It hosts the...

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Small classes and dedicated professors create a dynamic learning environment where students can work together, ask questions, and a get hands-on learning experience. Most professors' have convenient office hours during which students are encouraged...

” – Laura from Collierville, TN

Founded in 1842, Hollins University is a 4-year liberal arts university for women and the first all-female institution chartered in Virginia. Hollins confers undergraduate degrees in 28 fields of study and all undergraduate programs are open only to...

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Classes are so interesting here and the professors really care about the students. Class sizes are small so everybody can participate. No worries about stating your mind or giving your opinion; open discussion is expected.

” – Katy

Founded by the Christian Connection, Antioch College is a 4-year liberal arts college in western Ohio. Antioch offers bachelor’s degrees in nine fields of study and students also have the option to design their own major in arts or sciences...

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Don't expect everything to be all hammered out within the next couple of years. Antioch is still just restarting up, and they are trying to rebuild the old ties that they lost. Don't let that dissuade you, though! It's a wonderful college.

” – Katherine from Hillsboro, OH

Founded in 1823, Union University is an evangelical Christian liberal arts institution in west Tennessee and the oldest university affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention. Union confers undergraduate degrees in over 100 Christ-centered...

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The academics are wonderful. Not only do you have professors who are top notch in their field but you have professors who care about you as a person. I have learned so much because the professors are willing to sit down with you outside of class...

” – Megan from Springfield, VA

Deep in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Western Colorado University delivers a full liberal arts curriculum and career preparation in more than 100 areas of study. Encouraging a tight-knit community, WCU’s goal is to provide personalized attention...

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The teachers from Western State are voted the best of the state of Colorado. The teacher to student ratio is 20:1. Since the school and class sizes are small, you receive a lot of one-on-one action and the teachers make sure you know the material...

” – Jacquelyn from Grand Rapids, MI

The University of Lynchburg is a private institution located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Lynchburg, Virginia. It is a affiliated with the Christian Church the Disciples of Christ and has a “selective” admissions process. Lynchburg is...

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All of my teachers have been great so far. The classes are small, which creates a better learning environment and more one-on-one time with teachers and other students. I learned the most in my two LCSR classes (English and History) because the...

” – Charles from Danville, VA

With campus overlooking the Potomac River, Shepherd University is a 4-year public liberal arts college in the Shenandoah Valley region of West Virginia. Shepherd confers bachelor’s degrees in over 90 academic majors and minors. During every school...

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I am an art major, and I have some amazing teachers who really know their stuff. I am learning so much here. I am only a freshmen but I feel that when I get out of school I will really know my stuff and be ready to be in the real world and be on my...

” – Amanda from Manassas, VA

Farmingdale State College is a public institution offering a technology-focused education. It is part of the State University of New York system and has a “selective” admissions process. It is home to several research centers, including the Solar...

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Farmingdale is a great school. There are so many activities on campus and clubs to join. Farmingdale was the best decision I've made.

” – Rachael from Centereach, NY