<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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Florida Tech is home to the serious seekers, the relentlessly curious, bold and driven scholars who learn best by doing. Our hands-on approach to education includes a cooperative education program, field research projects, capstone experiences...

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When you come here, you must be alert and ready to learn. This school is perfect for you, if you like one and one interaction. The classes wont pass 50 students. Professors are always available, the student center will always be watching your grades...

” – Angeline from Palm Springs, FL

Established by the Congregation of the Holy Cross in 1891, the University of Portland is a private Roman Catholic university. UP is home to colleges and schools of Arts & Sciences, Business, Engineering, Nursing, and Education conferring...

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I can honestly say that I have never felt so well taken care of academically. All of the teachers here are dedicated to their job and to the students. They go out of their way to make sure that every student is keeping up with the material. The class...

” – Rosemary from Las Vegas, NV

The University of Texas at Arlington is a world-class university of established excellence providing the tools and guidance necessary to succeed in a globally competitive world. Here, it’s students first, excellence always. Classified as a Carnegie R...

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UTA has one of the best Nursing programs in the state of Texas and the nation as well.

” – Allison from Burleson, TX

Founded in 1908, Biola University is an Evangelical Christian University in the Los Angeles metro area with a focus on Bible-centered education. Biola offers over 150 academic majors and programs and every student is required to complete 30 credits...

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I have learned more during my Freshman year at Biola than I did any other year of high school. Not only have I been challenged in my Bible, General Education, and Intercultural Studies classes, but I have learned how a college student needs to...

” – Christine

Founded in 1978, the Savannah College of Art and Design is a private arts university with two locations in Georgia, and a study abroad location in Lacoste, France. With a goal of preparing students for creative professions, SCAD grants degrees in...

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I didn't imagine I would learn so much in one year but I have. It makes me excited to see what I will be learning the next 3 years.

” – Julia from Evans, GA

Eckerd College
Saint Petersburg, FL

Located in St. Petersburg, FL, Eckerd College is a 4-year liberal arts institution on a mile-long waterfront beach. Eckerd offers upwards of 40 majors, all of which include 4 years of classes in art, literature, and the natural and social sciences...

“…

Eckerd College is a very small liberal arts school in St. Pete, FL. The best part about attending a small school is that the class sizes are smaller, which enhances learning. You actually get to know your professors (which are all very helpful) and...

” – Tess from Morton Grove, IL

Founded in 1818, Saint Louis University is a private research institution and one of the oldest Catholic, Jesuit universities in the United States. At SLU, students can explore nearly 100 different undergraduate programs and over 80 graduate programs...

“…

After one semester in my classes at Saint Louis University, I can practically run circles around my old high school friends academically. The classes here are very challenging but great for anyone who truly desires a quality education. It takes...

” – Evan from Brighton, IL

Named after the patron saint of students, the University of St. Thomas is 4-year Catholic school in the Twin Cities and the largest private non-profit university in Minnesota. St. Thomas hosts eight colleges and schools offering bachelor’s degrees in...

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The professors at this university really push you to your academic limits and help you to be the best student you can be. If you ask for help or extra tutoring, the professors are more than willing to set aside time for you.

” – Mirella from Burnsville, MN

The University of the Pacific is the oldest, private university in California and has admissions that are more selective. The main campus is located in Stockton, and the university operates two satellite campuses in Sacramento and San Francisco...

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Most universities/colleges don't allow students to get started on their majors until Sophomore or Junior year of college. As a Freshman at UOP I've already gotten a feel for what I will be doing as a sports medicine or Athletic Training major. Four...

” – Hayley from San Jose, CA

Stetson University is a private university in DeLand, FL, with regional campuses in Tampa, Gulfport, and Orlando. Stetson is home to a college of Arts and Sciences and was also the first institution in the state to host schools of Business...

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With a revamped curriculum that was launched this fall, Stetson is offering a wider variety of classes than ever. This school is designed with the goal of every student graduating with a well-rounded education, and I wholeheartedly feel this at work...

” – Maria Harper

Founded in 1852 by the Society of Mary, St. Mary’s University is a Catholic liberal arts college in San Antonio. The oldest Catholic university in Texas, St. Mary’s awards undergrad and graduate degrees in more than 75 academic programs. As a...

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I can definitely say that I am learning a lot here at St. Mary's University! When I say I am learning a lot I don't only mean in a classroom. At St. Mary's University I've learned to speak out, help out, and go all out. I haven't only grown mentally...

” – Patricia from El Paso, TX

Founded in 1869, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is the oldest university in the state and flagship of the NU system. Nebraska is home to nine colleges conferring undergraduate degrees. In addition to classroom facilities, the NU campus hosts The...

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The absolute only reason why I only put 4 stars is because as being a freshman I had to complete some general study classes that I felt was impractical for my major and felt I didn't benefit from. The classes designed for my major I would without a...

” – Alisha from Jackson , MO

Founded in 1886, Winthrop University is a 4-year public comprehensive institution located in Rock Hill, South Carolina, just south of Charlotte, North Carolina.  Winthrop offers bachelor’s, master’s and specialist degrees through both on-campus and...

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Not only do you learn about your field of interest, but you also learn how to interact with so many different types of people. Winthrop is all about diversity!

” – Sarah from Columbia, SC

Founded by missionaries of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit, Duquesne University is a 4-year Catholic institution in Pittsburgh and the only Spiritan university in the country. Duquesne is home to nine schools of study emphasizing the liberal arts...

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The teachers here so far are high-quality. They care about whether or not you learn what they are teaching you, and they are always willing to answer your questions and meet with you if you are having difficulties. Each has a different teaching style...

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Built for a future that has yet to be defined, Jefferson is crossing disciplines to bring unrivaled innovation and discovery to higher education. Through boundary-breaking collaboration, research and hands-on, experiential learning, we equip...

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This school is very well developed. You learn alot of information needed for your major. Many opportunities are offered. Have excellent internship programs to help you have an idea of what to expect after graduation. Many clubs and organizations...

” – Adji from Philadelphia, PA

Elmhurst University is a liberal arts institution in the Chicagoland area affiliated with the United Church of Christ. Elmhurst offers bachelor’s degrees in over 60 academic majors. Additionally, the school operates the Elmhurst Learning and Success...

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I really am learning a lot in this school. I'm not just learning things for my major but also things that I can apply towards life in general. Going to a liberal arts school helps you learn many things that can used for many majors.

” – Liliana from Glendale Heights, IL

The University of Texas at Tyler is one of 14 institutions in the public UT system. UT at Tyler’s main campus is made up of 259 acres surrounded by pine and oak forests, bordered by a lake, that hosts 7 colleges providing more than 80 degrees. It...

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The University of Texas at Tyler is not only known for being a branch off of the University of Texas at Austin, but because of its professors. The University of Texas at Tyler has some of the greatest professors that have received their degrees from...

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Originally founded as a business college for Civil War veterans, Bryant University is a 4-year private school in northern Rhode Island. Bryant is home to the College of Business and the College of Arts and Sciences offering 168 academic major/minor...

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Professors at Bryant are extremely accommodating and present a great deal of real world experience to pass onto their students. The small class size is also helpful in allowing for students to get the attention they require. The blended curriculum of...

” – Meredith

Augustana College is a private, liberal arts institution founded in 1860. Located in Rock Island, IL, Augustana offers more than 90 majors and related study programs in the humanities and fine arts, natural and social sciences, and pre-professional...

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The faculty here are intelligent and more than qualified, plus they show a genuine caring attitude towards the students. The tri-mester schedule allows students to take more classes and double and even triple major.

” – Ashley from Dixon, IL

Boise State is a Carnegie doctoral research university that is home to more than 26,000 students from every state and more than 60 foreign countries. Our metropolitan campus runs along the banks of the Boise River, just a quick walk from the heart of...

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The classes are here are great. The professor's are very friendly and love to help there students. Plus, you live in the City of Trees, Boise is a great little college town, especially during the football season.

” – Joshua from Caldwell, ID

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The University of Alabama at Birmingham has many tools to help students succeed in their classes. Many of the science and courses have sessions every week to discuss the lectures. Students are able to ask questions and get answers from students who...

” – Mae Lin from Birmingham, AL

The University of Northern Iowa (UNI) is a public university located in Cedar Falls, Iowa. While it started as a teacher training institution in 1876, UNI now offers more than 150 areas of study for undergraduates  spanning from business and...

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” – Greg from Alton, IA

Calling Des Moines, Iowa, its home, Drake University is a midsize, private institution of higher learning with more than 70 majors available to its undergraduate students. Cultivated over 130 years of educating, The Drake Curriculum features small...

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I feel like I didn't learn anything in high school, but I love college! At Drake I feel like the professors really teach you the material and most make it interesting!

” – Kristin from Lockport, IL

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Wow. Bradley University is a wonderful college for those who want to receive a great education in any chosen field of study. Bradley offers the best of the best college professors who all share the same passion and enthusiasm in not only their...

” – BRITTANY from Matteson, IL

Founded in 1906, Western Kentucky University is a 4-year public institution with campus perched atop a hill. WKU is home to six colleges granting bachelor’s degrees in 101 academic majors and 111 minors. The university also hosts the Colonnade...

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I am going into my second year at WKU and I feel that I have already noticed a big difference in how I think about certain topics. The majority of my professors have opened up my eyes to certain topics that never really crossed my mind in high school...

” – Kaitlyn from Louisville, KY

For almost 200 years, Gettysburg College has provided a consequential education to generations of innovative, driven students and encouraged them to Do Great Work in their communities and across the world. Founded in 1832, Gettysburg College is a...

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Gettysburg is almost like a dream. I feel more at home here than I do anywhere else and being on campus makes me smile. I feel really lucky to get to attend this school and am really going to miss it when I graduate.

” – Kaytie from MA

Affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Brigham Young University-Idaho is a 4-year institution in eastern Idaho and the state’s largest private university. BYU-Idaho is home to six colleges and schools conferring...

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The teachers here are amazing and really know their stuff. Because this school is a religion school, you can definitely feel the spirit and it's great because it's a constant thing. The teachers here are great at teaching, telling you what you need...

” – Jillise from Boise, ID

Originally founded as Indiana Asbury University, DePauw University is a 4-year liberal arts college in western Indiana. DePauw is home to a College of Liberal Arts conferring degrees in 29 fields of study as well as one of the first Schools of Music...

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DePauw was the best decision I've ever made. What makes this school special is the people, the opportunities for success, and the education. There is no place I would rather be.

” – Kandyce from Indianapolis, IN

Founded by the Society of Jesus, Fairfield University is a 4-year Jesuit institution in coastal Connecticut. Fairfield provides a liberal arts education and offers degrees in 44 academic majors as well as 16 interdisciplinary majors. As a Catholic...

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The teachers focus on broadening your view and the extensive core forces you to study fields you would have never considered, but could decide major in.

” – Kristin from Martinsville, NJ

Founded in 1964, Cleveland State University is a public research institution with 15,000 students, 10 colleges and schools and more than 175 academic programs. According to the Brookings Institution, CSU is No. 18 in the U.S. among public...

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Cleveland State has proved to me that you do not need to go to an Ivy League School to be challenged. When Cleveland State says that their students experience engaged learning, they really are telling the truth. The professors really want you to...

” – India from Columbus, OH

Founded by The Congregation of Christian Brothers, Iona College is a Catholic school in the New York City metro area. Iona confers bachelor’s degrees in over 40 academic fields of study and the college also offers 5-year dual degree majors. As a...

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Small classes so it makes it easier to learn. Professors are always willing to help.

” – Michelle from Saint James, NY

Founded by a Presbyterian minister, the College of Wooster is a 4-year liberal arts college in northeast Ohio. Wooster grants bachelor’s degrees in 44 academic majors and every student’s academic career begins with a First-Year Seminar focusing on...

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I think the most notable aspect of the curriculum is its inter-disciplinary qualities. I can think of numerous occasions in which information from one class has connected to what I am learning in another class. Wooster is not merely about giving...

” – Katie

Whittier College is a private, hispanic-serving institution is located in Whittier, CA, with a mission to "prepare students from diverse backgrounds to excel in a complex global society." The liberal arts curriculum framework is centered around the...

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Whittier is a small private school in the eclectic town of Whittier near Los Angeles, California. The classroom sizes are small, within the range of one teacher per 25 students. thus, there is a lot of one-on-one time with your professors. Also, this...

” – Ashley from CA

Originally founded as The Academy of Idaho, Idaho State University is a 4-year public research university in southeast Idaho. ISU is home to six colleges conferring degrees in over 250 academic programs of study and offers a Career Path Internship...

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I am a second year at ISU and am a junior. Each semester in college is different but the first few seem to be pretty similar all across the board. I started college in August of 2008. ISU is a great school, the teachers care and there is always...

” – Sarah from Eagle, ID

Originally founded in 1821 as a Quaker boarding school, Widener University is a 4-year private institution in the Philadelphia metro area. Widener confers undergraduate degrees in over 60 academic majors and minors. In addition, many of Widener’s...

“…

Widener University is a wonderful University Filled with wonderful and caring faculty. I am so excited to be apart of Widener's pride and I encourage anyone who is interested in enrolling to go ahead and take that extra step to apply. The programs...

” – Maya from Philadelphia, PA

Utica University wants to know you.  You have a unique perspective on the world, and a lot to share.  You're looking for a way to put your ideas and passions in motion.  That's where we can help.  At Utica. you'll find the programs, the professors...

“…

Very big campus with a lot of resources available to you.

So many student organizations, it's pretty easy to join one and very rewarding.

The shuttles let you access the mall and the shopping center so you may get whatever you need without paying...

” – Charity from Indianapolis, IN

FOUR YEARS. LIFETIME IMPACT.

Widely recognized for excellence, Carthage College emphasizes discovery and exploration. At Carthage, you will uncover new passions as you gain practical experience and marketable skills. You will study under expert...

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I am learning very much at Carthage College. This is a small school with very few students. I am very glad that I chose to come to this school because of the small amount of students. I have learned so much mainly because the teachers are able to...

” – Joshua from Kenosha, WI

Founded six years before North Dakota achieved statehood, the University of North Dakota is a 4-year public university in eastern North Dakota and the state’s largest institution of higher learning. UND offers undergraduate degrees in over 225...

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Right now I am taking general classes, some are the same that I took in high school like psych, chemistry, and precalculus but the teachers cover the material in much greater detail.

” – Cassondra from Ham Lake, MN

Founded by Jesuits in 1852, Loyola University Maryland is Catholic liberal arts university in Baltimore. Loyola Maryland offers bachelor’s degrees in over 40 academic majors and minors. Additionally, all first year students participate in a peer...

“…

Classes are taught by proffesors that want their students to learn and to enjoy the subjects they teach. Also, teachers are available for students when a student needs their help understanding the subject.

” – Ricardo from Silver Spring, MD

The first school chartered after the American Revolution, Washington College is a 4-year liberal arts college on Maryland’s eastern shore. WC grants bachelor’s degrees in 34 academic fields of study and all students are required to complete four...

“…

Attending Washington College has taught me more than I ever thought it could and not just in the classroom. First, the professors are always there to help. It is very easy to meet with them if you have a question, concern or just want to chat....

” – Sara from Myersville, MD

Lee University is a 4-year institution located in Cleveland, Tennessee. They offer 55 majors on the more than 119 acre campus with the focus of “develop[ing] within the students knowledge, appreciation, understanding, ability and skill which will...

“…

In general, classes are challenging but not too overwhelming. Lee offers a variety of classes so that students can study subjects that really interest them.

” – Laura from Virginia

Situated at the top of a hill overlooking downtown, Wichita State University is a 4-year public research institution in Wichita. Wichita State features seven colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees as well as an Honors College and...

“…

Wichita State University has some of the best teachers and professors I have ever met. With very few exceptions I am able to understand all of them with acceptable to superb degrees, and all of them know their stuff much better than they would ever...

” – David from Wichita, KS

King's College is a 4-year institution located in Wilkes-Barres, Pennsylvania. King's provides a liberal arts and sciences education across 41 undergraduate and 8 graduate programs, as well as 27 athletic teams to cheer on. High school students can...

“…

King's gives you a very well-rounded education. The professors are always available for help or advice.

” – Lee Ann from Reading, PA

Shenandoah University is located in the beautiful northern Shenandoah Valley in Winchester, Virginia. 



We offer over 200 areas of study within six schools and two divisions. We search for and welcome a diverse set of students - academically...

“…

I go to the Conservatory of Shenandoah University and just from my first semester of Basic Acting, I have learned so much. There are two (at least at this time) different first year acting teachers, both have completely different teaching styles but...

” – Rebecca from Winchester, VA

Manhattanville College is a liberal arts institution dedicated to academic excellence, and social and civic action. 30 minutes from New York City, Manhattanville hosts a globally diverse campus, serving 1,600 undergraduate students and 1,000 graduate...

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There are a lot of compelling lectures given on campus. Professors are active and promote student activism and involvement in the community. I've learned so much this past fall semester and I've made interesting connections with like-minded...

” – Karen from Yonkers, NY

Founded in 1888, the University of Puget Sound is a 4-year liberal arts college in the Seattle metro area. UPS awards bachelor’s degrees in over 50 traditional and interdisciplinary fields of study and a number of programs feature experiential...

“…

In my Freshman year I learned the hard way that High School study habits don't make the cut here and I am better for it. UPS makes you work hard for what you want to achieve, but the professors also know how to make it interesting. I was worried that...

” – Jessica from Graham, WA

Hawaii Pacific University is a 4-year institution in O’ahu and the largest private university in the central Pacific. HPU hosts colleges of Business, Liberal Arts, Health, Natural Sciences, and Professional Studies. In addition, the HPU campus is...

“…

The foreign language and business classes here are taught really well and the students actually learn applicable material. The small class sizes allow for a lot of focus on areas specific to the individual students.

” – Christina from Dunkirk, MD

Marymount Manhattan College is a private institution located in New York, New York, that offers a liberal arts and sciences curriculum. Marymount features 30 majors, including its industry-noted performance program, in its three academic buildingers...

“…

Marymount Manhattan College is in an ideal location for students interested in all kinds of studies. The college is incredibly helpful in ensuring students get everything they need from tutoring to finding an internship in the city. The professors...

” – Brittany from Leonardo, NJ

Originally founded as the Cortland Normal School, SUNY Cortland is a 4-year public university in central New York State and part of the State University of New York system. SUNY Cortland offers bachelor’s degrees in 65 academic majors and 38 minors...

“…

I wanted to attend a school that has a strong education program. I did my research, applied to SUNY Cortland and was accepted. This is my first semester and I thoroughly enjoy being at SUNY Cortland with the Red Dragons.

” – Zhane from Springfield Gardens, NY