Colleges With the Best First-Year Experiences for Freshmen, Ranked

Embarking on the exciting journey of college life is a big deal, and that first year can really set the tone for the whole ride. From great locations to small class sizes and a ton of extracurricular activities, these schools really know how to make sure freshmen feel right at home.

Let's explore the colleges and universities that give students an amazing start to their higher education adventure.

15. Carleton College (Tie)

Year founded: 1866

Location: Northfield, Minnesota

Tuition: $62,634

Undergrad enrollment: 2,044

Note: These are the best first-year experiences at colleges, as ranked by U.S. News and World Report for 2022–2023.

Bottom Line: Carleton College

Tied with three other colleges in the 15th spot, this small, private liberal arts college is highly ranked as being welcoming to new students, and according to reviews, even misfits find a home here. 

One former student said, "Carleton College is a home for all types of people. They pride themselves on being a little bit quirky, but it isn't necessarily that the school attracts weirdos more that it is a place where everyone is accepted for who they really are. There is no pressure to become someone that you aren't.

"Even beyond classes, Carleton is a very supportive environment. No matter where you are on campus, people are there to help you and support you. It doesn't matter if you don't know someone because they are willing to be there for you and truly want to become your friend.

"Carleton doesn't always get the recognition it deserves and remains relatively unknown to the vast majority of the country and the world, but [it] really is the best place on Earth!"

15. Butler University (Tie)

Year founded: 1855 

Location: Indianapolis, Indiana

Tuition: $44,460

Undergrad enrollment: 4,537

Bottom Line: Butler University

Another small and private school, Butler covers all the bases for people who want an intimate college experience. Students say they form an immediate bond with others — professors and fellow classmates alike — from the moment they step on campus. Classes are small (many are about 12 students), so you can't help but get to know those around you fairly quickly. 

According to one student, "Everyone is connected, and help[s] each other. They have small class sizes, but students are able to connect with the professors. There are a lot of minority groups, but everyone embraces each other. "

15. Brown University (Tie)

Year founded: 1764 

Location: Providence, Rhode Island

Tuition: $65,146

Undergrad enrollment: 7,349

Bottom Line: Brown University

While Brown is a more expensive Ivy League school, students rave about how at home they feel right from the get-go. You have no choice but to get up close and personal — Brown doesn't allow students to live off campus for the first six semesters.

They can also get to know each other through the more than 500 student organizations on campus, which include The Brown Noser (the school's satirical newspaper), Brown Ballroom Dance club, a variety of NCAA Division I athletic teams and a vibrant Greek community.

15. Bowdoin College (Tie)

Year founded: 1794

Location: Brunswick, Maine

Tuition: $61,528

Undergrad enrollment: 1,951

Bottom Line: Bowdoin College

With more than 100 student organizations to choose from, a system of college-owned social houses and the requirement for freshmen to live on campus, new students will quickly find friends and a place to fit in at Bowdoin College.

The college prides itself on its collaborative community. "The culture is academically rigorous, but you will surely find many diverse, talented, and friendly people and a collaborative work environment in your classes and clubs. The school genuinely cares about the students and offers good food and big dorm rooms to keep you motivated.

"In addition, Bowdoin offers top-notch career counseling and has an impressive alumni network for a small school, with connections to top consulting and banking firms. Definitely make use of these resources, and explore the varied and interesting courses on offer. No regrets with choosing this school," said one former student. 

12. Yale University (Tie)

Year founded: 1701

Location: New Haven, Connecticut

Tuition: $62,250

Undergrad enrollment: 6,536

Bottom Line: Yale University

Another one of the few Ivy League schools on our list, Yalies will make fast friends in one of the school's outstanding drama and music programs or through one of its Yale Bulldogs athletic teams. Students are required to live in one of the school's 14 residential colleges while attending. Both the head and dean of their college will also typically eat with them.

One parent said, "I cannot imagine a more stimulating, supportive and fun college environment. As for the Yale social scene, I am told by my daughter and son (both students) that it is both fun and diverse ... Yale is different from some of its peers in that most Yale students really enjoy the college voyage it offers, in addition to the academic and professional destination it provides. Most Yalies are not just proud alumni once they graduate, but they are also very enthusiastic about their experience while on campus."

12. Boston College (Tie)

Year founded: 1863

Location: Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts

Tuition: $64,176

Undergrad enrollment: 9,532

Bottom Line: Boston College

Located a stone's throw from Boston, there's plenty for new students to do at Boston College, a private Jesuit university. The college has nine schools, competes in nearly 30 NCAA Division I varsity sports and has more than 200 student clubs and organizations to choose from. 

"Everyone here is so kind. I have yet to meet someone who is genuinely a mean person. From faculty to students, there is such a welcoming attitude given. You can talk to anyone, and they'll be happy to converse with you. There's the perfect ratio of having fun and working hard to get good grades. Would highly recommend to anyone to apply here," one alumnus said. 

12. American University (Tie)

Year founded: 1893

Location: Washington, D.C. 

Tuition: $53,889

Undergrad enrollment: 8,463

Bottom Line: American University

Due to its proximity to the federal government, American University students are known for being the most politically minded in the nation. The campus thrives as a hub of academic and cultural diversity, fostering immediate connections between students and faculty. And, of course, there are many student organizations and clubs to choose from to further cement those bonds. 

One student said that the school "has a great balance of academics and extracurriculars. It's far enough from downtown D.C. to have a campus feel but close enough to be convenient to get into the city to explore. Classes were great and were taught by professors with current or recent professional experience." 

11. Beloit College

Year founded: 1846

Location: Beloit, Wisconsin

Tuition: $56,312

Undergrad enrollment: 1,011

Bottom Line: Beloit College

Beloit College's first-year students are drawn to its close-knit community (with only about 1,000 students at any given time) and personalized learning. With small classes and dedicated professors, students develop strong academic relationships and engage in interdisciplinary exploration.

For such a small student body, the campus culture brims with clubs and events, creating a sense of belonging and fostering meaningful connections.

10. Baylor University

Year founded: 1845 

Location: Waco, Texas

Tuition: $51,738

Undergrad enrollment: 15,191

Bottom Line: Baylor University

Baylor University captures the hearts of first-year students through its welcoming community and rigorous academic environment, fostered by a supportive faculty, small classes and a range of student organizations that help newcomers find their place in the world. Its commitment to faith-based values and different perspectives also contributes to a well-rounded education that appeals to a wide range of interests.

An alumnus whose son now attends Baylor said the school was like "a large private university with a small school feeling. Yes, the location in Waco is challenging, but the Baylor bubble not only creates a safe spot but a quiet unique community where, regardless of your wealth or race, you feel a part of a larger community."

9. Princeton University

Year founded: 1746

Location: Princeton, New Jersey

Tuition: $57,410

Undergrad enrollment: 5,321

Bottom Line: Princeton University

A Princeton student's first-year experience is marked by academic excellence and a vibrant campus community with plenty in which to engage. Students are exposed to intellectually stimulating discussions and cutting-edge research from day one — smaller class sizes facilitate personalized attention and close interactions with professors.

The school also offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities, clubs and cultural events that contribute to a well-rounded life on campus.

8. Abilene Christian University

Year founded: 1906

Location: Abilene, Texas

Tuition: $40,500

Undergrad enrollment: 3,560

Bottom Line: Abilene Christian University

This small Christian university is a bright spot in a sea of college freshmen experiences. For the first two years, undergrads must live on campus. There, they’ll find more than 100 student organizations to join, and a quarter of the students participate in Greek life and additional social clubs.

Its undergrad programs are also highly lauded. One former student said, "Whether it is projects at Brookhaven, FermiLab, Los Alamos or on campus developing fourth-generation nuclear reactor molten salt technology, I know of no undergraduate program as advanced."

7. Bates College

Year founded: 1855

Location: Lewiston, Maine

Tuition: $61,066

Undergrad enrollment: 1,821

Bottom Line: Bates College

Bates' inclusive and supportive campus environment contributes to a seamless transition into college life for first-year students. The school's emphasis on community engagement and a wide range of extracurricular activities allows students to discover their passions and expand their horizons.

The picturesque campus and friendly atmosphere further contribute to a sense of belonging and encourage lasting connections.

6. Georgia State University

Year founded: 1913

Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Tuition: $29,306 (out-of-state)/$10,268 (in-state)

Undergrad enrollment: 28,990

Bottom Line: Georgia State University

Atlanta's Georgia State University offers a wealth of exciting opportunities for first-year students. Its commitment to hands-on learning is evident through its robust internship programs, and this approach equips students with practical skills and valuable industry insights early in their college careers.

Additionally, students have access to an urban environment teeming with cultural, professional and networking opportunities. (And it's one of the most affordable schools on our list!)

5. Berea College

Year founded: 1892

Location: Berea, Kentucky

Tuition: NA

Undergrad enrollment: 1,468

Bottom Line: Berea College

With an emphasis on providing enrollees with a tuition-free education (yes, you heard that right!), Berea creates a unique environment where students from diverse backgrounds can fully immerse themselves in their studies.

The college's distinctive Labor Program allows first-year students to contribute to the campus community while gaining valuable work experience, fostering a sense of responsibility and instilling a strong work ethic. 

4. Amherst College

Year founded: 1821

Location: Amherst, Massachusetts

Tuition: $64,100

Undergrad enrollment: 1,971

Bottom Line: Amherst College

Students apply to Amherst College because it's a treasure trove of top-notch academics with an inviting reputation. Small classes mean students are not just another face in the crowd — professors actually know their names and care about their growth.

To expand their network and circle of friends, Amherst students can take courses at Smith, Mount Holyoke, Hampshire and the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, as the college belongs to the Five Colleges consortium.

3. University of South Carolina

Year founded: 1801

Location: Columbia, South Carolina

Tuition: $33,928 (out-of-state)/$12,688 (in-state)

Undergrad enrollment: 26,864

Bottom Line: University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina is known for its Southern charm, vibrant campus life and diverse opportunities. With a wide range of clubs, organizations and events, it's easy for newcomers to dive into a plethora of activities and forge lasting connections.

Located in the heart of Columbia, students can enjoy a mix of cultural experiences, entertainment and internships — all while benefiting from the university's strong academic programs and dedicated faculty. 

"I had an amazing experience at USC: small class sizes overall, excellent liberal arts education, fantastically dedicated teachers who cared personally about students, a great (non-Greek) college life experience ... I highly recommend this gem of a school," an alumnus said. 

2. Elon University

Year founded: 1889

Location: Elon, North Carolina

Tuition: $42,241

Undergrad enrollment: 6,302

Bottom Line: Elon University

First-year students will respond positively to the tight-knit community that Elon University fosters. Its commitment to engaged learning and wealth of clubs, events and community-service initiatives ensures a fulfilling student life.

A proud Elon University parent said, "My son applied ED to Elon (class of 2023) and has been the happiest I've ever seen him. He has a supportive friend group with good moral values and feels totally at home. We've been in touch with his advisor on many occasions, and he is available to us and our son 24/7. Very caring and well-run administration."

1. Agnes Scott College

Year founded: 1889

Location: Decatur, Georgia

Tuition: $45,786

Undergrad enrollment: 1,063

Bottom Line: Agnes Scott College

The only non-coed college on our list is the top dog for fostering great first-year experiences. With a focus on women's leadership and global perspectives, Agnes Scott encourages students to think critically, engage in meaningful dialogue, and tackle complex challenges. 

The school's commitment to creating confident and capable leaders is further enhanced by co-curricular activities, internships, and research opportunities. All of this, combined with small class sizes, fosters meaningful student relationships that last a lifetime.