What are some of the largest universities in the USA by student population?

I've been thinking about attending a large university because I love the idea of having a diverse range of activities, majors, and clubs to choose from. I'm curious about which universities in the US have the largest student bodies and what the campus life is like at such massive institutions. Does anyone have a list of some of the largest universities and insights into what it's like being part of such a large student community? Thanks!

There are indeed many large universities in the U.S., and it sounds like their diversity and plethora of opportunities could be an excellent fit for you! They often have an exciting campus life with numerous activities, majors, clubs, sports, and more.

If one measures by a sheer number of students (combining undergraduate and graduate students), here are some of the largest universities in the U.S:

1. University of Central Florida (UCF): Located in Orlando, FL, UCF boasts a student population of nearly 70,000 students. The university offers more than 200 degrees and hosts over 650 clubs and organizations.

2. Texas A&M University: Located in College Station, TX, Texas A&M has more than 70,000 students. Known for its strong engineering programs and spirited Aggie culture, students are treated to a vibrant and active campus life.

3. Ohio State University: Located in Columbus, OH, OSU has a student population of over 65,000. With over 1,000 student organizations, Buckeye spirit runs deep, especially during football season.

4. University of Florida: Located in Gainesville, FL, UF has a student population of over 50,000. Florida Gators are known for their school spirit and can choose from more than 1,400 student clubs and organizations.

5. Florida International University: FIU, located in University Park, FL, has over 50,000 students and offers more than 190 programs. With its proximity to Miami, there's never a shortage of things to do off-campus as well.

At such large universities, the diversity of students and activities can lead to a vibrant and dynamic environment. However, it is essential to note that large institutions can sometimes feel overwhelming or impersonal, especially for students who prefer smaller, more intimate class sizes. Ensuring you find communities within the university—such as clubs, sports, or specific academic cohorts—can go a long way toward making the experience feel a bit smaller and more personalized.

Remember, just because the total population is large doesn't mean all your classes will be enormous. Upper-level classes tend to be smaller, and finding a specific academic or extracurricular niche can create a smaller community feel within the larger institution.

Above all, visit if you can! Nothing beats the first-hand experience of seeing a college campus for yourself to get a sense of whether it could feel like home for the next several years.