I'm starting to compile a list of colleges I might apply to and would really love some suggestions on how to find the best colleges in the US. Does anyone have a resource or list they've found helpful?
Sure, finding a definitive list can be a bit difficult as each ranking lens can result in different results. Keep in mind, the "best" college largely depends on what you're looking for in a school—campus culture, academics, the strength of certain programs, location, size, etc.
That said, U.S. News & World Report is a widely recognized resource for college rankings. They create lists based on various criteria such as "National Universities" and "Liberal Arts Colleges", and further categorize data by factors like class size, standardized test scores, acceptance rate, financial aid, etc. If you're interested in how universities compare globally, The Times Higher Education and QS World University Rankings can provide helpful information.
Another listing to consider is Forbes' "America's Top Colleges" which places more of a focus on what students get out of college, such as graduate success, debt after graduation, student satisfaction, etc.
However, the most useful resource probably would be CollegeVine's chancing calculator. By inputting your academic and extracurricular profile, it provides a personalized assessment of your chances of admittance to hundreds of colleges in the US. It's a more individualized approach and can give you insights on where you may be a competitive applicant.
Remember, rankings are only a starting point. It's crucial to delve deeper into potential schools to ensure they fit your specific needs and preferences—perhaps through virtual tours, college visits, and conversations with current students or alumni.
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