Resources for Students in New York

New York is home to almost 300 colleges and universities. Check out these resources for students to help you find the right school.
Best Colleges in New York + Full List of Schools

Best Colleges in New York + Full List of Schools

Want to go to college in New York? Learn more about the best colleges in New York State and NYC, and see a full list of four-year schools in the state.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

by Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

Updated November 20, 2023

What to Know About Attending College in New York

The National Center for Education Statistics reports that more than 280 degree-granting postsecondary institutions are based in New York. The City University of New York (CUNY) system alone educates more than 500,000 students annually.

Other educational opportunities are offered by State University of New York (SUNY) schools and private colleges scattered throughout New York City and upstate New York.

With so many options for students in New York, you might feel a little overwhelmed. But reflecting on your goals and consulting friends and family can help narrow your list of potential schools. The following resources for students can also help you learn more about education in New York, as well as the many professional opportunities available to graduates.

Featured Online Programs

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College Planning

Looking to Study in New York? Get Your Checkbook Ready

Looking to Study in New York? Get Your Checkbook Ready

Doug Wintemute

by Doug Wintemute

Updated July 18, 2023

Hardest New York Colleges to Get Into

Hardest New York Colleges to Get Into

Thomas Broderick

by Thomas Broderick

Updated November 20, 2023

Career Planning

What Are the Most In-Demand Careers in New York?

What Are the Most In-Demand Careers in New York?

Marisa Upson

by Marisa Upson

Updated May 26, 2022

Working in the Empire State: 10 Highest-Paying Jobs in New York

Working in the Empire State: 10 Highest-Paying Jobs in New York

Nalea Ko

by Nalea Ko

Updated November 14, 2023

How to Become a Teacher in New York

How to Become a Teacher in New York

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

by Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

Updated May 14, 2024

Find a Bootcamp

Best New York City Coding Bootcamps 2023

Best New York City Coding Bootcamps 2023

Nalea Ko

by Nalea Ko

Updated July 31, 2023

Frequently Asked Questions About New York Colleges

What is the cost of living for students in New York?

It’s no secret that New York City offers students access to great food, beautiful architecture, and many top schools. But it’s also true that with all of those benefits comes a higher-than-average cost of living.

For example, rents in New York City are some of the highest in the country. In total, Payscale estimates that the cost of living in NYC is 128% higher than the national average.

Other cities in New York, however, such as Buffalo and Rochester, have living costs slightly below the national average.

Be sure to weigh the pros and cons of life in the big city when deciding where to attend school.

How many colleges are in New York?

The City University of New York (CUNY) system features 25 schools throughout New York City’s five boroughs. Other public and private schools bring the number of higher education institutions in the city above 100.

There are also many schools in upstate New York, from Buffalo to Syracuse to Albany. These colleges and universities award certificates, degrees, and continuing education opportunities for working professionals.

Compare schools’ resources for students before applying. The academic and career support you receive during your time in school can significantly impact your success after graduation.

What’s the No. 1 college in New York?

Due to its extensive network of research centers, centrally located campus, and good return on investment, Columbia University is often considered one of the best colleges in New York. Other notable colleges in New York include Cornell University, New York University, and Vassar College.

All New York Resources

Report: CUNY’s Antisemitism, Discrimination Policies Need an Overhaul

Report: CUNY’s Antisemitism, Discrimination Policies Need an Overhaul

Evan Castillo

by Evan Castillo

Updated October 14, 2024

Touting Transparency, Hartwick Lowers Tuition by 60%

Touting Transparency, Hartwick Lowers Tuition by 60%

Mark J. Drozdowski, Ed.D.

by Mark J. Drozdowski, Ed.D.

Updated October 10, 2024

Columbia University President Resigns Following ‘Turmoil’ of Israel-Hamas War Protests

Columbia University President Resigns Following ‘Turmoil’ of Israel-Hamas War Protests

Bennett Leckrone

by Bennett Leckrone

Updated August 15, 2024

New York Expands Tuition Assistance Program

New York Expands Tuition Assistance Program

Evan Castillo

by Evan Castillo

Updated May 14, 2024

Meet Sophia, Your Robot Commencement Speaker

Meet Sophia, Your Robot Commencement Speaker

Mark J. Drozdowski, Ed.D.

by Mark J. Drozdowski, Ed.D.

Updated May 8, 2024

Columbia University Protests: Updates

Columbia University Protests: Updates

Cameren Boatner

by Cameren Boatner

Updated August 15, 2024

LaGuardia Community College Gets $116M Grant From N.Y. Mets Owners’ Foundation

LaGuardia Community College Gets $116M Grant From N.Y. Mets Owners’ Foundation

Margaret Attridge

by Margaret Attridge

Updated March 26, 2024

Historic $1B Donation to New York Medical School Ensures Free Tuition for All Students

Historic $1B Donation to New York Medical School Ensures Free Tuition for All Students

Evan Castillo

by Evan Castillo

Updated February 26, 2024

University of Rochester Launches Online AI, Business Analytics Master’s Degree

University of Rochester Launches Online AI, Business Analytics Master’s Degree

Bennett Leckrone

by Bennett Leckrone

Updated February 22, 2024

Our Editorial Policy and Standards

Accuracy and editorial integrity are just a few of the values we at BestColleges pledge to uphold for the students who rely on us. We are committed to providing students with the educational resources they need to achieve their goals.

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