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BestColleges empowers students to find the school that best fits their needs through expert-reviewed research, helpful guides, unique college rankings, and a proprietary school matching algorithm.

1,500+ College planning guides
700+ College program rankings
40+ Expert reviewers
Serving students like you since 2013

A trusted authority in higher education, as seen in:

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Retake Our College Match Quiz for Personalized School Recommendations

Tell us what you want to study, your degree level, and a little about yourself.

Our experts will match you to degree programs. Explore and compare your matches.

Submit your contact info to the school you like best to show them you're interested.

Apply today! Online applications let you track your acceptance status.

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Planning for College

An illustration of a bag of money and gold coins beside a pile of books topped with a graduation cap.

The Student’s Guide to College Scholarships and Grants

College isn’t cheap. Fortunately, you can make your educational journey a little easier with this in-depth guide to scholarships and grants.

May 19, 2023

High school student lying on the rug in her living room types her college application essay on her laptop.

How to Write a College Application Essay: A Complete Guide

The college application essay is a key part of the admissions process. Learn how to write a personal statement for college, including what to avoid.

November 7, 2022

Photo of happy student sitting in front of their laptop in a class with a white board and 2 classmates behind them.

10 Most In-Demand Majors

Discover the most popular and lucrative in-demand college majors, from business and healthcare administration to IT and engineering.

October 15, 2024

An illustration showing an online teacher leading a lecture.

The Student’s Guide to Choosing a Major

Confused about how to choose a college major? Or feel like picking a major is stressing you out? Read our guide to get the help you need.

June 12, 2024

Figuring Out Your Finances

A blue and white illustration depicting an open book with stairs coming out of its pages leading up to a graduation cap.

The Student’s Guide to College Planning

College planning doesn’t start with application season. Learn how to begin planning for college in high school and the biggest factors to consider.

February 15, 2024

The Student’s Guide to Budgeting in College

College means paying tuition and fees, as well as budgeting for housing, food, and books. Learn how to create a college student budget today.

August 27, 2024

The Student’s Guide to Financial Aid and the FAFSA

What is financial aid? What is the FAFSA? Learn about the different types of aid you can get for college and how to fill out the FAFSA.

August 26, 2024

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The Student’s Guide to Saving for College

College is a big investment, which is why saving for college is so important. Learn how to save for college using smart strategies with your money.

May 19, 2023

Balancing Career & School

Best Online Colleges for Nontraditional Students

Making the transition back into the classroom can present distinct challenges. Read on to discover the best online colleges for nontraditional students.

May 24, 2024

How to Balance Work and College: A Mental Health Perspective

Balancing work and college is tough. Take the advice of Dr. Jessica Gold about staying mentally healthy while working your way through school.

December 14, 2022

Happy adult student in her 40s sitting in a college library looking at her laptop computer. A stack of textbooks is next to her on the table to study.

5 Tips for Starting College at 25, 30, and Beyond

Discover the benefits of starting college at 25 or 30, and get tips for success as an older learner. It’s never too late to pursue your educational goals.

March 21, 2023

Full-Time vs. Part-Time Student: What’s the Difference?

Discover the challenges and opportunities full-time vs. part-time students face and get tips on which college experience is right for you.

October 12, 2023

Explore Top-Ranked Schools by Subject

Fast-track Your Career with a Degree

We’re continually adding new schools to our school inventory. Try our quiz again to explore great programs.

Student Stories

Reach Your Dreams with Your Next Degree

Be inspired by real people changing their lives through education.

Taylor working at computer with plants in background

Meet Taylor: Bartender to NASA astrophysicist

See how Taylor followed her dreams with the help of a Master's and Doctorate degree.

Meet Lexi: Dropout to a successful business owner

See how Lexi starting her own business before going back for her Bachelor's degree was the right move for her career.

Meet Julian: Struggling student to marine biologist

See how Julian blazed his own path for his Bachelor's degree to become a marine biologist and rescue diver.

Your Higher Education Guide