Top 50 LGBTQ-Friendly Colleges

Written by Steve White

As a college student, you're likely filled with questions about how you'll do academically, where you'll find friends, and how you'll fit into the college environment. If you're an LGBTQ student, these worries are often magnified tenfold. Campus Pride, an organization dedicated to creating a more inclusive environment for LGBTQ students, conducted a landmark survey in 2010 that found 23% of LGBTQ students and 39% of transgender students experienced some form of identity-related harassment on campus. Many respondents from both groups reported being the target of derogatory remarks, being stared at, or being singled out as the 'resident authority' for their identity on campus.

This study, and others like it, lay bare the challenge of making campuses a place of acceptance and growth for LGBTQ students. The good news is many schools have made incredible strides in this area, instituting new policies, educational programs, and other measures to increase awareness and help LGBTQ students thrive.

Using data from leading LGBTQ advocacy groups, reports from students and faculty, and a comprehensive range of LGBTQ-inclusive factors, we arrived at our 2021 definitive list of the top 50 colleges for LGBTQ students that will help you choose a college where you'll be supported and safe.

A note on terminology: We understand that the term LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning) isn't all-inclusive and doesn't fully represent the spectrum of gender and sexual identity. In your search for schools, you may find the terms LGBTQI, LGBTQIA, GNC (gender non-conforming), P (pansexual), Q (queer), and much more. It isn't our intention to leave anyone out. However, for consistency, we'll use LGBTQ in this guide.

What to Look for in an LGBTQ-Friendly University

According to a 2021 Gallup poll, the number of people identifying as a part of the LGBT community is on the rise with 5.6% of the US population now identifying as LGBTQ, which is a significant increase over 2017 (4.5%) and 2012 (3.5%). Among those in Generation Z, that number stands at 15.9%. Many of you fall in that latter category, so finding a school that meets your needs is more important than ever.

Here are some things to look for as you search for an inclusive campus.

Campus Clubs

Most colleges now have at least one club designed for LGBTQ students where you can socialize, find friends, and integrate into the college experience. Some welcome LGBTQ students from any academic discipline and others are intended for students in a particular degree program. Be sure to look for student organizations that can help you find an understanding and accepting community on campus.

LGBTQ Housing

To create a safe environment, some colleges have designated housing exclusively for LGBTQ students. In these community living spaces, you can live, cook, study, and socialize with students who get you and the unique challenges you may face on campus.

LGBTQ Campus Safety

Many colleges have policies on paper prohibiting (and providing penalties) for harassing or abusing other students. However, colleges that are dedicated to protecting LGBTQ students should have language in these policies singling out abuse and harassment specifically of LGBTQ students and have well-defined procedures in place for violations.

LGBTQ Counseling

Every college has a counseling center but many now also have additional LGBTQ counseling spaces where you can find help for any issues you're facing. These are typically staffed by professionals and LGBTQ allies who have specialized training for dealing with the struggles LGBTQ students can have as they move through their college careers. Even if you're not going to school in person but instead pursuing an online degree, you can find virtual counseling resources which can be incredibly valuable.

LGBTQ-Inclusive Policies

Many universities have instituted non-discrimination policies governing the way LGBTQ students should be treated on campus. You should be able to find this information on the school's website. If not, calling the campus LGBTQ center is a good way to understand these policies and get a feel for how they're enforced.

Resources for LGBTQ Students

There are more resources available to LGBTQ college students than we have the space for here, but we want to give you an idea of what's out there so that you can look for these types of resources at your prospective or current college.

LGBTQ Scholarships

There are lots of scholarships designed exclusively to help LGBTQ students get money to pay for college. You want to be sure to check out your target schools to see what they offer.

National LGBTQ Organizations

Along with campus-specific organizations, you'll also find national organizations that aren't affiliated with any particular school; these can still be an incredible resource for making your college experience a beautiful one. A few examples include Out 4 Undergrad, Reaching Out, and the Campus Pride National LGBTQ-Friendly Job & Career Fair Program.

50 Best LGBTQ-Friendly Colleges

We've done the legwork and below we're going to give you the 50 best LGBTQ-friendly colleges where you can feel safe, find a sense of community, and get a great education! On the flip side, if you want to know some colleges to avoid, take a look at Campus Pride's Worst List, a comprehensive guide to the schools that actively discriminate or do nothing to create a welcoming environment for students.

With that out of the way, let's celebrate some awesome schools! For each, we'll give you some LGBTQ-specific information on the school's offerings, plus the tuition, location, acceptance rate, graduation rate, percentage of undergraduate students offered financial aid, and student-faculty ratio.

1. University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$16,540	Ann Arbor, MI	23%	93%	65%	11:1

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor lands at number one on our list thanks to their incredible Spectrum Center, the hub of the LGBTQ universe on campus. It's a collaborative, welcoming space where diversity is celebrated and students can find a huge range of resources from mentoring and crisis intervention to academic tutoring and help navigating campus. Fun social events are happening here all the time, and students can find support groups, jobs, leadership opportunities, and connections with LGBTQ alumni.

2. Ithaca College

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$45,274	Ithaca, NY	73%	74%	97%	10:1

Ithaca College has done an incredible job walking the walk when it comes to LGBTQ inclusion by providing LGBTQ-specific course offerings, creating an advisory committee dedicated to LGBTQ issues on campus, and fostering ally programs for all students on campus to raise awareness. There's also the Center for LGBT Education, Outreach & Services, which boasts an LGBTQ resource library, hosts the LGBT Awareness Month, brings in special guest speakers, and connects students to a wealth of resources for navigating the college experience.

3. University of Kentucky

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$11,011	Lexington, KY	96%	66%	94%	16:1

The University of Kentucky's dedication to a safe, welcoming, and celebratory environment is on full display from the application process to graduation. The school boasts admissions officers with specific training in helping LGBTQ students apply to the university and counseling staff to help them make the transition (including dedicated trans-inclusive counselors). LGBTQ campus police liaisons help students feel safe, and there is a special graduation ceremony for LGBTQ students and their allies.

4. University of Massachusetts - Amherst

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$15,791	Amherst, MA	64%	82%	90%	17:1

We found the University of Massachusetts - Amherst's Stonewall Center to be one of the most impressive LGBTQ centers of any on our list. This thriving community offers LGBTQ workshops for all students, a wonderful variety of support groups, dedicated trans resources, and Queer-e, a newspaper with a readership of over 2,000. First-year students can also participate in a robust mentorship program where they experience guidance, friendship, and identity development.

5. DePauw University

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$50,278	Greencastle, IN	64%	84%	99%	8:1

DePauw University's Center for Diversity and Inclusion offers a wide range of resources for LGBTQ students, including counseling, trans sports teams, and alumni engagement. The LGBTQIA+ Advisory Board also meets every month to make sure the school is doing everything it can to support students. The on-campus Rainbow Community provides a living and socializing space where LGBTQ students are surrounded by like-minded students and supportive advocates.

6. Indiana University - Bloomington

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$9,575	Bloomington, IN	78%	79%	84%	16:1

The LGBTQ+ Culture Center at Indiana University - Bloomington has been going strong for nearly 30 years now and that rich history informs the resources it offers today. Students can access a range of special scholarships to pay for school, find queer and trans mentors, and connect with LGBTQ-friendly employers in the area. The school has shown a commitment to supporting LGBTQ students by including 'sexual orientation,' 'gender identity,' and 'gender identity or expression' to its non-discrimination policies, by giving transgender and genderqueer students special housing opportunities, and by adding lots of gender-inclusive restrooms across campus.

7. Kansas State University

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$9,375	Manhattan, KS	95%	65%	88%	18:1

Kansas State University's commitment to LGBTQ support impressed us -- students here can join a host of thriving student organizations, including the Kansas State University Sexuality and Gender Alliance (SAGA), Out in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (oSTEM), and the Gender Collective, all of which offer solidarity, academic support, and places of acceptance. K-State also offers an LGBTQ studies program, LGBTQ career services, and inclusivity training programs for all faculty and staff at the university.

8. University of New Hampshire

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$15,520	Durham, NH	84%	76%	90%	17:1

The University of New Hampshire's Inclusive Excellence Strategic Plan is a comprehensive initiative to recruit more diversity, redesign academics to be more inclusive, and create a campus climate that's welcoming. It's been the school's overarching goal since 2010 and it's working -- more LGBTQ students attend than ever before, the academics now include queer and gender studies, and students land at a campus with a wealth of LGBTQ student clubs and gender-inclusive housing.

9. Kent State University at Kent

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$10,602	Kent, OH	86%	62%	96%	20:1

Kent State University at Kent landed in the top ten thanks to an abundance of resources and student organizations it offers LGBTQ students. These include the QUEST mentorship program, PRIDE!Kent, Trans*Fusion, Threads (for LGBTQ students of color), and an LGBTQ Emergency Fund that helps struggling students. Allies get involved with LGBTQ causes through events like the Rainbow Run and students have a chance to celebrate their achievements at the Lavender Graduation.

10. University of Arizona

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$11,299	Tucson, AZ	85%	65%	91%	15:1

The University of Arizona deserves kudos for all of the steps it's taken to create an environment where LGBTQ students can grow. Aside from SafeZone, a campus-wide training program for staff and students, Arizona offers student organizations like Pride Alliance, MedPride-Gay/Straight Medical Student Alliance, and Delta Lambda Phi, a fraternity for gay, bisexual, and allied men. Students also benefit from the campus' Institute for LGBT Studies where they can contribute to research, advocacy, and leadership in the fight for equality around the world.

11. University of Louisville

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$11,732	Louisville, KY	69%	59%	98%	14:1

At the University of Louisville, you'll find the Bayard Rustin LGBT and Social Justice Themed Living Community where LGBTQ students (and anyone interested in social justice) can find a community that fosters inclusion, activism, and inspiration. Prospective students can take part in Cardinal OUTlook Day that showcases the many support services the school offers, such as LGBTQ-affirming health services and student clubs like the LGBTQ+ Writing Group, Shades (for students of color), Lambda Law Caucus, and Inside Out, an exemplary support group for LGBTQ students.

12. Oregon State University

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$9,846	Corvallis, OR	82%	67%	85%	18:1

Oregon State University's dedicated LGBTQ Services Office does a fantastic job of supporting the social, academic, and cultural needs of its LGBTQ community by reaching out to prospective students, helping new students transition to college life, and educating all students and staff about the importance of acceptance. At the OSU Pride Center, students will find gender-inclusive bathrooms, a queer history library, a full kitchen, and a lounge area for studying.

13. University of Vermont

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$16,392	Burlington, VT	67%	77%	96%	16:1

The University of Vermont has made LGBTQ students a priority from the admissions process all the way to the Rainbow Graduation. UVM actively recruits LGBTQ students through unique admissions fairs and then provides incredible support through LGBTQ living-learning communities, gender-inclusive bathrooms, affirming healthcare services, and the Meezan-Brittenback Student Emergency Fund, which offers assistance for students with urgent needs.

14. Pennsylvania State University

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$17,416	State College, PA	76%	71%	73%	15:1

LGBTQ students at Penn State love the affirming and safe atmosphere on campus and it's not hard to see why. There are the Straight Talks Peer Education Program where all students and faculty are educated on LGTBQ issues, the Ally House living and learning community, the Queer Peers mentoring program, and the LGBTQA Student Roundtable where students participate in advocacy, leadership, and social outreach. Penn State is particularly strong when it comes to student organizations, too -- Queer and Transgender People of Color, Opulence, OutLaw, and Out & Allies in Business all have thriving chapters on campus.

15. Syracuse University

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$52,210	Syracuse, NY	44%	83%	82%	15:1

The Syracuse University LGBTQ Resource Center is a leader not just on campus but throughout the entire region as it provides educational programs and opportunities and embarks on advocacy across New York. Students and the community participate in LGBTQ History Month, the Trans Day of Remembrance, Trans Week of Liberation, and major conferences like Creating Change. Students on-campus benefit from resources like Pronoun Competency Workshops, SafeZone, and the Inclusive Dialogue program, which facilitates communication, collaboration, and understanding between students from all walks of life.

16. Eastern Michigan University

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$13,658	Ypsilanti, MI	74%	46%	96%	14:1

Eastern Michigan University has been recognized as one of the most inclusive campuses in the state and it's well deserved. We found the support services to be robust (LGBTQ-affirming healthcare, gender-inclusive restrooms, LGBTQ-exclusive housing, counseling services, and a preferred name policy), but we were particularly impressed with the LGBTQ community here. Student organizations and events are really active -- Coming Out Being Out helps students with their identities, the Queer and Trans People of Color Collective provides advocacy opportunities, and the Binder Exchange Program helps students align their bodies with their identities.

17. University of Oregon

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$10,440	Eugene, OR	82%	74%	77%	17:1

The University of Oregon's reputation as one of the most LGBTQ-friendly schools in America is truly earned. The university offers a huge range of support services, such as prospective student outreach, support for transitioning to college life, thriving student groups, and campus-wide LGTBQ training. LGBTQIA+ Scholars and the Gender Equity Hall offer two living spaces for LGBTQ students and the LGBTQA3 office provides a safe place to relax, study, and hang out.

18. Montclair State University

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$12,082	Montclair, NJ	76%	67%	83%	17:1

Montclair State University gives students so many ways to connect, grow, and advocate. Students can pursue degrees in Gender, Sexuality, and Women's studies and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer studies. They can also live in the LGBTQ+ Residential Community or Stonewall Suites and get involved in a wealth of clubs like Q-mmunity, Beyond Binaries, Queer and/or Trans People of Color (QTPoC), and Transcending Boundaries.

19. University of Nebraska at Kearney

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$6,124	Kearney, NE	85%	56%	94%	13:1

The University of Nebraska at Kearney offers an LGBTQ studies program and LGBTQ courses for students from any major, plus SafeZone training for faculty and campus police. Even professionals who work in the dorms, cafeterias, and support centers get training. UNK also promotes inclusive policies and simple ways for students to express their identities in school records by choosing their name, preferred pronouns, and sex. LGBTQ-specific career services help students find internships and employment.

20. Washington State University

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$9,953	Pullman, WA	76%	60%	89%	16:1

The Gender Identity/Expression and Sexual Orientation Resource Center at Washington State University is the hub from which LGBTQ students can connect with resources, find supportive clubs, network with alumni, and report any behavior on campus that makes them uncomfortable. The campus boasts gender-inclusive locker rooms and bathrooms, dedicated trans student resources, ally training, and Q*Hort, a dynamic and thriving student organization for LGBTQ students, faculty, and staff.

21. The Ohio State University

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$10,197	Columbus, OH	54%	86%	79%	19:1

The Ohio State University offers incredibly comprehensive support for LGBTQ students. They have:

• Strict, enforced policies in place to combat discrimination
• Clear procedures and repercussions for reporting bias incidents
• Campus police, staff, and faculty training in LGBTQ issues
• Dedicated LGBTQ counselors
• LGBTQ studies program
• Lavender Graduation
• LGBTQ recruitment fairs
• Inclusive housing and roommate matching

Students also benefit from a huge variety of student groups, including Dental Pride Alliance, LGBT and Allies in Medicine, Pride Veterinary Medical Community, Trans*Mission, and Gamma Rho Lambda (GRL), to name just a few.

22. American University

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$49,070	Washington, DC	36%	79%	75%	11:1

American University's Center for Diversity and Inclusion is a beautiful space where LGBTQ and ally students can come together to hang out, get help, and connect with resources. There are workshops for understanding identity, affinity group mixers (like the Bisexual Chat and Chew), community-building events, and educational resources. Here, students can be referred to LGBTQ therapists at the AU Counseling Center, get affirming healthcare at the Health Promotion and Advocacy Center, and take part in committees that promote inclusion on campus like Queer and Trans People of Color, Queer and Progressive Men, the Queer Women's Advocacy Committee, and the Trans and Non-Binary Collective.

23. University of California - Davis

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$11,442	Davis, CA	39%	87%	66%	20:1

Students at the University of California - Davis designed The Out List, an all-encompassing catalog of students, faculty, and staff who identify as gay, lesbian, transgender, bisexual, queer, asexual, or intersex--all to help them connect, find mentorship opportunities, and offer support. It's helped build a powerful voice for promoting acceptance on campus, led to more support from the university, and built a great network of organizations, including BlackOUT, Athlete Ally, Ace Club, La Familia, SameLOVE, and more.

24. Hofstra University

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$46,450	Hempstead, NY	68%	65%	97%	13:1

To better its campus, Hofstra University created the Intercultural Engagement and Inclusion (IEI), a centralized group that promotes awareness, advocacy, and unity. Thanks to IEI, Hofstra boasts Q-mmunity, a training program for LGBTQ terminology and issues, queer mentoring programs, and student organizations like The Pride Network, the Gender Identity Alliance (GIA), and Queer and Trans People of Color Coalition.

25. University of Pennsylvania

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$51,156	Philadelphia, PA	8%	96%	59%	6:1

The University of Pennsylvania is a leader in LGBTQ scholarship and research, with degree programs in LGBTQ Studies and Gender, Sexuality, & Women's Studies, plus the PennLGBTC Library and the Penn Program on Sexuality, Technology & Action Research. Penn's LGBTQ support goes beyond scholarship, too -- students can access LGBTQ mentor programs, attend weekly events, and join diverse student groups, such as the Association for Queer International Students, J-BAGEL (Jewish Bisexuals, Gays, and Lesbians), and LambdaVets.

26. University of Northern Colorado

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$7,596	Greeley, CO	91%	52%	93%	17:1

The Gender & Sexuality Resource Center at the University of Northern Colorado offers two hangout areas for students, in-house counseling services, a full kitchen, an LGBTQ library, and even a garden where students grow fruits and vegetables together. UNC also boasts thriving LGBTQ affinity groups, a Coming Out Week, a robust GSRC mentoring program, SpeakOUT panels, and educational training for students, faculty, and staff.

27. University of Wisconsin - Madison

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$9,273	Madison, WI	54%	88%	61%	17:1

The University of Wisconsin - Madison got high marks from us thanks to LGBTQ-affirming anti-discrimination policies and its Preferred Name Policy, which makes it easy for students to register their preferred name and pronouns at the school. Students also thrive at this university thanks to a well-implemented peer mentoring program, Open House (LGBTQ and Ally housing), and flourishing student organizations like Out for Business, Q-Grads, and oSTEM.

28. The University of Texas at Dallas

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$13,442	Dallas, TX	79%	70%	78%	25:1

Founded 15 years ago, the Gender Center at The University of Texas at Dallas has affected tremendous change to help make the school more inclusive and welcoming to LGBTQ students. Today, it's the vibrant heart of LGBTQ affairs on campus; students can hook up with organizations like the Queer and Trans Action Group (QTAG), participate in National Coming Out Day, go on an Alternative Spring Break, and join The Rainbow Guard, UTD's LGBTQ advocacy group.

29. Princeton University

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$51,870	Princeton, NJ	6%	98%	63%	5:1

Princeton offers many of the pillars of support we've talked about here -- LGBTQ counseling, gender-inclusive housing, and gathering places like the Carl A. Fields Center for Equality and Cultural Understanding and the Women*s Center. But where the school really shines is the number and diversity of student organizations, which is a testament to the campus climate. Among many others, you'll find blaQT+ for black LGBTQ students, Home Away From Home for international LGBTQ students, PULPO LGBT+ for Latinx LGBTQ students, the Queer Quorum FLI Forum for first-year/low-income LGBTQ students, and Queering Faith for students interested in the intersection of spirituality and identity.

30. Lehigh University

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$54,790	Bethlehem, PA	32%	90%	69%	9:1

Lehigh University shows unwavering dedication to helping its LGBTQ students become their best selves, both with its inclusive policies and community-building efforts. Through the Pride Center, students can connect with peer-led support groups (TGNC, SPEAK, Coming Out, QTPOC, BPFQ, ACE), join a student club (Spectrum, SPEAK Peer Educators, Greek Allies, Prism, Athlete Ally), work with friends in the LUally educational programs, and get support in finding scholarships to help pay for college.

31. Oberlin College

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$55,976	Oberlin, OH	36%	86%	88%	9:1

Oberlin College's Gender, Sexuality, and Feminist Studies department (and degree program) is well-regarded across the country as a bastion of the values of inclusion, acceptance, and exploration of identity expression. Baldwin Cottage houses the Women and Trans* Collective as well, a unique living-learning environment that fosters academic and personal growth.

32. Guilford College

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$37,920	Greensboro, NC	75%	56%	100%	12:1

Guilford College offers free gender-therapy consultations, gender-inclusive housing, a Trans and Gender Non-Binary Committee, a Lavender Graduation, and a range of other affirming initiatives. This small liberal arts school also has a compassionate discrimination reporting policy, a robust Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Department, and a powerful student organization called Guilford College PRIDE.

33. University of Iowa

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$8,073	Iowa City, IA	83%	72%	85%	16:1

The University of Iowa has a long tradition of supporting the LGBTQ cause -- it boasts the first queer student organization (Gay Liberation Front, formed in 1970) and was the nation's first institution of higher learning to extend insurance benefits to domestic partners (1993). That student organization is still around (Spectrum UI) but it's been joined by all sorts of inclusivity initiatives including the Rainbow Graduation Ceremony, EQUAL Meds, Reaching Out in Business, and the UI Trans Alliance.

34. Colorado State University - Fort Collins

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$9,426	Fort Collins, CO	81%	70%	79%	14:1

The Pride Resource Center at Colorado State University - Fort Collins focuses on nurturing the whole human when it comes to its LGBTQ students. Services include LGBTQ-exclusive mental health counseling, mindfulness workshops, help for finding a community (Queer Connections), advice for how to get your finances in order (including emergency aid and scholarships), and ways to fill your calendars with fun, engaging, and growth-producing events throughout the school year.

35. Connecticut College

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$56,540	New London, CT	37%	84%	94%	9:1

Connecticut College built the LGBTQIA Center on campus to help create awareness about phobias and give LGBTQ and allied students a place to study, relax, and socialize. At the center, students can find fellowship, connect with the campus' LGBTQ health, academic, financial, and living resources, or join one of the many thriving student groups (CQ2: Connecticut College Queer & Questioning, QTPOC: Queer & Trans People of Color and PRISM).

36. University of California - Riverside

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$11,442	Riverside, CA	57%	76%	85%	22:1

The LGBT Resource Center at the University of California - Riverside has become famous for its Tuesday Talks, which have been a tradition since 1998. At the event, students, faculty, and staff discuss a rotating range of topics, including things like Gender Presentation in Fashion, Labels & Language, Faith Talk, and Coming Out Stories. T Camp is another unique initiative; its goal is to bring together transgender, genderqueer, or gender questioning on a retreat for fun activities and personal growth.

37. Southern Illinois University - Carbondale

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$9,638	Carbondale, IL	66%	48%	95%	12:1

Southern Illinois University - Carbondale landed on our list thanks to a school-wide initiative that introduces more diversity into every degree's curriculum, makes the campus a safer place, and strives for equality for all students called Inclusive Excellence. The LGBTQ Resource Center is another branch of the school's diversity mission and it's the place where LGBTQ students and allies can go to connect with the QM mentoring program, participate in advocacy, and find a safe space to hang out.

38. Stanford University

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$52,857	Stanford, CA	4%	94%	70%	5:1

Stanford University boasts LGBTQ-friendly policies, robust ally training programs, gender-inclusive housing, and the incredible QT Umbrella Assistance Fund, which helps students afford gender-affirming medical services, legal fees for name changes, and mental health counseling. We were particularly impressed with the school's LGBTQ resource center, QSpot -- its dedicated team is constantly planning fun and meaningful events, such as queer video game club, visits from LGBTQ icons, Queer Jeopardy, and Crossword Chill.

39. University of Nebraska - Lincoln

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$7,560	Lincoln, NE	78%	66%	91%	17:1

The LGBTQIA+ Center at the University of Nebraska - Lincoln is the core of the LGBTQ community on campus where students can find volunteer opportunities, get help with transitioning into college life, participate in special events, get involved with peer mentoring, visit an LGBTQ library, and have a safe hangout space. It's also home to the Lavender Closet Clothing Exchange, which offers free and discreet access to clothes and accessories that affirm a student's gender.

40. Macalester College

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$56,062	St. Paul, MN	32%	91%	83%	10:1

Through its Gender & Sexuality Resource Center (GSRC), Macalester College offers an impressive variety of resources for LGBTQ students. There's Scot's Pride, an alumni group that supports current students and the Out & Proud Faculty & Staff Community where students can connect with faculty and staff who are part of the LGBTQ community. You'll also find a diverse range of other types of LGBTQ support programs and groups, such as the Identity Collectives (Trans Identity Collective (TrIC), Queer Women's Identity Collective (QWIC), the Multisexual and Multiromantic Identity Collective (M&M), and more.

41. University of Washington - Seattle Campus

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$10,370	Seattle, WA	52%	84%	57%	20:1

For over 20 years, the Q Center has been supporting students with services like legal name changes, assimilating to college life, exploring identity, and spearheading the Safer Zone Project, an initiative that helps end discrimination on campus. It also publishes CampusQ , a monthly newsletter that unites and informs LGBTQ students and the community.

42. University of Maryland - College Park

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$8,824	College Park, MD	44%	87%	66%	18:1

Students whose lives have been changed by the LGBT Equity Center at the University of Maryland - College Park rave about the inclusive sense of community it fosters, the resources they were offered, and the welcome they received. Some of the things that make UMD's LGBTQ commitment special include the campus-wide Quelcome event, the Q Camp community-building retreat, and the Lavender Leadership Honor Society, which provides invaluable leadership opportunities.

43. Dartmouth College

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$55,605	Hanover, NH	8%	95%	62%	7:1

Dartmouth College's Office of Pluralism and Leadership boasts several unique programs that create a safe space and foster growth for LGBTQ students. The Partnerships in Pride initiative offers mentors, the LGBTQIA+ Social is a meet-and-greet for new and returning students, and events like Transgender Awareness Week, Dartmouth PRIDE, and LGBTQIA+ History Month promote acceptance across the campus.

44. New York University

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$50,684	New York City, NY	16%	85%	52%	9:1

New York University has done a tremendous job making sure LGBTQ students feel safe, accepted, and prepared for success. Some of the fantastic resources on offer here include the LGBTQ+ Center Lounge, the First Year Queers and Allies, and Keshet (for Jewish LGBTQ students). The university also has discipline-specific groups like the AQUA: Allies & Queers for Understanding and Awareness for students in dentistry and the Tisch Queer Artist Guild for those wanting a fellow community of LGBTQ artists.

45. Michigan State University

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$14,460	East Lansing, MI	71%	81%	70%	16:1

Michigan State University's Lesbian Bisexual Gay and Transgender Resource Center works to empower LGBTQ students on campus to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. It does this through engaging workshops, campus-wide LGBTQ celebrations, and the bimonthly Meeting of the Minds where LGBTQ students can help shape the school's policies and plan events.

46. Yale University

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$55,500	New Haven, CT	6%	97%	64%	6:1

Yale University is known as one of the country's top schools academically, but it's also made great strides in serving its LGBTQ students. Through the Office of LGBTQ Resources, Yalies can find inclusive classrooms and bathrooms, find gender-affirming clothing at the Closet Clothing Swap, and hook up with unique groups like W{holy} Queer (for spiritual LGBTQ students), Not-So-Straight Frosh (for first-year students), and The Bad Romantics, Yale's acclaimed drag troupe.

47. University of Chicago

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$57,642	Chicago, IL	6%	95%	57%	5:1

The Center for Identity + Inclusion at the University of Chicago offers Queer 101 Orientation to help new students get acquainted with the school's vibrant and diverse LGBTQ scene. There, they learn about the many student clubs, get familiar with the LGBTQ library, and fill their calendars with social events. The Center for Identity + Inclusion also works with other student support offices to offer LGBTQ-specific resources like food security programs , an FLI (First-Generation, Lower-Income, and/or Immigrant) network, and Student Advisory Councils.

48. Brown University

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$57,112	Providence, RI	7%	96%	56%	6:1

In 2004, the LGBTQ Center joined the groundbreaking Sarah Doyle Center for Women and Gender in providing emotional support, advocacy, and acceptance for LGBTQ students on campus. Brown offers the LGBTQ Community Leadership Award to outstanding students and is a member of the Consortium of Higher Education LGBT Resource Professionals, which is an outstanding indication of its dedication to fighting for equality in sexual expression and gender identity.

49. Williams College

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$56,970	Williamstown, MA	13%	95%	63%	6:1

LGBTQ students have three places to go for support at Williams College: the Davis Center, Engagement Fellows, and the Gender Sexuality Resource Center. Together, they give students a comprehensive variety of programs and resources to make their college experience a time of personal growth and academic achievement. Resources for LGBTQ students include Engender Integrated Wellness Services, the Bisexual, Gay, Lesbian, and Transgender Alumni Network (BiGLATA), and the Dively Committee for Human Sexuality & Diversity.

50. Kenyon College

Tuition	Location	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Student-Faculty Ratio
$58,570	Gambier, OH	34%	91%	47%	9:1

We were impressed by the Kenyon College LGBTQ community and the school's institutional commitment to LGBTQ students. Kenyon offers a women and gender studies degree program, incorporates queer courses into many of its other degrees, and is host to the influential Kenyon Queer and Trans Studies Conference. Students benefit from over 70 gender-neutral bathrooms, LGBTQ+ inclusive athletics, and diverse student clubs (Queer Masculinities Society, Qdubs, Queer and Trans Literary Society, Kenyon College's Gay and Lesbian Alumni).

To get a more in-depth look at our school ranking methodology, please visit our ranking methodology page.