🎓 American Colleges & University Finder
Search 6,000+ accredited US colleges — tuition, acceptance rates, enrollment and more.
Colleges and Universities in New York
New York — the Empire State — is home to 293 accredited colleges and universities, including 90 public institutions and 203 private schools. The state flagship, State University of New York, anchors a higher education landscape that ranges from large research universities in New York City to small liberal arts colleges across the state.
Use the college finder above to search every accredited institution in New York. Filter by tuition cost, institution type, acceptance rate, and more to build your 2026 college list.
Higher education in New York at a glance
- Total accredited colleges: 293
- Public universities: 90
- Private colleges: 203
- Flagship institution: State University of New York
- Largest higher-ed city: New York City
Types of colleges in New York
Public universities in New York are state-funded institutions that offer significantly reduced in-state tuition to New York residents. These schools are typically larger, with broad program offerings across undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees.
Private colleges in New York include both nonprofit institutions — which reinvest tuition revenue into academics and financial aid — and for-profit schools focused on career and technical programs. Private nonprofit colleges in New York often have smaller class sizes and more generous need-based aid packages than their published tuition suggests.
Frequently asked questions — colleges in New York
How many colleges are in New York?
There are 293 accredited colleges and universities in New York in the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard database, including 90 public and 203 private institutions.
What is the cheapest college in New York?
Community colleges in New York typically offer the lowest tuition — often under $5,000 per year for in-state students. Use the college finder above to find the most affordable options.
What is the largest university in New York?
State University of New York is among the largest and most well-known universities in New York. Search for it by name in the college finder above to view its full data profile.