Some colleges have a reputation for academics, and others have a reputation for being party schools. But the two things aren’t mutually exclusive, and it’s entirely possible to choose a college where you can get a quality education and have fun at the same time. We’ve compiled this list of the best colleges known for having a fun atmosphere and lively party scene to keep you busy outside of class.
Why This Matters
For many students, going to college is their first time leaving home. It is a chance to meet new people, try new things, and have classic college experiences like joining a fraternity or sorority. Going to a party school can make it easier to find those opportunities because of the number of on-campus students and the frequency of parties.
The best party schools are large, including many public universities. They may be less academically rigorous than other colleges, so students can spend less time studying and focus more on fraternity and sorority life and extracurricular activities.
Some parties are unofficial and are not endorsed by the college or university, but other activities, like sporting events, may also be part of the party culture. For those looking for fun, there’s usually something to do every night of the week.
Our Ranking Criteria
Party schools can be found in every part of the country but differ widely in terms of size, tuition, and the academic programs offered. We reviewed more than 80 colleges in the U.S. to arrive at this list of the 19 best party schools. We primarily relied on information available on each school’s website and made sure that each school was accredited by a reputable association and would confer a nationally recognized degree.
The 19 Best Party Schools
1. University of California, Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara’s coastal location and pleasant year-round weather make it an attractive option for many college students. True to its progressive nature, the school maintains a Community Relations Committee to stay on good terms with year-round residents and a “Life of the Party” organization that promotes safe partying habits. There’s no football team and only a small Greek life scene, so expect relaxed West Coast vibes ranging from house parties to dodgeball tournaments.
- Location: Santa Barbara, CA
- Intelligent Score: 99.69
- Average Tuition: In-State: $4,382 per quarter; non-resident: $15,782 per quarter
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
- Student Enrollment: 23,459
2. Syracuse University
While many party schools focus on the football scene, Syracuse University is home to a successful basketball team and epic March Madness parties. Regular events include a Juice Jam outdoor concert, a Mayfest spring party, and dozens of fraternity and sorority parties throughout the year. Local bars also offer happy hours and beer tours catering to Syracuse students old enough to buy a drink.
- Location: Syracuse, NY
- Intelligent Score: 99.01
- Average Tuition: $1,785-$1,913 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Student Enrollment: 15,421
3. University of Southern California
The University of Southern California (USC) is widely known for its vibrant social scene and active Greek life, with around 20 percent of students participating in fraternities and sororities. USC hosts numerous large-scale events and festivals, such as a spirited rally leading up to the USC vs. UCLA football game, featuring concerts, fireworks, and student performances. The school’s prime location in Los Angeles further enriches its social atmosphere, providing access to city nightlife, cultural events, and beach outings.
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
- Intelligent Score: 97.66
- Average Tuition: $1,941-$2,912 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
- Student Enrollment: 20,699
4. Florida State University
Florida State University is known for its tailgating parties, including the Garnet & Gold Tailgate, hosted by the Division of Student Affairs. With over 50 fraternities and sororities and a prime Tallahassee location, students can find something to do every night of the week. Plus, FSU is a well-known research university, so you don’t have to choose between an active social life and a rigorous academic program.
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Intelligent Score: 96.20
- Average Tuition: In-State: $215 per credit hour; Out-of-State: $721 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Student Enrollment: 32,936
5. University of Georgia
The University of Georgia is based in Athens and maintains a strong football rivalry with the University of Florida, providing plenty of opportunities for tailgating parties. One of the year’s biggest events is the Pajama Jam, a fundraising party thrown by Zeta Pi Alpha to benefit the March of Dimes. Students who aren’t into sports or Greek life will still find a lot to do in downtown Athens, where live music events occur every night.
- Location: Athens, GA
- Intelligent Score: 96.13
- Average Tuition: In-State: $334-$369 per credit hour; Out-of-State: $1,009-$1,154 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Student Enrollment: 30,714
6. University of Wisconsin-Madison
With more than 36,000 students and 9,000+ courses to choose from, the University of Wisconsin strikes the right balance between nightlife and academic life. Students can catch a film at the Lakeside Cinema, enjoy live music at the Memorial Union Terrace, or watch Badgers games at the beer hall. Other options include an active fraternity and sorority scene and annual events like the Mifflin Street Block Party and Brat Fest.
- Location: Madison, WI
- Intelligent Score: 95.95
- Average Tuition: In-State: $322-$405 per credit hour; Out-of-State: $1,169-$1,252 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Student Enrollment: 36,306
7. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Students who aren’t old enough to drink can still enter bars in Champaign and Urbana, making it easier to participate in the nightlife than at some other colleges. The U of I has earned its spot as one of the top party schools with almost 100 fraternities and sororities, a Big Ten football team, and the Quad Day annual fair. Students can also join Illini Pride to cheer on athletes at home and away games.
- Location: Urbana, IL
- Intelligent Score: 95.81
- Average Tuition: In-State: $4242 per credit hour; Out-of-State: $1,062 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Student Enrollment: 35,120
8. Tulane University
Tulane University is a private university in New Orleans, where students can participate in annual events such as Crawfest and, of course, Mardi Gras. With a high percentage of students participating in Greek life, there is no shortage of parties to attend. That said, classes are hard, and many students pursue double and even triple majors, so don’t expect to put the books away entirely.
- Location: New Orleans, LA
- Intelligent Score: 94.87
- Average Tuition: $2,145-$2,683 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Student Enrollment: 8,785
9. The University of Alabama
The University of Alabama greets new students with Weeks of Welcome, giving them a fun and festive introduction to life in Tuscaloosa. You’ll find plenty of college bars and an active football scene with tailgating parties and pre-game traditions. A third of students are involved in a fraternity or sorority, while the SOURCE (the Division of Student Life) makes it easy to form your own organization or host an on-campus event.
- Location: Tuscaloosa, AL
- Intelligent Score: 94.75
- Average Tuition: In-State: $465 per credit hour; Out-of-State: $1,470
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Student Enrollment: 32,458
10. Howard University
Howard University combines a strong academic reputation with a lively social scene. Known for its vibrant Greek life, Howard hosts several fraternities and sororities that contribute to a dynamic campus culture. Major events like the annual Homecoming celebration draw large crowds and feature concerts, fashion shows, and step shows, celebrating Black culture and community. Howard’s location in the heart of the nation’s capital gives students access to diverse nightlife, cultural events, and entertainment options, making it a prime destination for students seeking both academic and social engagement.
- Location: Washington, D.C.
- Intelligent Score: 94.74
- Average Tuition: $1,370 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Student Enrollment: 9,809
11. West Virginia University
West Virginia University has more than 19,000 undergraduates, around a quarter of whom live on campus, giving Morgantown an active party life. WVU kicks off the year with FallFest, a multi-day event that has featured major musical acts like Kanye West and Maroon 5. The party scene revolves around football and basketball games, as well as traditions like Mountaineer Week, with a craft fair, singing competition, and square dances.
- Location: Morgantown, WV
- Intelligent Score: 94.73
- Average Tuition: In-State: $362 per credit hour; Out-of-State: $1,133 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Student Enrollment: 19,059
12. Pennsylvania State University
Penn State has more than 275 majors and 20 academic colleges, making it a well-respected research institution in addition to its reputation as a party school. Although it has several campuses located throughout the state, the University Park campus is the largest, with up to 40,000 undergraduates living there during the school year. Activities include frat parties, tailgating parties, live music, and pub trivia nights at local college bars.
- Location: University Park, PA
- Intelligent Score: 94.09
- Average Tuition: In-State: $820-1,051 per credit hour; Out-of-State: $1,651-$1,950 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Student Enrollment: 41,745
13. University of Massachusetts Amherst
The University of Massachusetts Amherst is renowned for its lively social scene, strong Greek life presence, and frequent campus events that draw large student participation. Known for hosting annual festivities like Blarney Blowout, a St. Patrick’s Day-themed celebration, UMass Amherst offers plenty of opportunities for socializing and entertainment. Its location in the picturesque Pioneer Valley also provides access to off-campus leisure activities, making it a popular choice for students seeking a balance of academics and a dynamic social experience.
- Location: Amherst, MA
- Intelligent Score: 94.04
- Average Tuition: In-State: $708 per credit hour; Out-of-State: $1,653 per credit hour
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Student Enrollment: 24,391
14. Vanderbilt University
Vanderbilt University combines rigorous academics with an active social scene, largely supported by its vibrant Greek life, with about 23 percent of students participating in fraternities and sororities. Vanderbilt’s annual Rites of Spring music festival is a major campus event, bringing well-known artists to campus for a weekend of concerts and festivities. Located in Nashville, the university gives students access to dynamic nightlife and renowned live music venues, and it is a top pick for students seeking a balanced blend of scholarly and social life.
- Location: Nashville, TN
- Intelligent Score: 92.40
- Average Tuition: $2,709 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Student Enrollment: 7,151
15. Ohio State University
Ohio State University (OSU) is known for its lively social atmosphere, amplified by an active Greek life and a fervent sports culture. The university’s Block Party tailgates, especially before Buckeye football games, are major social events drawing large student crowds. OSU also hosts events like Welcome Week and Homecoming, which feature concerts, parades, and celebrations. Situated in Columbus, OSU students benefit from the city’s vibrant nightlife and numerous entertainment options.
- Location: Columbus, OH
- Intelligent Score: 92.11
- Average Tuition: $383-$507 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Student Enrollment: 46,123
16. University of Oklahoma
The University of Oklahoma (OU) is known for its dynamic campus life and school spirit, driven by a passionate Greek community and numerous social traditions. Major events like the annual Sooner Scandals, a musical and performance competition, and Homecoming Week, with its parades and pep rallies, are central to OU’s lively atmosphere. Located in Norman, the university also benefits from nearby Oklahoma City’s entertainment options, creating a well-rounded experience for students who seek academic rigor alongside active social engagement.
- Location: Norman, OK
- Intelligent Score: 91.14
- Average Tuition: In-State: $217 per credit hour; Out-of-State: $950 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Student Enrollment: 21,282
17. Ohio University
Located in Athens, OH, this party school is known for its beautiful riverside setting and annual Halloween festivities. Football games occur at the 28,000-seat Peden Stadium, while the 13,000-seat Convocation Center hosts basketball games and live music events. Other events include Fest Season, Homecoming, and Green Beer Day. Students can also head down to Court Street for pub crawls and other nightlife.
- Location: Athens, OH
- Intelligent Score: 91.14
- Average Tuition: In-State: $312-521 per credit hour; Out-of-State: $579-$966 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Student Enrollment: 18,113
18. University of Mississippi
The University of Mississippi ranks highly as a party school, with its prominent Greek life and a competitive athletics scene. Students will find house parties, college bars, and other opportunities to socialize every night of the week. In addition to nightlife, the Ford Center for the Performing Arts hosts live music and theater events, and Ole Miss Outdoors offers outdoor recreational activities and adventure trips.
- Location: University, MS
- Intelligent Score: 90.93
- Average Tuition: In-State: $385 per credit hour; Out-of-State: $1,117 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Student Enrollment: 17,302
19. University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati (UC) offers a vibrant social scene with a strong Greek life and various campus events. UC’s annual Red and Black Bash concert marks the start of each school year with live music and festivities, while Homecoming and Bearcat Fridays are other popular traditions that bring students together. Located in a bustling city, UC provides access to Cincinnati’s nightlife, entertainment venues, and festivals.
- Location: Cincinnati, OH
- Intelligent Score: 90.10
- Average Tuition: $377-$513 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Student Enrollment: 29,663
What Are the Benefits of Attending A Party School?
One of the main benefits of attending a party school is the fun and camaraderie. But it’s not all about nightlife. Many party schools provide various social activities, from sporting events to art and music festivals. Here are a few other benefits of attending a party school:
- Athletics. Party schools often have competitive athletics programs and a strong sense of school spirit, with game day traditions such as tailgating parties.
- Community. Many party schools are located in urban centers or college towns, so many people you’ll meet will be affiliated with the college. This can be less isolating than attending a school with a small campus.
- Social life. If you’re considering joining a fraternity or sorority, you’ll have more options at a party school than at many other colleges.
- More free time. You still have to attend classes at a party school, but you may not have to do as much studying as you would at other institutions.
What Are the Disadvantages of Attending A Party School?
Attending a party school can distract you from focusing on your academic career, impacting your grades and career prospects. While socializing is an important part of the college experience, partying can be hard on your health and your wallet.
Not all students at party schools choose to participate in party culture, but there may be more pressure to drink, do drugs, and hook up than at other schools. Living on-campus at a party school may make getting a good night’s sleep harder, especially if you participate in a fraternity or sorority. Party schools also have high rates of drug and alcohol use.
Ultimately, though, how frequently you choose to party is up to you. If you think a party school will be too distracting, then it may not be for you. Many other colleges have a lively social scene where you can party occasionally, but not always.
Who Should Attend A Party School?
Party schools aren’t for everyone, and finding a balance between school and social life can be challenging. Introverts may find campus life too overwhelming, and students enrolled in an academically rigorous program such as pre-med may find that joining a fraternity or sorority doesn’t leave enough time for studying.
On the other hand, if you want to make the most of your college experience and you have enough self-control to stay on top of your studies, then attending a party school may be a good choice for you. It can be an opportunity to improve your social skills, build new relationships, and meet people worldwide.
Know your boundaries, monitor your budget, and avoid letting the party scene interfere with your coursework or health.
Interested in a degree instead?
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