From Worst to Best: 50 US College Parties Ranked

Ah, college: a whirlwind of learning, late-night adventures, and mastering the delicate art of attending 8 AM classes on two hours of sleep. It’s the ultimate limbo between being carded at R-rated movies and navigating adulthood, complete with impromptu pizza parties and epic tales of dorm life. And then, there are the parties—those legendary nights that refuse to bow down to the digital age’s attempt at social takeover. Believe it or not, 60% of students are still hitting the social drinking scene hard, finding solace and camaraderie among red cups and dance beats.

But let’s cut to the chase: not all college parties are created equal. Some schools have got this party thing down to a science, earning them gold stars (or should we say solo cups?) from Niche for their party prowess, while others… well, let’s just say they’re still figuring out which end of the party popper to aim at the ceiling. From bar access and athletic fervor to Greek life and unfiltered student reviews, we’ve ranked the crème de la crème of America’s party scene. So, grab your party hats (or study lamps for the bookworms among us) and join us on a snarky, side-eyed look from the not-so-great gatherings all the way up to the party pantheon. Will your alma mater be among the elite in the top ten, or are you just hoping it scraped into the top twenty? Let’s find out if your school’s party rep is truly all that or just a bunch of empty solo cups.

50. Clark Atlanta University

Location: Atlanta, GA
Number of undergraduates: 3,187
Student-to-faculty ratio: 20:1
Median earnings six years after graduation: $35,500
Overall Niche grade: F
Clark Atlanta University, a historically African American university with a rich heritage, offers a vibrant campus life. The university, formed from the merger of two separate schools in the 1930s, is known for its lively Homecoming celebrations, as highlighted by students on Niche. These events include sports games, concerts, and the esteemed Miss Clark Atlanta Coronation and Ball.

These celebrations blend cultural richness and community spirit, showcasing the university’s commitment to providing its students with an engaging and culturally enriching experience.

49. Howard University

Location: Washington, D.C.
Number of undergraduates: 6,090
Student-to-faculty ratio: 8:1
Median earnings six years after graduation: $49,200
Overall Niche grade: F
Howard University, a leading HBCU, boasts a vibrant social life, with Greek life playing a significant role. Although varsity sports are not the main focus, they contribute to the campus atmosphere.

The pinnacle of Howard’s social events is its homecoming, which embodies the university’s energy and community spirit, drawing students, alumni, and guests into celebrating Howard’s culture and heritage.

48. Loyola University New Orleans

Location: New Orleans, LA
Number of undergraduates: 2,446
Student-to-faculty ratio: 11:1
Median earnings six years after graduation: $47,100
Overall Niche grade: F
Loyola University New Orleans is in a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and penchant for celebration. New Orleans, emphasizing food, drink, and parades, offers a unique backdrop for college life.

However, Loyola’s Jesuit identity adds a distinctive dimension to its campus culture, possibly influencing its ranking. The university balances the vibrant local culture with its academic and spiritual values, providing students with a unique and enriching environment beyond traditional college experiences.

47. College of Charleston

Location: Charleston, SC
Number of undergraduates: 9,083
Student-to-faculty ratio: 15:1
Median earnings six years after graduation: $40,700
Overall Niche grade: F
Charleston, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, is home to the College of Charleston, where student life is as diverse as the city. The college town offers many activities, focusing on late-night culinary delights like chicken and waffles at 4 a.m.

The social scene in Charleston is bustling with various nightlife options, including bars, live music venues, and house parties, as reported by Niche. Students at the College of Charleston enjoy the unique combination of Southern charm and a lively urban atmosphere, making their college experience both culturally enriching and socially engaging.