Oldest Colleges in the US and historical campus are intriguing to students at home and abroad. What comes to your mind when mentioning the oldest colleges in US? The answers may be historical campuses, rich traditions, famous alumni and academic excellence. These oldest university in US not only reflect the evolution of US higher education but also inspire future advancements. Many oldst public schools have played an important role in American education, politics, and history. Countless successful alumni have contributed to the development of the colleges, inspiring students to study hard and pursue their dreams. Come and see what are the oldest colleges in America and how charming they are.
List of Top 15 Oldest Colleges in the US
We collect the top 15 oldest colleges in America with their latest information to help you learn about these prestigious institutions.
| University | Established | Location | Acceptance Rate | QS Ranking 2026 | Top Courses |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvard University | 1636 | Massachusetts | 3% | #5 | Computer Science, Economics, Political Science |
| College of William & Mary | 1693 | Williamsburg, Virginia | 33% | #1001–1200 | Law, Public Policy, Marine Science |
| St. John’s College | 1696 | Annapolis, MD | 50% | — | Mathematics, Philosophy |
| Yale University | 1701 | New Haven, CT | 5% | #21 | Political Science, Economics, Computer Science |
| University of Pennsylvania | 1740 | Philadelphia, PA | 7% | #15 | Biology, Finance, Political Science |
| University of Delaware | 1743 | Newark, DE | 72% | #553 | Engineering, Business, Environmental Studies |
| Princeton University | 1746 | Princeton, NJ | 6% | #25 | Computer Science, Molecular Biology, Business |
| Washington and Lee University | 1749 | Lexington, VA | 17% | — | Business Administration, Journalism, Law, Mass Communications |
| Columbia University | 1754 | New York, NY | 4% | #38 | Economics, Journalism, Political Science |
| Brown University | 1764 | Providence, RI | 5% | #69 | Computer Science, Biology, Creative Writing |
| Rutgers University | 1766 | New Brunswick, NJ | 66% | #328 | Psychology, Pharmacy, Computer Science |
| Dartmouth College | 1769 | Hanover, NH | 6% | #247 | Social Sciences, Engineering, Mathematics & Statistics |
| College of Charleston | 1770 | Charleston, SC | 76% | — | Speech Communication & Rhetoric, Psychology |
| Salem College | 1772 | Winston-Salem, NC | 81% | — | Biological & Biomedical Sciences, History |
1. Harvard University
Founded: 1636
The History: As the oldest college in the US, Harvard University was established by the Massachusetts Bay Colony and named after its first benefactor, John Harvard. It is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States and the birthplace of the Ivy League.
The Vibe Today: Competitive, intellectual, and historic. Students here are driven leaders. The campus feels like a living museum, yet it buzzes with cutting-edge research and intense academic debate.
Famous Alumni: Barack Obama, Mark Zuckerberg (dropout), Natalie Portman, Conan O’Brien.
Living in Harvard University: Harvard University has three campuses in Cambridge, Allston, and Boston. Cambridge is a vibrant mix of history and innovation. While living in “The Square” (Harvard Square) is iconic, it is also one of the most expensive rental markets in the country. Many students look for apartments in nearby Somerville or Allston to get more space and modern amenities for a better price.
2. College of William & Mary
Founded: 1693
The History: Ranking second on the list of the oldest colleges in the US, College of William and Mary was founded by a Royal Charter from King William III and Queen Mary II. It is known as the “Alma Mater of the Nation” because many American founding fathers studied here.
The Vibe Today: A “Public Ivy” that blends rigorous academics with a tight-knit community. The vibe is less cutthroat than other Ivies, focusing heavily on undergraduate research and public service.
Famous Alumni: Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe, Jon Stewart.
Living in College of William and Mary: Living here feels like stepping back in time. Colonial Williamsburg offers a picturesque backdrop, but the town is quiet. Rent is generally affordable compared to big cities, but housing near campus fills up fast due to the influx of tourists and history buffs.
3. St John’s College
Founded: 1696
The History: Originally founded as King William’s School, St. John’s is distinct among the oldest colleges in the US for its “Great Books” curriculum. It has a rich history of liberal arts education that has survived centuries of change.
The Vibe Today: St. John’s College is a Liberal Arts College with no traditional majors or textbooks. Students here read original works from Plato to Einstein. It attracts deep thinkers who love seminar-style discussions over large lectures.
Famous Alumni: Francis Scott Key (writer of the US National Anthem).
Living in St. John’s College: It has two campuses in Annapolis, Maryland and Santa Fe, New Mexico. Annapolis is a beautiful maritime city and the capital of Maryland. It offers a charming waterfront lifestyle with great seafood. Rents of student apartments near St. John’s College can be higher than average. Finding a spot within walking distance of campus often requires booking months in advance.
4. Yale University
Founded: 1701
The History: Founded as the “Collegiate School,” Yale University is the third-oldest institution in the Ivy League. It was named after university benefactor Elihu Yale, who served as Governor of the British East India Company.
The Vibe Today: Yale is famous for its Residential College system, which creates a “Harry Potter-esque” sense of community. The atmosphere is artsy, political, and deeply academic, with stunning Gothic architecture at every turn.
Famous Alumni: Meryl Streep, Hillary Clinton, Anderson Cooper.
Living in Yale: Located in New Haven, which is known as the “Pizza Capital of the World.” The city is a mix of urban grit and college town charm. While on-campus housing is popular, many upperclassmen choose off-campus apartments in downtown New Haven for better privacy, security, and modern facilities.
5. University of Pennsylvania
Founded: 1740
The History: Founded by Benjamin Franklin, the University of Pennsylvania claims to be the first university in America to offer both undergraduate and graduate studies. It revolutionized higher education by focusing on practical knowledge rather than just religion.
The Vibe Today: “Work hard, play hard.” As the home of the Wharton School, UPenn has a pre-professional, career-driven energy. Famous for its high-quality scientific research and rich scientific research results, the university is a vibrant place to live and study.
Famous Alumni: Elon Musk, John Legend, and Donald Trump.
Living in UPenn: UPenn is located in Philadelphia, a “University City,” a bustling urban district. Philadelphia offers a fantastic food scene and affordable living compared to NYC or Boston. Students often rent in high-rise apartments near campus or shared Victorian houses in West Philly.
6. Moravian College
Founded: 1742
The History: Moravian College, originally known as Bethlehem Seminary for Girls, was the first all-girls boarding school in the United States. Though less globally famous than the Ivies, Moravian holds a special place as the sixth-oldest college in the US.
The Vibe Today: The College has more than 50 academic programs and offers each incoming freshman the opportunity to do hands-on work on-site. A small, intimate liberal arts environment. The campus is known for its incredible Christmas traditions and a strong sense of community support.
Famous Alumni: John Gallaudet.
Living in Moravian College: Located in historic Bethlehem, PA (the “Christmas City”). It’s a safe, walkable, and very affordable town. Renting here is stress-free, with many budget-friendly options for students within walking distance of the historic downtown.
7. University of Delaware
Founded: 1743
The History: Its roots trace back to a small private academy founded by Rev. Francis Alison. It was founded as Newark College in 1743 and officially changed its name to the University of Delaware in 1921.
The Vibe Today: A classic American college experience. The “Blue Hens” spirit is strong, with a beautiful Georgian-style campus and a focus on research and engineering.
Famous Alumni: Joe Biden (46th US President), Jill Biden.
Living at the University of Delaware: the University of Delaware is located in Newark, DE, which is the quintessential college town. Main Street is the heart of student life, lined with cafes and shops. The university offers very limited housing, and many students choose to rent off-campus apartments with affordability.
8. Princeton University
Founded: 1746
The History: Originally the College of New Jersey, Princeton University is one of the “Colonial Colleges” founded before the American Revolution. It has consistently ranked as one of the top universities alongside its peers among the oldest colleges in the US.
The Vibe Today: Elite and undergraduate-focused. Unlike other Ivies, Princeton focuses heavily on its bachelor’s students. The “Eating Clubs” are a unique social tradition here. Princeton University Library is one of the largest academic libraries in North America and the world. Its campus is often cited as the most beautiful in America.
Famous Alumni: Michelle Obama, Jeff Bezos, F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Living in Princeton: Princeton is an affluent, quiet suburban town. It is safe and green but notoriously expensive. Off-campus housing is limited and pricey, so many graduate students look for rentals in nearby towns with shuttle access.
9. Washington and Lee University
Founded: 1749
The History: Named after two major figures: George Washington, who provided a massive endowment, and Robert E. Lee, who served as president. It is the ninth-oldest institution of higher learning in America.
The Vibe Today: Deeply traditional. Washington and Lee University is a small, southern liberal arts college with a polite and close-knit atmosphere. It pays more attention to the integrity of education. The “Honor System” is taken very seriously here (students schedule their own exams).
Famous Alumni: Mike Henry, Tom Wolfe.
Living in Lexington: A tiny, scenic historic town in the Shenandoah Valley. It is quiet and charming. Housing options are limited due to the town’s small size, so securing a rental early is crucial.
10. Columbia University
Founded: 1754
The History: Founded as King’s College by royal charter of George II. Columbia University is the oldest institution of higher learning in New York and a key member of the oldest colleges in the US.
The Vibe Today: Intense, diverse, and cosmopolitan. Located in NYC, the campus is a hub of political activism and intellectual rigor. The “Core Curriculum” is a defining feature of the academic experience.
Famous Alumni: Barack Obama, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Warren Buffett.
Living at Columbia University: The campus is in Morningside Heights, Manhattan. Living here is exciting but expensive. Most student apartments are small pre-war buildings. Finding an affordable, decent place in NYC is a challenge, which is why platforms like uhomes.com are essential for international students.
11. Brown University
Founded: 1764
The History: Founded in Providence, Rhode Island, Brown University was the first college in the US to accept students regardless of their religious affiliation. It was originally named Rhode Island College, a boys-only Baptist school, then changed its name in 1770 after receiving a donation from Nicholas Brown Jr. In 1891, women were admitted to Brown University for the first time.
The Vibe Today: The “Happy Ivy.” Brown University is famous for its Open Curriculum (no core requirements), allowing students total academic freedom. The students are known for being creative, liberal, and independent.
Famous Alumni: Emma Watson, John Krasinski, and John F. Kennedy Jr.
Living at Brown University: The school is in Providence, known as the “Creative Capital.” It offers a fantastic arts scene and some of the best food in New England (Federal Hill). Rents here are significantly lower than in Boston or NYC, offering a high quality of life.
12. Rutgers University
Founded: 1766
The History: In honour of Queen Charlotte, the wife of King George III of England, Rutgers University was chartered as Queen’s College and affiliated with the Dutch Reformed Church. It was an all-boys school then. In 1825, the school changed its name to Rutgers University in memory of Colonel Henry Rutgers of the Revolutionary War.
The Vibe Today: Big, diverse, and energetic. As a massive public university, it offers endless clubs, sports, and research opportunities. The “Scarlet Knights” school spirit is infectious.
Famous Alumni: James Gandolfini, Sebastian Stan.
Living at Rutgers University: Rutgers University is located in Brunswick, the “Hub City.” It has a quick train ride to NYC. The city is divided into different campus zones. Off-campus housing is very popular among students in Brunswick, and many choose to rent houses or modern apartments near Easton Avenue.
13. Dartmouth College
Founded: 1769
The History: Dartmouth College is the last colonial college to be founded. It started with a mission to educate Native Americans and has remained the smallest member of the Ivy League.
The Vibe Today: Dartmouth College is the only Ivy League school that is called a “college” rather than a “university”, which shows its focus and attention on liberal arts education. Located in rural New Hampshire, students here can enjoy a very strong Greek life scene and live a peaceful life due to the isolation from big cities.
Famous Alumni: Dr. Seuss, Shonda Rhimes, Meryl Streep (Exchange).
Living in Dartmouth College: The university is located in Hanover, a quintessential New England college town. It is beautiful but cold in winter. Housing is notoriously scarce and expensive because the town is small and wealthy. Booking accommodation a year in advance is common.
14. College of Charleston
Founded: 1770
The History: The College of Charleston is the oldest college south of Virginia. It survived the Civil War and earthquakes, maintaining its status as a historic gem among the oldest colleges in the US.
The Vibe Today: Southern charm meets coastal living. The campus is known for its Spanish moss-draped oak trees and historic architecture. It feels relaxed, beautiful, and socially active.
Famous Alumni: Matt Czuchry.
Living at College of Charleston: Charleston is a top tourist destination with incredible food. Living downtown near King Street is desirable but pricey. Many students opt for housing a bit further out to get more space and lower rent.
15. Salem College
Founded: 1772
The History: Started by the Moravians, Salem College is the oldest educational institution for women in the United States. It has a powerful legacy of female empowerment. And its Fleer Center offers adult education and graduate programs for men and women.
The Vibe Today: As a women’s college, it fosters leadership and sisterhood. It has a variety of leadership development programs, including the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) program, the Leadership Institute, and the Women in Public Service Project. The campus is located in “Old Salem,” a living history museum district.
Famous Alumni: Sarah Childress Polk (First Lady).
Living in Salem College, Winston-Salem: The city offers a very low cost of living compared to national averages, which means students can easily find affordable, spacious apartments near the historic district.
Conclusion
Each of these oldest universities in the United States has its own story, and they have developed step by step with their own strong strength, cultivating generation after generation of outstanding talents, with its unique teaching and strong academic resources to provide students with a good learning environment, to help them better pursue their ideals.
FAQ
What is the oldest college in the US?
Harvard University.
Harvard University is the oldest college in the US. It was founded in 1636 and is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts (MA). Its admission rate is 6%.
What is the oldest Ivy League school?
Harvard University is the oldest Ivy League school and it is also the oldest college in the US.
What is the oldest public university in USA?
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is the oldest public university in the United States. It was chartered in 1789 and officially opened its doors to students in 1795.
