Whether your home state is Alabama or you’re thinking about moving there for college, the state has plenty to offer its students! From amazing schools to unique educational opportunities to great beaches, you’ll be able to get an outstanding education while you have the opportunity to enjoy everything the state has to offer. Below, we’ve outlined some of the top colleges in Alabama, some reasons you’ll want to get your college degree in the state, and tips for paying for your education!
Top Schools in Alabama
- Alabama State University
- Location: Montgomery
- Enrollment: 3,828
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
- Auburn University at Montgomery
- Location: Montgomery
- Enrollment: 5,109
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
- Talladega College
- Location: Talladega
- Enrollment: 903
- Acceptance Rate: 38.2%
- University of West Alabama
- Location: Livingston
- Enrollment: 5,860
- Acceptance Rate: 69%
- Troy University
- Location: Troy
- Enrollment: 14,156
- Acceptance Rate: 95%
- Alabama A & M University
- Location: Normal
- Enrollment: 6,007
- Acceptance Rate: 68.7%
- Stillman College
- Location: Tuscaloosa
- Enrollment: 744
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Oakwood University
- Location: Huntsville
- Enrollment: 1,470
- Acceptance Rate: 68%
- Jacksonville State University
- Location: Jacksonville
- Enrollment: 9,632
- Acceptance Rate: 78.6%
- Faulkner University
- Location: Montgomery
- Enrollment: 2,817
- Acceptance Rate: 82.4%
- See more
Why Go to School in Alabama?
Alabama is a beautiful state that has plenty to offer to the students who decide to attend college here!
1. History and Education
Alabama is home to some major historical events, traditions, and museums.
The Civil Rights Movement actually got its start in the state and students, visitors, and residents can visit the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. Alabama is also home to the Selma to Montgomery National History Trail and the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site.
If you’re looking for an educational day trip, Alabama also has you covered. In Mobile, students can climb aboard and explore the USS Alabama. And in Birmingham, if you love motorcycles, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is definitely worth a visit. Alabama is also home to several zoos including the McWane Science Center, Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, and the Birmingham Zoo.
2. Culture
Did you know that Mardi Gras actually got its start in Mobile, Alabama, not New Orleans? That’s right! And if you’re in the state during February, you could get the chance to catch your own moon pies and beads while watching the floats go by!
And you can’t go wrong with the food in this southern state, too. From BBQ to fried chicken to shrimp and grits, there are plenty of amazing flavors waiting to be tasted. It can be quite the experience food-wise if you’re not from the South!
3. Fun
Students need a break from the long hours of studying and coursework, and Alabama delivers, too.
Head on south to the tip of the state, and you’ll find Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Each beach has fun beach activities (such as parasailing), gorgeous waters and sand, and plenty of entertainment to be found in the heart of the cities. And if you’re looking for a quieter setting, the Dauphin Island barrier island may be worth a visit. You might even spot some unique wildlife while you’re there!
The heart of Alabama has plenty to offer, too. You could plan a visit to the foothills of the Appalachians which turn all sorts of fun colors in the fall or to Mount Cheaha, the tallest point in the state, in the Talladega National Forest. There are plenty of waterfalls, hiking trails, grottos, and other areas to explore!
And, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention Alabama’s college football programs! Alabama University and Auburn University are two of the biggest rivals on the scene, and if you love football, you might just want to put your application to one of these two schools. Not only do they offer outstanding programs, but their football programs are often among the best in the country. And even if you don’t attend one of these two schools, be prepared to pick your team once you move to the state regardless.
Paying for Colleges in Alabama
Students living in the state of Alabama can already enjoy in-state tuition to many of the colleges and universities within its borders. However, the state is part of the Academic Common Market which includes participating Southern Regional Education Board States. These are Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia. Students from these states may be eligible for in-state tuition if they decide to attend school in Alabama.
Students can also take advantage of Alabama’s grant and scholarship opportunities. Some you’ll want to see if you’re eligible for include
- Alabama GI Dependents’ Educational Benefit Program
- Alabama National Guard Education Assistance Program
- Alabama Scholarships for Dependents of Blind Parents
- Alabama Student Assistance Program
- American Legion Auxiliary Scholarship Program
- Police Officer’s and Firefighter’s Survivors Educational Assistance Program
- Junior and Community College Athletic Scholarship Program
- Junior and Community College Performing Arts Scholarship Program
- Senior Adults Scholarship Program
- Alabama Math and Science Teacher Education Program
If you’re thinking about attending school in Alabama, you’ve chosen a great location. The state is home to some amazing educational opportunities, museums, zoos, beaches, and more that are all worth a visit.
If you want to see which colleges in Alabama best fit your education and career goals, start with our College Match tool. It’s free and easy to get started!
