Are you trying to decide where you want to attend college? The First State, or Delaware, may just be the first state on your list. Between New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C ., the area has plenty to offer its students and residents. We’ve outlined some of the top colleges in Delaware and listed some amazing reasons you should consider the state when it comes to choosing your future school. 
Top Colleges in Delaware
- University of Delaware
- Location: Newark
- Enrollment total: 24,039
- Acceptance Rate: 74%
- Delaware State University
- Location: Dover
- Enrollment total: 5,826
- Acceptance Rate: 55%
- Goldey-Beacom College
- Location: Wilmington
- Enrollment total: 1,012
- Acceptance Rate: 62.9%
- Wilmington University
- Location: New Castle
- Enrollment total: 14,020
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- See More
Why Should You Go to College in Delaware?
Delaware may be the second smallest state (behind Rhode Island) but that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to do! Even if you run out of opportunities in the state itself, Delaware is right near New York City, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., and Baltimore, so students can always take a weekend or day trip on the train or bus to visit some of the amazing museums, theaters, and other must-see sites and attractions.
1. History and Education
As the first state to ratify the Constitution of the United States, hence its nickname “The First State, Delaware has plenty to do when it comes to history and education.
First on your list should be the Air Mobility Command Museum located on the Dover Air Force Base in Dover. Visitors can see a rare collection of vintage aircraft, climb into World War II planes, take flights in the flight simulators, step into the Dover AFB Control Tower, and more. Today, the museum is home to 30 aircraft.
Fort Delaware State Park is another must-see if you love history. Built between 1848 and 1859, the fort was initially for harbor defense and was turned into a prison during the Civil War. Today, visitors can travel back in time to experience what life was like during the Civil War, explore the fort, and walk its trails. There are even paranormal tours during the fall season for those who are interested in spooky tales.
The First State National Historical Park is our third recommendation for history and education lovers. It provides a peek into the colonial history of the state showcasing early settlement, including settlers’ relationships with Native Americans. There are also over 20 miles of trails available along the Brandywine River.
2. Culture
If you want to experience a bit of culture while you attend college in Delaware, you won’t be disappointed. The Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library is a 175-room mansion located in Winterthur. Visitors can stroll among the 1,000 acres, explore the library, or view the decorative art collection that dates between 1650 and 1860. There are also special events such as antique shows, garden walks, forest therapy, and more.
Once you finish in Winterthur, head over to the Delaware Art Museum in Wilmington and start exploring culture from 1840 onward. The museum features over 12,000 items, a library, and a 9-acre Sculpture Park. Some exhibits only remain for a few months, so you can always go back and explore something new, too!
And if you’re looking for some unique food during your four years in Delaware, you’ll want to try out the Bobbie (a Thanksgiving-inspired submarine sandwich), chicken and slippery dumplings, blue crab claws, and fries with vinegar on the boardwalk!
3. Fun
Delaware also has plenty to offer students in the way of fun. If you love the beach, for instance, you’ll want to take regular trips to Cape Henlopen State Park and Rehoboth Beach.
Cape Henlopen State Park in Sussex County features over 5,000 acres to explore. Sightseers can view dolphins, seals, birds, historical sites, and more. There are also plenty of opportunities for biking, fishing, kayaking, boating, hiking, and swimming.
Rehoboth Beach and Boardwalk should also be on your to-do list. A public beach, it presents the perfect opportunity to hang out with friends, swim, and surf. The boardwalk itself is home to some amazing snacks, restaurants, and shops. The boardwalk and beach aren’t just for summertime either. The site is open year-round and features competitions, festivals, and events.
Paying for Colleges in Delaware
Paying for college can be tough, but for residents of the state of Delaware, there are several scholarships, financial aid programs, and grants that can make attending your dream school more affordable. Some of the programs you’ll want to look into include
- Bradford Barnes Memorial Scholarship
- Charles L. Hebner Memorial Scholarship
- Herman M. Holloway, Sr. Memorial Scholarship
- Career Based Scholarship
- Educator Support Scholarship
- Scholarship Incentive Programs ScIP
- Educational Benefits for Children of Deceased Veterans and Others
Delaware is also part of the Academic Common Market (ACM). This is a collection of states from the Southern Regional Education Board that offer tuition reciprocity to participating states at select schools. This means that students interested in going to college in Delaware may be able to pay in-state rates. The ACM includes Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Delaware may be one of the smallest states in the country, but don’t let its size fool you! The First State has plenty to offer students who want to dive straight into the history and culture of the eastern seaboard. And the location is perfect – if you ever want to explore outside of Delaware, major cities are never more than a few hours away.
If you think any of the colleges and universities in Delaware are a fit for your education and career goals, College Raptor is here to help! With College Match, you can get all the information you need to craft a well-rounded application and improve your chances of getting an acceptance letter. Sign up for free today.
