10 Most LGBTQ Friendly US Universities: If you’re planning to study in the U.S. and are seeking a campus environment that supports LGBTQ students, the Campus Pride Index is an invaluable resource. It annually lists the most LGBTQ-friendly colleges and universities in the U.S., highlighting institutions that provide a positive, inclusive, and safe experience for LGBTQ students.
10 Most LGBTQ Friendly US Universities
The ranking is based on eight factors, including LGBTQ policy inclusion, housing, academic life, and student life. Here’s a selection of ten universities that received a perfect five-star rating in the Campus Pride Index and are featured in the QS World University Rankings® 2021.
1. Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey-New Brunswick
QS World University Ranking: 258th
Established in 1766, Rutgers University – New Brunswick has a student population of 48,000. Its Center for Social Justice Education and LGBT Communities (SJE) offers a supportive environment for LGBTQ students, providing counseling, career advice, networking, and various support services. Rutgers also offers scholarships for LGBTQA students, ensuring comprehensive support for its diverse community.
2. Tufts University
QS World University Ranking: 260th (joint)
Located in Medford, Massachusetts, Tufts University fosters an inclusive environment for LGBTQ students through gender-inclusive housing, healthcare options, and policies supporting name/pronoun changes. The university’s LGBT Center provides a space for students and staff to explore their relationships to gender and sexuality, contributing to a welcoming campus atmosphere.
3. The Ohio State University
QS World University Ranking: 108th
Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, offers a range of “Q*mmunity” groups through its Multicultural Center, addressing the diverse needs of LGBTQ students. Programs include CORE: Coming Out for Racial Equity and various support groups for first-year students and allies. The center hosts events such as LGBTQ History Month and National Coming Out Day, enriching campus life for LGBTQ students.
4. University of Colorado at Boulder
QS World University Ranking: 230th (joint)
The University of Colorado at Boulder supports LGBTQ students through its Gender and Sexuality Center, which offers scholarships, resources, and the annual TRANSforming Gender Conference. As an official sponsor of PrideFest, the university actively celebrates LGBTQ pride and inclusion.
5. University of Massachusetts Amherst
QS World University Ranking: 270th (joint)
UMass Amherst’s Stonewall Center, one of the first LGBTQIA+ resource centers in the U.S., provides cultural and educational programming, a speaker’s bureau, and support services for students. The center’s initiatives foster a strong sense of community and inclusion on campus.
6. University of Oregon
QS World University Ranking: 601-650
Located in Eugene, Oregon, the University of Oregon’s Office of the Dean of Students ensures an inclusive experience for LGBTQ students. The office offers scholarships, student organizations, career advice, and specialized living communities tailored to students’ needs and lifestyles.
7. University of Pennsylvania
QS World University Ranking: 16th
Penn’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Center, one of the oldest in the U.S., has been serving the LGBTQ community for over 30 years. The center provides study and social spaces, peer mentorships, and hosts numerous LGBTQ events throughout the year, acting as a hub for over 25 student groups.
8. University of Washington
QS World University Ranking: 72nd (joint)
The University of Washington in Seattle supports LGBTQ students through the Q Center, a student-run resource center. The university receives perfect scores in the Campus Pride report for academic life, student life, counseling, and health services, making it a top choice for LGBTQ students.
9. Princeton University
QS World University Ranking: 12th
Princeton University’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Center, established in 2005, provides an affirming space for students to discuss gender identity, attend events, and access support services. Princeton’s commitment to inclusion earns it a top rating in the Campus Pride Index.
10. Pennsylvania State University
QS World University Ranking: 101st (joint)
Founded in 1855, Pennsylvania State University offers comprehensive LGBTQ support through its LGBTQA Student Resource Center (SRC). The SRC provides programming, education, and advocacy services, and the university offers a minor in sexuality and gender studies as well as LGBTQA scholarships.
Other LGBTQ-Friendly U.S. Universities
In addition to these top ten, another 28 U.S. universities and colleges received five-star ratings in the Campus Pride Index. These institutions are also highly inclusive and supportive of LGBTQ students, making them excellent choices for those seeking a positive campus experience. They include:
- Augsburg College
- Elon University
- Harvey Mudd College
- Guilford College
- Indiana University Bloomington
- Ithaca College
- Kansas State University
- Kent State University
- Kenyon College
- Lehigh University
- Macalester College
- Montclair State University
- Northern Kentucky University
- Purdue University
- Portland State University
- San Diego State University
- Southern Illinois University Carbondale
- Southern Oregon University
- University of Kentucky
- University of Louisville
- University of Maryland, College Park
- University of Pittsburgh-Main Campus
- University of Texas at Dallas
- University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire
- University of Wisconsin – Green Bay
- University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee
- Washington State University
These universities collectively provide robust support systems and inclusive environments, ensuring a welcoming and safe experience for LGBTQ students.
