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2025 Guide to the Best Colleges in Vermont
Whether you're a student planning your future or a parent considering relocation to be closer to top institutions, this guide highlights the best colleges in Vermont based on academics, tuition, student experience, and overall rankings.
Skip to Real Estate Listings Near Vermont Colleges
What Makes Vermont a Great State for Higher Education?
Vermont is home to both nationally ranked universities and intimate liberal arts colleges. Its unique blend of Green Mountains beauty and urban hubs like Burlington gives students an unmatched college experience—whether you're seeking a top academic institution or outdoor adventures between classes.
What Are the Top-Ranked Colleges in Vermont for 2025?
- University of Vermont (UVM): Founded in 1791, UVM offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees in a Burlington-based urban campus. It's known for its research, student life, and proximity to Lake Champlain.
- Middlebury College: A highly selective liberal arts college with strengths in international studies, environmental science, and study abroad programs.
- Norwich University: Located in Northfield, this is the birthplace of ROTC and known for military and leadership-focused education.
- Champlain College: Nestled in Burlington, Champlain is known for computer science, game design, and its experiential learning approach.
- Bennington College: A progressive college in Southern Vermont, emphasizing creativity, independent study, and small class sizes.
How Does Vermont State University Compare?
Formed from the merger of Castleton University, Northern Vermont University, and Vermont Technical College, the newly created Vermont State University offers affordable, flexible programs across multiple campuses in Castleton, Lyndon, Randolph, and beyond. Great for students looking for regional accessibility and online options.
What Do You Need to Know About College Admissions in Vermont?
Each college in Vermont has its own admission standards. While UVM and Middlebury are considered more selective, schools like Castleton University and NVU offer inclusive enrollment. Many require test scores, essays, and transcripts. Application deadlines vary, so review each school's timeline and offerings early.
How Much Is Tuition at Vermont Colleges?
Tuition ranges widely depending on whether the school is public or private:
- UVM In-State: ~$18,000 per year
- Middlebury College: ~$64,000 per year
- Vermont State University: ~$12,000 in-state, per campus
- Champlain College: ~$45,000 per year
Tuition figures are approximate and subject to change. Always confirm with each institution.
What’s Campus Life Like in Vermont?
From UVM’s lively campus in downtown Burlington to the scenic tranquility of Bennington College, students enjoy diverse lifestyles. Popular athletics, clubs, and student-to-faculty ratios under 15:1 contribute to a close-knit college experience. Many students also live on campus for at least their first year.
Which Vermont Towns Offer the Best College Access and Real Estate?
Some of the best towns for families and students relocating for college include:
- Burlington: Urban experience, close to UVM, Champlain, and Saint Michael’s College (in Colchester)
- Middlebury: Historic charm and walkability
- Northfield: Affordable homes and Norwich proximity
- Williston: Ideal for commuter students
How Can You Search for Real Estate Near Vermont Colleges?
Use our MLS search to filter homes by town, distance to campus, or property type. Whether you're a parent investing in a student rental or planning to relocate, our agents can help. Explore:
- Vermont Home Buying Guide
- Contact Us for college-area home tours
Real Estate Listings Near Top Vermont Colleges
Explore homes for sale near Burlington, Middlebury, Castleton, and more. Find the perfect location to support your academic goals or family move.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best college in Vermont?
- It depends on your goals. UVM is great for public research, Middlebury for liberal arts, and Champlain for hands-on tech programs.
- How much does college in Vermont cost?
- Tuition ranges from $12K–$65K per year, depending on the school and residency status.
- Are there Ivy League schools in Vermont?
- No, but schools like Middlebury offer Ivy League–level academics and outcomes.
- Is Burlington a good college town?
- Yes—Burlington combines lakeside views, urban convenience, and college-town energy.
- How can I find housing near a Vermont college?
- Use our real estate tools or talk with an agent to explore listings near campus.
Key Takeaways: Vermont’s Colleges at a Glance
- UVM, Middlebury, Champlain, and Vermont State University lead the 2025 rankings
- Tuition varies widely by institution and residency
- Great college towns include Burlington, Middlebury, and Northfield
- Vermont blends education quality with natural beauty
- Explore homes near campus to make the most of your academic move
Ready to make your move?
Download our Buyer’s Guide or reach out today for listings near top schools and colleges across Vermont.
College Town Homes
Special pricing for qualified buyers! Inquire with your agent to see if you qualify. Welcome to Stonecrop Meadows, Middlebury's newest neighborhood! Located just 1/2 mil...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 5101838 MLS
This beautiful and spacious Colonial home is located in the highly coveted Strathmore neighborhood in Burlington’s New North End. The bright and open-concept kitchen has ...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 5101834 MLS
- 0.36 Acres
This exceptional 29+-acre camp offers the ultimate off-grid retreat without sacrificing an ounce of convenience. It is remarkably easy to access, allowing you to quickly ...
- 1 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 5101791 MLS
- 29.1 Acres
Welcome to this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 1-bath condominium in beautiful Middlebury, Vermont. Combining comfort, convenience, and thoughtful updates, this move-in-ready...
- 3 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 5101704 MLS
- 5.5 Acres
Located in the heart of the charming North Bennington Village, this beautifully renovated home offers the perfect blend of classic character and modern convenience. Compl...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 5101687 MLS
- 0.14 Acres
Nestled in Burlington's highly sought-after Lakeside neighborhood, this charming home offers the perfect blend of modern updates and an unbeatable location. Tucked away i...
- 2 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 5101679 MLS
Welcome to Stratos, a modern and sophisticated condominium building built in 2014 and ideally located in the heart of downtown Burlington. This cheerful one-bedroom, top-...
- 1 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 5101646 MLS
Convenience like this is hard to find! Perfectly positioned in a sidewalk-lined neighborhood just minutes from schools, North Avenue, medical care, shopping, restaurants,...
- 3 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 5101612 MLS
- 0.2 Acres
Nestled in one of Burlington's most coveted downtown neighborhoods, this historic brick row house offers the rare opportunity to enjoy city living with the comfort and pr...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 5101577 MLS
- 0.03 Acres
Experience the charm and character of Burlington's vibrant Old North End with this classic 3-bedroom, 1-bath single-family home ideally located on Ward Street. Known for...
- 3 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 5101570 MLS
- 0.09 Acres
Very well kept single-wide mobile home on it's own land. Cozy 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom home with single level living. Living room, kitchen with dining area, main level laund...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 5101539 MLS
- 0.12 Acres
Wonderful opportunity to bring your vision and creativity to this home and restore its original charm. Conveniently located just one block from the Burlington Bike Path, ...
- 2 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 5101524 MLS
- 0.14 Acres
Nestled in Burlington's highly sought-after Lakeside neighborhood, this charming home offers the perfect blend of modern updates and an unbeatable location. Tucked away i...
- 2 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 5101472 MLS
You can make this home your own! With a little TLC, this charming 3 bedroom, 2 bath, Cape has the potential to become the perfect home. Featuring a large, level yard, a...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 5101468 MLS
- 0.29 Acres
Tucked in the heart of Burlington's beloved South End, this 3-bedroom, 1-bath single-family home offers space, updates, and unbeatable location - all with a current Burli...
- 3 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 5101412 MLS
- 0.07 Acres
Experience city living in this top-floor, three-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bath condo located in the vibrant downtown area. This residence features a light-filled layout and...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 5101326 MLS
Tucked away on a quiet side street in Burlington, this charming little gem immediately welcomes you with a fabulous front porch that is sure to catch your eye. Stepping i...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 5101309 MLS
- 0.09 Acres
Brand-new luxury vinyl flooring and easy, maintenance-free living await at Claire Pointe! Perfect for those looking to downsize without sacrificing space, or looking for ...
- 2 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 5101306 MLS
Welcome to this charming home in Burlington's highly sought-after Starr Farm area of the New North End, where comfort, convenience, and an active Vermont lifestyle come t...
- 4 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 5101094 MLS
- 0.14 Acres
Set on a 0.25-acre corner lot, this classic 4-bedroom home offers the space, character, and friendly atmosphere that make Elm Street so appealing. Sidewalks invite evenin...
- 4 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 5101031 MLS
- 0.25 Acres
Welcome home to this meticulously maintained 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath ranch, perfectly nestled in a highly desirable neighborhood. Offering over 1,400 square feet of single le...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 5101006 MLS
- 0.28 Acres
Special pricing for qualified buyers! Inquire with your agent to see if you qualify. Welcome to Stonecrop Meadows, Middlebury's newest neighborhood! Located just 1/2 mile...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 5100817 MLS
Tucked away in a peaceful country setting just 6± miles from I-89, this extraordinary property is a showcase of custom craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and Vermont pride...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 5100813 MLS
- 30.16 Acres
Wonderful location just a mile from Randolph Village. This 3-4 bedroom cape-style home sits on 2.8 acres of land with frontage on the Third Branch of the White River. The...
- 4 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 5100657 MLS
- 2.8 Acres
Tucked into a private wooded setting on the outskirts of town, this distinctive 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath Adirondack-inspired chalet blends rustic character, flexible living sp...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 5100537 MLS
- 1.8399999999999999 Acres
Set on 1.96 acres with direct river access, this spacious Randolph home combines in town convenience, room to spread out, and a peaceful setting surrounded by mature tree...
- 6 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 5100515 MLS
- 1.96 Acres
Tastefully updated and ideally located, this turn key 2-bedroom Hill Gardens condo offers an outstanding opportunity for investors or owner occupants alike. Just one bloc...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 5100255 MLS
This vintage farmhouse-style home is full of character and classic architectural details. Original woodwork, solid wood doors, hardwood floors, and a seasonal sleeping po...
- 4 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 5099999 MLS
- 0.25 Acres
Welcome home to Northfield Falls, nestled just above one of Northfield's famous covered bridges. This 4-bedroom home offers the best of in-town living with room to spread...
- 4 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 5099932 MLS
- 0.5 Acres
Welcome to 47 Pitkin Street. This historic brick home is a turnkey retreat on one of the Old North End's most charming streets. A covered entry leads you inside to find a...
- 4 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 5099774 MLS
- 0.1 Acres
Copyright 2026 PrimeMLS, Inc. All rights reserved. This information is deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. The data relating to real estate displayed on this display comes in part from the IDX Program of PrimeMLS. The information being provided is for consumers’ personal, noncommercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Data last updated .
