Choosing the right college is a big deal, especially for LGBTQ+ students seeking a
safe and inclusive space. The best colleges for LGBTQ+ students in 2025 have
resources, active student organizations, and policies that promote safety and
equality on campus
These are places where you can thrive academically and socially.
Beyond academics, finding a college that aligns with your identity makes a
difference in your overall experience. Whether studying lit or engineering or
wondering who can do my chemistry assignment, attending a diverse school makes
you feel seen, heard, and empowered.
This post shares the top 10 LGBTQ-friendly colleges in the U.S. for 2025.
These schools go beyond basic inclusivity, with gender-inclusive housing, mental
health resources, and strong LGBTQ+ advocacy programs. If you’re looking for a
college where you can be yourself, this list will guide your decision.
1. Macalester College (St. Paul, Minnesota)
Macalester College is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly colleges in the U.S., thanks to
its progressive policies and inclusive campus culture.
The school has gender-inclusive housing and a dedicated Gender and Sexuality
Resource Center where students can find mentorship and support. Macalester's
campus climate is all about belonging with active student organizations like the
Queer Union and the Trans Identity Collective. The administration has policies to
protect LGBTQ+ students, as well as nondiscrimination and inclusive healthcare
access.
As one of the colleges with the best campuses for LGBTQ+ students, Macalester is an
empowering place for academic and personal growth.
2. Adelphi University (Garden City, New York)
Adelphi University is one of the best LGBTQ colleges in the country, with a 5-star
rating from the Campus Pride Index.
The university prioritizes inclusivity with its SafeZone program, gender-neutral
restrooms, and comprehensive LGBTQ+ student services. The Multicultural Center at
Adelphi significantly promotes acceptance and educational workshops on gender
identity and sexual orientation.
LGBTQ+ students at Adelphi have strong mental health resources, including
counselors trained in LGBTQ+ issues. With student-led organizations and a
commitment to equality, Adelphi remains one of the most welcoming places for
LGBTQ+ students.
3. University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania)
The University of Pennsylvania is a trailblazer in LGBTQ+ advocacy and one of the
LGBTQ-friendly colleges in the country.
Home to one of the oldest LGBTQ+ student centers, Penn has many resources,
including scholarships for LGBTQ+ students and specialized health services. Gender-
inclusive housing and multiple student organizations mean a strong social network
for LGBTQ+ students.
As one of the colleges with the best campuses for LGBTQ+ students, Penn works to
combat discrimination and create a safe space for learning. The university also has
courses in gender and sexuality studies that promote inclusivity in education.
4. Tufts University (Medford, Massachusetts)
Tufts University is a leader in LGBTQ+ inclusion, with comprehensive policies to
support its diverse student body.
The Tufts LGBT Center is a student resource with educational programming and
advocacy. Gender-inclusive housing is widespread, and LGBTQ+ students have
specialized counseling services. Tufts also hosts annual Pride events and workshops
to educate the community on gender identity and sexual orientation.
With its forward-thinking and student-led activism, Tufts is among the best LGBTQ
colleges for students seeking a welcoming and affirming space.
5. San Diego State University (San Diego, California)
San Diego State University (SDSU) is known for its LGBTQ+ inclusion and is one of
the LGBTQ-friendly colleges on the West Coast.
Their Pride Center is the hub for LGBTQ+ students, offering mentorship programs,
social events, and leadership opportunities. SDSU has gender-inclusive housing and
a curriculum integrating LGBTQ+ topics into various disciplines. The campus climate
is open and accepting, making it one of the colleges with the best campuses for
LGBTQ+ students.
The university’s commitment to equality ensures all students feel valued throughout
their academic journey.
6. Howard University (Washington, D.C.)
One of the most inclusive HBCUs, Howard University has become a pioneer in
LGBTQ+ advocacy. The university has amplified its support services by adding
gender-inclusive housing and launching LGBTQ+ student programs.
Howard’s LGBTQ+ organizations, like CASCADE, provide a platform for activism and
peer support. Mental health services at Howard have LGBTQ-affirming counselors so
students can receive culturally competent care.
Howard’s commitment to a diverse and inclusive environment makes it one of the
best LGBTQ colleges for students who need a welcoming space within the HBCU
community.
7. University of Oregon (Eugene, Oregon)
The University of Oregon has been a long-standing LGBTQ-friendly college in the
Pacific Northwest.
The university’s LGBTQIA+ Alliance provides advocacy, resources, and a safe space for
students of all gender identities and sexual orientations. Gender-inclusive housing is
widespread, and the campus has multiple all-gender restrooms. The school also has
an LGBTQ+ Scholars Program, which offers scholarships and mentorship
opportunities.
With its inclusive policies and vibrant student life, the University of Oregon is one of
the colleges with the best campuses for LGBTQ+ students looking for an accepting
and affirming college experience.
8. University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, Michigan)
The University of Michigan has been a leader in LGBTQ+ inclusion for years, making it
one of the best LGBTQ colleges in the U.S.
The Spectrum Center at UMich provides students with support groups, leadership
programs, and health services specifically for LGBTQ+ students. Gender-inclusive
housing is available, and the university has progressive policies that protect against
discrimination. The campus hosts LGBTQ+ events, including Pride and educational
workshops.
UMich’s commitment to a safe and inclusive environment puts it among the top
LGBTQ-friendly colleges in the country.
9. New York University (New York, New York)
New York University (NYU) has one of the most active and supportive LGBTQ+
communities in higher education.
The NYU LGBTQ+ Center is a hub with leadership programs, mental health support,
and networking opportunities. The university has inclusion policies with gender-
neutral housing and comprehensive healthcare services for LGBTQ+ students.
Located in the heart of New York City, NYU benefits from a diverse and progressive
environment. It makes it one of the colleges with the best campuses for LGBTQ+
students!
The school’s commitment to advocacy and education makes it a top choice for
students who praise a welcoming academic environment.
10. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
UCLA is among the best LGBTQ colleges in the U.S. due to its strong policies and
student involvement.
The LGBTQ Campus Resource Center offers workshops, mentorship programs, and
services to help students succeed. UCLA has gender-inclusive housing and LGBTQ+-
friendly healthcare services and hosts major LGBTQ+ events, including Pride Week
and allyship training sessions.
With its diverse and welcoming campus, UCLA is an LGBTQ-friendly college that
puts students first.
Choosing the right college is for more than academics—feeling safe, supported, and
valued. These LGBTQ-friendly colleges have inclusive policies, student resources, and
welcoming campuses. Whether you’re looking for community, advocacy, or just a
space to be yourself, these best LGBTQ colleges are a place to flourish.
