Whether you’re just starting the college process or you’ve been in it for a while, you have probably heard the question: What kind of school do you want to go to?
I’ll be honest, when I first heard this question, I had no idea how to answer. Sure, I’d heard terms like “big vs. small school,” “liberal arts college,” “university,” “public,” and “private.” But I had no idea what those terms actually meant. What even is a liberal arts college?
These are all called college fit factors (also known as preference points). Understanding them is one of the smartest first steps in building a thoughtful college list. In this article, I’ll define the most important types of college fit factors and explain how you can use them to build the perfect target college list that reflects the kind of experience you want.
If you'd prefer expert guidance, our Ivy League mentors work one-on-one with families through our college admissions consulting services and our full breakdown here: Dewey Smart College Counseling: Your Path to Admissions Success.
TL;DR: The 5 Main College Fit Factors
If you’re asking, “What are the most important college fit factors?” - here’s the quick summary:
- Liberal Arts College vs. University – Teaching focus vs. research focus, undergraduate experience, and degree structure
- School Size – Big (15,000–30,000+ students), Medium (5,000–15,000), or Small (under 3,000)
- Location Type – Rural, Suburban, or Urban campus environment
- Public vs. Private – Funding model, tuition structure, and financial aid differences
- Specialty Institutions – HWCs, HBCUs, and Faith-Based colleges
If you want a deeper dive into prioritizing these elements, read our breakdown of the 3 Most Important College List Factors, where we explain how students should weigh academics, culture, and affordability.
Now let’s break each one down in detail.
1. College Fit Factor: Liberal Arts Colleges vs Universities
You’ve probably heard the terms “liberal arts college” and “university.” When I first tried to understand the difference, it took me a while, so if you’re confused, you’re not alone.
First, a college is not necessarily smaller than a university. The real differences come down to structure, mission, and academic focus.
What Is a Liberal Arts College?
A liberal arts college offers a broad-based education in the humanities, social sciences, and sciences. The core philosophy is to develop well-rounded thinkers.
That means:
- You’ll complete general education requirements across multiple disciplines
- Class sizes tend to be smaller
- Faculty focus heavily on undergraduate teaching
- There are usually no graduate students
Most liberal arts colleges are:
- Small
- Private
- Located in rural or suburban settings
- Focused almost exclusively on undergraduates
Because there are no graduate students, professors typically teach all courses themselves, which often leads to close mentorship and discussion-based learning.
Example: Williams College, Pomona College, Amherst College, Smith College
What Is a University?
A university also offers a wide range of disciplines, but students often specialize earlier and more deeply in their major.
Key characteristics:
- Includes undergraduate, graduate, and often doctoral programs
- Professors are frequently engaged in advanced research
- Some courses (especially large lectures) may be taught or supported by teaching assistants (TAs)
- Broader research infrastructure and funding
Universities can be:
- Large or medium-sized
- Public or private
- Located in urban, suburban, or rural areas
They often provide:
- Extensive research opportunities
- Wider major offerings
- More professional schools (business, engineering, medicine, law)
Example: University of California, Santa Barbara; Boston University; Columbia University
Liberal Arts College vs University: Side-by-Side Comparison
Typical Size
- Liberal Arts Colleges: Usually under 3,000 students
- Universities: Often 5,000–30,000+ students
Degree Types
- Liberal Arts Colleges: Primarily undergraduate degrees
- Universities: Undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs
Faculty Interaction
- Liberal Arts Colleges: High professor access, no teaching assistants
- Universities: May include teaching assistants; varies by department
Research Focus
- Liberal Arts Colleges: Limited large-scale research
- Universities: Significant research funding and laboratory infrastructure
Class Size
- Liberal Arts Colleges: Small, discussion-based classes
- Universities: Mix of large lectures and smaller seminars
Campus Culture
- Liberal Arts Colleges: Tight-knit, undergraduate-centered
- Universities: Broader, more independent, more varied social environments
If you’re wondering, “Is a liberal arts college better than a university?” - the real answer is: it depends on your learning style and goals.
2. College Fit Factor Two: School Size
This is probably the most common fit factor students consider, and for good reason. School size can dramatically shape your experience.
Big Schools (15,000–30,000+ students)
Large universities serve huge student populations. Because of that, they offer:
- Wide range of majors
- Extensive research labs
- Hundreds of student organizations
- Division I athletics
- Large alumni networks
However, you must be proactive. Opportunities exist, but you have to seek them out.
Typical student-to-faculty ratio: 15:1 to 25:1
Best fit for: Independent, self-starting students
Example: Boston University, Ohio State University
Small Schools (Under 3,000 students)
Small colleges emphasize individualized attention.
Benefits include:
- Small class sizes
- Direct professor access
- Close-knit community
- Easier relationship-building
These schools often allow students to design independent research projects and work closely with faculty mentors.
Typical student-to-faculty ratio: 7:1 to 12:1
Best fit for: Students who prefer discussion-based, personalized learning
Example: Pomona College, Williams College
Medium-Sized Schools (5,000–15,000 students)
Often overlooked, medium-sized campuses can offer the best of both worlds.
They typically provide:
- Mix of small seminars and large lectures
- Solid research opportunities
- More manageable campus communities
Typical student-to-faculty ratio: 12:1 to 18:1
Example: Wake Forest University
If you’re building your college list, size should align with how you learn best, not just prestige.
3. College Fit Factor Three: Rural, Suburban, or Urban Schools
Location isn’t just geography; it’s lifestyle.
Rural Colleges
Located in small towns or near nature.
Pros:
- Strong campus community
- Scenic environments
- Most students live on campus
Cons:
- Limited nightlife
- Fewer nearby internships
- Less off-campus entertainment
Example: Oberlin College
Suburban Colleges
Near smaller cities or large towns.
Pros:
- Balance of community and city access
- Internship proximity
- Quieter environment
Cons:
- May feel less immersive than rural
- Fewer immediate big-city resources
Example: Wellesley College
Urban Colleges
Located in major metropolitan areas.
Pros:
- Internship and networking access
- Cultural diversity
- High independence
Cons:
- Higher cost of living
- Less traditional campus feel (in some cases)
- More distractions
Example: New York University, Columbia University, Boston University
If you’re asking, “Is it better to attend college in a city?” It depends on whether you thrive on independence or prefer contained campus life.
4. College Fit Factor Four: Public vs Private Universities
This factor is often misunderstood, especially when it comes to cost.
Public Universities
Funded primarily by state governments.
Two types:
- In-state public schools – Lower tuition for residents
- Out-of-state public schools – Higher tuition for non-residents
Sticker Price vs Net Price
- Sticker Price = Published tuition cost
- Net Price = What you actually pay after financial aid
Public schools often have lower sticker prices (especially in-state), but financial aid packages may be more limited.
Example: Ohio State University
Private Universities
Funded independently, no state control.
- Higher sticker price
- Often stronger need-based financial aid
- Same tuition regardless of state
Many private institutions offer generous need-based aid that can significantly reduce the net price.
Example: Dartmouth College, Notre Dame, Stanford University
When evaluating cost, always compare net price calculators, not just published tuition.
5. Should I Go to HWCs, HBCUs, or Faith-Based Colleges?
There are also specialty institutions that may align with your identity or values.
Historically Women’s Colleges (HWCs)
Traditionally women’s colleges, though many now enroll students of all genders.
- Often small liberal arts colleges
- Strong leadership development focus
Examples: Barnard College, Smith College, Spelman College
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)
Founded to educate Black students during segregation, though open to all students today.
- Range from liberal arts colleges to major research universities
- Strong alumni networks and cultural heritage
Examples: Howard University, Spelman College, Morehouse College
Faith-Based Colleges
Established by religious communities.
- May require theology or religious studies coursework
- Often values-centered communities
Examples: Boston College (Catholic), University of Notre Dame (Catholic), Brigham Young University (LDS)
You do not always have to belong to the affiliated faith to attend.
Keep Researching Colleges!
These categories are just the beginning.
Other major fit factors include:
- Financial aid policies
- Academic rigor
- Acceptance rates
- Standardized testing policies
- School culture
As you continue refining your list, revisit your priorities. Our full roadmap in Creating the Perfect College List and our guide on Researching Schools the Smart Way can help you move from broad preferences to a focused, strategic application plan.
If your target schools consider the ACT, read our ultimate guide to ACT Science Tips.
And if you’d like to dive deeper into identifying your strongest fit factors, you can schedule a free consultation with our team.
Frequently Asked Questions About College Fit
What is the most important college fit factor?
There isn’t one universal answer. For some students, size matters most. For others, location or academic structure is key. The best college fit aligns with your learning style, social preferences, and long-term goals.
Can a university also provide a liberal arts education?
Yes. Many universities offer liberal arts programs within larger research institutions. The distinction typically lies in institutional structure, not curriculum availability.
Is a small college better for getting into graduate school?
Small colleges often provide closer faculty mentorship and strong recommendation letters. Universities may offer more research labs. Both can prepare students well — the key is how you use available opportunities.
Does private always mean more expensive?
Not necessarily. While private schools have higher sticker prices, their financial aid packages can reduce net price significantly. Always compare net price, not just tuition.