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Writer's pictureLex Stewart

Finding LGBTQ+ Inclusive Colleges: A Guide for Queer Students and Parents

Updated: 4 days ago

With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to figure out which colleges truly walk the walk when it comes to LGBTQ+ inclusivity. The college search process can be overwhelming, especially for Queer students. While many colleges claim to be LGBTQ+ friendly, it's important to dig deeper and see if the school has the policies, resources, and community in place to truly provide support. 


Here are some recommendations to help you (and your kiddos) search out LGBTQ+ friendly colleges that will allow your child to flourish both academically and personally.

Two women reading a book

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Scope Out the College Campus Scene

The vibe on campus says a lot about how welcoming a school is. If possible, attend LGBTQ+ specific admissions events to meet faculty, staff, and current scholars. 


No time for a visit? Reach out to the campus LGBTQ+ student center or alliance to get the inside scoop. And don't forget to check for Queer student organizations and gatherings.


Dig into the Policies 

A college may seem LGBTQ+ friendly on the surface, but the details matter. Take a magnifying glass to the school's nondiscrimination policies. Do they explicitly include sexual orientation and gender identity? Bonus points for policies supporting name and pronoun changes, gender-inclusive housing, and trans-affirming healthcare. And an LGBTQ+ Studies academic program is the cherry on top of the inclusivity sundae.


Location, Location, Location

You've heard it before, but it bears repeating - location matters, especially for LGBTQ+ students. Are you itching for the big city gay scene? Prefer a slower pace? Research state and local laws to ensure your rights will be protected. 

And don't forget to peep the neighborhood culture — are there LGBTQ+ community centers, bookstores, or other queer-owned businesses nearby? 

Rainbow flag on a balcony

Consult the People

Let's be real, nothing beats hearing it straight from a real human. Tap into networks of LGBTQ+ alumni and students to get the real scoop on a college's queer quotient. There are quite a few websites that showcase friendly rankings — these are great places to start. And for juicy first-hand accounts, Reddit's LGBTQ+ spaces are where it's at. These online community spaces can give you some of the raw, unfiltered experiences of those at the college right now. 

 

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Utilize Trusted Resources:

  • Campus Pride Index: This invaluable resource offers a searchable database of LGBTQ+ friendly colleges and universities, complete with detailed information about their policies, programs, and resources.

  • College Equality Index: The Human Rights Campaign rates colleges based on their LGBTQ+ inclusivity, providing a clear picture of their commitment.

  • Princeton Review's "LGBTQ-Friendly" College Rankings: This ranking system considers LGBTQ+ friendliness as a factor, offering insights into student experiences.


Finding the right college is all about fit, and for LGBTQ+ students, that means a school that doesn't just tolerate but celebrates them. So, go beyond the brochures and rainbow merch. Investigate the resources, chat up current students, and trust your gut. With a little research and a lot of pride, you'll find the perfect place to live out loud and change the world. Happy hunting!

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