10 Best Online LGBTQ-Friendly Colleges 2026

It's important for LGBTQ+ students to choose an institution that fosters a welcoming environment. With the rise of online education, many students can access colleges prioritizing diversity and support for LGBTQ+ communities.

Numerous online institutions commit to inclusivity, supportive resources, and vibrant campus cultures. Whether you're seeking an affordable online degree or looking to expand your knowledge, the institutions below ensure all students feel valued and empowered on their educational journey.

Best Online LGBTQ+-Friendly Colleges

When searching for an LGBTQ+-friendly online college, students should research what support services (e.g., mental health counseling, safe spaces, gender-inclusive housing, etc.) are available. You should also see if your institution provides financial aid options, including LGBTQ+ scholarships, to help cover the cost of your education.

Discover some of the best online LGBTQ+-friendly colleges below.

1. Rutgers University

Rutgers University offers leadership development opportunities, social programs, and policy consultations through its Center for Social Justice Education and LGBT Communities (SJE). SJE staff meet with students one-on-one to discuss club involvement, financial instability, familial rejection, etc.

An on-campus counselor is available to provide counseling or suggest off-campus counseling options. The SJE hosts two weekly support groups and offers drop-in hours every Thursday for students seeking one-on-one therapy.

2. University of Maryland

The University of Maryland offers housing options, counseling, and health services through its Office of Diversity & Inclusion. The University Health Center provides confidential care to students of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

Furthermore, the university's Counseling Center staff provides culturally responsive counseling to the diverse student body. The Counseling Center invites LGBTQ+ students and students of color to drop in for an unscheduled visit on weekdays from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m.

3. University of Massachusetts Lowell

The University of Massachusetts Lowell's LGBTQ+ Cohort of Rising 360 Program gives students individualized support, resources, and coaching. The program also organizes community events that promote connection and inclusivity among LGBTQ+ students.

There is also a peer-to-peer mentoring program called the Queer Peers Program that provides freshmen with emotional and social support as they transition to university. Mentors connect mentees to resources and each other.

4. University of Wisconsin

The University of Wisconsin's Queer Resource Center strives to support and empower LGBTQ+ students on their higher education journey. The university offers student-centered healthcare, a dynamic student life, and gender-inclusive restrooms and housing.

Registered students also get free therapy and consultation services (e.g., Gender Affirmation Therapy, Trauma Therapy, HRT Referral Consultations, etc). Students should also apply for the Lawton Undergraduate Minority Retention Grant for under-represented minority undergraduate students.

5. The Pennsylvania State University

The Pennsylvania State University's Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity provides education and advocacy services to students, faculty, and alumni. Many identity-based and intersectional resources are available to help support LGBTQ+ students.

The university recognizes that some students wish to be identified by a name other than their legal name. The ''Chosen Name Policy'' permits students to use their preferred name in different university information systems to accommodate this.

6. Ohio State University

Ohio State University offers LGBTQ+ students emergency support, sexual health services, educational workshops, and more. The university encourages students to get involved in on-campus and off-campus opportunities to connect with their community.

Furthermore, gender non-conforming and transgender students can benefit from the university's preferred name policy, gender-inclusive restrooms, and gender-inclusive housing. Once you set a preferred name online, you can request a new student ID with that name for free.

7. Washington State University

Washington State University's LGBTQ+ Student Center provides resources and relevant initiatives for students. The center promotes academic and personal growth through training, advocacy, and coalition building.

The university offers non-binary, gender non-conforming, and transgender students with gender-inclusive facilities throughout campus. There is also a Student Guide to Transitioning to help students undertake a gender transition.

8. California State University

California State University (CSU) provides students with a safe and inclusive living and learning environment. Each CSU campus offers support and services to LGBTQ+ students through queer student alliances, pride centers, safe zones, and more.

The university also encourages students to access off-campus resources, including the Los Angeles LGBT Center and APLA Health. Additionally, CSU promotes engagement in community events and programs that celebrate diversity and cultivate connections among students.

9. Florida International University

Florida International University empowers, affirms, and celebrates its students through the Pride Center. The center offers educational and social support and is part of the Centers for Student Engagement.

Students can develop their leadership skills through the Pride Leaders Program, which inspires them to apply these skills in their future professional roles to improve the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals. The university also funds programs for students who attend the LGBTQ Task Force's annual Creating Change Conference. 

10. Southern Oregon University

Southern Oregon University supports LGBTQ+ students through its Social Justice and Equity Center. This center focuses on gender and sexuality justice as a major resource area.

Confidential resources and survivor support are available to students who have or are currently suffering from gender-based violence. These resources can help learners locate medical care providers, counseling, and reporting options.

Our Ranking Criteria for LGBTQ+ Programs

One main criterion when ranking LGBTQ+-friendly programs is the presence of policies and practices demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity for LGBTQ+ students. This includes non-discrimination policies that protect against bias based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Another significant factor in this ranking is the Campus Pride Index, which evaluates colleges based on their LGBTQ+ friendliness. We recognize institutions with at least a 4-star rating for their efforts in fostering an inclusive atmosphere.

FAQs About LGBTQ+ Colleges

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about LGBTQ+ colleges.

How Do You Know if a College Is LGBTQ+-Friendly?

When determining whether a college is LGBTQ+ friendly, you should consider several factors. Some of these include:

• an institution's policies regarding non-discrimination
• resources such as LGBTQ+ centers
• the college's Campus Pride Index rating
• campus culture

Research various LGBTQ+-friendly institutions to see which one is a good fit for you. You can also visit the campus of the institution you are considering and engage with current students to gain their perspectives.

What Percentage of College Students are LGBTQ+?

According to a data report by the American College Health Association in spring 2024, approximately 30% of college students identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, asexual, queer, or questioning. This significant percentage reflects a growing trend of openness and acceptance among younger generations regarding sexual orientation and gender identity.

Various factors, including heightened awareness of LGBTQ+ issues, improved campus climates, and more support services, may contribute to the increase in self-identification. This data highlights the importance of creating inclusive environments in higher education, as a substantial portion of the student body identifies as part of the LGBTQ+ community.

What Should LGBTQ+ Students Look for in an Online College?

LGBTQ+ students should consider several key factors when choosing an online college to ensure a supportive and inclusive environment. Some of these factors include:

• on-campus resources (i.e., mentoring programs or counseling services)
• a high Campus Pride Index rating
• presence of an LGBTQ resource center
• gender-inclusive policies

Additionally, students should seek colleges that offer dedicated LGBTQ+ resources, such as support groups, safe zones, and student organizations. You can also review student testimonials to gauge an online college's culture.

Explore the Best Colleges for Online Degrees

Earning an online degree is the first step toward a rewarding and profitable career. It teaches you the essential skills to succeed in your chosen industry. Contact one of the featured institutions on Learn.org for more information.