• Niche ranked the best party colleges in the US using student data about party culture on campus. • The University of California — Santa Barbara took the top spot for 2026. • Schools in this list are often known for their large Greek life scenes and sports fanbases.

College can be a life-changing opportunity for young people to get an education, grow their network, and kick-start their careers.

For some students, it can also be a four-year-long, nonstop party.

Across the country, thousands of students live by the "work hard, party hard" motto. Every fall, colleges host campus events for Homecoming, such as themed parties, parades, and sporting events, oftentimes resulting in weeklong celebrations.

This year, the University of California — Santa Barbara is the place to be: It was r

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