<p>python – I suggest that you buy a copy of the Fiske Guide to Colleges. It’s the best of the “Big Books” IMO. There’s basic statistical data for more than 300 U.S. colleges on such factors as location, size, cost, graduation rates, selectivity, and yield. For each school there’s also a useful narrative that discusses academics, campus culture, housing, food, special programs, what makes each school distinctive, etc. A guidebook can’t substitute for actual campus visits, but at least you’ll get an idea of what’s out there.</p>