How to select US universities and programs
There are nearly 4,000 colleges and universities in the US. About 1,800 of the universities which are regionally accredited and offer four-year undergraduate degree programs are included in the latest US News university rankings.
Choosing a college or university to attend is a major life decision, college rankings can take some of the stress out of the school research and selection process and help students find a college that’s a good fit.
US News rankings provide a good starting point for students trying to compare schools. The four overall rankings – National Universities, Liberal Arts Colleges, Regional Universities and Regional Colleges – are based on factors that indicate academic quality, such graduation rates and faculty resources.
U.S. News also offers dozens of more-focused rankings and lists to help prospective undergraduate students compare schools based on the qualities that matter most to them, such as ethnic diversity on campus and percent of students who live in university housing.
Chances are, there’s a ranking or list that’s relevant to you. For example, international students can learn which schools already have a strong non-U.S. student community on campus.
Affordability is another key consideration for students and their families, so U.S. News created lists of Best Value Schools and schools that award merit aid to the most students. The Paying for College knowledge center offers additional insights and tips about different types of education aid, including grants, loans and scholarships.
Together, the rankings and profiles can help students learn about a range of school options – public and private, large and small – throughout the country, some of which they might not have considered before. They are valuable tools that can help you find a college or university that’s right for you.
Other notable university rankings include:
- Forbes college rankings
- The Princeton Review rankings
- The Wall Street Journal rankings
Hope you found this article useful!