Washington Monthly Reveals 2025 College Rankings: A New Perspective

The Washington Monthly has released its revised and expanded 2025 College Rankings, challenging conventional perceptions of the best colleges in the United States. Unlike traditional rankings that often prioritize wealth and exclusivity, the Washington Monthly’s approach focuses on how well institutions support middle- and working-class students, ultimately providing a clearer picture of educational value.

According to the latest report, the top college in America is Berea College in rural Kentucky, recognized for its commitment to affordability through a robust work-study program. This allows students to graduate with minimal debt while gaining essential job skills. Notably, the University of Texas–Rio Grande Valley ranked significantly higher than Harvard University, with a difference of 21 positions. Similarly, Florida International University outperformed Duke University by eight slots.

Shifting the Focus on Higher Education

The Washington Monthly emphasizes the importance of measuring outcomes that matter most to students and taxpayers. This year, half of the institutions on the list are lesser-known colleges that excel in helping students achieve economic mobility and become engaged citizens. The rankings reflect what most Americans desire from their investment in higher education: degrees that lead to gainful employment without crippling debt.

The magazine’s editor-in-chief, Paul Glastris, stated, “Our changes take account of new realities facing higher education. We’ve revamped our methodology to focus even more squarely on what we think Americans most want from our colleges and universities.” The report features not only the Best Colleges for Your Tuition (and Tax) Dollars but also new rankings, including America’s Best Colleges for Research and America’s Best Hispanic-Serving Colleges, developed in collaboration with Excelencia in Education.

This 20th anniversary edition of the college guide also includes regional rankings and “best bang for the buck” listings across various types of institutions. All rankings and supplemental information can be found at www.washingtonmonthly.com/2025-college-guide.

Endorsements and Critiques

The Washington Monthly’s unique approach has garnered praise from notable figures in education. Former U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona remarked, “Rankings should not reward colleges for the students they keep out, but those they admit and support through graduation.” He emphasized the utility of the Washington Monthly’s rankings as a vital resource for students, parents, and taxpayers.

Former Secretary Arne Duncan echoed similar sentiments, stating, “If you want to know what really counts in higher education, look at the Monthly’s rankings—you’ll find some welcome surprises.” Additionally, Mark Schneider, a nonresident senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, expressed appreciation for the magazine’s focus on economic mobility and active citizenship, highlighting the recognition given to regional universities that often go unnoticed.

Alongside the rankings, the magazine also included articles addressing pressing issues in higher education. Topics such as the detrimental effects of political policies on educational institutions and the challenges of student loan debt are explored in depth, providing critical insights into the current landscape.

The Washington Monthly’s 2025 College Rankings serve as a comprehensive guide for students navigating the complex higher education system, aiming to highlight institutions that genuinely contribute to student success and societal well-being.