In a remarkable leap, Rice University soared from No. 22 to No. 9 on Forbes’ 2024-2025 list of America’s Top Colleges. This achievement marks the first time the university has landed in a top 10 spot on the list and underscores Rice’s steadfast commitment to academic excellence, student success, research and innovation, university leaders said.
“We are thrilled to see Rice University recognized among the top 10 colleges in the nation,” said Rice University President Reginald DesRoches. “This ranking is a testament to the hard work of our students, faculty, staff and the incredible support of our alumni and to the enduring strength of our academic and research programs. At Rice, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders and innovators, and this recognition by Forbes reinforces the impact of our mission.”
Forbes’ annual ranking is a prestigious measure of academic quality, student satisfaction, graduation rates and postgraduation success. More information on the methodology for the ranking is available here. Rice’s vault to the top 10 reflects its dedication to providing a world-class and affordable education, cultivating groundbreaking research and maintaining a vibrant, inclusive community, DesRoches said.
Rice consistently earns high marks for its small student-to-faculty ratio, cutting-edge research opportunities and strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies. The university’s unique residential college system, coupled with a strong sense of community and collaboration, offers students a personalized and supportive educational experience.
The university’s rise in the rankings also highlights the growing recognition of Rice’s contributions to innovation, particularly in areas such as engineering, business, the humanities and social sciences. Rice’s strong financial aid program, which guarantees talented students from all backgrounds can afford a Rice education, also played a crucial role in its rise in the rankings.
“We are deeply committed to ensuring that Rice remains accessible to all deserving students, regardless of their financial circumstances,” said Howard R. Hughes Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Amy Dittmar. “Our move up the Forbes rankings reflects our success in providing an exceptional and inclusive education that prepares our students to thrive in their careers and communities.”
Earlier this year, Rice was one of 10 private universities to be included on Forbes’ exclusive list of “New Ivies” which turn out the smartest and most driven graduates “craved by employers of all types.”
As Rice continues to advance in its academic and research missions, it remains dedicated to fostering a diverse and dynamic environment where students and faculty can explore new ideas, challenge the status quo and make a meaningful impact on the world, Dittmar said.
Forbes’ annual list of top colleges highlights 500 schools that produce successful, high-earning and influential graduates from all economic backgrounds with less student debt. A full list of ranked schools is here.
For more information on attending Rice, visit https://admission.rice.edu.