Rice University has been recognized among the nation’s best colleges this week – coinciding with the beginning of its fall semester – ranking No. 10 on Niche’s 2026 Best Colleges in America list and No. 12 on Forbes’ annual America’s Top Colleges list.
The honors highlight Rice’s academic excellence, vibrant campus life and commitment to student success. More than 4,000 U.S. colleges and universities were evaluated by Niche, which analyzes data from federal sources alongside more than one million reviews from students and alumni.
Rice excelled across multiple categories in Niche’s rankings, including No. 1 in kinesiology and physical therapy and No. 1 in sports management with top five rankings in art, architecture and engineering. Rice also earned top 10 recognition in public policy, religious studies, chemistry and music.
Forbes placed Rice No. 12 on its list of 500 schools that “produce successful, high-earning and influential graduates from all economic backgrounds, with less student debt.” Forbes awarded Rice an overall financial grade of A-plus, citing average student grant aid of more than $53,000, average debt of just over $10,000 and a median 20-year salary of more than $150,000.
As part of the top colleges rankings, Forbes also included Rice on its list of 25 schools that offer students the best return on their investment – high earnings potential for a relatively low price.
“Rankings like these are a reflection of our outstanding students, faculty, staff and alumni as well as the unique, personalized experience Rice offers,” President Reginald DesRoches said. “We are proud to be recognized among the nation’s best universities, but even more proud of the success of our students, both while they’re on campus and long after they graduate. At Rice, that success includes graduating with less debt, which allows our students to pursue their passions and make an impact without being weighed down by financial burdens.”
Luke Skurman, CEO of Niche, said, “Our rankings are designed to reflect not just data but the real voices and lived experiences of students across the country. That blend of insight is what makes Niche unique. We’re giving students the clarity to identify the colleges where they see themselves belonging and succeeding.”
Student reviews on Niche.com reflect that sentiment. One international student shared, “Rice University truly feels like home. The professors here do not just teach, they genuinely care.” Another student noted, “There’s truly no place like Rice. It’s a school where you’re surrounded by some of the smartest, most driven students in the country — but without the cutthroat energy.” Others praised Rice’s “culture of care,” the “incredible residential college system” and the combination of top academics with a welcoming community.
Last month, Rice advanced 22 spots in the 2026 edition of the QS World University Rankings, climbing to No. 119 globally and No. 29 among U.S. universities. The Princeton Review’s annual Best Colleges rankings also recognized Rice this month, placing it in the top 10 in four categories for 2026, including Best College Newspaper, Great Financial Aid, Best College Dorms and Best Quality of Life.