Florida’s public universities have achieved new recognition in the 2026 Best Colleges rankings from U.S. News & World Report, with a record seven institutions now placed among the top 100 national public universities. This year, Florida Atlantic University joined the list for the first time.
Ray Rodrigues, Chancellor of the State University System of Florida, said: “The State University System of Florida has proven once again why we remain the #1 public university system in the nation. As we continue to build upon the collective strengths of our 12 institutions, our System delivers meaningful impact for students, faculty, and the state’s economic prosperity. The U.S. News & World Report rankings underscore these continued successes and ongoing efforts.”
Brian Lamb, Chair of the Board of Governors, stated: “This year’s rankings reflect the unwavering commitment of Florida’s public universities to delivering academic excellence and world-class faculty expertise. These remarkable outcomes affirm the hard work and dedication of our university trustees, faculty, students, and staff across the state. On behalf of the Board of Governors, I applaud their efforts and extend our appreciation to Governor DeSantis and the Florida Legislature for their steadfast support and investment in higher education.”
The rankings show four Florida schools in the top 50 among national public universities: University of Florida (#7), Florida State University (#21), University of South Florida (#43), and Florida International University (#46). Other institutions listed include University of Central Florida (#61), Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University (#92), and newly ranked Florida Atlantic University at #100.
In regional categories for southern colleges and universities, several other state schools received high marks. Florida Polytechnic University was ranked #1 among regional public colleges in the South for five years running; it is also noted as #2 among both public and private regional colleges in its area and holds strong positions for value and engineering programs.
University leaders highlighted these achievements as milestones reflecting institutional progress. Adam Hasner, President of FAU said: “Florida Atlantic’s ascent into the U.S. News Top 100 Public Schools ranking is a milestone that reflects the extraordinary momentum and impact our university has built over the years, defined by excellence, innovation and opportunity. I am proud to celebrate this achievement with our students, alumni, donors, faculty, staff and community, whose hard work and dedication have propelled our rise as a national leader in higher education. With this bold trajectory, Florida Atlantic will continue to accelerate, transforming lives through student success, innovative research and social mobility.”
Manny Diaz Jr., Interim President at UWF added: “We are proud to see UWF recognized at its highest ranking yet, a reflection of our exceptional programs, dedicated faculty and staff, and outstanding students. This achievement underscores our continued momentum and commitment to excellence. We are grateful to our Board of Trustees, the Florida Board of Governors and the Florida Legislature for their support in helping us reach new heights.”
According to U.S. News & World Report’s methodology used for these rankings—which evaluates nearly 1,500 institutions—factors include graduation rates as well as measures such as social mobility initiatives; levels of student debt; retention rates; along with academic reputation.
