Florida A&M University (FAMU) has maintained its position among the Top 100 public colleges and universities in the latest U.S. News & World Report 2026 Best Colleges rankings. The rankings, which evaluate more than 1,700 institutions using up to 17 factors including academic quality and graduate outcomes, were released on September 23, 2025.
FAMU remains the highest-rated public Historically Black College or University (HBCU) and is ranked fifth among all HBCUs—both private and public—in the nation. Additionally, FAMU is one of only three Florida schools listed in the Top 25 on the U.S. News Social Mobility Index. It shares the No. 22 spot with institutions such as the University of California, Davis and the University at Albany – SUNY.
The university’s standing reflects its continued focus on supporting Pell Grant-eligible students and advancing social mobility for graduates. “I am encouraged that Florida A&M University remains in the Top 100 in the U.S.. Among the 17 metrics reviewed, we continue to make progress on our graduation rates, including our Pell Grant recipients,” said President Marva B. Johnson, J.D. “Our mission of helping students from various socio-economic backgrounds remains a priority, which is reflected in our position as the No. 1 public HBCU for the seventh consecutive year in a row.”
Leadership at FAMU has identified opportunities for growth intended to benefit students, faculty, and staff moving forward. As part of Florida’s State University System—recently ranked as one of the best in higher education nationally—the university continues to play an important role within state education.
“We remain steadfast in expanding access, strengthening our academic programs, and driving student success,” said Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Allyson Watson, Ph.D. “These rankings affirm that FAMU is preparing graduates not only to achieve social mobility, but to lead at the highest levels and solve the challenges of the future as we advance toward R1 status.”
The U.S. News Best Colleges rankings are published annually to assist prospective students and their families by comparing undergraduate programs across America’s colleges and universities based on data such as graduation rates, graduate indebtedness, and post-graduate earnings.
“U.S. News’ Best Colleges remains a reliable resource for prospective students and their families as they navigate the college selection process,” said LaMont Jones, Ed.D., managing editor for Education at U.S. News. “With over half of the ranking factors dedicated to student outcomes, the rankings and editorial content provide vital data, college advice, and informed reporting to every student pursuing higher education.”
Those interested can review how Florida A&M University compares with other institutions or learn about ranking methodologies at USNews.com.
Founded in 1887 in Tallahassee, Florida A&M University provides access to affordable education with services aimed at guiding students toward successful careers. The university operates several satellite campuses across Florida.
