The George Washington University ranked No. 63 out of 436 best national universities, a four-spot improvement from a year ago, in the latest list from U.S. News & World Report of “Best Colleges.”
In the 2025 list, which was the 40th annual edition put out by U.S. News & World Report, GW’s strong positions and representation in the national rankings indicate its overall excellence.
GW earned spots on multiple “best of” lists from U.S. News for 2025, including a No. 27 ranking for GW’s study abroad programs, a one-spot improvement from the 2024 list. The university also ranked in the top 100 both for Best Colleges for Veterans, checking in at No. 92, and Best Value Schools at No. 93.
GW was also featured among the best undergraduate academic programs in various disciplines:
- International Business was ranked No. 4.
- Nursing was ranked No. 26.
- Economics was ranked No. 50.
- The School of Engineering and Applied Science ranked No. 79 for best undergraduate engineering programs.
- The School of Engineering and Applied Science ranked No. 79 among undergraduate engineering schools that also offer doctoral degrees.
The annual rankings in the “Best Colleges” list are a guide for discovering the best fit schools predicated on academics and personal consideration. Based on statistics, the top-ranked schools provided ample classroom resources for students and faculty; conferred bachelor's degrees at high rates; and produced graduates who entered the workforce with manageable debt and worthwhile starting salaries.
In higher education, there are many indicators of excellence, and various organizations assess various metrics. The university, which in 2022 was named to the prestigious 71-member Association of American Universities, continues to be recognized for excellence in teaching, research and innovation.