The George Washington University ranked tied for 59th out of 436 institutions in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” list, a four-spot improvement from 2025 and the highest the university has appeared in the rankings since the 2019 edition.
According to the summary, GW’s move into a higher tier group this year reflects not only improved outcomes but also a trajectory of upward momentum, and that with the methodology unchanged from the 2025 edition, GW’s advancement is the result of institutional performance rather than external adjustments.
“This ranking increase reflects that GW continues to make impressive strides in delivering high-quality education and creating impactful knowledge, fulfilling our mission with excellence and distinction,” Interim Provost John Lach said. “Of course, this is enabled by our faculty, staff, students and partners who demonstrate a tireless commitment to teaching, learning, innovation and community. GW is able to realize its promise as an institution because of our world-class people.”
GW earned spots on multiple “best of” lists in the 2026 list, which was the 41st annual edition put out by U.S. News & World Report, including a No. 30 ranking for study abroad. The university also ranked in the top 100 for Best Colleges for Veterans, checking in at No. 90, a two-spot improvement from a year ago, and No. 93 for Best Value Schools.
GW was also featured among the best undergraduate academic programs in various disciplines:
- No. 5 for International Business
- No. 28 in Nursing
- No. 66 in Economics
- No. 77 in Undergraduate Engineering
The annual rankings in the “Best Colleges” list are a guide for prospective students. Statistically, the top-ranked schools provide ample classroom resources for students and faculty; achieve high graduation rates; and produce graduates who entered the workforce with manageable debt and high 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.