UNK continues strong showing in annual ‘Best Colleges’ rankings

KEARNEY – The University of Nebraska at Kearney is once again recognized among the top universities in the region by U.S. News & World Report, which released its latest “Best Colleges” rankings today.

For the 18th consecutive year, the publication ranked UNK as one of the best public regional universities in the Midwest. UNK is No. 8 on that list, marking the 11th time it’s been inside the top 10.

U.S. News & World Report puts UNK at No. 24 among all Midwest regional universities – both public and private – the same position as last year. No school in Nebraska or the MIAA is ranked higher.

The university also ranked No. 6 for Best Value, No. 12 for Best Colleges for Veterans and No. 18 in Social Mobility.

“These rankings reaffirm UNK’s commitment to academic excellence, experiential learning and student success,” said Chancellor Neal Schnoor. “I am proud that the dedication and achievements of our faculty, staff and students have again been recognized at the national level.”

U.S. News & World Report evaluated more than 1,700 colleges and universities using up to 17 measures of academic quality, including graduation and retention rates, faculty resources, student debt and graduate success.

UNK continues to stand out in these areas, especially when it comes to affordability. Reflecting its strong value ranking, UNK remains the most affordable university in Nebraska, with an annual cost of $21,437 for a full-time undergraduate student taking 15 credit hours per semester and living in a double room on campus with a Loper meal plan.

Programs such as the Nebraska Promise, which covers full tuition for qualifying students with family incomes of $65,000 or less, and the New Nebraskan Scholarship, which allows all out-of-state students to pay the in-state tuition rate, make a UNK education even more accessible.

More than 90% of full-time freshmen receive scholarships and/or grants, with the average need-based award totaling $12,696 in 2023-24.

“Students and families want to know their investment in higher education will pay off. At UNK, the combination of affordable tuition, robust financial aid and strong career outcomes makes us one of the best values in the region – and these rankings validate that,” said Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Julie Shaffer.