UMD Rises to Top 10 on Forbes’ Top Colleges Lists

The University of Maryland climbed to No. 10 among public institutions in Forbes’ 2025-26 rankings of America’s Top Colleges, released on Tuesday. 

The university moved up two spots on that list, jumped four spots to No. 37 among all universities in the country, and rose three spots to No. 31 among research universities. It was the 15th-ranking institution, public or private, in the northeastern U.S.

"The University of Maryland’s steady rise into the top 10 public institutions reflects the extraordinary talent, dedication and impact of our students, faculty and staff,” said UMD President Darryll J. Pines. “These rankings are a testament to our commitment to academic excellence, innovation and preparing graduates who are ready to lead in a rapidly changing world."

The magazine’s closely watched annual list evaluates 500 universities “that produce successful, high-earning and influential graduates from all economic backgrounds, with less student debt.” The ranking takes into consideration 14 metrics including return on investment, graduation and retention rates, academic success, alumni earnings, and the leadership and entrepreneurial success of graduates. 

Data for the rankings came from federal, private and nonprofit databases, as well as Forbes’ own lists.

Forbes also recently ranked UMD as one of America’s Best Employers by State for 2025, at No. 4 in Maryland.