Brooklyn College has once again earned national recognition for its commitment to student success. In the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, the college was ranked no. 6 in the North for Social Mobility, a category that highlights institutions that excel in graduating economically disadvantaged students.

The Social Mobility ranking is based on graduation rates of students who received Pell Grants, reflecting Brooklyn College’s dedication to fostering upward mobility. The college improved its standing from no. 8 in 2025, moving up two spots.

The 2026 edition of the U.S. News & World Report rankings evaluates more than 1,700 colleges and universities across the United States, using up to 17 metrics to assess academic quality and student outcomes.

“Brooklyn College is deeply committed to providing a transformative education that empowers students from all backgrounds to thrive,” said President Michelle J. Anderson. “Being recognized once again by U.S. News & World Report for our leadership in social mobility and for offering a high-quality, affordable education reflects the heart of our mission: expanding opportunity and fostering equity.”

In the North region, Brooklyn College also ranked no. 38 overall, up one spot from last year, and no. 16 among top public schools. Additionally, the college was ranked no. 16 among Best Colleges for Veterans.

This recognition follows several recent accolades, including being named the no. 1 college in the United States for student return on investment by Forbes in August 2025. Brooklyn College was also included in The Princeton Review’s Best Colleges for 2026 and ranked first in the nation for student body diversity.

U.S. News & World Report publishes its Best Colleges rankings annually to help prospective students and their families compare undergraduate programs across the country. The rankings provide detailed data on graduation rates, student debt, postgraduate earnings, and other key indicators of student success.

“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, managing editor for education at U.S. News. “With over half of the ranking factors focused on student outcomes, the rankings and editorial content offer vital data, college advice, and informed reporting to every student pursuing higher education.”