Recognized for Expanding Access and Student Success in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Colleges Guide
Blackburn College has once again earned recognition in U.S. News & World Report’s annual “Best Colleges” rankings. In the 2026 guide, released this fall, Blackburn climbed nine places overall among Regional Colleges (Midwest) to reach #23 and improved several spots to reach the top ten for Social Mobility, which measures how effectively colleges enroll and graduate students from lower-income backgrounds.
“Social mobility isn’t just a ranking for us; it is at the heart of why Blackburn exists,” said President Larry K. Lee. “This year, nearly 30% of our incoming class are first-generation students, and almost 70% are Pell eligible. By pairing strong academics with the professional and leadership development in our Work Program, and by fostering close relationships on campus, we help students from every background build confidence, purpose, and the tools to succeed.”
For more than 35 years, U.S. News & World Report has been one of the most comprehensive research tools for students and families exploring higher education. Its rankings assess more than 1,500 institutions using 19 indicators of academic quality.
Blackburn has been named a Top Performer on Social Mobility every year since the category’s creation, reflecting the College’s ongoing commitment to helping students from economically disadvantaged and other underrepresented communities earn a degree. In addition to its rise in overall rankings and social mobility, Blackburn was named one of U.S. News’ Best Value Schools, which ranks institutions that provide excellent academic quality at an affordable price.
Blackburn College was also recognized this fall in Washington Monthly’s 2025 rankings as the top baccalaureate college in Illinois and 20th nationally. Washington Monthly highlighted Blackburn’s leadership in enrolling and supporting students from lower- and moderate-income families, measuring outcomes like Pell Enrollment Performance and alumni Earnings Performance, as well as success in preparing students for Ph.D. programs. These distinctions complement U.S. News’ recognition of Blackburn, underscoring the College’s mission-driven focus on expanding access, reducing barriers, and equipping students from all backgrounds to thrive.