College rankings, like those of US News and World Report, remain influential, despite their many flaws and decades of criticism

College rankings can be consequential for less prestigious and less wealthy schools, giving them visibility they might not otherwise have.

By: Austin Sarat, Amherst College, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: September 28, 2026

Words: 1,206

Last Updated: 2 weeks, 6 days ago

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By Austin Sarat, Amherst College

U.S. colleges and universities are governed by many traditions – including the annual U.S. News Best Colleges rankings, which list schools based on a variety of factors, like graduation rates and reputation.

This year’s rankings hit the streets on Sept. 22, 2026. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology topped the list of national universities, and Williams College ranked first among the list of national liberal arts colleges.

Princeton …

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