Emily Boragine
Division of Communications and Marketing
MANHATTAN — Kansas State University made one of its most significant improvements in recent years in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, climbing 42 places to No. 88 among Best Value Schools.
The university also advanced across other major categories. K-State rose seven spots to tie at No. 158 among National Universities and moved up to No. 84 among Top Public Schools, improving from No. 91 in last year’s rankings.These gains build on steady progress over the past three years.
Since 2024, K-State has improved by a total of 12 spots in the Overall National Universities ranking and seven spots in Top Public Schools, reflecting consistent upward momentum.K-State’s recognition in value, access and outcomes also grew this year. The university climbed six places to No. 112 among Best Colleges for Veterans, while its standing in Top Performers on Social Mobility rose five spots to No. 396.
These measures reflect K-State’s role in supporting students from a variety of backgrounds, including first-generation and non-traditional learners.