Illinois College earns top U.S. News rankings, named #1 Best Value

Illinois College continues to earn national recognition for what matters most to students and families: an excellent education, personal attention, affordability and opportunities that lead to a strong future.

In the new 2027 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, Illinois College ranks among the top five Regional Colleges in the Midwest in several categories, led by a #1 ranking for Best Value and recognition for undergraduate teaching, overall academic quality and social mobility.

The rankings place Illinois College among the Midwest's leading colleges:

• #1 Best Value
• #1 Undergraduate Teaching in Illinois
• #4 Top Colleges
• #5 Social Mobility

For families considering the cost of a college education and their return on the investment, the #1 Best Value ranking carries particular significance. Every Illinois College student Graduates READY for success. IC graduates finish in four years, in stark contrast to public universities, because each student has access to a success coach who supports them across a wide range of topics, from time management to study skills to life coaching. The Finish in 4 guarantee is part of the College's Advantage Plus program that provides a minimum of $23,000 in scholarships annually while meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for qualified Illinois residents. Plus, by including textbooks in tuition, offering internships and study abroad to all students, and incorporating 200 years of innovation into every area of campus, it's no wonder the first College in Illinois is also the best.

IC's #1 ranking in Illinois for Undergraduate Teaching (#3 in the Midwest) reflects an education intentionally designed to help students become increasingly confident thinkers, collaborators, and problem solvers. Students learn from faculty who encourage exploration and discussion, bring their subjects to life, and invite students to take an active role in their own learning.

Freddie Alvarez '26 says faculty mentorship was one of the most valuable parts of his IC experience. "The faculty truly care about helping students figure out and achieve their goals," said Alvarez. "At IC, people genuinely want you to succeed."

Through internships, research, clinical experiences, hands-on learning and more than 80 academic programs offered both on campus and online, Illinois College students build experience alongside their degree. The Graduate READY promise reflects IC's commitment to preparing students for meaningful careers, graduate education and lives of impact.

Illinois College's #5 ranking for Social Mobility provides another measure of that impact, recognizing the College's success in creating opportunities for students through higher education and turning access into achievement. IC takes students further regardless of where they start.

"These rankings affirm what we work to deliver every day at Illinois College: an exceptional education that is personal, affordable, and prepares students for what comes next," said President Barbara A. Farley. "Being recognized for value, teaching and social mobility is especially meaningful because students should not have to choose between an education they can afford and one that will transform their future. Illinois College students Graduate READY for futures they have only begun to imagine."

Together, being ranked in the top five across multiple categories tells a larger story than any one number can capture. At Illinois College, students don't have to choose between quality and affordability, personal attention and opportunity, or a meaningful college experience and preparation for what comes next. At IC, those things belong together and are available to every student.