A&T Soars Among Top Three HBCUs in U.S. News & World Report 2026

East Greensboro, N.C. (Sept. 23, 2025): North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (A&T), a cornerstone in higher education, once again affirms its elite status among historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the prestigious “Best Colleges 2026” rankings by U.S. News & World Report. The university shines as one of the top three HBCUs across the nation, a testament to its academic excellence and dedication to student success.

An Exceptional Peer Reputation

This year’s rankings highlight A&T’s impressive peer voting score of 4.3 out of 5. This positions A&T at a commendable third place, just behind Spelman College (4.5) and Howard University (4.4), further solidifying its role as a leader in the HBCU community.

A Closer Look at the Rankings

While maintaining its spot at No. 8 among HBCUs, A&T continues to climb in national university circles with a peer reputation score of 2.4. Howard leads this field with 3.4, followed by Florida A&M at 2.5. The meticulous peer assessment is calculated using a two-year weighted average, ensuring consistency and reliability.

A Consistent Champion in Social Mobility

A&T stands tall as one of America’s top 40 universities for social mobility, a critical factor in the U.S. News rankings. This recognition, combined with being among the leading 130 public universities, underscores A&T’s commitment to fostering pathways for student advancement and growth.

Looking Ahead in the Academic Landscape

Boasting an enrollment that surpasses 15,000 students, A&T is not only the largest HBCU but also poised for future milestones. As the first public HBCU projected to achieve the Carnegie Classifications’ Research 1 status, the university is on the brink of being recognized for its substantial research spending and doctorate production.

Conclusion

North Carolina A&T’s unwavering pursuit of excellence resonates throughout its academic community and beyond. As stated in North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, these rankings are just the beginning of a promising journey towards continued innovation and leadership in higher education.

Stay tuned for upcoming rankings such as “Best Online Programs” and “Best Graduate Programs,” set for release in the upcoming months. A&T’s dedication to academic distinction and its strategic initiatives ensure its position as a beacon of opportunity and achievement in the heart of East Greensboro and beyond.