Two of Houston’s top universities—Rice University and the University of Houston—have once again landed on The Princeton Review’s “Best 391 Colleges” list for 2026, earning national recognition for academics, student life, and value.
Houston has captured national attention in the realm of higher education, as two of its leading institutions have received notable accolades in The Princeton Review’s recently published "The Best 391 Colleges: 2026 Edition."
Rice University and the University of Houston have achieved recognition in the esteemed annual guide, which assesses institutions across 50 different categories through comprehensive surveys involving more than 170,000 students. The rankings provide an insightful overview, showcasing leading institutions in various categories rather than a singular overall placement. They encompass a wide range of factors, including academic excellence, campus atmosphere, financial support, and student experiences.
Rice University has further solidified its standing as a prominent academic institution, appearing in multiple important rankings, such as Best Southwest, Best Value Colleges, and Colleges That Create Futures. The university's dedication to delivering an exceptional student experience received significant praise, as Rice achieved a remarkable No. 10 ranking nationally for quality of life. The student-led newspaper emerged as a notable contender, earning the impressive No. 7 ranking.
In a compelling showcase of its commitment to accessibility, Rice’s financial aid program has achieved a noteworthy ranking as the ninth-best in the nation, alongside a commendable 14th place on the Best Value Private Colleges list. Students surveyed emphasized the university’s unconventional approach to academics, commending the creative incorporation of podcasts and TED-style presentations as alternatives to traditional exams. Rice University achieved impressive standings, securing the No. 19 spot for Best Science Lab Facilities, No. 23 for Best-Run Colleges, and No. 25 for the Most Studied Students.
The University of Houston has garnered several accolades, further solidifying its ascent in the national landscape. UH has earned accolades by being featured on several prestigious lists, including those for Best Value Colleges, Best Southwest, Green Colleges, and Colleges That Create Futures. The university’s undergraduate entrepreneurship program, recognized nationally for its excellence, stood out prominently, with students expressing appreciation for the overall affordability and the institution's ongoing enhancements.
In a significant highlight, UH secured the No. 20 spot for Students Love Their School Teams, showcasing a lively campus atmosphere. The institution secured the 22nd position in the category reflecting minimal marijuana consumption among its students, while also achieving the 25th spot for having a student body characterized by political moderation. Despite the university's ranking of No. 11 for "Financial Aid Not So Great," students were quick to highlight that UH's tuition is still relatively affordable when compared to other institutions.
This dual recognition highlights the increasing national prominence of both Houston universities, affirming their commitment to delivering robust academics, an enriching student experience, and lasting value for their students.
