Image courtesy K-State

Kansas State University made one of its largest jumps 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 rose in several other categories. K-State advanced seven spots to tie at No. 158 among National Universities and improved to No. 84 among Top Public Schools, up from No. 91 last year. These gains build on steady progress since 2024, with K-State moving up 12 places overall and seven among public schools.

Recognition for access and outcomes also grew. K-State ranked No. 112 for Best Colleges for Veterans and climbed to No. 396 for Social Mobility, reflecting its support for first-generation and non-traditional students.

Academic programs saw movement as well. The undergraduate economics program rose 22 places to No. 139, while psychology entered the rankings for the first time at No. 113. Computer science improved to No. 125, business ranked No. 131, and engineering held steady at No. 96.

These results highlight K-State’s momentum as it continues strengthening programs and expanding opportunities for students.