Keiser University has once again been recognized as one of the top universities in the nation for advancing social mobility, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Colleges rankings. This marks the sixth consecutive year the university has earned a top 50 placement in the Social Mobility category, which highlights institutions that help students from diverse economic backgrounds achieve academic success and long-term career advancement.

“We are honored to once again be recognized among the nation’s top universities for advancing social mobility,” said Arthur Keiser, Ph.D., Chancellor of Keiser University. “At a time when students and families are more focused than ever on the value of higher education, Keiser University remains committed to opening doors to opportunity. By providing an education that is both accessible and career-focused, we continue to empower students to achieve lasting success and upward social mobility.”

In addition to its Social Mobility distinction, Keiser University also sustained its ranking among the nation’s best 395 institutions in the National Universities category. The university’s growth and impact are reflected in its ability to close opportunity gaps by offering targeted student support services and degree programs that align with critical workforce needs in health care, technology, business, and other emerging industries.

The U.S. News Social Mobility ranking evaluates how well colleges graduate students who receive Pell Grants—federal aid awarded to undergraduates with significant financial need—compared to their non-Pell peers. By consistently ranking highly, Keiser University demonstrates its effectiveness in producing meaningful outcomes for students who might otherwise face barriers to success.

The question of how well universities prepare low-income and first-generation students for success has become central to the national conversation about higher education. Many institutions have faced criticism for failing to deliver strong outcomes for disadvantaged students. Since U.S. News first introduced its Social Mobility category in 2020, Keiser University has consistently stood out as a leader:

  • 2026 – Ranked #42
  • 2025 – Ranked #22
  • 2024 – Ranked #21
  • 2023 – Ranked #1 in the nation
  • 2022 – Ranked #5
  • 2021 – Ranked #11
  • 2020 – Ranked #34

“Keiser University’s mission has always been centered on student success and career readiness,” said Keiser. “In today’s rapidly changing workforce, we take pride in equipping our students with the skills and experiences they need to achieve success in the job market. Our commitment to strengthening Florida’s workforce and supporting communities across the nation is stronger than ever, and these rankings reflect the impact of that work.”

The U.S. News & World Report 2026 Best Colleges rankings are based on 17 measures of academic quality for National Universities and 13 for National Liberal Arts Colleges, Regional Universities, and Regional Colleges. Key factors include student outcomes, faculty resources, institutional reputation, class size, and per-student investment in instruction and support services.

Keiser University currently enrolls approximately 20,000 students across 19 Florida campuses, internationally, and online. For nearly 50 years, the university has worked to meet Florida’s talent and workforce needs, with most of its degree programs concentrated in high-demand industries that drive economic growth and opportunity.

“As we celebrate Keiser University’s 50th anniversary, this recognition from U.S. News & World Report is especially meaningful,” said Keiser. “For five decades, our mission has been to transform lives through education and build stronger communities across Florida and the nation. This honor affirms that our student-centered approach is making a lasting impact, and it inspires us to continue shaping the next 50 years of opportunity and success.”

Keiser University is a private, independent, non-profit university serving nearly 20,000 students at 19 Florida campuses, online, and two international sites. Co-founded in 1977 by Chancellor Arthur Keiser, Ph.D., and Evelyn Keiser, Keiser University currently offers more than 100 degrees from associates to the doctoral level. Keiser University is a member of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities and was ranked No. 1 in the U.S. in Social Mobility by U.S. News & World Reports in 2023.