DENTON (UNT), Texas — The University of North Texas has improved its standing in the 2027 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, moving up among the country’s top public universities, best value schools and top performers on social mobility.

UNT ranks among the nation’s leaders in the Top Performers on Social Mobility category, rising eight spots from No. 34 to No. 26 nationally. UNT is also ranked No. 110 among the nation’s top public universities, up from No. 115 last year, and made its largest jump, up 46 spots to No. 157 in the Best Value Schools category.

"U.S. News & World Report's recognition of UNT for overall quality, social mobility, and value for in-state students reflects our commitment to educate and support every qualified student who commits to learn with us," said UNT President Harrison Keller, Ph.D. "At UNT, we create enduring value for our students, employers, and communities across North Texas and beyond."

The social mobility ranking recognizes universities for their success in enrolling and graduating students who receive federal Pell Grants, which typically are awarded to students from lower-income households.

UNT also ranked No. 78 nationally in the newly introduced Best Value Schools for In-State Students category. The ranking recognizes institutions that provide students with a strong combination of educational quality and affordability.

UNT annually awards more than $526 million in financial aid, including more than $83 million in scholarships. Last year, UNT announced the North Texas Promise that covers tuition and mandatory fees for qualifying students from families who earn less than $100,000. More than 74% of UNT students receive financial aid or scholarships, helping make a UNT education accessible and affordable for students and their families. UNT has not increased in-state tuition since 2016, and more than half of degree-earners graduate debt-free from UNT.