Lake Forest College ranks high in latest U.S. News report

U.S. News & World Report ranked Lake Forest College #3 in the nation for Social Mobility and #11 in the Best Value Schools category in its 2026 “Best Colleges” rankings released today.
This marks the fifth consecutive year Lake Forest has placed among the top three nationally in Social Mobility—a category that measures how well colleges enroll and graduate large proportions of disadvantaged students. The recognition reflects both the College’s long-standing commitment to accessibility and affordability and a national emphasis on rewarding colleges for student outcomes rather than just reputation or selectivity.
Overall, Lake Forest ranked #75 among National Liberal Arts Colleges, up two spots from last year’s #77 and a 30-point climb from #105 in 2011. The College also rose to #11 on the Best Value list, up from #13 last year. This ranking weighs both academic quality and net cost for students who receive the average level of need-based financial aid.
Together, the latest U.S. News report highlights Lake Forest’s steady upward trajectory and its continued focus on providing a rigorous, affordable education that leads to meaningful careers and lives of purpose.