Austin, Texas, August 21, 2025
News Summary
The University of Texas at Austin has earned a prestigious position in multiple categories of the Princeton Review’s ‘Best Colleges: 2026 Edition,’ showcasing its commitment to academic excellence and student satisfaction. Among the recognitions, UT Austin is listed as one of the ‘Best Southwest’ colleges and a top choice for its value and green initiatives. This acknowledgment is based on surveys from over 170,000 students, highlighting the university’s robust programs and vibrant campus life.
Austin, Texas – University of Texas at Austin Recognized Among Top Colleges in Princeton Review’s 2026 Rankings
The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) has been recognized in several prestigious categories in the recently released Princeton Review’s “Best 391 Colleges: 2026 Edition.” This annual list was published on August 12, based on surveys from over 170,000 students across nearly 400 colleges nationwide. Among Texas universities, UT Austin stands out alongside Texas Christian University (TCU), which earned the top honor for having the happiest students in the country.
In the Princeton Review rankings, UT Austin is featured in distinguished categories such as “Best Southwest,” “Best Value Colleges,” “Colleges That Create Futures,” and “Green Colleges.” This recognition emphasizes the university’s commitment to academic excellence, student satisfaction, and sustainable practices.
Key Highlights of UT Austin’s Rankings
- UT Austin serves over 40,000 undergraduate students.
- It offers more than 156 degree programs across various fields.
- The university has access to over 3,000 faculty experts.
- Ranked as having the second-best undergraduate entrepreneurship program among public institutions.
- Earned ninth place for internship placements among public schools.
- Recognized for having the third-best public alumni network in the nation by Texas Exes.
Other Notable Texas Universities in Rankings
Other Texas colleges also made significant strides in the Princeton Review rankings. TCU achieved multiple high rankings, including:
- First for happiest students
- Second for best quality of life
- Third for best-run colleges
- Fourth for the most beautiful campus
- Fifth for best athletic facilities
The University of Dallas ranked eighth for most religious students and tenth for happiest students, while Austin College claimed the 15th spot among the best private schools for internships. Interestingly, Southwestern University and Texas State University were recognized in the same categories as UT Austin for “Best Southwest” and “Green Colleges.” Meanwhile, UT Dallas notably secured a second-place ranking in the Southwest for game design, and third for public schools for internships.
Background on Princeton Review Rankings
The Princeton Review ranks schools based on various factors but does not assign a numerical rank overall. Instead, it produces lists of the top 25 colleges in different subcategories based on student feedback regarding academics, campus life, and the overall student quality of life. Despite being among the largest universities in Texas, the University of North Texas did not make this specific Princeton Review list but is recognized on the list for best colleges in the Southwest.
Conclusion
UT Austin’s recognition in the Princeton Review’s latest rankings highlights its ongoing efforts to provide quality education, foster student happiness, and create a vibrant campus life. As students and parents evaluate college options, UT Austin continues to demonstrate its strong standing among peer institutions nationwide.
FAQ
What are the key rankings of the University of Texas at Austin in the Princeton Review 2026?
Which other Texas universities were ranked by the Princeton Review?
How does the Princeton Review rank colleges?
Key Features of Princeton Review Rankings
| University | Category Ranked | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| University of Texas at Austin | Best Southwest, Best Value, Colleges That Create Futures, Green Colleges | N/A |
| Texas Christian University | Happiest Students | 1 |
| University of Dallas | Most Religious Students, Happiest Students | 8, 10 |
| UT Dallas | Game Design | 2 |
| Austin College | Best Private Schools for Internships | 15 |
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Additional Resources
- Statesman: Texas Christian University Rankings
- Herald Democrat: Austin College Rankings
- CultureMap: UT Austin Best Colleges
- WFAA: North Texas Universities Rankings
- CultureMap: Houston Best Colleges
- Wikipedia: University of Texas at Austin
- Google Search: Princeton Review rankings
- Google Scholar: Texas Christian University rankings
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Princeton Review
- Google News: University of Texas rankings
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