Bryant University is once again being recognized as one of the nation’s premier institutions of higher education by The Princeton Review and Forbes, underscoring Bryant’s standing among America’s top four-year universities and highlighting its dedication to delivering transformational educational experiences that produce exceptional outcomes and inspire graduates to become passionate, purpose-driven leaders.
Bryant recently earned a place in The Princeton Review’s The Best 391 Colleges, 2026 guidebook based on feedback from more than 170,000 students on academics, campus life, administration, financial aid, and more. Only 15 percent of U.S. colleges and universities are featured in the rankings.
Bryant was also included in The Princeton Review’s “Best Value Colleges” list. Out of more than 650 institutions evaluated, only 209 earned a spot on the list based on their return on investment (ROI) scores, which are calculated from more than 40 data points and draw heavily from surveys focusing on academic quality, affordability, and career preparation conducted during the 2024–2025 academic year.
The university’s success is further reflected in its placement on Forbes’ 2026 “America’s Top Colleges” list, which commends Bryant for producing accomplished, high-earning graduates from all socioeconomic backgrounds while maintaining comparatively low student debt levels.
These national honors comes as Bryant advances its Vision 2030 Strategic Plan, which prioritizes and accelerates investments in academic innovation, experiential learning, vibrant student life, Division I athletics, economic mobility, and to create a connected community at an international level to chart a bold course for the university’s global future.
“We are proud to once again be included by both The Princeton Review and Forbes in their rankings,” noted Bryant President Ross Gittell, Ph.D. “This distinction highlights the transformative student experience we offer, where small classes, engaged faculty, a supportive and vibrant community, and relevant real-world learning come together to prepare graduates for success. Year after year, our faculty, students, and staff embody the Bryant spirit creating powerful learning experiences and helping students achieve exceptional outcomes.”
The accolades also arrive on the heels of LinkedIn listing Bryant as the 38th best college in the United States, and in the top 5 for internships and recruiter demand, in their inaugural ranking of undergraduate programs that best set up their alumni for long-term career success. The professional networking and career development social media platform used data on job placement, internships, recruiter demand, career success, network strength, and breadth of knowledge to inform the rankings. The university was additionally recognized for notable programs in data science, AI, and design thinking.
“This recognition is a testament to the passion of our faculty and staff, the strength of our academic programs, and our shared commitment to reimagining what higher education can be,” said Rupendra Paliwal, provost and chief academic officer. “At Bryant, we empower students with the knowledge, skills, and mindset to lead with purpose and thrive in a dynamic, rapidly evolving world.”.
Bryant also earned praise in several of the Princeton Review’s individual categories, including being ranked in the top 25 for Career Services, #16 for Best College Library, and #19 for Students Love Their School Teams. The university was recognized as an environmentally responsible “Green College,” as well.
“We’re incredibly proud to be acknowledged once again among the nation’s top colleges,” added Inge-Lise Ameer, Ed.D., vice president of student affairs and dean of students. “This honor affirms the vibrant, supportive, and engaging environment we’ve cultivated at Bryant — one that fosters both intellectual development and personal wellbeing. Our community is committed to helping every student discover their calling and graduate ready to thrive.”
Princeton Review’s annual college guide has served as a trusted resource for prospective students and their families, offering detailed profiles and insights to support informed decisions about undergraduate education. Forbes ranks colleges and universities in the United States, focusing on students’ educational, financial, and career outcomes.
About Bryant University
For more than160 years, Bryant University has been at the forefront of delivering an exceptional education that anticipates the future and prepares students to be innovative leaders of character in a changing world. The university delivers an integrated academic and student life experience with nationally recognized academic programs at the intersection of business, liberal arts, and health and behavioral sciences.
Located on a 465-acre contemporary campus in Smithfield, R.I., Bryant enrolls approximately 3,800 undergraduate and graduate students from 41 states and 50 countries. Bryant is recognized as a top 1 percent national leader in student education outcomes and ROI and regularly receives high rankings from U.S. News and World Report, QS Stars, Money, Bloomberg Businessweek, Wall Street Journal, and College Factual. Bryant.edu