Clark Atlanta University is ranked No. 16 among HBCUs and No. 52 for social mobility by U.S. News & World Report, showcasing its commitment to academic excellence.
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| Clark Atlanta University earns top spots in the 2026 U.S. News rankings, coming in No. 16 among HBCUs and No. 52 for social mobility among national universities. Image: CH |
Atlanta, Georgia, USA — September 23, 2025:
Clark Atlanta University has received notable recognition in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, securing the No. 16 spot among the nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). In addition, the university earned a prestigious ranking of No. 52 among the Top Performers on Social Mobility within the National Universities category, standing alongside Princeton University, which claimed the No. 1 position in the same category.
The U.S. News & World Report rankings, which evaluate over 1,700 institutions across the U.S., assess academic quality, student success, and various other factors. The rankings use up to 17 key indicators, including graduation rates, faculty resources, financial aid, and graduate outcomes, to determine an institution's standing.
President George T. French, Jr., Ph.D., expressed his pride in the university’s recognition, emphasizing the significance of social mobility in the institution’s mission. "This distinguished recognition underscores the vital importance of social mobility in our mission, highlighting our unwavering commitment to academic excellence and innovation," said Dr. French. "We empower our scholars to reach their fullest potential on a global stage. As we continue to shatter barriers and create transformative opportunities, we remain resolute in cultivating an environment where every scholar can flourish."
The rankings are widely regarded by prospective students and families as a trusted resource when choosing the right college or university. The rankings not only provide insights into academic quality but also cover essential aspects such as graduation rates, post-graduate earnings, and graduate indebtedness, offering a comprehensive view of each institution’s impact on student success.
LaMont Jones, Ed.D., managing editor for education at U.S. News, commented on the value of the rankings, saying, “With over half of the ranking factors dedicated to student outcomes, the rankings and editorial content provide vital data, college advice, and informed reporting to every student pursuing higher education."
Clark Atlanta University's No. 16 ranking among HBCUs and its significant placement in the social mobility category reflect the university’s ongoing commitment to providing transformative educational experiences. The rankings also underscore the university’s role in fostering accessibility, academic achievement, and career success for a diverse student body, especially those from underrepresented communities.