University of Florida receives 5-star grade as one of America’s best colleges

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The University of Florida announced it has received a 5-star grade for being one of the “Best Colleges in America” by Money Magazine.

“The University of Florida accomplishes great things. For the second year in a row we’ve earned 5 stars on Money’s list of Best Colleges,” Board of Trustees Chairman Mori Hosseini said. “We’re grateful for this honor, and we are committed to being both an elite and practical university that equips our students and moves our state forward.”

For its findings, Money Magazine reviewed more than 700 public and private colleges across the United States. Key factors included quality of education, affordability, and student outcomes such as graduation rates and employment success. 

Specifically, Money Magazine considered schools’ median graduation rates from public, private, and historically black colleges and universities. The study also required a school to have a higher graduation rate than other institutions of similar size.

The rating marked the second consecutive year the Gainesville university was recognized for its “exceptional value, combining high-quality education with affordability.”

UF further was recognized as being one of the best bargains for higher education and top-10 school for affordability.

“This honor reflects UF’s dedication to delivering top-notch, affordable education. Our faculty, staff, and students continue to strive for excellence, ensuring that the University of Florida remains a leader in higher education,” UF President Ben Sasse said. “We will continue to build on this success, making UF a place where academic achievement and accessibility go hand in hand.”

Money Magazine noted the net price of a UF degree is roughly $88,000, not factoring in federal or state aid.

Overall, the University of Florida was one of 54 schools to earn a 5-star grade. It also was the only school in Florida and the Southeastern Conference to earn the distinction.

Other schools listed with 5-star ratings included Yale University and Stanford University. Locally, Florida State University and Florida International University each earned 4.5-star ratings.