Smith Celebrated for Academic Excellence and Affordability

Smith College has been recognized once again for its commitment to access, affordability, and academic excellence.

In its 2026 list of “Best Colleges,” U.S. News & World Report ranked Smith at number 13 among the best national liberal arts colleges (tied) and number 10 for best value, moving up significantly from number 24 last year.

President Sarah Willie-LeBreton said the college’s impressive national rankings reflect its enduring mission to make the Smith experience accessible and affordable to talented students from every background. “We are proud to pair academic excellence with a no-loan financial aid program that allows our graduates to pursue their goals without the burden of debt,” she said.

The Best Value ranking highlights colleges that deliver outstanding academic quality at an affordable cost, taking into account the percentage of students who receive financial aid and the average net price of attendance. Smith is one of a handful of liberal arts colleges that meet the full demonstrated need of every enrolled undergraduate. More than 60% of Smith students receive financial aid, with the average need-based grant totaling close to $67,000. In 2021, Smith became the first women’s college to eliminate loans from its financial aid packages. Smith also provides financial support to students in the form of guaranteed paid internships, start-up grants for high-need students, and funds for academic conferences as well as for textbooks, computers, and graduate school applications. Last year, Smith awarded more than $87 million in institutional aid.

“I am proud of Smith’s recognition as a top 10 Best Value liberal arts college,” said Joanna May, vice president for enrollment. “We strive to equalize the student experience. At Smith, financial circumstances will never limit students’ opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive.”

Nationally, Smith is known as a leading liberal arts college. Applications for admission have consistently been at record numbers, with more than 8,100 students applying for admission to the class of 2029—twice the number the college received 10 years ago. The college consistently places among the top producers of Fulbright awards among liberal arts colleges. In the past five years, 50% of Smith applicants have been offered Fulbrights, making Smith one of the most competitive colleges in the country. In 2025, three Smith students received the prestigious Goldwater Scholarship, which is given to college sophomores and juniors who show exceptional promise in mathematics, engineering research, and the natural sciences.

For this year’s rankings, U.S. News evaluated more than 1,700 institutions using up to 17 measures of academic quality and graduate success. Out of 207 liberal arts colleges assessed, Smith placed fourth among 12 Massachusetts institutions in its category. In the Best Value list, Smith ranked third among the eight Massachusetts colleges recognized.