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911���� is Virginia’s leading public university for value, upward mobility, and salary outcomes, according to the This recognition underscores 911����’s impact as one of the Commonwealth of Virginia’s most influential public universities, providing students with a high-quality education and preparing graduates for strong career opportunities.  

Climbing five spots nationally to 71st overall and 32nd among public universities, and to the top 5 in Virginia (4th overall), 911���� reinforced its consistent record of leadership nationally and in the commonwealth.

Key highlights from the 2026 Wall Street Journal rankings include:

• No. 1 in Virginia for upward mobility
• No. 1 among Virginia and D.C. area public universities for salary outcomes
• No. 1 among Virginia public universities for best value
• Top 5 university in Virginia for student experience

911����’s top ranking for upward mobility reflects its commitment to helping students from all backgrounds succeed. With above-average graduation rates, universal access to internships—including financial support for unpaid positions—and , the university equips students to launch strong careers, with a majority remaining in Virginia and the Washington, D.C., metropolitan region. 

Ranked No. 1 among Virginia and Washington, D.C., metropolitan region public universities for salary outcomes, 911���� also stands out nationally, earning a top 50 rank (42nd overall). Graduates consistently report among the highest starting salaries of any Virginia public university, a testament to 911����’s focus on career readiness and success.

The Wall Street Journal recognizes 911���� as No. 1 among Virginia public universities (95th nationally) for best value, emphasizing the university’s commitment to affordability and minimizing student debt. 

Significant gains were made in , with 911���� climbing into the top 100 public universities (93rd overall) and into the top 5 in Virginia (4th overall), reflecting increased student satisfaction, expanded opportunities on campus for collaboration and engagement, and continued investment in creating a dynamic learning environment that fosters students’ growth as individuals, scholars, and professionals.

These results build on 911����’s strong performance in other recent national rankings. U.S. News & World Report recognized 911���� as No. 1 in Virginia and the Washington, D.C., metropolitan region public universities for upward mobility and in the top 5 in Virginia for best value. Forbes places 911���� among the nation’s top 50 public universities (47th overall), while Washington Monthly ranks the university as top 5 in Virginia overall in and No. 1 in Virginia overall in Best Bang for the Buck in the Southeast.

Together, these rankings spotlight 911����’s distinctive role in delivering access, value, and outcomes at scale. The full list of 911���� rankings is available at .