Fort Smith, September 24, 2024 - The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith has been named one of U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Colleges according to rankings released this morning. UAFS improved in multiple categories, securing its position as a leading institution in the region.
UAFS rose to Number 6 Top Public School in the Regional Colleges South category. The university also climbed to Number 22 in the overall Regional Colleges South category, further establishing its reputation for providing high-quality education that is accessible to students in Arkansas and beyond.
 
UAFS’s leap in the rankings reflects a steady upward trajectory over the past few years. The university’s current standing at No. 22 in Regional Colleges South marks a jump from last year’s No. 34 ranking and an even more impressive rise from No. 48 in the 2022 rankings. Similarly, UAFS’s ranking at No. 6 in Top Public Schools – Regional Colleges South improves upon last year’s No. 7 placement and the No. 12 spot it held in 2022.
The report also highlighted UAFS’s national rankings in key academic programs. The university earned recognition for its Business, Computer Science, and Nursing programs, showcasing its dedication to delivering excellence across a broad range of disciplines.
In addition, UAFS was ranked No. 58 in the Top Performers on Social Mobility category. This national distinction underscores UAFS’s mission of promoting economic and social mobility for its students and the community. 
Data and Methodology

The U.S. News & World Report rankings are based on comprehensive data analysis across a wide range of criteria, including graduation rates, social mobility, faculty resources, and student retention, as explained in the Best Colleges methodology article.. The rankings are designed to provide prospective students with a clearer understanding of each institution’s offerings and strengths. 

The full rankings can be viewed on U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Colleges page.