UC Riverside has once again been named a great value in the Princeton Review’s latest college rankings, earning recognition as one of the nation’s leading institutions for both affordability and student success. In the 2025 edition, UCR ranked No. 33 overall among public universities on the Top 50 Best Value Colleges list, underscoring the university’s ongoing commitment to providing a world-class education at an accessible cost.
In addition to this distinction, UCR was also recognized for its strong financial aid support, placing No. 11 in the nation among public schools for best financial aid packages. Equally significant, the university earned a No. 5 spot for “Best Schools for Making an Impact,” a category that highlights schools where students are deeply engaged in service, leadership, and social mobility efforts. These rankings showcase the university’s mission to empower students not only through academic excellence but also through opportunities to create positive change in their communities.
The Princeton Review’s 2025 “Best Value Colleges” list, released Tuesday, June 24, highlights 209 institutions nationwide. Of the more than 650 colleges and universities surveyed, only 68 public and 141 private institutions were selected, demonstrating the competitive nature of the recognition. The review uses more than 40 data points—including academics, affordability, and career outcomes—to evaluate return on investment. UC Riverside earned an impressive 90 out of 99 in its return on investment rating, reflecting strong graduate outcomes and long-term career value.
This is the sixth consecutive year UC Riverside has been included on the Princeton Review’s best value lists, reinforcing its national reputation for accessibility and student success. UCR has consistently balanced affordability with quality, ensuring that students receive personalized instruction from world-class faculty while benefiting from substantial financial aid opportunities. The university has steadily increased research funding, expanded career development programs, and invested in campus infrastructure to ensure students are prepared for both academic and professional achievement.
UCR was also included on the Princeton Review’s Top 50 Green Colleges, highlighting the campus’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. With initiatives focused on reducing carbon emissions, advancing clean energy research, and creating sustainable food systems, the university is preparing graduates to confront some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
These recognitions speak to the larger story of UC Riverside as one of the most transformative universities in the nation. UCR is nationally recognized for its role in advancing social mobility, with a majority of its students being first-generation college students. The university’s dedication to equity, affordability, and excellence ensures that students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to thrive.
“The schools on our 'Best Value Colleges' lists this year are truly exceptional," said Rob Franek, editor-in-chief of The Princeton Review. "They offer outstanding academics and excellent career services. They also demonstrate extraordinary commitments to affordability via generous financial aid and/or comparatively low sticker prices.”
By consistently delivering affordable access to high-quality education, UC Riverside continues to strengthen its role as a leading public research institution. Its presence in the Princeton Review’s rankings is a reflection not only of its academic rigor but also of its commitment to preparing students to make an impact in California, the nation, and the world.
The Princeton Review is not affiliated with Princeton University. It is a tutoring, test preparation, and college admission services company that conducts independent surveys and research on higher education institutions across the country.