September 23, 2025 – Hendrix College has earned national recognition for academic excellence, student success, and value in the U.S. News & World Report 2026 Best Colleges rankings. The College placed among the nation’s top colleges in multiple categories, including four badge-eligible lists.
Hendrix is now ranked #96 among National Liberal Arts Colleges, moving into the Top 100, a significant rise from last year’s position of #114. Hendrix is the only Arkansas college in the Top 100 rankings. The College also earned recognition as:
- #55 Best Value Schools – National Liberal Arts Colleges
- #35 Top Performers on Social Mobility – National Liberal Arts Colleges
- #59 Undergraduate Teaching – National Liberal Arts Colleges
“These rankings are more than numbers. They represent our students’ achievements, the dedication of our faculty, and the strength of our community,” said Hendrix College President Karen Petersen. “Families can feel confident that when students choose Hendrix, they are choosing a proven path to success.”
Hendrix graduates go on to succeed in a wide range of fields, with a 100% job placement rate for those seeking employment and medical school (75% acceptance rate compared to 45% national average) and law school (78% acceptance rate compared to 42% national average) acceptance rates well above national averages. Hendrix also maintains top ranking for graduates obtaining advanced degrees in psychology and computer science.
“Hendrix College allows students to thrive within a supportive community,” said Vice President for Enrollment Kasey Evans. “When students choose Hendrix, they are choosing hands-on, experiential learning both inside and outside the classroom, opportunities that lead to real-world results and long-term success after graduation.”
According to U.S. News & World Report, rankings for National Liberal Arts Colleges are based on factors including graduation and retention rates, post-graduate earnings, affordability, faculty resources, and peer assessments of teaching and innovation. Among these, student outcomes carry the most weight, highlighting Hendrix’s effectiveness in preparing graduates for life after college.
The College’s remarkable rise to #35 in Social Mobility underscores its success in serving students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. This achievement reflects Hendrix’s accessibility and commitment to ensuring all students thrive, with resources such as faculty mentorship, strategic relationships with graduate schools, and close engagement with employers through internships and real-world experiences.
About Hendrix College
Founded in 1876, Hendrix College is featured in Colleges That Change Lives: 45 Schools That Will Change the Way You Think About Colleges and celebrated among the country’s leading liberal arts colleges for academic quality, engaged learning opportunities and career preparation, vibrant campus life, and value. The Hendrix College Warriors compete in 21 NCAA Division III sports. Hendrix has been affiliated with the United Methodist Church since 1884. Learn more at www.hendrix.edu.
“… Through engagement that links the classroom with the world, and a commitment to diversity, inclusion, justice, and sustainable living, the Hendrix community inspires students to lead lives of accomplishment, integrity, service, and joy.” –Hendrix College Statement of Purpose