Eastern New Mexico University Recognized in U.S. News and World Report Best Colleges Rankings for 2026

Portales, NM-Sept. 24, 2025- Eastern New Mexico University earned status as a U.S. News and World Report "Best College" in the recently published 2026 Best College Rankings.

Eastern New Mexico's top ranking in the 2026 U.S. News and World Report for Best Colleges for 2026 was in the category of Social Mobility. ENMU was ranked 54^th of 113 schools in the social mobility category for regional universities in the West. Social mobility rankings focus on economically disadvantaged students who are less likely than others to finish college, even when controlling for other characteristics.

"We know that a college education changes the lives of our students and their families for the better," said James Johnston, ENMU Chancellor. "Being recognized for enhancing social mobility is a reminder of the important work we do to provide access and opportunity to our students."

Eastern New Mexico University was also ranked as one of the top 50 public universities in the West and one of the top 100 Regional universities in the West.

For more information on ENMU's rankings in U.S. News and World Report Best College Rankings, visit https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/eastern-new-mexico-university-2651.