U.S. News & World Report recently released its updated academic rankings for 2026, showcasing a significant shakeup among Big Ten schools. This evaluation is crucial not only for prospective students and their families but also for scholarship funds, state funding, and institutional prestige. The rankings are based on various factors such as graduation and retention rates, academic resources, faculty credentials, and student success outcomes.
The Big Ten Conference experiences notable changes with the addition of prestigious former Pac-12 members, namely the University of Oregon, the University of Washington, the University of Southern California (USC), and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). These additions impact not only the athletic landscape but also the academic prestige of the conference as a whole. Below is an overview of the rankings of all Big Ten members as released in 2026.
Current Academic Rankings of Big Ten Schools (2026)
Northwestern University
- City: Evanston, Illinois
- National Ranking: 7 (tied)
- 2025 Rank: 6
- Acceptance Rate: 8%
Northwestern remains the academic leader of the Big Ten, consistently securing its position within the top 10 nationally. The university’s commitment to research and high standards in education make it a prime choice for students aiming for a rigorous academic experience.
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- City: Los Angeles, California
- National Ranking: 17 (tied)
- 2025 Rank: 15
- Acceptance Rate: 9%
UCLA has slightly dropped but still maintains its second position within the conference. Its reputation for excellence across multiple disciplines and a vibrant campus life continues to attract students globally.
University of Michigan
- City: Ann Arbor, Michigan
- National Ranking: 20 (tied)
- 2025 Rank: 21
- Acceptance Rate: 16%
Michigan is noted for both academic prowess and sports achievements, further solidifying its standing as a prestigious institution.
University of Southern California (USC)
- City: Los Angeles, California
- National Ranking: 28
- 2025 Rank: 27
- Acceptance Rate: 10%
USC remains a strong contender in the Big Ten, balancing its rich history in athletics and academia alike.
University of Wisconsin—Madison
- City: Madison, Wisconsin
- National Ranking: 36 (tied)
- 2025 Rank: 39
- Acceptance Rate: 45%
Wisconsin has made a solid comeback in this year’s rankings, showcasing an upward trend that reflects ongoing improvements in academic resources and student support.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- City: Champaign, Illinois
- National Ranking: 36 (tied)
- 2025 Rank: 33
- Acceptance Rate: 42%
Illinois continues to be recognized for its research initiatives and quality of education, ranking among the top five in the Big Ten.
The Ohio State University
- City: Columbus, Ohio
- National Ranking: 41
- 2025 Rank: 41
- Acceptance Rate: 61%
Ohio State’s stability in rankings reflects its wide-reaching impact in both athletics and academics, particularly with a perfect Academic Progress Rate last year.
Rutgers University—New Brunswick
- City: Piscataway, New Jersey
- National Ranking: 42 (tied)
- 2025 Rank: 41
- Acceptance Rate: 41%
Rutgers holds its position within the top 50, signaling a commitment to academic growth and student services.
University of Maryland, College Park
- City: College Park, Maryland
- National Ranking: 42 (tied)
- 2025 Rank: 44
- Acceptance Rate: 45%
Maryland is steadily rising through the ranks while maintaining an active role in the Big Ten, beneficial for both academic offerings and athletic programs.
University of Washington
- City: Seattle, Washington
- National Ranking: 42 (tied)
- 2025 Rank: 46
- Acceptance Rate: 39%
Washington made a significant return to form in this year’s rankings, indicating potential for future growth in both enrollment and academic performance.
Purdue University—Main Campus
- City: West Lafayette, Indiana
- National Ranking: 46 (tied)
- 2025 Rank: 46
- Acceptance Rate: 50%
Purdue maintains a competitive edge with strong programs in engineering and technology, contributing to its sustained position within the Big Ten.
Pennsylvania State University—University Park
- City: University Park, Pennsylvania
- National Ranking: 59 (tied)
- 2025 Rank: 63
- Acceptance Rate: 61%
Penn State’s recent improvement in rankings indicates a commitment to academic excellence, even as it continues to build its athletic reputation.
University of Minnesota—Twin Cities
- City: Minneapolis, Minnesota
- National Ranking: 59 (tied)
- 2025 Rank: 54
- Acceptance Rate: 80%
The University of Minnesota saw a slight decline but maintains its competitive position within the Big Ten and is known for its diverse academic offerings.
Michigan State University
- City: East Lansing, Michigan
- National Ranking: 64 (tied)
- 2025 Rank: 63
- Acceptance Rate: 85%
Despite slipping slightly in the rankings, Michigan State remains a significant institution within the Big Ten landscape.
Indiana University—Bloomington
- City: Bloomington, Indiana
- National Ranking: 73 (tied)
- 2025 Rank: 73
- Acceptance Rate: 78%
Indiana holds steady in its rankings, with ongoing initiatives to enhance academic offerings and student engagement.
University of Iowa
- City: Iowa City, Iowa
- National Ranking: 102 (tied)
- 2025 Rank: 98
- Acceptance Rate: 84%
Iowa continues to struggle in rankings but remains a respected institution, particularly in writing and the arts.
University of Oregon
- City: Eugene, Oregon
- National Ranking: 110 (tied)
- 2025 Rank: 109
- Acceptance Rate: 85%
Oregon’s position reflects the challenges stemming from recent transitions and adjustments following its move to the Big Ten.
University of Nebraska—Lincoln
- City: Lincoln, Nebraska
- National Ranking: 158 (tied)
- 2025 Rank: 152
- Acceptance Rate: 87%
Nebraska has faced challenges in climbing the academic rankings, indicating the need for a sustained focus on improving its academic reputation.
Conclusion
The Big Ten Conference is becoming increasingly dominant academically while evolving with its recent conference expansion. Each institution contributes to a rich tapestry of educational excellence, athletic prowess, and research leadership. For students considering their educational paths, these rankings provide invaluable insight into the landscape of higher education. While the athletic rivalries draw attention, the academic progress of these institutions remains essential to their identity and purpose.
When evaluating these schools, prospective students should consider various factors beyond rankings, such as academic programs, campus culture, and support services. Doing so will ensure they select an institution that aligns with their personal and professional aspirations.
