TALLAHASSEE, FL (May 6, 2025) – Florida is once again the top state in the nation for higher education, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 State Rankings. Florida has held the top spot since the inception of the rankings in 2017, making 9 years in a row at #1. Florida continues to lead the nation in higher education because our state universities offer the lowest in-state tuition and fees, graduate students on time, and ensure students complete their degrees with minimal to no debt.
“I am proud to lead the best higher education system in the nation. Our number one ranking is thanks to the leadership, faculty, and staff at our universities who prioritize student success,” said Chancellor Ray Rodrigues. “With the continued support of Governor DeSantis and the Florida Legislature, the System’s greatest successes are yet to come.”
“Florida’s sustained recognition as the nation’s top state for higher education is a testament to the outstanding performance of our students and faculty, the impact of strategic investments, and the steadfast leadership across our 12 public universities. Remaining the top state for higher education is evidence that the continued investment in the System by Governor DeSantis and the Florida Legislature is delivering best-in-class returns. A special thank you to the faculty and staff who work tirelessly to ensure students have the resources they need to be successful. Without their dedication, the System would not continue to be number one,” said Brian Lamb, Chair of the Florida Board of Governors.
“I’m incredibly proud of Florida’s public universities for earning this distinction for the ninth consecutive year,” said Alan Levine, Vice Chair of the Florida Board of Governors. “Our sustained success reflects targeted investments in high-impact areas like healthcare, nursing, cybersecurity and STEM fields—efforts that are directly improving lives and strengthening our communities. Florida’s students continue to excel, earning Bright Futures Scholarships, graduating with minimal debt, and emerging as top-tier talents. We’re deeply grateful for the continued leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Legislature, whose support and high expectations have helped drive these achievements. This recognition affirms that our collective efforts are delivering meaningful results for Florida, the nation, and the world.”
Highlights of Florida’s number one higher education ranking include:
- Remaining #1 for lowest tuition and fees
- Rising to #1 for four-year college graduation rates
- Rising to #1 for two-year college graduation rates
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About the State University System of Florida and the Board of Governors
The State University System of Florida is a constitutional body led by the 17-member Board of Governors. The System has 12 universities and more than 430,000 students, making it the second-largest public university system in the nation. Florida has held the top spot in U.S. News & World Report for higher education since the inception of the rankings in 2017. Responsibilities include defining the distinctive mission of each institution and managing the System’s coordination and operation. The Board appoints a Chancellor who serves as the System’s chief executive. For more information, visit flbog.edu or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.