The University of Illinois Springfield has been ranked the top public regional university in Illinois for an eighth year by U.S. News & World Report. The 2027 Best Colleges rankings, released today, also place UIS 10th among public regional universities in the Midwest.

“We are proud to once again be recognized as the top public regional university in Illinois,” said UIS Chancellor Janet L. Gooch. “This ranking speaks to the quality and value of a UIS education and our commitment to creating opportunities for students to learn, grow and prepare for successful careers.”

The U.S. News & World Report rankings are based on measures of academic quality and graduate success, including graduation and retention rates, graduate earnings, peer assessments, financial resources and faculty resources.

UIS also earned high marks in the following categories:

• Best Value Schools for In-State Students: UIS ranked 10th in the Midwest and earned the highest ranking of any public regional university in Illinois. New for 2027, the ranking recognizes public universities that combine academic quality with affordability for in-state students, considering factors such as tuition, expenses and need-based financial aid.
• Best Value Schools: UIS ranked 28th in the Midwest and second among public regional universities in Illinois. The ranking considers academic quality and the cost for students receiving need-based financial aid. It also considers the amount and type of need-based aid students receive.
• Best Colleges for Veterans: UIS ranked 18th in the Midwest and first among public regional universities in Illinois. To qualify, schools must be certified for the GI Bill, participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program or be a public institution, and enroll at least 20 undergraduate veterans and active-duty service members.