How Howard University Beats out the Competition in Forbes’ Latest Rankings
For generations, Howard University (HU) has carried a reputation that extends far beyond the gates of its Washington, D.C., campus. But against the backdrop of recent enrollment controversy, the “Mecca” is getting another major recognition: Howard has been ranked the nation’s top historically Black college or university (HBCU) by Forbes.
Now, we’re breaking down how HU’s strong career outcomes, return on investment and alumni influence help it rank at the top.
…Before we start, it’s important to note the ranking is about more than prestige. It highlights something HBCU graduates and supporters have long argued: the value of these institutions cannot be measured only by resources or rankings, but by the doors they open.
“Howard’s mission has always been to open doors of opportunity, while preparing students for lifelong success,” President Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick said in a July statement. “That commitment remains unchanged, and we will continue to ensure that every student who begins a Howard education has the strongest possible foundation to thrive and graduate.”
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According to Forbes’ rankings, Howard stood out among HBCUs because of factors including return on investment, graduate salaries, student debt, retention rates and graduation outcomes. The university has also reported strong student outcomes, including a retention rate around 90%.
The numbers reflect what many Howard alumni already know: a Howard degree carries weight.
From politics and entertainment to medicine, law, business and technology, Howard’s alumni network has produced some of the country’s most influential figures. Its alumni network, which includes former Vice President Kamala Harris, actor Chadwick Boseman, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall and countless other change-makers, remains one of Howard’s biggest advantages. Even in 2026, it’s this legacy that gives students access to mentorship, professional connections and opportunities that often extend long after graduation.
Howard’s No. 1 ranking is not unexpected. HBCU insiders know each year the university consistently ranks among the nation’s top Black colleges across major lists, frequently landing in the top three alongside schools such as Spelman College, Morehouse College and Florida A&M University, according to U.S. News & World Report and Niche. In fact, this is the third year in a row that Forbes has ranked Howard No. 1 on their top HBCU lists.
Like other top HBCUs, Howard’s reputation has been built over decades through academic programs, research, culture and its ability to prepare Black professionals for leadership roles across industries. We previously told you Howard is the only Black college to reach Research 1 status and with a billion-dollar endowment, it’s no secret that Howard is more than equipped to provide students with a cream-of-the-crop experience.
Still, Howard’s latest recognition arrives after the university faced criticism over enrollment issues involving hundreds of incoming students who were removed from enrollment shortly before the fall semester because of unpaid balances, financial aid issues or missing documentation, The Root also told you.
Forbes acknowledged, “The Howard episode dramatically illustrates two seemingly contradictory facts about the 10 private and 10 public schools honored on Forbes’ first-ever ranking of America’s Top HBCUs. Their popularity is growing, even as their longstanding financial problems (and those of their students) are worsening.”
The controversy highlighted larger challenges facing higher education, including affordability, financial aid confusion and the pressure students face navigating college costs. But supporters say one difficult moment does not erase Howard’s broader impact.
