Princeton Review names UNE one of the nation’s best colleges for eighth-straight year

For the eighth consecutive year, the University of New England has been named by The Princeton Review as one of the nation’s best institutions of higher education in its annual college guide, “The Best 388 Colleges.”

The Princeton Review’s 2023 list features fewer than 15% of four-year colleges and universities in the U.S. This is the flagship guide’s 31st year of publication.

The education services company selected institutions of higher education based on information from school administrators plus input from students and school rating scores in eight categories including financial aid, admissions selectivity, and sustainable (“green”) initiatives, among others.

The Princeton Review praised UNE’s academic programs, noting that “education is what bonds the student body at UNE,” and lauded its coastal Maine and Moroccan campuses for their proximity to research and cultural hubs. The guide commended UNE’s faculty for creating a supportive and collaborative environment for students through small class sizes, experiential learning, internships, and opportunities for high-level research. The P.D. Merrill Makerspace also received a shout out for its innovative work in interdisciplinary education.

UNE President James Herbert, Ph.D., said that inclusion in the guide speaks to UNE’s continued success in providing quality educational experiences while bucking national trends in enrollment. This fall, UNE will welcome its largest-ever undergraduate class, over 850 students, from 33 states across the nation — its most geographically and ethnically diverse class to date.

“This ranking is a testament to UNE’s commitment to putting student success at the forefront of educational experiences that combine career readiness with a strong backbone in the liberal arts,” Herbert remarked. “Such programs provide students with the habits of mind to make real change in their communities following graduation. It’s no wonder that UNE is repeatedly included in the best colleges rankings and why students continue to flock to study here.”

Vice President of University Admissions Scott Steinberg said The Princeton Review’s ranking reflects UNE’s efforts to reduce barriers to higher education while providing excellent academic and extracurricular programming for students.

“Year after year, UNE is recognized for its excellence in providing accessible educational experiences for students,” Steinberg said. “Our test-blind policy is just one example of how we seek ways to reduce barriers to a UNE education for qualified students, and our faculty and professional staff take great pride in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment in which all students feel accepted and heard. It is a great honor to see this work recognized by The Princeton Review.”