A Seattle-based university is one of the top 50 in the country, according to a new national ranking — and the school even moved up on the list compared to the previous year.

The University of Washington tied for No. 42 on U.S. News & World Report’s ranking of the 2026 Best National Universities, gaining four spots compared to the 2025 list.

Four other Washington universities also made the list.

The national universities ranking is one of several 2026 Best Colleges lists published Sept. 23 by U.S. News & World Report, which has been evaluating colleges for decades. Several Washington colleges and universities also made other U.S. News lists for 2026, from Best National Liberal Arts Colleges to Best Regional Universities.

“Over the years, Best Colleges has evolved into a comprehensive to

See Full Page