Howard University Leads Forbes 2026 HBCU Rankings

Forbes has published its first ranking devoted exclusively to historically Black colleges and universities, listing 20 institutions split evenly between private and public schools. Howard University topped the private group, while North Carolina A&T State University led the public list. The private top five also included Spelman College, Morehouse College, Xavier University of Louisiana and Hampton University. Among public HBCUs, Florida A&M University placed second, followed by Prairie View A&M, Morgan State and the University of the Virgin Islands.

The methodology emphasizes student outcomes: six‑year graduation rates, retention, alumni earnings, student‑debt levels and return on investment. Additional weight is given to schools that serve Pell‑Grant recipients. Only two HBCUs—Howard and Spelman—appeared in Forbes’ overall Top 500 Colleges, underscoring the ranking’s focus on post‑graduation success.