Butler University continues to earn national recognition for excellence in student experiences and outcomes, according to the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Rankings, released today. Butler ranked No. 32 in Study Abroad, No. 40 in Undergraduate Research/Creative Projects, and No. 45 in First-Year Experiences.
In addition to its national accolades, Butler was named the No. 1 Regional University in the Midwest for the eighth consecutive year and the No. 1 Most Innovative School in the Midwest for the 11th straight year. The University remains one of the top institutions in the Midwest for Undergraduate Teaching (No. 4) and was named a Best Value School (No. 34).
“These rankings are a testament to the commitment of our faculty and staff to provide an education that is both transformative and impactful,” Butler University President James Danko said. “We take pride in cultivating an environment where students thrive academically, personally, and professionally, preparing them for meaningful lives and careers.”
The U.S. News Study Abroad category highlights universities that enable students to earn significant credit hours outside the United States, immersing themselves in new cultures. Butler offers more than 300 programs in over 50 countries, with nearly 40 percent of Butler students participating in study abroad before graduation. Last month, the University announced Butler Overseas, a bold new initiative that will expand opportunities for global learning by allowing undergraduate students to earn a bachelor’s degree in three years while studying in eight countries on six continents.
“Butler Overseas gives our students an extraordinary chance to integrate Butler’s small-class, relationship-rich education while using the world as the classroom,” Jill McKinney, Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs and Director of Global Engagement, said. “These one-of-a-kind global degrees allow students to explore the world through immersive experiences while maintaining the academic quality and close mentorship that define a Butler education.”
The Undergraduate Research/Creative Projects category recognizes schools where students conduct intensive, original work—often one-on-one with faculty mentors—that result in publishable papers, presentations, or artistic performances. At Butler, students frequently participate in high-level research with nationally recognized faculty. For example, chemistry professor Dr. Anne M. Wilson continues to lead student-driven experiments (five to date) that have been performed aboard the International Space Station—giving undergraduates the extraordinary opportunity to contribute to discoveries with global and even cosmic reach.
“Opportunities like working alongside faculty on experiments that ultimately launch to the International Space Station show the incredible level of collaboration our students experience at Butler,” Danko said. “It’s rare for undergraduates to participate in research at this scale, and it speaks to the mentorship and access our faculty provide.”
The First-Year Experiences category highlights schools that go beyond orientation week to help students feel connected and supported in their transition to college. Butler’s required First-Year Seminar is a cornerstone of this effort, introducing students to critical thinking, writing, and discussion around complex issues while building lasting connections with faculty mentors and peers. Complementing this academic foundation is Butler’s FYE Peer Mentor Program, which places highly engaged student leaders alongside First-Year Seminar sections to provide ongoing support and guidance. These peer mentors serve as near-peer advocates from day one, helping new students navigate campus life, access resources, discover Butler’s vibrant community, and cultivate a sense of belonging in their first year.
In addition to the U.S. News rankings, Butler has been recognized nationally this year by The Princeton Review and The Wall Street Journal as one of the country’s top universities.
Butler University is now accepting applications for enrollment for the fall 2026 semester. High school seniors can start the application process at butler.edu/admission.