The University of New Hampshire has been named the No. 1 best value public university in New England for the fifth consecutive year, according to U.S. News & World Report.
The distinction is part of the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best College rankings, released Sept. 23.
The five-year streak of being recognized as the region’s best value public university reflects UNH’s continued commitment to providing students the best possible return on their higher ed investment.
“Offering students a high-quality educational experience that is both financially accessible and provides lifelong value remains a top priority for us,” says UNH President Elizabeth Chilton. “The value of a college degree is as important for students and their families as it has ever been, and we are proud to once again be recognized as a leader in our region.”
Nearly nine out of 10 first-year UNH students – 88% – receive scholarships and/or need-based aid, with more than $200 million awarded in merit scholarships and need-based aid annually. The average annual scholarship for undergraduate students is $12,400.
New Hampshire residents can also take advantage of the Granite Guarantee, which ensures that any Pell-eligible New Hampshire undergraduate and graduate from the Community College System of New Hampshire will pay no tuition to attend UNH.
UNH students have the opportunity to explore game-changing research opportunities thanks to UNH’s status as an R1 institution, which puts it in the top tier of research universities in the country. The variety of differentiating and innovative programs and offerings at UNH continues to expand, and includes the Hamel Honors & Scholars College, a community for academically motivated students that debuted in the fall of 2024, and the School of Nursing within the College of Health and Human Services, unveiled this summer.
Additionally, UNH students gain critical hands-on experience that sets them up for the real world, with 75% of students completing at least one internship before graduation, according to a First Destination survey of 2024 graduates.
Beyond financial assistance and distinguished academic programs, a critical element of value is return on investment for students and their families. UNH students are shining in that area, as well, with 94% of 2024 graduates employed or seeking further education within six months of graduating. The significant majority of employed graduates — 88% — earned jobs in fields related to their major.
“Our No. 1 goal is to provide an educational experience that is not only transformational during a student’s time on campus, but one that opens doors to lifelong success and fulfillment after they graduate,” says Kimberly DeRego, vice provost of enrollment management. “We remain fully committed to making those opportunities available to as many students as possible, and are proud of the incredible successes our students and alumni continue to enjoy.”
