LSU is ranked as the No. 1 university in Louisiana for the second year in a row and rose to No. 179 in the country according to the Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S. Rankings. Last year LSU was ranked No. 188 in the country.

The Wall Street Journal ranks universities based on student outcomes, financial value, efficiency and student experience. LSU earned an overall score of 69.4.

According to the report, LSU scored a 75 on graduation rate and a 71 for salary impact. LSU’s financial value is another big part of their high score with an average cost per year of $20,015. LSU graduates earn an average wage increase of $37,023 in their post-grad careers.

LSU graduates pay off their education on average in two years and one month.

LSU’s student experience also earned high points with its learning facilities scoring a 69, its career preparation scoring a 67 and the recommendation scoring a 72.

“Given the exceptional year LSU has had, it’s no surprise we’re rising in national rankings,” LSU Interim President Matt Lee said. “LSU is recognized as the top university in Louisiana, and that’s exactly what you should expect from an institution whose mission is to serve this state. That recognition tells me we’re delivering on our promise to our students and to the people of Louisiana.”

LSU’s Scholarship First Agenda helped drive these high rankings. This program focuses on supporting student success, supplying good candidates to Louisiana’s workforce and pursuing academic and research excellence.