SPRINGFIELD, Missouri – Evangel University (EU) was named a 2026 Top Performer in Social Mobility in the Regional Universities – Midwest category by U.S. News & World Report for the third consecutive year, ranking 34 on the notable list.
The US News & World Report rankings evaluate more than 1,800 national colleges and universities on up to 17 measures of academic excellence and place an emphasis on social mobility and outcomes for graduating college students.
Students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds face significant barriers to completing a college degree, even when other factors are equal. Institutions recognized as top performers in social mobility demonstrate success in overcoming these barriers by enrolling—and graduating—large numbers of students who receive Pell Grants.
“We are especially proud of this recognition because it reflects the success of our students,” said Chris Belcher, vice president for enrollment management. “At Evangel, we are committed to creating pathways for students from all socio-economic backgrounds to achieve their goals, and this ranking affirms the life-changing impact of that mission.”
EU launched its Pell Promise scholarship program in 2021, providing 80%-100% tuition gap coverage for Pell Grant recipients. The award is renewable up to four years and underscores the university’s focus to make an EU education accessible and affordable for all.
U.S. News publishes the Best Colleges rankings each year to provide prospective students and their families the comparative merits of the undergraduate programs at America’s colleges and universities. The rankings offer detailed information on the institutions and data on factors such as outcome measures—including graduation rates, graduate indebtedness, and post-graduate earnings.
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Evangel University, with its embedded Assemblies of God Theological Seminary (AGTS), is a comprehensive Spirit-led Christian university located in Springfield, Missouri. It is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities. Under the leadership of Dr. Mike Rakes, EU is committed to excellence in educating and equipping students to serve the Church and society globally and becoming compassionate innovators in their chosen vocations. EU offers more than 70 degree programs, including cutting-edge majors, pre-professional programs, and affordable and flexible online degree options.
EU is highly regarded and has been ranked:
- #1 Best College in Springfield & #2 Best Christian College in Missouri by Niche
- US News & World Report Best Colleges Top Performer in Social Mobility
- Colleges of Distinction Best Christian University
- Top 10 Best Universities by AcademicInfluence.com
- Third Most Beautiful Campus in the Midwest by Christian Colleges & Universities
- Top 10 Best Colleges in Missouri by BestColleges.com
With additional accreditations in business, counseling, music, social work, and theology and certification as an Excellence in Giving university, EU is focused on providing students with hands-on experience and real-world training for today’s professional careers. Learn more about the university at evangel.edu.