UGA moves into top 20

The University of Georgia moved up three spots to No. 18 in the latest U.S. News & World Report ranking of Best Public Universities, released today.

"I am pleased that the University of Georgia continues to be recognized as one of the very best public research universities in the nation," said President Jere W. Morehead. "I want to thank our outstanding faculty, staff, students, alumni and supporters for this achievement. UGA's upward trajectory is a testament-above all else-to their hard work and dedication to excellence."

Outstanding performance on key measures of student success contributed to the university's strong position in the national rankings: UGA's first-year retention rate increased from 94 percent to a record 95 percent during the rating period, and its six-year graduation rate remained at an all-time high of 85 percent.

Increases in student selectivity measures also led to the top 20 ranking. UGA's acceptance rate decreased from 56 percent to 53 percent during the rating period; the percentage of students in the top 10 percent of their high school class increased from 52 percent to 53 percent, and test scores for the 25th-75th SAT/ACT percentile increased as well.

So goes the progress and advancement of great students and faculty, leading research and first-rate facilities. Congratulations all.