UW-Stevens Point ranks among the best public universities in Midwest

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is again ranked among the best public universities in the Midwest, according to U.S. News and World Report.

The magazine’s 2025 rankings place UW-Stevens Point as 12th among regional public universities in the 12 states in its Midwest region. The university was recognized for its graduation and first-year retention rates and peer assessment rating, as well as higher earnings and lower median debt for graduates.

This ratio of academic quality to price also acknowledges students who receive need-based financial aid as a percentage of grants and scholarship. The university is also ranked as a top performer in promoting social mobility by successfully graduating federal Pell Grant students from lower income families.

“UW-Stevens Point is dedicated to finding students more pathways to an affordable education through lower tuition, scholarships and grants,” said Chancellor Thomas Gibson. “This, combined with our engaging programs, experiential learning, innovative research opportunities and dedicated faculty and staff, offers students an excellent return on investment.”

The university recently created the NextGen Scholarship Portal, offering students a more streamlined process of applying for and receiving campus scholarships. With minimal exceptions, students fill out one application to be matched with about 700 scholarships based on their responses and academic data such as major, GPA, year in college and financial need as reported on the FAFSA.

UW-Stevens Point also rose in its ranking for undergraduate business programs, highlighting the excellence of the Sentry School of Business and Economics. The Sentry School offers career-focused experiences through the Anderson Classroom to Career Center and a partnership with Sentry Insurance. Students can also begin earning their master of business administration degree while an undergraduate.

UW-Stevens Point also improved its rank on the list of Best Colleges for Veterans in the Midwest. A silver 2024-25 Military Friendly School, the university is certified for the GI Bill and participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program.

To view the 2025 U.S. News Best Colleges rankings, visit www.usnews.com/best-colleges.

Source: UW-Stevens Point