University climbs 37 spots in category recognizing success in enrolling and graduating Pell Grant recipients.
Georgian Court University has climbed to #43 among Regional Universities North for Top Performers on Social Mobility in the 2027 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, rising 37 spots from #80 last year.
The ranking recognizes colleges and universities that are particularly successful in enrolling and graduating students who receive federal Pell Grants, which are awarded primarily to undergraduate students with significant financial need. U.S. News evaluates institutions based on Pell Grant graduation rates and how those graduation rates compare with those of students who do not receive Pell Grants.
Georgian Court also ranks #107 among Regional Universities North, up from #110 last year.
“The Sisters of Mercy founded Georgian Court with the belief that education can open doors and create opportunity. That mission continues to guide us today,” said Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., Interim President of Georgian Court University. “Our progress in social mobility is especially significant because so many of our students are the first in their families to attend college or are navigating financial barriers on the path to a degree.”
The recognition comes as Georgian Court continues to serve a substantial population of students who are the first in their families to attend college. 53% of the university’s incoming Class of 2030 are first-generation college students, according to Fall 2026 enrollment data.
Georgian Court provides students with small classes, individualized attention, academic support, and financial assistance designed to help them remain on track toward graduation. In Fall 2025, 97% of full-time undergraduate students at the Lakewood campus received financial aid, with an average award of $34,595.
The 2027 rankings continue a period of strong performance for Georgian Court in social mobility. The university ranked #90 in the category in 2024, rose to #80 in 2025, and reached #43 this year.
U.S. News & World Report evaluates Regional Universities North on a range of measures related to academic quality and student outcomes. Its Top Performers on Social Mobility ranking focuses specifically on outcomes for students receiving Pell Grants.
