Driven by one of the most engaged student bodies in the nation, American University climbed 13 spots to No. 2 for Most Politically Active Students in The Princeton Review’s 2027 edition of The Best 392 Colleges, released August 18.

That civic energy also fueled AU’s student media. The Eagle, which celebrated its centennial last year, continued its steady ascent to capture the No. 2 spot for Best College Newspaper—jumping 15 places since 2024. 

The university earned high marks for its home in Washington, DC, named the sixth best college city for its access to high-impact internships and research, cultural and historical attractions, political and government institutions, and global connections.

The Princeton Review further highlighted AU’s longstanding commitment to sustainability, awarding the university a perfect 99 out of 99 Green Rating and a spot on its Green Honor Roll. Additionally, AU ranked No. 21 for Green Matters: Everyone Cares About Conservation and No. 23 for LGBTQ-Friendly. 

“While rankings are just one measure of excellence, these results speak directly to what American University students value most,” said Interim President David Marchick. “They want a campus community where they can engage with defining issues, build lasting relationships, and seize transformative opportunities across our vibrant city. Ultimately, these rankings reaffirm the very qualities at the heart of the AU experience.”

The rankings are based on The Princeton Review’s surveys of 172,000 students across the 392 institutions featured in the guide, now in its 35th edition. The 98-question survey asks students to evaluate their college experiences across dozens of topics, from academics to campus life.