Two San Antonio-Area Universities Earn Spots on Princeton Review’s Best Colleges List

by Tre Serrano

San Antonio continues to shine in higher education as two local universities have been recognized in The Princeton Review’s “Best 391 Colleges: 2026 Edition.” Released on August 12, the annual guide highlights the nation’s top schools across 50 categories, based on surveys from over 170,000 students nationwide.

The two schools earning distinction this year are Trinity University in San Antonio and Texas State University in San Marcos. Both schools were praised for their strong academics, vibrant campus culture, and student support.

Trinity University: A Leader in Student Experience and Value

Trinity University stood out not only in the overall Best 391 Colleges list but also earned spots in several specialized rankings, including:

No. 10 – Best Science Lab Facilities
No. 24 – Best Health Services
No. 25 – Best College Dorms
No. 46 – Best Value Private Colleges

It was also named among the Best Southwest Colleges, Best Value Colleges, and Colleges That Create Futures lists.

Students highlighted Trinity’s collaborative and inclusive atmosphere, describing it as a place where “ideas, passions, and questions can be fully explored.” The university emphasizes community, cultural engagement, and opportunities for leadership development, helping students prepare for meaningful futures.

Trinity has also received recognition outside of The Princeton Review, including being ranked among the best small colleges in America and securing the spot as the third-best university in Texas for 2025.

Texas State University: STEM Strength and Student Support

Texas State University in San Marcos also earned its place among the nation’s best colleges, appearing in the Best Southwest and Green Colleges lists. The school is known for its strong STEM programs and a faculty praised for their dedication to student success.

One student shared, “I can’t emphasize how much I love my professors and coursework. Honestly, school has felt like a hobby these past years that I have thoroughly enjoyed.”

While Texas State earned strong marks for academics and faculty, it also appeared on less favorable lists, including No. 25 for “Least Politically Active Students” and No. 20 for “Financial Aid Not So Great.” Still, its overall inclusion highlights its role as a growing academic powerhouse in Central Texas.