GLENSIDE, PA — Arcadia University has been recognized as a leading institution for social mobility in the 2025 Best Colleges Rankings by U.S. News & World Report. Noteworthy for its success in graduating Pell Grant recipients, the university ranks in the top third in its category, highlighting its commitment to student success.
The university has made significant strides in bridging equity gaps, with retention rates showing substantial improvement. This fall, the gap between first-to-second-year retention of Pell-eligible and non-Pell eligible students, as well as BIPOC and white students, was nearly halved compared to two years ago. Additionally, second-to-third and third-to-fourth-year retention rates have hit historical highs, showing no disparities between first-generation and non-first-generation students, and only slight differences between Pell-eligible and non-Pell eligible students.
This progress is reflected in Arcadia’s largest first-year class in seven years, consisting of 598 students, along with 120 transfer students, the highest number in a decade. The Class of 2028 is distinguished by its diversity, with 34% identifying as first-generation students, 21.9% as Black, non-Hispanic, and 17.1% as Hispanic, both the highest rates in a decade.
Arcadia’s commitment to global learning is evident through its renowned First-Year Study Abroad Experience (FYSAE), where 58 first-year students will study in London this spring. The university offers over 130 study abroad programs across 15 countries, earning it the top spot in Pennsylvania and the 16th nationwide for study abroad opportunities, according to U.S. News & World Report. Alongside FYSAE, students can engage in the Preview program, the Second-Year Study Abroad Experience, and Global Field Study courses, providing expansive international exposure throughout their academic journey.
Arcadia University’s efforts in promoting social mobility and global learning underscore its dedication to providing equitable and enriching educational experiences for all students, preparing them for success in a diverse and interconnected world.
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