New Princeton Review Rates USF as Nation’s Most Diverse University

The university is also ranked as a “Best in the West” college for its “academically outstanding” curriculum, according to The Best 390 Colleges: 2025 Edition, released Aug. 27.

The survey, based on 168,000 students’ responses, includes comments by USF students:

"Getting to know each other academically, socially, and morally while allowing ourselves to get distracted by the city of San Francisco."

"USF is interested in developing the individual into a strong leader with a particular emphasis on the forces of self-reflection and self-awareness."

“Outstanding for students who care about their community and the world beyond themselves."

The Princeton Review includes 15 percent of four-year colleges in the U.S.

New this year is the list of eight standout schools, including USF, which is the result of surveys of college applicants and their parents. The list highlights schools recognized in six areas — lowest tuition and fees, highest number of need-based scholarships, lowest average undergraduate debt, most diverse student body (USF), most countries represented, and highest four-year graduation rate.

USF students who responded to the survey talked about academics, student life, and campus life.

On academics: Make “an impact in the world in the area that you are passionate about.” Students are encouraged to think for themselves in an atmosphere that "emphasizes acceptance, diversity, and critical thinking."

On student life: Students "care about the community and believe in taking action to demonstrate their beliefs," and "the average student may be working for an NGO or volunteering regularly at one of the many nonprofits in San Francisco."

On campus life in San Francisco: There's something for everyone, "whether you enjoy hiking and nature (Golden Gate Park) or enjoy small coffee shops for a nice read."