Forbes releases 2026 Top 20 HBCUs list

Forbes has released its first ranking devoted exclusively to Historically Black Colleges and Universities, naming 20 public and private schools the publication says deliver strong results for students and graduates. The list arrives as interest in HBCUs continues to rise nationwide. There are 107 HBCUs in the United States which are mostly located in the south.

Enrollment Soars at Major HBCUs

Applications and enrollment continue to surge at several campuses. North Carolina A&T State University, the nation’s largest HBCU, enrolled 15,275 students in fall 2025, a 6.7% increase from the previous year, according to university data.

Analysts say the increases follow the Supreme Court’s 2023 decision ending affirmative action and the rollback of DEI programs at many predominantly white institutions. As a result, more Black students are choosing HBCUs for academic strength, cultural connection and campus support.

HBCUs have long played a central role in educating Black doctors, lawyers, judges, engineers and teachers. Forbes said its new ranking aims to highlight that impact.

Top 10 Private HBCUs (Forbes 2026)

Here is a list of Forbes top 10 private institution. Forbes cited high graduation rates, strong retention and competitive alumni earnings among private institutions.

1. Howard University
2. Spelman College
3. Morehouse College
4. Tuskegee University
5. Xavier University of Louisiana
6. Hampton University
7. Fisk University
8. Clark Atlanta University
9. Talladega College
10. Tougaloo College

Top 10 Public HBCUs (Forbes 2026)

Here is the list of the top 10 public HBCUs. Public institutions recieve funding by the state, overseen by state boards, and offer lower tuition for in-state residents.

1. North Carolina A&T State University
2. Florida A&M University
3. Prairie View A&M University
4. Morgan State University
5. University of the Virgin Islands
6. Tennessee State University
7. Bowie State University
8. Winston‑Salem State University
9. Elizabeth City State University
10. Delaware State University

Forbes noted that public HBCUs play a major role in producing Black engineers, teachers and health‑care professionals. North Carolina A&T earned recognition for its engineering programs and workforce impact. FAMU ranked high for professional programs and national visibility.

Check out the full list at Forbes 

Historically Black Colleges And Universities + 2011 Top 20 HBCU’s

2014 Best Historical Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU’s)