"Rankings provide a snapshot of the university, but the true measure is the experiences that students have on campus."
Dordt University has been ranked #17 overall in the 2026 Best Colleges – Plains Region by College Raptor, placing it ahead of many strong institutions across Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota.
Dordt is ranked ahead of several large public research universities in the region, including University of Missouri—Columbia (#18), Iowa State University (#20), and University of Kansas (#31).
“Dordt maintains high rankings due to strong academic programs, dedicated faculty, and a close-knit community,” says Director of Admissions Orrie Rodriguez. “Small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio foster personalized instruction that emphasizes both intellectual growth and character development, all grounded in a Christ-centered perspective. Dordt’s commitment to integrating faith and learning, along with high graduation and retention rates, consistently contributes to a positive and meaningful student experience.”
Being ranked #17 among Great Plains colleges and universities by College Raptor is a testament to Dordt’s Christ-centered approach to education, he adds. “It signals that Dordt is a trusted institution that successfully balances academic excellence, affordability, and community values, making it an excellent choice for students seeking a high-quality, faith-integrated education.”
Rankings provide a snapshot of the university, but the true measure is the experiences that students have on campus. “Dordt’s small class sizes, mentoring relationships, and supportive environment create a space where students can thrive academically, socially, personally, and spiritually.”
Every year, College Raptor carefully identifies the best schools to showcase in these rankings. Factors including graduation rates, campus diversity, endowment per student, retention rate, selectivity, and other metrics are all taken into consideration when calculating our rankings. Full details about our methodology can be found here.
About Dordt University
As an institution of higher education committed to the Reformed Christian perspective, Dordt University equips students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community to work toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life. Located in Sioux Center, Iowa, Dordt is a comprehensive university named to the best college lists by U.S. News and World Report, the Wall Street Journal, Times Higher Education, Forbes.com, Washington Monthly, and Princeton Review.
Dordt University senior Katy Timmer’s art show, "Better Homes & Gardens," combines her love of agriculture, floral design, and graphic art to explore themes of God’s abundance, feasting, and the hope of New Creation.
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