In its 2027 edition of its annual college guide, “The Best Value Colleges,” The Princeton Review rated Wabash second nationally for Best Alumni Network, No. 4 for Best Schools for Internships, and No. 48 in Best Value Colleges among private colleges and universities.
And in an all-new category, Wabash ranked No. 5 nationally in the list of Best Schools for Making an Impact, which is based on student survey responses to questions covering community service opportunities, student government, sustainability efforts, and on-campus student engagement.
More than 650 colleges and universities were surveyed for The Princeton Review’s 2027 value list. That Wabash was included among the 209 colleges included on the list indicates that the 194-year-old liberal arts institution earned a high return on investment (ROI) rating. By ranking inside the top 50, Wabash is among the seven percent of institutions nationally.
“We are incredibly proud of our top national rankings for our alumni network and internship programs,” said Wabash President Scott E. Feller. “Both are impactful for students and families who understand the value of an excellent college education. Internships provide a pathway for our students to leverage their liberal arts education in real-world settings, and the strength of our alumni network demonstrates the success of our graduates and the depth of their relationships with each other and to Wabash.”
To be rated as a Best Value College by The Princeton Review, schools must have stellar academics, affordable cost, and strong career prospects for its graduates.
“Families should look seriously at Wabash when seeking a value-added liberal arts college,” added President Feller. “A Wabash education includes close personal relationships between students and faculty, immersion learning courses, competitive athletics, and paid internships at no additional cost. We work hard to make Wabash accessible for all talented young men who want to be challenged.”
The Princeton Review’s ROI rating scores are based on analysis of more than 40 data points largely derived from student surveys conducted in 2025–26, broadly covering three topics: academics, affordability, and career preparation.
Wabash rated highly in faculty accessibility and interest, receiving a score of 97 (out of 99) in the former and 94 in the latter category. The College also received an overall academic rating of 89 and a financial aid rating of 93; its return-on-investment rating was 90.
According to payscale.com, a Wabash degree alone can lead a graduate to expect an early career salary of $69,952.
“Internships, strength of the alumni network, and ROI are interconnected.” said Cassie Hagan, director of professional development and the Center for Innovation, Business, and Entrepreneurship. “For years, National Association of Colleges & Employers has reported that students who complete paid internships receive more full-time job offers and have higher starting salaries. Our alumni often serve as internship supervisors and professional mentors who open the doors to opportunities in their companies. Our graduates are grateful for those experiences to learn and build confidence, and are excited when they are able to pay it forward to the next generation.”