How to Join

Leading Colleges operates on an industry nomination model as an alternative to current ranking and listing services.  Membership approval will be contingent on the approval of a review committee with no connection to the nominated college.  This requirement is necessary to protect the integrity of the listing and the prestigious status of each member institution.

A college or university may initiate the nomination process at any point.  Twice annually, school and independent counselors will have the opportunity to nominate institutions they have identified as having an exceptional focus on student success.  After confirming interest from the college or university, we will work to determine that the college or university demonstrates an exceptional focus on student success, defined by these four pillars:

• Ethical, fair, and transparent recruiting practice
• A measured focus on student retention
• Student outcomes demonstrating the value of a college degree
• Attention to social justice and their role as an agent of change

To maximize the benefit colleges and universities receive from being a part of Leading Colleges, there is a maximum limit on the number of colleges that will be accepted.  This ensures that the awareness and visibility campaigns presented to school counselors and independent counselors are not overwhelming.

Anyone interested in receiving a nomination form or initiating a discussion about Leading Colleges should email info@leadingcolleges.org.