News Summary
Evergreen State College has achieved recognition for its affordability and impactful education by ranking 151st out of over 1,400 colleges evaluated by Washington Monthly. The college’s commitment to accessibility is evident, with a large portion of its students receiving federal Pell Grants. The ranking highlights the institution’s positive outcomes for a diverse student body, innovative academic structure, and proactive community involvement. This acknowledgment emphasizes the essential role that colleges play in promoting social and economic contributions.
OLYMPIA – Evergreen State College has been recognized for its commendable efforts in providing affordable and impactful higher education, ranking in the top 15% of colleges nationwide. The ranking, released by Washington Monthly for 2025, places the college at 151st out of over 1,400 evaluated institutions, with a focus on delivering positive outcomes for a diverse student population.
Washington Monthly’s comprehensive analysis emphasizes how colleges and universities assist everyday middle- and working-class students, promote democratic engagement, and contribute to economic growth and overall human well-being. Evergreen State College has earned a distinguished spot among the 25 “best-in-class” institutions highlighted in the report, demonstrating its commitment to accessibility and student success.
The college has maintained an inclusive admissions policy where nearly all applicants receive admission offers. This commitment is reflected in its student body, with approximately one-third of the 2,500 enrolled students receiving federal Pell Grants, which are crucial in evaluating a school’s accessibility for non-wealthy students.
Ranking and Financial Accessibility
Key metrics considered in Washington Monthly’s ranking included affordability, educational outcomes, and community service engagement. Evergreen’s average net price is reported at $20,420. Although this figure might be relatively high, it is important to note that graduates tend to leave the institution without incurring substantial debt. Those who do graduate from Evergreen earn around $11,000 more in their early careers compared to their peers from similar educational and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Many graduates opt for further studies, including advanced degrees such as PhDs, or participate in national service programs like AmeriCorps and the Peace Corps, fostering their engagement with broader communities and promoting civic involvement.
Academic Structure and Opportunities
Evergreen is known for its innovative academic structure that allows for personalized curriculum design, with support from devoted faculty advisers. The absence of traditional majors and letter grades is designed to foster creativity among students, encouraging a unique educational experience. Some notable alumni include Matt Groening, creator of “The Simpsons,” and rapper Macklemore, highlighting the diverse paths taken by graduates after they leave the college.
Located near stunning natural landscapes and situated in the vibrant state capital, Evergreen offers its students various opportunities to engage in public service and learn about the inner workings of state government.
Impact on the Community
Evergreen’s President acknowledged that the recognition from Washington Monthly underscores the positive impact graduates have within their communities. The rankings serve as a counter-narrative to traditional college rankings that often favor elite institutions, emphasizing the vital role of colleges that prioritize economic and social contributions over prestige.
Notable universities in the top tier of the Washington Monthly listing include prestigious institutions such as Berea College, various California State Universities, Princeton University, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The rankings aim to shed light on colleges that effectively use resources to benefit students and society as a whole.
This recognition was published on September 3, 2025, reaffirming Evergreen State College’s position as a leading institution for affordable and quality education that empowers a diverse student body.
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Additional Resources
- Washington Monthly: 25 Best Colleges
- ThurstonTalk: Evergreen State College Geoducks Earn Votes
- Kitsap Sun: Best Colleges in Washington
- Seattle PI: U.S. News and World Report Rankings
- ThurstonTalk: Parker Borrero Ranked 17
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
