What makes a college 'rigorous' according to the New York Times?

So I was reading the New York Times and they ranked colleges based off 'rigor'. What does it really mean for a college to be considered 'rigorous'? How much weight should I put into this when applying to colleges?

Different sources may define 'rigor' in a college environment differently, but generally, a rigorous college refers to the level of intellectual challenge a college provides to its students. This can be reflected in a few ways:

1. Course load: Rigorous colleges often have high expectations for the amount of studying required outside class, which typically corresponds to a heavier course load per semester.

2. Advanced courses: The number and availability of advanced and upper-division courses a college offers, especially in niche areas of study, could be a measure of institutional rigor.

3. Faculty: Institutions known for rigorous academics usually have a high number of faculty who are leaders in their fields, contributing to ground-breaking research and publications. This can impact the depth and breadth of what you learn in class.

4. Grading standards: A college could be considered rigorous if it has high grading standards.

When considering if a school's rigor is right for you, it's important to be honest with yourself about your work ethic, study habits, and intellectual curiosity. Rigorous programs can offer excellent education and put you in a strong position for graduate school or employment, but they may also be more demanding of your time and energy, which could impact other parts of your student life. So, it's all about choosing a balance that's right for you.

Looking at college rankings, whether it's for overall quality, rigor, or specific programs, can be beneficial for getting a sense of different schools. But remember, these rankings are just one aspect of your decision. Other factors like financial aid, campus culture, location, student resources, and more should also be considered.