What factors contribute to WashU's university ranking?

I'm trying to understand what makes Washington University in St. Louis rank the way it does among U.S. universities. What factors are considered in its ranking, and how might they affect a student's decision to apply or attend?

University rankings, like those established by U.S News and World Report, typically consider a variety of factors, and each contributes to the overall ranking of an institution like Washington University in St. Louis (WashU).

1. Student Retention and Graduation Rates: One of the most significant factors is student retention and graduation rates. This reflects how well universities succeed in keeping students engaged and helping them complete their degree programs. WashU has a high retention and 6-year graduation rate, contributing positively to its ranking.

2. Faculty Resources: The quality of faculty, their level of engagement with students, and class sizes comprise another key factor. WashU has a solid reputation for its faculty resources, which includes a high percentage of faculty holding a terminal degree in their field, and a strong student-to-faculty ratio, implying more opportunities for personalized learning and faculty interactions.

3. Student Selectivity: The admissions process is also considered, specifically acceptance rates, how well incoming students rank within their high school classes, and standardized test scores. WashU is a highly selective institution, a factor that heightens its rank.

4. Financial Resources: The financial resources or spending per student is another influencer. A higher level of spending per student often signifies a greater investment in facilities, academic support services, and so on. As a private institution, WashU has substantial financial resources, which it uses to offer impressive resources and facilities.

5. Peer Assessment: This takes into account the opinions of university administrators, such as college presidents, provosts, or admissions deans from other institutions, about the academic quality of the institution. WashU consistently receives high peer assessment scores, which bolsters their rankings.

Regarding how these factors might affect a student's decision to apply or attend, it can vary greatly based on individual priorities. For example, if a student prefers small class sizes and personal interactions with professors, they might be attracted to WashU for its positive faculty resources and student-to-faculty ratio. On the other hand, an applicant intimidated by highly competitive admission processes might give consideration to the institution's selectivity. Ultimately, while rankings provide a helpful starting point, they are only one piece--and it's crucial to consider personal goals, interests, and fit when choosing a university.