How is Mount Holyoke College ranked nowadays?

I've read various opinions about Mount Holyoke College's ranking. Can someone explain where it stands in current rankings and what aspects contribute to its reputation? Also, how important is this ranking when considering a college decision?

Mount Holyoke College is currently ranked as one of the top liberal arts colleges in the United States. In the 2025 edition of U.S News & World Report College Rankings, for instance, Mount Holyoke is ranked #34 (tie) among National Liberal Arts Colleges.

Contributing to its strong reputation are several factors. Its small class sizes, with an 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio, and the individual attention students receive from faculty are often praised. In addition to this, the breadth of rigorous academic programs and its status as a member of the Five College Consortium (which includes Amherst, Smith, and Hampshire College, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst) expands academic and social opportunities for students.

While rankings can provide a snapshot of a school's reputation, it's important to remember that they should not be the sole determiner when choosing a college. Rankings typically take into account factors such as incoming students' standardized test scores, graduation rates, faculty resources, etc., but they may not necessarily reflect other important factors like the school’s fit for you personally, campus culture, specific academic departments, and extra-curricular opportunities.

Hence, while Mount Holyoke's ranking speaks to its high academic standards and overall quality, it's equally important to consider if the college aligns with your individual needs and interests. This could include checking out their specific programs related to your intended major, understanding their campus culture and community, and assessing other aspects such as location, size, and extracurricular activities available.