Even if you just started your college search, you've undoubtedly encountered the list of America's Best Colleges, compiled by U.S. News & World Report annually since 1983. This uberpopular college ranking system may be extensive, but if you're part of an underrepresented racial, interest, or other group, wide-scale college rankings may not target your specific needs. Consider these college ranking systems to help you narrow your search:

College ranking system: Top 25 Colleges for Latinos
College ranking site: HispanicOnline.com
About the college rankings: Hispanic Magazine's annual rankings are based on academic reputation as well as Hispanic enrollment and graduation rates.

College ranking system: The Best Colleges for Asian-Americans
College ranking site: Asian-Nation.org
About the college rankings: Asian Nation's rankings of the top 25 universities and top 25 liberal arts colleges are based on Asian Magazine research and a reader survey conducted in 2000.

College ranking system: Annual College Guide for American Indians
College ranking site: WOCMag.org
About the college rankings: Though not a true ranking system, Winds of Change magazine's facts and figures on 199 colleges and universities (available for purchase at the site) represent a compilation of college data specifically for American Indian students.

College ranking system: Top Colleges for African-Americans
College ranking site: YAF.org
About the college rankings: Though not a true ranking system, the Young America's Foundation annual list is based on school programs and mission statements that promote a conservative experience.

College ranking system: Disability-Friendly Colleges
College ranking site: NewMobility.com
About the college rankings: New Mobility magazine's rankings of the top 10 disability-friendly colleges (with updated rankings in a 2005 print issue) are based on campus accessibility as well as the availability of attendant services, resource offices, scholarships, career counseling, tutoring, and other services.

Ultimately, college rankings are not a one-size-fits-all system. When you utilize the college ranking system that suits your individual needs, you'll be well on your way to finding your unique college fit.

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