Panola College Ranked #1 Best Community College in Texas

Panola College is proud to announce that Niche has ranked the institution as the #1 Best Community College in Texas and the #1 Best Online Community College in Texas for 2026. Panola College also earned recognition among the Top 10 Best Community Colleges in America, placing it among the nation’s highest-performing two-year institutions.

"These rankings reflect the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students, as well as our ongoing commitment to excellence," said Dr. Jessica Pace, President of Panola College. "We are honored to be recognized at both the state and national levels. These achievements underscore the quality of education we provide and the supportive learning environment our community works hard to create."

Niche’s annual rankings are widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive evaluations of colleges and universities in the United States. Their methodology combines millions of student and alumni reviews with analysis of data from the U.S. Department of Education, including the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).

To ensure accuracy and consistency, Niche uses Department of Education datasets after they undergo IPEDS validation and review. Rankings incorporate factors such as academics, student experience, value, campus quality, diversity, safety, and faculty credentials. Data is paired with student and alumni feedback to provide a full assessment of institutional quality.

Key factors in Niche’s ranking model include academics, value, professor quality, campus experience, diversity, student life, safety, local area, and student survey responses.

"This recognition validates what we see happening across our campus every day," said Don Clinton, Vice President of Student Services. "Our students feel supported, engaged, and connected. Being ranked number one in Texas is a reflection of the personal attention and positive experiences our students receive from the moment they step onto our campus."

Wrap-Around Services that Support Student Success

In addition to strong academic programs, Panola College is committed to removing barriers that can stand in the way of student success. Through comprehensive wrap-around services, the College ensures students have access to essential resources both inside and outside the classroom. These supports include the Panola Pantry to help address food insecurity, the Emergency Aid program, over 160 different general and endowed scholarships, emergency scholarships, and the Return to Earn scholarship. Students also benefit from fuel and childcare assistance, extensive tutoring opportunities, and guidance through the Student Resource Center.

Panola College has also expanded access through the Panola Promise program, which provides free tuition and fees for eligible Shelby and Panola County high school sophomores upon graduation and successful completion of program requirements. In addition to reducing financial barriers, the Panola Promise encourages strong community connection and loyalty through volunteerism, one of the program’s cornerstones, reinforcing the value of giving back while preparing students for college and career success.

Together, these services provide a meaningful safety net that empowers students to stay enrolled, persist, and complete their educational goals.

Panola College continues to build on its tradition of student-centered education through strong academic programs, innovative online learning, modern facilities, and long-standing community partnerships throughout East Texas and beyond.

Registration for the Spring 2026 semester is currently open. Classes begin January 12 for both the full Spring semester and the first 8-week session. Students are encouraged to register early to secure their preferred classes.