The rankings are based on student survey responses. Georgia Tech received 275 responses this year. FIRE calculates the final rankings using a composite score across 12 measures, including six that assess students' perceptions of free speech on campus. 

Tech also retained its Green Light designation in FIRE's Spotlight Rankings. The designation indicates that an institution maintains no policies that seriously threaten free speech. 

The rise in Georgia Tech's FIRE ranking coincides with the Institute's ongoing efforts to support freedom of expression on campus. President Ángel Cabrera highlighted that commitment during his Sept. 3 Institute Address. Georgia Tech also maintains several campus resources that support freedom of expression. 

The recently established Michael E. Tennenbaum Family Institute for Technology and Civic Leadership underscores a commitment to fostering open dialogue across differences. 

“We are committed to making sure that when our students graduate, they are not just ready to have good careers, but also to be good leaders — people who understand how society works, who can reach across the aisle and have civil conversations to learn from each other, not demonize people who may disagree with them,” Cabrera said. 

Georgia Tech ranked in the top 25 for “administrative support” and “political tolerance,” suggesting that students feel campus leadership will defend free speech and their peers will tolerate speakers across the ideological spectrum.  

Read more about the FIRE ranking methodology.