The state of Florida has been ranked No. 1 for higher education by U.S. News & World Report for eight consecutive years. But this year’s Best Colleges rankings, released early Tuesday, saw dips for some of the state’s top schools.

The methodology had only minor changes this year, including the elimination of first-generation graduation rates as factors.

New England schools also fared well in the magazine’s rankings of the nation's best liberal arts colleges, placing first and second.

The University of Florida has seen its ranking over the past couple of months vary depending on the publication and its methodology.

U.S. News & World Report publishes rankings that often change very little, though they draw attention and frustration from universities and applicants.

Students must research well enough about the best colleges, the right destination, preferred course and much more, as there are plenty of options.

U.S. News & World Report college rankings are out, and Massachusetts campuses hold some prestigious spots. Here's a look.