TEXAS TECH EARNS AN F FOR CAMPUS FREE SPEECH, RANKS 193RD NATIONALLY

TEXAS TECH EARNS AN F FOR CAMPUS FREE SPEECH, RANKS 193RD NATIONALLY

LUBBOCK, Texas: Texas Tech University received a failing grade in the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression’s 2027 College Free Speech Rankings, placing 193rd among 261 colleges and universities.

Tech scored 57.30 out of 100 and received an F for its campus speech climate. The findings included survey responses from 250 Texas Tech students. Texas A&M finished immediately ahead of Tech at No. 192. FIRE’s rankings report

The annual assessment, produced by FIRE and College Pulse, examines students’ experiences expressing their opinions, university policies and how institutions handle speech controversies. This year’s survey collected nearly 63,000 undergraduate responses between Jan. 2 and June 3, 2026.

Students were asked about discussing controversial subjects, withholding their views, allowing controversial speakers and whether administrators would defend free expression. Nationally, 121 schools received an F. Report methodology and findings

The result represents a drop from the previous edition, when Texas Tech ranked 102nd of 257 institutions with a score of 59.00, also an F. Previous Texas Tech results

Separately, FIRE gives Texas Tech’s written speech policies a yellow light rating, meaning the organization identifies language that could allow overly broad restrictions or inconsistent enforcement. Its review flags policies concerning demonstrations, sexual misconduct and the distribution of printed materials. That policy rating is one component of the broader assessment. Texas Tech policy review

Texas Tech’s student handbook states that the university recognizes free expression as a fundamental right and seeks to protect “free, robust, and uninhibited debate and deliberation.” FIRE rates that particular statement green. This is the university’s published policy, rather than a response to the latest ranking. University handbook excerpt

The F measures campus speech conditions under FIRE’s methodology. It is not an academic grade or an accreditation decision.

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