Evaluations will always be difficult. Evaluating the top art schools is based on the criteria of the one or ones carrying out the judging and possibly if they possess some kind of association or vested interest in placing particular schools where they stick them. Cronyism aside and visualizing an optimal world of full-blown objectivity, a one-size-fits-all evaluating system would only do the trick in a world where artists are established beforehand inside a test tube and everyone is a homogenous clone. However you really can't tell if art and original expression can actually truly exist in such a utopian community.
Now, returning to the present day reality, one single definite response to the subject, “What are definitely the top art schools?” almost always does a disservice for the conditions of the individual student. Much like audio components, this will depend wholly on priority and application. The very best school with regard to music and performing arts will in all probability not turn out to be the most effective school for commercial and visual arts. Even inside a particular category, the “best” art school will likely still depend on the requirements and priorities of the pupil.
There are a variety of associations and publications willing to try it out, though, and their findings can be obtained freely on the web. But bear in mind, it's best to consider these reviews only a place to start, as they can be exceptionally misleading. Bear in mind that higher education is financed firstly by the people that join said facilities. No students, no college. No institution, no over-paid teachers incapable of in the real world. (Oops. Did I say that out loud?) And no, that most definitely shouldn't apply to many art school faculty members.
The very first thing you will have to recognize is exactly what you're planning to do with an art education. There are numerous and assorted career opportunities. The art profession or occupation that you might want is going to be the most meaningful deciding factors in your own specific ranking strategy.
For instance, if you’re currently employed in the art arena of your choice (or near it) and all you might need is a piece of paper, you'll be able to most likely achieve the thing you need from your local community college or state university. Hinging on the state, that would likely be a much less expensive way to get that sheet of paper as opposed to going to a dedicated art school.
If, on the other hand, you’re gunning for a particular potentially prestigious job inside a well-known art gallery, it is going to benefit you to work backwards. Learn what they consider the top art schools and which of these they regularly employ graduates from. Put another way, which art school degree should get your resume to reach the top of the heap?
Your decision may also come down to economics. Exactlty what can you find the funds for; how much financial aid can be obtained; and what are your chances of an easily affordable pay off?
At the end, you are the judge. You must figure out what the top art schools are in your case and make a good choice for you. After all, individuality is the very pulse of art.