Students who 'rank' in the top third of their class have a better chance of being accepted to the college of their choice.
A company spokesperson announced that the company will be decreasing its 'ranks' by 200. [=laying off 200 employees]
The guest lecturer is a novelist 'of rank' [=of high regard; of esteem] who has won many prestigious awards.
(..) Well, I must say I'd hoped for better. And who might you be, young man? Neville Longbottom. Well, Neville, I'm sure we can find a place for you in our rank. I'd like to say something. Well, Neville, I'm sure we'd all be fascinated to hear what you have to say. - Doesn't matter that Harry is gone. (..)2011 Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2