U.S. News Unveils 2025–2026 Best Global Universities Rankings
Best Global Universities Rankings: U.S. News & World Report has released its 2025–2026 list, evaluating 2,250+ schools in 100+ countries. The rankings measure research performance and global academic reputation.
Top 10 Global Universities Dominated by the U.S. and U.K.
At the top of the overall global list:
- Harvard University (U.S.)
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) (U.S.)
- Stanford University (U.S.)
- University of Oxford (U.K.)
- University of Cambridge (U.K.)
- University of California, Berkeley (U.S.)
- University College London (U.K.)
- University of Washington, Seattle (U.S.)
- Yale University (U.S.)
- Columbia University (U.S.)
Country Rankings: China Leads, India Rising
The U.S. ranked 280 schools, but China took the lead with 397 universities in the global rankings. India had 118, followed by Japan (104) and the U.K. (93).
“These rankings offer an essential global benchmark for students seeking research-driven universities with international influence,” said LaMont Jones, Ed.D., Managing Editor at U.S. News.
More Subject Areas Get Expanded Rankings
This year’s edition expanded coverage in eight subjects, including:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Agricultural Sciences
- Plant & Animal Science
- Polymer Science
- Gastroenterology & Hepatology
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Regional Top Performers
Africa
- University of Cape Town (South Africa)
- Cairo University (Egypt)
- University of the Witwatersrand (South Africa)
Asia
- Tsinghua University (China)
- National University of Singapore
- Peking University (China)
Australia/New Zealand
- University of Sydney
- University of Melbourne
- University of New South Wales, Sydney
Europe
- University of Oxford
- University of Cambridge
- University College London
Latin America
- Universidade de São Paulo (Brazil)
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Brazil)
- Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (Chile)
Methodology: Powered by Clarivate Data
The rankings are based on academic research performance, using Web of Science and InCites Benchmarking from Clarivate. Metrics include:
- Global and regional research reputation
- Publications
- Citations
- International collaboration
Each of the 51 subject rankings uses discipline-specific weightings.
Empowering Student Choices Globally
These rankings are part of U.S. News’ broader mission to help students, parents, and institutions make informed educational decisions across the globe.
For full rankings, visit usnews.com.
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