The University of Reading has again been placed among the world’s top 200 universities, at 194, in the QS World University Rankings 2026.
The ranking, which scores 1,500 institutions around the world, puts Reading is in the top 13% of global universities ranked by QS. In the UK, Reading is the 27th highest ranked university, out of 90 UK institutions featured.
A rise in 19 places for Sustainability puts Reading in the global top 50, at joint 42, demonstrating that Reading’s actions towards becoming a more sustainable university are being recognised. In two years, the University has risen a total of 147 places in the global Sustainability ranking. Among UK institutions, Reading is ranked at 16 for Sustainability, a rise of five places on the previous year.
Other significant improvements in the global rankings were seen in Academic Reputation (a rise of 17 places); International Faculty (a rise of 36 places); and International Research Network (a rise of 21 places).
Compared with other UK institutions, Reading is ranked the 14th highest from 90 for Employment Outcomes, 28 for Academic Reputation and 28 for Employer Reputation.
‘Global influence’
Professor Robert Van de Noort, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Reading, said: “I’m proud that Reading has maintained its position in the world’s top 200 universities, at 194.
“Our remarkable rise of 147 places in the Sustainability rankings over the last two years, reaching joint 42 globally, reflects our genuine commitment to environmental responsibility. We also know this is becoming increasingly important to young students, who are focusing more on sustainability credentials when choosing which university to study at.
“Our global improvements in Academic Reputation, International Faculty, and International Research Networks demonstrate Reading’s growing global influence and academic excellence, positioning us strongly among the world’s leading institutions.”
The full QS World University Rankings 2026 are available at TopUniversities.com.
