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48 Pakistani Universities Featured in Times Higher Education World University Rankings 202
World University Rankings 2026 have been unveiled, featuring 2,191 universities from 115 countries and territories, reaffirming its position as the world’s most trusted university ranking system for students, academics, policymakers, and industry leaders.
In a remarkable academic achievement, 99 Pakistani universities have been included in the 2026 rankings. Among these, 48 institutions are officially ranked, while the remaining universities hold “Reporter” status, meaning they participated in the evaluation process but were not assigned a specific rank.
This year’s performance demonstrates the growing research capabilities, academic quality, and international collaboration efforts of Pakistani institutions, showing clear progress in global recognition.
Top Pakistani Universities in THE World University Rankings 2026
Iqra University Makes Impressive Debut
A major highlight of this year’s rankings is Iqra University’s first-ever inclusion in the global list. Ranked in the 801–1000 band, Iqra University has performed exceptionally well across all evaluation metrics, including Research Quality and International Outlook.
The institution’s entry into the Times Higher Education World University Rankings marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s private higher education sector, reflecting its growing research impact and global engagement.
Global Highlights from THE World University Rankings 2026
Globally, the University of Oxford has once again topped the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, maintaining its number one position for the 10th consecutive year. Oxford’s continued excellence is attributed to its world-class research environment, strong international collaboration, and academic influence.
Princeton University achieved its highest-ever global rank, climbing to joint third place this year, while Harvard and Stanford University continue to remain in the top five.
China further strengthened its global presence, now featuring five universities in the top 40, up from three last year. Meanwhile, Hong Kong achieved a new milestone with six institutions ranked among the top 200, highlighting its focus on quality education and innovation.
India made history by becoming the second most-represented country after the United States, reflecting the rapid growth of its higher education and research landscape.
A Step Forward for Pakistan’s Higher Education
The inclusion of 48 ranked Pakistani universities signals a positive transformation in the country’s academic and research environment. The progress is attributed to consistent efforts by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) to promote global collaboration, faculty development, and improved research output.
Experts note that Pakistani universities are increasingly aligning with global academic standards by focusing on research publication, innovation, and international partnerships. This growing recognition serves as an encouragement for both public and private institutions to continue striving for excellence.
Future Outlook
While the improved representation in the THE rankings marks significant progress, experts stress that Pakistan must further invest in research infrastructure, technology integration, and faculty development to sustain and enhance this momentum.
With universities such as Quaid-i-Azam University, NUST, and Iqra University leading the charge, Pakistan is steadily establishing its presence on the global higher education map. Continued commitment to research excellence and academic innovation could help more Pakistani institutions break into the top 500 in the
