Aston University ranked within the top 5% of universities globally

Aston University’s latest performance in the QS World University Rankings 2026 reflects the progress we’re making across teaching, research and graduate success. It’s a sign of how our long-term focus on quality and real-world outcomes continues to earn recognition around the world.

Why rankings matter when choosing a university

Choosing where to study is a big decision. University rankings help you understand what makes each institution stand out. They reflect the quality of teaching, the strength of research, and how well graduates succeed after they finish their studies.

Among the most recognised indicators of university quality in global higher education is the QS World University Rankings. This year, QS (short for global higher education analyst Quacquarelli Symonds) evaluated more than 8,000 universities across 106 locations, measuring their performance in teaching, research, employability, sustainability and international outlook.

These rankings help you see which universities are leading the way and where you’ll find a learning environment that prepares you for the future.

What the QS World University Rankings mean

QS compiles its global university ranking each year by using clear, evidence-based methods. The evaluation considers academic reputation, employer reputation, faculty-to-student ratio, international outlook and research impact.

For students, the QS World University Rankings are a reliable tool. They provide an independent comparative analysis of universities in the UK and around the world. They help you find where you’ll gain the strongest learning experience and the best opportunities after graduation.

Aston University is in the top 5% globally

In the QS World University Rankings 2026, Aston University has been placed within the top 5% of evaluated institutions globally, following a rise of more than 165 places in just three years.

We are now ranked 42nd in the UK and among the top 400 universities worldwide.

This achievement recognises our progress in teaching, research and employability, guided by our Aston University 2030 strategy to deliver academic excellence, outstanding student outcomes and meaningful societal impact.

“Aston’s outstanding achievements in the latest QS World University Rankings reflect our commitment to excellence across education, research and industry collaboration,” says Professor Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Aston University. “We’re proud of how this multifaceted approach is positioning Aston as a catalyst for real-world change and societal impact.”

What the QS ranking means for you

Our position in the top 5% of universities globally shows what you can expect when you study with us, which includes high-quality teaching, strong support and real career results.

Academic excellence

We’re 24th in the UK for academic citations, highlighting the reach and influence of our research.

Outstanding teaching

We hold Gold overall and Gold in both student experience and student outcomes in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF 2023), which recognises the quality of our teaching and the success of our graduates.

Student success

We were named the Daily Mail University of the Year for Student Success 2025 for our focus on helping every student reach their potential.

These results show that your time with us is degree-focused while building skills, confidence and connections that will last a lifetime.

How Aston University achieved our top 5% ranking

Our position in the QS World University Rankings reflects steady, measurable progress across teaching, research and graduate outcomes.

Our programmes are grounded in research-led teaching and shaped by real-world learning. We work closely with industry to ensure students gain knowledge that’s relevant, applied and valuable beyond the classroom.

• Research impact: 79% of our research is rated world-leading or internationally excellent in the Research Excellence Framework.
• Graduate outcomes: Aston graduates rank among the UK’s top 10 for career satisfaction (Complete University Guide 2024) and achieve the 16th highest median salary five years after graduation (Longitudinal Education Outcomes, 2022).
• Industry connection: Every undergraduate programme includes a professional placement or hands-on experience to prepare students for employment.

This practical approach to education continues to shape our reputation as a university that connects academic excellence with meaningful outcomes.

Why university rankings matter for your future

Rankings are one way to understand how a university performs over time. They bring together measures of teaching quality, research output and graduate outcomes to give a sense of overall performance.

Aston’s strong position reflects a sustained focus on meaningful education with teaching that connects to research, and research that connects to the world beyond the university.

How to choose the best university for you

Rankings are useful, but choosing the right university also depends on what matters to you. When you compare universities, consider:

• Career outcomes: Does the university have a strong record of graduate employment?
• Real-world learning: Will you gain practical experience during your studies?
• Flexibility: Can you study online or part-time if you need to?
• Community: Will you feel supported and included?

With us, you get all of these advantages. With over 17,500 students from more than 120 countries, we’re proud to be a global community. Our Birmingham campus is vibrant and welcoming, and our online programmes make it possible to study with us wherever you are in the world.

Join a university recognised among the world’s best

Our top 5% global ranking reflects the quality of our teaching, research and graduate outcomes. It’s recognition of our ongoing work to provide education that makes a difference to our students, our partners and society.

Studying with us means joining a diverse and focused community where ideas have purpose and learning leads to real progress.

Explore our programmes to learn more about how an Aston University degree can support your goals.