Research Quality powers Exeter rise in global league table

The quality of research conducted by the University of Exeter has helped to consolidate its position among the best in the world in the latest global league table.

The University climbed two places in the 2026 THE World University Rankings to 170th out of almost 2,200 assessed internationally, inside the top eight per cent.

Among the drivers for this improvement was in Research Quality, in which the University was ranked 52nd. It also scored highly for International Outlook (68th in the world), which measures the environment and attitude towards international students, staff, and research.

The rankings, which are based upon five metrics in total, also saw the University retain its overall UK position of 22nd.“This year’s THE World University Rankings reinforce the message that Exeter is among the best universities in the world, combining excellent teaching and a distinctive student experience, with world-class research that is striving to create a greener, healthier and fairer world.” said Professor Lisa Roberts, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University. “The rankings place us in the top 2.5% globally for our research quality, and top 8% overall, and I would like to thank all colleagues and students who have contributed to Exeter’s vibrant academic community, which has been consistently reflected in all of the major league tables this year.”

The THE rankings rise follows an even bigger one in the prestigious QS World University Rankings in June, and further recent success in the league tables and guides compiled by The Guardian and The Times/Sunday Times.

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