The Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings assess university performance globally and provide students with a detailed analysis of over 1,500 universities across 93 countries. THE’s rich data is an important and coveted resource for students worldwide, helping them choose which higher education institution is the best for them.
The Times Higher Education rankings cover five main areas of an institution's performance: research, teaching, citations, international outlook and industry outcomes, and these are measured based on 13 performance indicators, including reputation survey, research income, academic and research staff publications, doctorates awarded, academic student to staff ratio and proportion of international students.
THE rankings cover all the best institutions in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. In 2024, the University of Oxford topped the ranking for the fifth year in a row, followed by the University of Cambridge.
Learn about which other UK universities made it to the top 20 in the THE rankings below, or begin your UK study application by arranging a free consultation with SI-UK India today.
Top 20 UK Universities in the THE World Rankings 2024
According to the Times Higher Education rankings 2024, two of London’s universities form the top five after the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge - Imperial College London and University College London - whilst the best university in Wales is Cardiff University, and the best university in Scotland the University of Edinburgh. In Northern Ireland, the best university, according to the rankings, is Queen’s University Belfast.
1. University of Oxford
The University of Oxford, one of the world's oldest and most prestigious universities, has a remarkable legacy. Its alumni include more than 30 world leaders, 27 British prime ministers, 50 Nobel laureates, and 120 Olympic medallists. Students are affiliated with one of its 44 colleges, fostering a close-knit community. With high entry standards, it receives five applications for each available place.
- Global Ranking: 1st
- Founded: 12th century
- Notable Alumni: Stephen Hawking, Hugh Grant, Indira Gandhi
- Popular Subjects: Humanities, Sciences, Social Sciences, Law, Medicine, Engineering, Mathematics
2. University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge, similar to Oxford, is known for its rich history and academic excellence. It boasts 117 Nobel laureates and 11 Fields medalists among its alumni. With 31 colleges and over 100 academic departments, Cambridge is renowned for mathematics. Undergraduates benefit from lectures and intimate supervision, offering rigorous academic experiences.
- Global Ranking: 5th
- Founded: 13th century
- Notable Alumni: Charles Darwin, David Attenborough, Jane Goodall, Olivia Colman
- Popular Subjects: Natural Sciences, Arts and Humanities, Medicine, Engineering, Economics, Computer Science
3. Imperial College London
Imperial College London excels in science, technology, engineering, medicine, and business. With a diverse student body representing over 125 nationalities, it produces top scientists, field medalists, and Nobel prize winners. Graduates often pioneer innovations in industry and business, making them highly sought after.
- Global Ranking: 8th
- Founded: 1907
- Notable Alumni: H. G. Wells, Sir Alexander Fleming
- Popular Subjects: Science, Technology, Engineering, Medicine, Business
4. University College London (UCL)
UCL, located in central London, is known for its commitment to inclusivity, being the first in England to admit students regardless of class, race, or religion. Its competitive admissions process ensures a high standard of students. Alumni like Mahatma Gandhi, Alexander Graham Bell, and Chris Martin demonstrate the diverse impact of UCL graduates.
- Global Ranking: 22nd
- Founded: 1826
- Notable Alumni: Mahatma Gandhi, Alexander Graham Bell, Chris Martin
- Popular Subjects: Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, Sciences, Medicine, Engineering, Economics
5. University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh, founded in 1583, is one of the UK's ancient universities. It consists of three colleges, each housing numerous academic schools. With a wide range of student clubs and societies, including a music society and sports teams, Edinburgh provides a vibrant student experience. Notably, it's the alma mater of Robert Louis Stevenson, who founded one of the oldest student newspapers in the UK.
- Global Ranking: 30th
- Founded: 1583
- Notable Alumni: Robert Louis Stevenson
- Popular Subjects: Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Science, Engineering, Medicine
6. King's College London
King's College London, established in the early 19th century, has a rich history and notable alumni, including the legendary nurse Florence Nightingale and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. The university is known for its diverse and dynamic academic programmes, making it a prominent institution in the UK's capital.
- Global Ranking: 38th
- Founded: 1829
- Notable Alumni: Florence Nightingale, Desmond Tutu
- Popular Subjects: Health and Life Sciences, Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities, Law, Business
7. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
LSE is renowned for its focus on social sciences, economics, and political science. It has a long history of producing influential thinkers and policymakers, including George Soros and Mick Jagger. With its central London location, LSE remains a global hub for social sciences research and education.
- Global Ranking: 46th
- Founded: 1895
- Notable Alumni: George Soros, Mick Jagger
- Popular Subjects: Social Sciences, Economics, Political Science, Law, Business
8. University of Manchester
The University of Manchester, founded in the 19th century, boasts a distinguished alumni list. Pioneering computer scientist Alan Turing and acclaimed actor Benedict Cumberbatch both attended Manchester. The university is known for contributing to research and innovation across various disciplines.
- Global Ranking: 51st
- Founded: 1824
- Notable Alumni: Alan Turing, Benedict Cumberbatch
- Popular Subjects: Science, Engineering, Humanities, Social Sciences, Medicine, Business
9. University of Bristol
The University of Bristol, established in the late 19th century, has produced notable graduates such as comedian and author David Walliams and Nobel laureate Sir Paul Nurse. Bristol is celebrated for its research and academic excellence in various fields, making it a prominent institution in the UK.
- Global Ranking: 81st
- Founded: 1876
- Notable Alumni: David Walliams, Sir Paul Nurse
- Popular Subjects: Sciences, Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, Business
10. University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow, one of the UK's ancient universities, dates back to the 15th century. Its alumni include economist Adam Smith and Scotland's First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon. The university continues to be a leading institution in research and education, with a strong global presence.
- Global Ranking: 87th
- Founded: 1451
- Notable Alumni: Adam Smith, Nicola Sturgeon
- Popular Subjects: Science, Engineering, Arts, Social Sciences, Medicine, Law
11. University of Southampton
The University of Southampton, established in the mid-19th century, has a history of producing influential graduates, including astronaut Tim Peake and computer scientist Wendy Hall. Southampton is known for its research excellence and contributions to various fields, particularly in science and technology.
- Global Ranking: 97th
- Founded: 1862
- Notable Alumni: Tim Peake, Wendy Hall
- Popular Subjects: Sciences, Engineering, Humanities, Social Sciences, Medicine
12. University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham, founded in the early 20th century, has an impressive alumni list, including the renowned author J.R.R. Tolkien and actress Julie Walters. Birmingham is recognised for its research initiatives and academic programmes across diverse disciplines.
- Global Ranking: 101st
- Founded: 1900
- Notable Alumni: J.R.R. Tolkien, Julie Walters
- Popular Subjects: Sciences, Engineering, Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, Busines
13. University of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield, established in the early 20th century, has notable alumni such as Nobel laureate Sir Harold Kroto and Olympic champion Sebastian Coe. Sheffield is known for its contributions to science and research, offering a thriving academic environment.
- Global Ranking: 105th
- Founded: 1905
- Notable Alumni: Sir Harold Kroto, Sebastian Coe
- Popular Subjects: Sciences, Engineering, Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, Medicine
14. University of Warwick
The University of Warwick, a relatively young institution, has made significant strides in a short time. Notable graduates include comedian Stephen Merchant and government scientist Sir David King. Warwick is known for its modern, research-oriented approach to education.
- Global Ranking: 106th
- Founded: 1965
- Notable Alumni: Stephen Merchant, Sir David King
- Popular Subjects: Sciences, Engineering, Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, Business
15. University of Leeds
The University of Leeds, founded in the early 20th century, has produced notable alumni such as actor Chris Pine and journalist Louise Minchin. Leeds is celebrated for its research and diverse academic offerings, contributing to the intellectual landscape of the UK.
- Global Ranking: 129th
- Founded: 1904
- Notable Alumni: Chris Pine, Louise Minchin
- Popular Subjects: Sciences, Engineering, Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, Business
16. University of Nottingham
The University of Nottingham, established in the late 19th century, has a rich history and influential alumni, including author D.H. Lawrence and Nobel laureate Sir Peter Mansfield. Nottingham is known for its academic excellence and contributions to various fields.
- Global Ranking: 130th
- Founded: 1881
- Notable Alumni: D.H. Lawrence, Sir Peter Mansfield
- Popular Subjects: Sciences, Engineering, Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, Business
17. Queen Mary University of London
Queen Mary University of London, with roots dating back to the 18th century, boasts notable graduates like Nobel laureate Sir Paul Nurse and human rights activist Malala Yousafzai. It is recognised for its diverse academic programmes and impactful research.
- Global Ranking: 135th
- Founded: 1785
- Notable Alumni: Malala Yousafzai, Sir Paul Nurse
- Popular Subjects: Medicine, Dentistry, Sciences, Humanities, Social Sciences, Law
18. University of York
The University of York, established in the 1960s, has quickly gained recognition for its academic achievements. Graduates like author Kate Atkinson and the historical figure Alcuin of York highlight its diverse impact on literature and education.
- Global Ranking: 147th
- Founded: 1963
- Notable Alumni: Kate Atkinson, Alcuin of York
- Popular Subjects: Sciences, Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, Law, Business
19. Lancaster University
Lancaster University, founded in the 1960s, has made its mark in various fields. Graduates such as actress Juliet Stevenson and Olympic swimmer Adrian Moorhouse showcase the university's contributions to the arts and sports.
- Global Ranking: 155th
- Founded: 1964
- Notable Alumni: Juliet Stevenson, Adrian Moorhouse
- Popular Subjects: Sciences, Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, Business
20. University of Liverpool
The University of Liverpool, established in the late 19th century, is renowned for its diverse graduates, including music legend Paul McCartney and renowned broadcaster Moira Stuart. It continues to excel in research and education across various disciplines.
- Global Ranking: 168th
- Founded: 1881
- Notable Alumni: Paul McCartney, Moira Stuart
- Popular Subjects: Sciences, Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, Medicine, Business
Study in the UK
If you are interested in applying to one of these top ranking UK universities for the January or September intake, arrange a free consultation online or at one of our offices near you today.
I sincerely thank SI-UK for getting me accepted to UCL. The MSc in Urban Development and Planning is extremely competitive, but the right guidance provided by SI-UK made my dream of studying at University College London a reality. The services were exceptional from beginning to end. 
