IISc tops global university rankings in India, followed by IIT Madras: Find out who made the top 10
US News has released the 11th edition of its Best Global Universities rankings, evaluating 2,250 institutions across 105 countries. Powered by Clarivate™, the rankings are based on 13 performance indicators that focus heavily on research output and academic reputation. These include global and regional reputation scores, publication volumes, citation impact, and subject-specific research strength. The latest edition has expanded its coverage to include 56 country-specific rankings, up from 55 in the previous year.The Best Global Universities rankings were developed in response to growing interest in international higher education. With students increasingly exploring academic options beyond their national borders, universities are now competing globally for top students, distinguished faculty, and research funding. The ranking system provides a comparative tool to evaluate institutions based on their research performance. Major academic hubs such as the United States, China, the United Kingdom, and Japan continue to dominate the global lists, while emerging education sectors, including India, are gaining ground.India has performed impressively in the 2025–2026 edition, with 118 institutions ranked among the world’s best—placing it third globally, behind only China (397 universities) and the United States (280). India’s showing accounts for 5.2 percent of all ranked institutions, reflecting its growing emphasis on research, international collaboration, and academic excellence. Indian universities, led by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), are increasingly recognised for their scientific output and global relevance.India’s leading research universities rise in global recognitionThe Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, has been ranked the top university in India, with a global score of 48.4. It holds the 633rd position globally and is placed 181st in Asia. Founded in 1909, IISc is known for its excellence in scientific research and postgraduate education. The institute recently introduced an undergraduate programme that is deeply research-focused. With nearly 90 percent of its 3,000+ students enrolled in graduate-level courses, IISc is primarily a residential campus. However, international student presence remains low, under one percent.IIT Madras ranks second among Indian institutions and is placed 641st globally and 185th in Asia. Established in 1959 with technical assistance from the German government, the Chennai-based university has over 8,000 students. While most international presence is limited to short-term visits and research collaborations, IIT Madras remains highly residential and maintains a strong academic reputation in engineering and science disciplines.The Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), ranked third in India and 660th globally, is well-regarded for its high-impact research, particularly in physics and mathematics. Placed 189th in Asia, TIFR has a focused postgraduate and doctoral-level structure and contributes significantly to India’s scientific output.Top 10 global universities in India
Shoolini University, in fourth position nationally, stands at 667th globally and 193rd in Asia. This research-driven private university has quickly risen in the rankings due to strong output in biotechnology, life sciences, and applied research.Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), ranked fifth in India and 676th globally, is also placed 195th in Asia. Known for its historic legacy and inclusive approach, AMU continues to improve its global footprint through research and diverse academic offerings.IIT Bombay ranks sixth in India with a global placement of 681 and an Asian ranking of 197. Located in Mumbai, this institute has consistently excelled in engineering and science, with a strong emphasis on residential education and innovation.VIT, encompassing its Vellore and Chennai campuses, is ranked seventh in India and 699th globally, with an Asian ranking of 207. It is noted for industry collaboration, high-tech infrastructure, and career-oriented research programmes.IIT Delhi and Jamia Millia Islamia share the eighth spot nationally, both ranked 703rd globally and 210th in Asia. While IIT Delhi remains a frontrunner in engineering research, Jamia is recognised for its multidisciplinary growth and increasing research visibility.Symbiosis International University, in tenth place, is ranked 727th globally and 223rd in Asia. With a focus on internationalisation and research, it has expanded its influence across disciplines and regions.Check complete list here
