Published: 11 October 2025Governance
World University Rankings 2026: India Has Record 128 Institutions; IISc in 201-250 Band
The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, released in October 2025, featured a record 128 Indian institutions, up from 107 previously. Oxford University maintained its #1 position for the tenth consecutive year.
The Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, ranked in the 201-250 band as India's highest-placed institution. Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences featured in the 351-400 band; Jamia Millia Islamia and Shoolini University were in the 401-500 band. The rankings evaluate research quality, teaching environment, international outlook, and industry income. From Rajasthan, BITS Pilani and the Malaviya National Institute of Technology Jaipur were among the ranked institutions, reflecting the state's growing higher education footprint.
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In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, how many Indian institutions were featured — a record number?
Explanation · Correct answer BThe Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026 featured a record 128 Indian institutions, up from 107 previously.
Frequently asked questions
How many Indian institutions are in World University Rankings 2026?
India achieved a **record 128 institutions in the World University Rankings 2026**, making it one of the most represented countries. **IISc Bangalore** led Indian institutions, placed in the **201-250 band** in the global rankings.
What is IISc Bangalore's rank in World University Rankings 2026?
**Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore is ranked in the 201-250 band** in the World University Rankings 2026, making it India's top-ranked institution. IISc is particularly recognised for **research output and citations in science and technology disciplines**.
Which organisation publishes the World University Rankings and what are the criteria?
The **World University Rankings are published by Times Higher Education (THE)**, evaluating universities on **teaching, research, citations, international outlook, and industry income**. The rankings assess over 2,000 universities globally, with **Oxford and Cambridge typically dominating** the top positions.
How has India's presence in global university rankings improved over the years?
India's representation in global university rankings has **grown significantly**, from fewer than 40 institutions a decade ago to **128 in the THE World University Rankings 2026**. This growth reflects **increased research output, IIT and IIM brand recognition, and government initiatives like NIRF rankings** and the National Education Policy 2020.
What does India's 128 institutions in World University Rankings 2026 mean for higher education?
India's **record 128 institutions in the 2026 rankings signals a maturing higher education ecosystem** with improved research infrastructure and global academic collaboration. However, **India still lacks institutions in the top 100**, indicating that quality concentration at the very top remains a challenge despite quantity growth.
