Key points
- Pakistan celebrates inclusion of 19 universities in QS rankings
- Quaid-i-Azam University and NUST lead the nation
- PU, LUMS, COMSATS, and others secure strong positions
- University leaders pledge to enhance research, sustainability, and employability
ISLAMABAD: A wave of academic pride swept across Pakistan as nineteen public and private universities from the country earned their place in the 2026 QS World University Rankings. The global rankings—featuring over 1,500 top universities from more than 100 countries—serve as a beacon of excellence in higher education and a testament to global competitiveness.
Global glory: MIT retains crown, Sunway makes a meteoric rise
While the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) once again claimed the top spot globally, nearly 500 universities worldwide improved their standings this year. Notably, Sunway University in Malaysia emerged as the most dramatic climber, ascending over 120 positions, a feat lauded by education analysts worldwide.
Pakistan’s flag-bearers: QAU and NUST break into top 400
Among the Pakistani universities, Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU) Islamabad proudly stood at 354, while National University of Sciences & Technology (NUST) Islamabad was close behind at 371, both landing comfortably in the prestigious Top 500 tier. These institutions continue to build reputations for academic excellence, research, and international collaboration.
Climbing the ladder: PU, LUMS and others gain ground
Several Pakistani institutions found solid footing in the Top 1000, with notable rankings including:
- University of the Punjab (PU) at 542
- Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) at 555
- University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) at 654
- COMSATS University Islamabad at 664
- Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS) in the 721-730 band
- Government College University Faisalabad, UET Lahore, University of Peshawar, and University of Lahore also secured spots within the 761–1000 range
Beyond the top 1000: a strong supporting cast
Expanding the academic horizon, several institutions featured in the broader spectrum of global rankings:
- Aga Khan University Karachi and University of Karachi in the 1001–1200 band
- Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan, International Islamic University Islamabad, Riphah International University Islamabad, and University of Management and Technology Lahore ranked 1201–1400
- The Islamia University of Bahawalpur entered the 1401+ band, continuing its global journey
Talking to WE News English, Quaid-i-Azam University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Niaz Akhtar and Punjab University Lahore, Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali Shah expressed pride in the university’s upward trajectory—rising from previous year to this and beyond. “QS Rankings are a vital benchmark to measure our academic and employment impact,” Both universities are ranked in top order in Pakistan for Employment Outcomes, reflecting a deep commitment to preparing students for real-world success, they said adding our focus is on future goals, including enhanced research productivity, community engagement, and sustainable development initiatives like renewable energy use, carbon emissions control, and waste management. A robust plan is underway to reward top-cited researchers and bolster international recognition.
Rising academic landscape
As Pakistan’s higher education sector gains visibility on the global stage, the 2026 QS Rankings not only celebrate present achievements but also set the tone for a bold and dynamic academic future. With dedication to innovation, inclusivity, and excellence, Pakistan’s universities are poised to climb even higher in the years ahead.
