THE World University Rankings 2024 Out, University of Oxford Stays on Top

Updated on 20 September, 2024

Sachin Pundir

Sachin Pundir

University Admission Expert

The Times Higher Education (THE) has released its annual World University Rankings (WUR) 2024, showcasing the world's most prestigious academic institutions. The University of Oxford held the top spot for the eighth consecutive year, reconfirming its global reputation for academic excellence. The rankings, however, have witnessed notable shifts within the top five institutions.

Oxford Continues its Reign

The University of Oxford's continued reign at the summit of the WUR 2024 demonstrates its unwavering commitment to academic brilliance. 

Stanford Rises to Second Place

Stanford University's ascent to second place is a notable change in this year's rankings. This rise has also pushed Harvard University down to fourth place.

MIT Climbs to Third Place

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has made an impressive climb of two places in this year's rankings, securing the third position. 

Cambridge Slips to Fifth Place

On the flip side, the University of Cambridge, which had shared third place last year, has slipped to fifth position. 

THE World University Rankings 2024: Table for Comparison

Top 10 Universities in THE WUR 2024

University Name  Country Rankings 2024 Rankings 2023
University of Oxford United Kingdom 1 1
Stanford University United States 2 =3
Massachusetts Institute of Technology United States 3 =5
Harvard University United States 4 2
University of Cambridge United Kingdom 5 =3
Princeton University United States 6 7
California Institute of Technology United States 7 6
Imperial College London United Kingdom 8 10
University of California United States 9 8
Yale University United States 10 9

WUR 3.0 Methodology

The rankings are based on the WUR 3.0 methodology, featuring 18 meticulously calibrated performance indicators that evaluate institutions across five key areas: teaching, research environment, research quality, industry engagement, and international outlook.

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Sachin Pundir

University Admission Expert

With over10 years of experience in the ed-tech sector, Sachin holds expertise in operations management, ensuring the smooth functioning of study abroad programs. He has deep understanding of the global university systems, acceptance rates, and selection process.

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