Islamabad, June 20, 2025: Over 1,500 universities from more than 100 countries have been featured in the prestigious QS World University Rankings 2026, and 18 institutions from Pakistan have proudly secured their spots on the list. This year’s rankings were compiled by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), a UK-based global higher education analytics firm known for its trusted evaluations.
The rankings assess institutions based on several indicators, including academic and employer reputation, faculty-student ratio, research citations, international student and faculty diversity, and commitment to sustainability.
Quaid-e-Azam University, Islamabad continues to lead as the highest-ranked Pakistani university, holding the 354th position globally, reaffirming its reputation as a top-tier academic institution. The National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) follows closely at 371st.
Here is the complete list of Pakistani universities featured in the QS World University Rankings 2026:
| Global Rank | University Name |
|---|---|
| 354 | Quaid-e-Azam University |
| =371 | National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) |
| =542 | University of the Punjab |
| 555 | Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) |
| =654 | University of Agriculture, Faisalabad |
| =664 | COMSATS University Islamabad |
| 721–730 | Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences |
| 761–770 | Government College University, Faisalabad |
| 801–850 | University of Engineering and Technology (UET), Lahore |
| 901–950 | University of Peshawar |
| 951–1000 | The University of Lahore |
| 1001–1200 | Agha Khan University |
| 1001–1200 | University of Karachi |
| 1201–1400 | Bahauddin Zakariya University |
| 1201–1400 | International Islamic University, Islamabad |
| 1201–1400 | Riphah International University |
| 1201–1400 | University of Management and Technology (UMT) |
| 1401+ | The Islamia University of Bahawalpur |
This achievement reflects the growing emphasis on academic excellence and research output in Pakistan. With more universities striving to meet global standards, Pakistan’s presence on the international academic map is steadily strengthening.
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