Education Rankings 2026: IISc Bangalore Tops Among Indian Institutes in THE World University Rankings

October 10, 2025 | Higher Education News

By Priya

Education Rankings Analyst

Focus: Indian universities, global rankings

IISc Bangalore remains India's top university in Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026.

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, has once again claimed the top spot among Indian universities, retaining its place in the prestigious 201–250 band in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026.

This marks a significant moment for India, which is now the second-most represented nation in the rankings globally, with 128 institutions featured—surpassed only by the United States. The UK-based rankings assessed universities across five key areas: teaching, research environment, research quality, international outlook, and industry impact.

India now has the second-highest number of ranked universities in the world.

Top Indian Institutes and Their 2026 Rankings

Institute	City/State	Rank Band
IISc Bangalore	Karnataka	201–250
Saveetha Institute of Medical & Technical Sciences	Chennai	351–400
Jamia Millia Islamia	Delhi	401–500
Shoolini University	Himachal Pradesh	401–500
BHU, IIT Indore, KIIT, LPU, MG University, UPES	Multiple	501–600
More than 15 other Indian universities	Various	601–800

• IISc Bangalore ranks highest for India, noted for its leadership in research, teaching, innovation, and international collaboration.
• India has shown remarkable progress—128 institutions featured, a sharp increase from just 19 in 2016.
• Evaluation uses 18 performance indicators: learning environment, research strength, global engagement, knowledge transfer, and innovation.
• Other high performers include Saveetha Institute (Chennai, 351–400), Jamia Millia Islamia (Delhi, 401–500), and Shoolini University (HP, 401–500).

Global context: University of Oxford, UK, is ranked #1 for the tenth consecutive year. The United States dominates with 171 ranked institutes; India now ranks #2 globally for number of universities featured.

Why Are These Rankings Important?

• Rankings boost international reputation, attract students and faculty, and influence research collaboration.
• IISc's position in the top 250 aids India's credibility in global academia and innovation networks.
• India’s consistent rise showcases improved research quality and university infrastructure.
• Global recognition can lead to higher funding, partnerships, and student exchanges.

Expert Insight: “With IISc leading the way, Indian universities are poised to become global hubs for science, technology, and academic excellence.”

— End of Report —

🎓 Rankings Fact Box

• Rankings Body: Times Higher Education (UK)
• Global reach: 2,191 universities assessed from 115 countries
• IISc Bangalore: Highest Indian university in 201–250 band
• India: #2 in number of ranked universities (128), behind the US
• Top Global University: Oxford, UK (#1 for 10th year)
• Key criteria: Teaching, research environment, quality, outlook, industry impact

Did you know? IISc was also India's top university in QS World Rankings 2026.

Sources:

• Times Higher Education Official Rankings
• Indian Express
• Jagran Josh, Hindustan Times Oct 2025
• Wikimedia Commons/Unsplash (Images)

Disclaimer: This post summarizes published global rankings and is for informational purposes only. This website is not responsible for the accuracy of ranking source data or any legal issues arising from this content. For formal decisions and guidance, please consult official ranking agencies.