Oxford University has once again been ranked world number one in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, maintaining its leading position since 2017. This marks the longest any university has held the top spot in the 21-year history of the rankings, which in 2025 assessed 2,191 universities from 115 countries.

Only Harvard University and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) have previously achieved the distinction of topping the THE rankings.

Professor Irene Tracey, CBE, FRS, FMedSci, Vice-Chancellor of Oxford University, said:

“We are honoured that Oxford has been ranked number one globally by Times Higher Education for the tenth year in a row. The THE rankings, rooted in internationally competitive research and teaching excellence, are recognised worldwide as a vigorous and demanding benchmark of university performance. This achievement reflects the dedication of our academics, professional services staff and students, but it comes at a time of real strain for UK higher education. Sustaining a dynamic and globally competitive sector requires renewed investment and support, so that universities can continue to drive discovery, opportunity and economic growth for future generations.”

Oxford’s continued leadership reflects its global reputation for excellence in research, teaching, and innovation, and underscores the university’s pivotal role in advancing higher education worldwide.