Hong Kong achieved the highest rate of improvement in Asia in the latest QS World University Rankings 2026, with the University of Hong Kong rising six places to 11th globally, the SAR’s best-ever performance.

The city has further solidified its reputation as a leading global education hub, with five of its ranked universities falling within the world’s top 100, marking the region with the highest concentration of institutions in this tier.

Ben Sowter, senior vice-president at the British higher education ranking provider Quacquarelli Symonds, attributed this success to Hong Kong’s growing academic influence, world-class research and international engagement.

“Looking ahead, initiatives like the ‘Study in Hong Kong’ brand should help attract global talent and cement the city’s reputation as a premier destination for academic and research excellence,” he noted.

According to the latest ranking, six Hong Kong universities improved their positions, marking the highest improvement rate in Asia for regions, followed by Thailand and Malaysia.

Among the standout performers, HKU surged from 17th last year to 11th, securing its place as Hong Kong’s top-ranked university and the second-highest in Asia, behind the National University of Singapore (8th globally).

The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) climbed from 36th to 32nd, achieving its best performance since 2010.

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) each ascended three places.

Though slipping one spot overall, the City University of Hong Kong (CityU) maintained its global distinction by ranking second in the “citations per faculty” indicator, only trailing behind Harvard University.

CityU also emerged as one of Asia’s top performers for both International Faculty Ratio and International Student Ratio.

Hong Kong Baptist University recorded the most significant jump, rising from 252nd to 244th.

In response to the historic achievement, HKU President Xiang Zhang said: “We extend our profound gratitude for the support of our nation, the HKSAR Government, the entire University community, and all of HKU’s dedicated supporters.”

CUHK President Dennis Lo Yuk-ming credited this milestone to the university’s strong academic achievements and robust research output, while thanking faculty and students for their unwavering dedication.

HKUST affirmed that the ranking reflects its dedication to excellence in teaching, research, and global education, alongside fostering diversity and innovation.

"We are delighted to see the continued rise in QS World University Rankings which stands as testament to our commitment to excellence in education and research. I am proud to see the hard work and dedication of our faculty, staff, and students paying off.

“They remain focused on pushing the boundaries of knowledge and innovation, partnering with others to translate their work into solutions that deliver transformative societal impact,” said HKUST President Nancy Ip Yuk-yu.

PolyU stated that the results highlight its internationally recognized academic and research strengths, showcasing its impact on global higher education.

Baptist University considers this progress a key benchmark in its ongoing pursuit of excellence in teaching, learning, and research.

Globally, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Imperial College London retained their positions as the world’s top two universities, while Stanford University overtook the University of Oxford to claim third place.

The QS World University Rankings 2026, the most comprehensive edition to date, evaluated over 1,500 universities across 106 countries and territories.

(Cheng Wong)

Outstanding global marks for HK unis, HKU leads the charge up QS rankings