NTU Singapore Rises to 12th in 2026 QS World University Rankings
Nanyang Technological University (NTU Singapore) climbed to 12th place globally in the latest QS World University Rankings, advancing three positions from 15th place last year. The 34-year-old institution secured its position among the world’s top dozen universities, making it the youngest university in this elite group.
Key Details
NTU Singapore improved its scores in both employer reputation and academic reputation this year, reinforcing its status as a globally premier institution. The university also achieved perfect scores for its international faculty index and received high marks for research intensity and volume as measured by faculty citations.
The ranking advancement reflects NTU’s recent institutional developments, including the launch of the new College of Computing and Data Science last year to prepare students for artificial intelligence advancements. This year, the university introduced the Honours College, designed to empower students to use technology for societal benefit.
The university has been actively recruiting international talent through initiatives such as the Nanyang Assistant Professorship programme for early-career academics and attracting established scholars from around the world.
Quotes & Reactions
NTU President Professor Ho Teck Hua said the ranking reflects the university’s efforts to adapt to a changing world. “NTU’s strong showing in this year’s QS rankings reflects its constant efforts to reimagine itself amidst a rapidly changing world,” he said.
“For example, last year we launched the new College of Computing and Data Science to better prepare our students for the AI Revolution. This year we launched the Honours College, where we empower students to harness technology for the good of society,” Prof Ho added.
QS Senior Vice President Ben Sowter praised NTU’s performance, stating: “NTU Singapore’s continued rise in the global rankings reflects its remarkable ability to combine academic excellence with cutting-edge research and a strong commitment to innovation.”
“The university stands out for its future-oriented approach, from pioneering work in sustainability and smart technologies to its deep collaborations with industry and government. NTU is not only contributing to Singapore’s knowledge economy but is helping shape solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges,” Sowter said.
Background & Context
At 34 years old, NTU operates from what it describes as a vibrant, smart campus that serves as a living laboratory of innovation and technology. The university positions itself as unhindered by tradition and committed to disrupting and pioneering future developments in higher education.
The QS World University Rankings evaluate universities globally based on multiple criteria including academic reputation, employer reputation, faculty-to-student ratio, research citations, and international diversity measures.
