Have you ever wondered how Philippine universities stack up against the world’s best? The latest global rankings just delivered some impressive news for local higher education, with one Manila-based institution continuing to make waves on the international stage.
Ateneo Maintains Top Private University Status in 2026 QS World University Rankings
Ateneo de Manila University continues its steady climb in the 2026 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings, putting it among the world’s top higher education institutions. For the 22nd edition of the QS World rankings, Ateneo ranked =511 out of a total of 1,501 institutions from 106 territories, according to the rankings released on Thursday, 19 June 2025.
“This latest performance in the QS World Rankings is a testament to the dedication and excellence of the entire Ateneo community,” said Fr Roberto Yap SJ, University President. Meanwhile, this achievement solidifies Ateneo’s position as the top private institution in the Philippines, and second overall next to the University of the Philippines (rank =362).
Philippine Universities Making Their Mark Globally
A total of six Philippine institutions were ranked in this year’s assessment, including new entrants Adamson University (rank 1001-1200) and Mapua University (=1401+). As a result, the country’s representation in global university rankings continues to expand, showcasing the growing strength of Philippine higher education.
Globally, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is leading the list. The National University of Singapore is the top Asian institution, ranked number 8 overall. For context, you can explore more about university rankings in the Philippines to understand the competitive landscape better.
Breaking Down Ateneo’s Performance Metrics
“It affirms that Ateneo can stand alongside the world’s leading institutions—not just in academic reputation, but in making a meaningful impact through teaching, research, and service,” Yap explained. The QS World University Rankings, released annually by Quacquarelli Symonds, are based on nine indicators that measure research, employability, engagement, learning, and sustainability.
| Overall | =511 |
| Academic Reputation | 385 |
| Citations per Faculty | 801+ |
| Employer Reputation | 148 |
| Employment Outcomes | 157 |
A Mission Beyond Rankings
For example, Ateneo’s strongest performance appears in employer reputation (148) and employment outcomes (157), highlighting the institution’s success in preparing graduates for the workforce. This practical impact resonates with Fr. Yap’s broader vision for the university.
“More than recognition, this is a call to continue shaping a more just, compassionate, and hope-filled world as we strive to be a Laudato Si’ university,” Yap said. “May this inspire us all to keep pursuing our mission of being the Lord’s light in the world.”
The complete methodology and detailed rankings are available through Quacquarelli Symonds’ official website, offering transparency into how these prestigious assessments are conducted.
What This Means for Philippine Higher Education
Ateneo’s consistent performance in global university rankings signals more than institutional prestige—it reflects the evolving quality of Philippine higher education. As more local universities gain international recognition, students benefit from world-class education without leaving home. This achievement should inspire both current students and prospective applicants to consider how Philippine institutions are increasingly competitive on the global stage.
