Pakistan’s higher education sector has once again earned international recognition, with 18 universities securing positions in the prestigious 2026 QS World University Rankings. This year’s edition features over 1,500 leading institutions from more than 100 countries, and Pakistan’s representation reflects its growing academic footprint on the global stage. Leading the way is Quaid-e-Azam University, ranked at 354, reaffirming its position as the country’s top public university, renowned for its research excellence and academic strength. It is followed by the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) at =371, known for its world-class STEM programs and strong industry collaborations. Also among the top five are the University of the Punjab at =542, a historic academic institution; the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) at 555, acclaimed for its business, economics, and social sciences programs; and the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, ranked =654, a leader in agrarian innovation and food security research.
Other Pakistani universities included in the rankings demonstrate the country’s academic diversity and evolving excellence. COMSATS University Islamabad was placed at =664, followed by Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS) in the 721–730 range. Government College University, Faisalabad was ranked 761–770, while University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore appeared in the 801–850 band. Further down the list, University of Peshawar secured a position in the 901–950 range, and The University of Lahore featured between 951–1000. Several other institutions were recognized in the broader bands: Aga Khan University and University of Karachi were ranked in the 1001–1200 range. Bahauddin Zakariya University, International Islamic University Islamabad, Riphah International University, and University of Management and Technology (UMT) all secured places in the 1201–1400 band.
This widespread inclusion of both public and private universities—from engineering and management schools to liberal arts and medical institutions—demonstrates the dynamic and evolving nature of Pakistan’s higher education sector. The presence of 18 Pakistani universities on a globally respected platform like QS not only celebrates individual institutional achievements but also highlights Pakistan’s rise as an emerging center of academic excellence, innovation, and research on the world stage.
