In the United Kingdom, the Good University Guide 2026 ranking marked a historic event for the first time. For 32 years, Oxford and Cambridge universities had always been among the top three, but this year they fell out of the top three. This development sparked great debate and interest in the world of education.
New leaders
According to the ranking, the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) managed to take first place for the second consecutive year. It was followed by the University of St Andrews in second place, and Durham University secured third place.
Thus, Oxford and Cambridge were limited to entering only the top four. Since previously at least one of them always took a place in the top three, this year’s result was recorded as a historic turning point.
Durham and LSE’s achievements
Durham University was recognized this year as “University of the Year.” LSE, meanwhile, won in the categories of “Best University of the Year for Academic Performance” and “Russell Group University.” These results once again demonstrated the strong potential and efficiency of these institutions in education.
Ranking criteria
The ranking considered factors such as quality of education, student experience, level of research, sustainability indicators, and graduates’ employment opportunities. In addition, extra scholarships, grants, and convenient conditions offered by universities were also evaluated as important criteria.
Experts’ opinion
According to analysts, admission to leading universities is becoming increasingly competitive. At the same time, students’ choice to study closer to home is opening new opportunities for some institutions. This is expected to further strengthen competition and create new conditions in the education system.
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