Leeds climbs in QS World Ranking 2021

The University has moved up two places in the latest QS World University Rankings, consolidating its place in the top 100.

In a year that sees three quarters of UK universities in the influential global ranking move down the table, Leeds continues to move up and is now positioned at 91.

We have a world-class academic reputation, attracting the very best minds, and this has been recognised by our peers across the world in this year's QS ranking.

PROFESSOR HAI-SUI YU, DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLOR: INTERNATIONAL

The University’s international strategy is led by Professor Hai-Sui Yu, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: International. He said:

“At Leeds we continue to build on our global partnerships with universities, researchers and business to provide our students with a world-class education, and to conduct research that makes a global impact.  

“We have a world-class academic reputation, attracting the very best minds, and this has been recognised by our peers across the world in this year’s QS.

“The higher education community continues to be hugely challenged by the covid-19 pandemic, and we stand with our colleagues across the world in working hard to secure the best possible higher education experience for current and prospective students.”  

Global community

The University is home to a global community of staff and students, with a worldwide network of over 250,000 alumni playing a valuable role in supporting Leeds.

This was reflected in this year’s Times Higher Education Most International Universities ranking which saw Leeds rise for a third consecutive year, climbing five places to 35th in the world. 

Support for international students

International scholarships are available to encourage the brightest students worldwide, in addition to those available to students irrespective of their background.

The University also runs an international foundation year to help prepare undergraduate students for the demands of studying for a UK degree, and runs the Link to Leeds scheme to help international students prepare for and settle into life at the University.

Global engagement

The University has continued to strengthen international partnerships this year.

Notably, Leeds hosted the MIT Regional Entrepreneurship Acceleration Program (MIT REAP) in January, which saw visitors from across the world seeing first-hand how the University and the region inspires innovation. 

The visit was part of a prestigious programme, offered by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Sloan Global Programs, which shares experiences of building innovation driven ecosystems in more than 50 regions around the world. 

The University’s joint school with Southwest Jiaotong University also continues to flourish, with the first cohort of students graduating this summer. 

Further information

Further details of Leeds’ performance in the QS World Rankings 2021 is available on the QS website.