Ranking methodology

Our “top” and “best” lists are designed to help students shortlist universities — they are editorial guides, not a substitute for official global rankings.

Our composite ranking score

Every university is given a transparent 0–100 composite score, computed from published, verifiable signals. The default ordering on our “best” and subject/level pages uses this score. The weights are:

• Global reputation — 45%. QS World University Ranking position (or QS Americas, slightly discounted, where a world rank isn’t available).
• National quality — 20%. your destination country’s star rating (1–6).
• Academic breadth — 15%. The number of published programmes, normalised across all universities.
• Internationalisation — 12%. The share of international students.
• Student support — 8%. On-campus accommodation, open admissions and clear intake dates.

Better QS positions are rewarded on a curve that favours the very top. On subject and level pages, a university must offer relevant, published programmes before it can appear, and the same composite score decides the order.

What we do not do

• We do not invent or calculate our own numeric rankings.
• We do not sell placement — no university can pay to rank higher.
• We do not present editorial ordering as an official global ranking.

A note on accuracy

Ranking positions and ratings shown across the site are indicative and provided for general guidance. They can change year to year — always verify current positions with the official ranking bodies and the university.