Top 10 universities in India and world [2024]

Let's look at the top 10 universities worldwide and India and learn how to select the right university for yourself

By Forbes India

Published: Sep 11, 2024 10:10:46 AM IST

Updated: Oct 25, 2024 05:16:16 PM IST

Choosing the right university is a pivotal decision in one's academic journey, as it can profoundly shape your future. With a multitude of options available, it's essential to have a reliable guide to help you make an informed choice. University rankings serve as a valuable tool in this process, offering insights into the quality of education, research, and opportunities a university can provide. In this article , we will explore the top 10 universities in the world and India in 2024, providing you with essential information to aid your decision-making.

Additionally, we will offer tips on effectively using these rankings and discuss why they significantly shape your educational path.

Let’s look at the top 10 universities in India in 2024 first.

Top 10 universities in India in 2024, according to THE

Here is a table showcasing the top 10 universities in India, with data sourced from THE or Times Higher Education:

Rank and University	Number of Students	International Students Percentage	Number of Students Per Staff
#1 Indian Institute of Science (IISc)	4,495	1%	9.6
#2 Anna University	12,824	1%	13.1
#3 Jamia Millia Islamia	10,325	4%	11.2
#4 Mahatma Gandhi University	2,045	2%	20.5
#5 Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences	3,251	1%	15.3
#6 Alagappa University	5,020	0%	15.8
#7 Aligarh Muslim University	20,428	1%	12
#8 Banaras Hindu University	12,620	3%	8
#9 Bharathiar University	3,887	0%	18.2
#10 Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati	8,157	1%	18

Top 10 universities in the world in 2024, according to THE

Now, it’s time to look at the top 10 universities in the world, with data sourced from THE:

Rank and University	Number of Students	International Students Percentage	Number of Students Per Staff
#1 University of Oxford	21,750	42%	10.9
#2 Stanford University	14,517	23%	6.4
#3 Massachusetts Institute of Technology	11,085	33%	8
#4 Harvard University	20,050	25%	9
#5 University of Cambridge	20,565	38%	11.5
#6 Princeton University	7,753	23%	7.3
#7 California Institute of Technology	2,240	33%	6.1
#8 Imperial College London	20,275	61%	11.8
#9 University of California, Berkeley	39,991	22%	17.9
#10 Yale University	11,924	21%	5.2

Ranking methodology THE has followed

The Times Higher Education World University Rankings for 2024 encompass 1,904 universities spanning 108 countries and regions.

The top 10 universities in the world and India are arrived at by using THE’s innovative WUR 3.0 methodology, which incorporates 18 meticulously calibrated performance indicators designed to assess an institution's competence across five key domains:

Teaching,
Research environment,
Research quality,
Industry engagement, and
International outlook.

In the current year's assessment, they scrutinised over 134 million citations derived from 16.5 million research publications, in addition to gathering survey responses from 68,402 scholars around the world. In total, they amassed 411,789 data points from more than 2,673 institutions that participated in the data submission process to finally arrive at the top 10 universities in the world and India.

The 2024 rankings, highly esteemed and trusted by students, teachers, governments, and industry professionals worldwide, provide valuable perspectives on the changing landscape of global higher education.

The significance of university rankings

University rankings hold substantial significance in students' decision-making process for several reasons.

Quality assurance

Rankings indicate a university's overall quality, including academic reputation, faculty credentials, and research output.

Global perspective

They offer a global perspective, helping you compare universities from different countries and regions.

Employability

Many employers consider university rankings when considering job applicants, which can impact your future career prospects.

Research opportunities

Higher-ranked universities often have better research facilities and opportunities for students interested in research.

Networking

Attending a top-ranked university can provide access to influential alumni networks and connections that benefit your career.

Personal growth

A university's reputation can influence your personal growth and development, as motivated and talented peers will surround you.

Tips for choosing the right university

The top 10 universities in the world and India, according to THE, should be on the priority list of any student. Still, there are several factors to consider beyond the rankings that make a university the right fit for you.

Consider your field of study

Different universities excel in different fields, so it's crucial to prioritise those that offer vital programs in your area of interest.

Location

Think about the site of the university and whether it aligns with your lifestyle, career goals, and personal preferences.

Financial considerations

Assess the cost of tuition, available scholarships, and the overall cost of living in the area.

Accreditation

Ensure that the university is accredited and recognised by relevant educational authorities.

Research opportunities

If you're interested in research, explore universities known for their research programs and facilities.

Faculty expertise

Investigate the faculty's qualifications and expertise in your chosen field.

Student life

Look into extracurricular activities, clubs, and organisations that align with your interests.

Alumni network

A strong alumni network can be invaluable for future career opportunities. It’s often what makes a university a top university in India and abroad.

Internship and job placement

Check the university's track record in helping students secure internships and job placements.

Cultural diversity

No educational institution can rank as a top university in India without considering the diversity of its student body. Exposure to different cultures can enrich your educational experience in a significant way.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I know if a university's ranking is accurate and reliable?

Look for transparency in the ranking methodology and consider using multiple ranking sources for a more comprehensive view. Also, read reviews and testimonials from current and former students.

2. Do universities with higher rankings always offer better education and opportunities?

This is not necessarily always true. While higher-ranked universities often provide excellent opportunities, but the best university depends on your specific needs, interests, and career goals.

3. Are there specific rankings focusing on particular fields of study or disciplines?

Some ranking organisations offer specialised rankings for specific fields like business, engineering, medicine, and more. These can be valuable when choosing a university for a particular program.

4. How can I find scholarships or financial aid opportunities at top-ranked universities?

Visit the university's official website and explore their financial aid or scholarship sections. Many universities offer scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, or specific talents.