QS has published annual university rankings since 2004. In the latest QS rankings (2026), 8,467 higher education institutions were evaluated, of which 1,501 universities were ranked.
Lund University has for several years been ranked as one of the top 100 higher education institutions in the world and this year is placed at number 72. This makes Lund University Sweden’s top-ranked higher education institution in the QS World University Rankings 2026. The University has risen three places compared to the previous year, from number 75 to 72, and has risen by a total of 23 places in the three latest rankings. This is the best showing since the 2016 ranking.
“It’s very gratifying that Lund University has risen in the QS rankings for the third year in a row and that we are now the top-ranked higher education institution in Sweden. The fact that we continue to rise in the world top 100 list despite tougher competition globally is very significant and is a sign that our work is on the right track. It shows the fantastic engagement of our students and staff in creating a top-class university,” says Vice-Chancellor Erik Renström.
QS bases its rankings on a number of different indicators such as Academic Reputation, Citations per Faculty, International Research Network, Employer Reputation and Sustainability.
Lund University is rated in the top 50 in the world in the following areas:
- Sustainability, number 3 (previous year 5)
- International Research Network, number 35 (48)
“Our commitment to innovation and sustainability is reflected in the QS ranking. Lund University’s global position continues to get stronger. As part of the global top university network, Lund attracts international students and staff by offering a truly inspiring learning environment that works to understand, explain and improve our world and the human condition,” says Erik Renström.