Pakistan has taken another step forward in the field of global education. A total of 18 universities from the country have been listed in the QS World University Rankings 2026, reflecting steady growth in academic performance, research output and global recognition.
The QS rankings are released annually and evaluate universities across the world based on academic reputation, employer feedback, international faculty, student ratio and research impact.
This year’s list includes a strong representation from Pakistan, showing that the country’s higher education sector is evolving and becoming more competitive on the global stage.
Here is a complete list of the 18 Pakistani universities featured in the 2026 QS rankings:
| Rank | University Name | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 354 | Quaid-i-Azam University | Islamabad |
| 371 | National University of Sciences & Technology (NUST) | Islamabad |
| 542 | University of the Punjab | Lahore |
| 555 | Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) | Lahore |
| 654 | University of Agriculture | Faisalabad |
| 664 | COMSATS University | Islamabad |
| 721–730 | Pakistan Institute of Engineering & Applied Sciences | Islamabad |
| 761–770 | Government College University | Faisalabad |
| 801–850 | University of Engineering & Technology (UET) | Lahore |
| 901–950 | University of Peshawar | Peshawar |
| 951–1000 | The University of Lahore | Lahore |
| 1001–1200 | Aga Khan University | Karachi |
| 1001–1200 | University of Karachi | Karachi |
| 1201–1400 | Bahauddin Zakariya University | Multan |
| 1201–1400 | International Islamic University | Islamabad |
| 1201–1400 | Riphah International University | Islamabad |
| 1201–1400 | University of Management and Technology (UMT) | Lahore |
| 1401+ | The Islamia University of Bahawalpur | Bahawalpur |
Leading the list is Quaid-i-Azam University, followed closely by NUST and the University of the Punjab. These institutions continue to maintain their strong academic reputation, backed by research and skilled faculty.
Meanwhile, universities like LUMS, COMSATS and UET Lahore are also making significant contributions in fields like business, technology, and engineering.
The presence of private and public universities alike shows that both sectors are working towards improving the quality of education in Pakistan. Experts believe that if this trend continues, even more Pakistani institutions could break into the top 500 in the coming years.
With global recognition growing, this is an encouraging moment for Pakistan’s education system proving that quality learning, innovation and academic excellence are well within reach.
