Bradford breaks into top 500 global QS rank

The University of Bradford has been ranked among the world’s top 500 universities for the first time, marking a significant milestone in its continued rise on the global stage.  

In the latest QS World University Rankings 2027, published on 18 June, Bradford climbed 14 places to 497th in the world, securing its place in the top 500 and underlining a sustained trajectory of improvement.  

It also climbed 60 places for ‘employability outcomes’, rising from 421 to 361.  

The globally recognised rankings assess more than 1,500 institutions across 100 countries, measuring performance in areas including research, employability and international collaboration.  

The University ranked in the UK Top 50 for the second year in a row (ranking 48th overall).  

Upward trend  

The QS ranking is the latest in a string of positive achievements for the University, which include being ranked:  

• 8th in the UK for Value Added (Guardian, 2026)   

• 1st for social mobility, five years running (HEPI)  

• University of the Year for Social Mobility (Daily Mail, 2026)  

Professor Nick Braisby, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bradford, said: “Breaking into the QS top 500 is a significant moment for the University of Bradford. It reflects years of focused work by our staff, our students and our partners to strengthen everything we do, from teaching to research to real-world impact.  

University of Bradford campus. All picture credits: University of Bradford.

“This is not about a single result. It is about a trajectory, and it shows clearly that Bradford is moving forward with real purpose and momentum.”  

Professor Sherif El-Khamisy, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Research, Innovation and Global Engagement, said, “As a former international student, I know how important global rankings are when choosing where to study. They provide assurance that a university offers academic excellence, strong research, and a high-quality student experience.”   

“That is why I am delighted that the University of Bradford has been ranked among the world’s top 500 universities in the QS World University Rankings for the first time. This achievement reflects the dedication of our staff and students, the growing global impact of our research, and the strength of our institutional ambition.”  

“For prospective students around the world, it is a powerful signal that Bradford is a place where talent is nurtured, opportunities are created, and futures are transformed.”  

It Starts in Bradford  

The achievement comes as the University continues to promote its ‘It starts in Bradford’ campaign, highlighting how students develop the skills, ideas and confidence to succeed.  

Professor Braisby said it reflected the University’s focus on preparing students for the future, placing employability at the heart of its strategy – with over 80 per cent of courses accredited by industry.  

Professor Braisby added: “What this result reinforces is something we have been saying for some time. ‘It starts in Bradford’ means careers start here, ideas developed here go on to shape lives and communities; and this is a place where talent from every background has the opportunity to thrive.  

“We have been clear about what we stand for, which is embedding employability into every part of the student experience, driving research that delivers real change, and creating an environment where talent can genuinely thrive. That is now being recognised on the global stage.”