The ratings, formerly known as the THE Impact Rankings and rebranded this year as the Sustainability Impact Ratings, assess how universities contribute to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through research, stewardship, outreach and teaching. The 2026 edition evaluated 1,646 universities across 116 countries and territories, with results published across 17 individual SDG tables and one overall ranking.
The University of Manchester took the No. 1 overall spot, followed by Griffith University in Australia at #2 and Western Sydney University at #3. Australia, Malaysia and Canada each had two universities in the global top 10, underlining how strongly institutions outside the UK are performing against the SDG framework.
Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Manchester, said: “These results are welcome recognition for Manchester, however we must continue to improve in an increasingly competitive international higher education landscape.
“I am grateful for the hard work our colleagues contribute every day to advance knowledge, transform lives and deliver impact beyond the University.”
What the Sustainability Impact Ratings Measure
Each participating university is assessed against 17 individual SDG tables, covering areas such as gender equality, climate action, reduced inequalities and responsible consumption, before an overall score is calculated. Institutions are scored on four pillars: research, stewardship, outreach and teaching, reflecting both academic output and an institution’s day-to-day social and environmental practices.
The rebrand from THE Impact Rankings to the Sustainability Impact Ratings for 2026 accompanies continued growth in participation, with this year’s edition covering more universities and territories than in previous editions.
What This Means for Students Choosing a UK University
For students weighing UK universities, the results offer another useful lens beyond academic reputation. However, sustainability rankings should be considered alongside factors such as programme quality, fees, scholarships, graduate outcomes, location, student support and visa requirements when evaluating a university for study abroad.
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