Rice University has advanced 22 spots in the 2026 edition of the QS World University Rankings, climbing to No. 119 globally and No. 29 among U.S. universities.
The annual rankings, compiled by London-based higher education data provider Quacquarelli Symonds, include over 1,500 of the world’s top universities across more than 100 locations.
Rice was previously ranked No. 141 in 2025 and No. 145 in 2024.
“This upward momentum reflects our commitment to delivering an unparalleled personalized education while advancing research that transforms lives and betters humanity,” said Amy Dittmar, the Howard R. Hughes Provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “We are dedicated to becoming the world’s premier teaching and research university, and this recognition shows we are making important strides.”
QS evaluates institutions based on research and discovery, employability and outcomes, learning experience, global engagement and sustainability. Rice scored highest in international student diversity, international student ratio, international faculty ratio, citations per faculty and sustainability.
Last year, Rice launched its new strategic plan, Momentous: Personalized Scale for Global Impact, which serves as a roadmap to elevate its mission and impact over the next decade, with a specific focus on global impact.
Rice continues its impressive momentum in national rankings. Forbes ranked Rice No. 9 among the top U.S. colleges for 2024–25, while Niche.com named Rice the No. 15 best university in the nation and No. 1 in Texas this year. In the latest U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” rankings, Rice is No. 18 overall and ranks in the top 10 for both best value (No. 6) and undergraduate teaching (No. 7), underscoring the university’s commitment to student success, excellence and affordability.
For more information about Rice’s global rankings, visit the QS World University Rankings website.