University rises in prestigious Sunday Times Good University Guide ranking

Posted on Friday 18 September 2026

The University maintained its position among the country’s leading universities in the authoritative annual league table, reflecting consistent performance across academic excellence and student support.

The prestigious league table uses a comprehensive range of metrics - including satisfaction with teaching quality, the student experience, degree continuation rates and graduate employment prospects - to rank higher education institutions across the UK.

York’s 2027 ranking follows the recent announcement that the University has been shortlisted in three categories by the Times Higher Education (THE), earning national recognition for its work in widening access to doctoral study, building safe and inclusive artificial intelligence systems and driving regional business growth.  

Buzz around campus

Professor Tracy Lightfoot, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education and Students, said: “There will be a real buzz around campus this weekend as we welcome new students to the campus for the new semester and maintaining our top 20 ranking is a testament to the dedication of all of our staff and our ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, research-led teaching alongside an outstanding student experience.

“League tables are important, but they don’t define us. What really matters is what happens on campus every day - the quiet triumphs in seminar rooms, the unique connection between staff and students, and the way our community looks out for one another. That’s what keeps York special, and it’s wonderful to see that energy recognised once again.” 

Academic support

The latest ranking builds on York’s strong showing across national benchmarks, including in the most recent National Student Survey (NSS), which highlighted that nine out of 10 students at the University said they were satisfied with the academic support they receive. 

York is one of only four UK universities that have achieved a top 10 position in the Times Higher Education rankings of the Research Excellence Framework and an overall Gold in the Teaching Exercise Framework.