5 QS Top-Ranked UK Universities in 2024
Do you want to study abroad in the best of the best? If so, you should know about the Russell Group—an elite collection of 24 top-ranked UK universities renowned for their world-class research, teaching, and learning experiences. These universities are the UK’s answer to the Ivy League! They set the gold standard for higher education not just in the UK, but globally.
Here are the top 5 QS-ranked UK universities in 2024 that could be your academic destination:
- University of Manchester
QS World University Ranking 2025: 34th globally, 6th in the UK, and 7th in Europe.
The University of Manchester is a powerhouse of innovation and academic excellence. Famous for its wide range of disciplines, it ranks in the top 10 in the UK for 44 subjects. These include humanities, science, engineering, biology, medicine, and health. With a rich history and a lively campus life, Manchester offers students an unmatched experience.
Fun Fact: The University of Manchester is where the world’s first modern computer, “The Baby,” was developed in 1948!
- University of Glasgow
QS World University Ranking 2024: 78th globally and 16th in Europe.
The University of Glasgow combines historic appeal with modern academics. The University of Glasgow offers around 50 taught programs starting in November and an additional 30 with dual start options in January and September. Flexibility is at the heart of its offerings. With 700 undergraduate degrees available, students have many choices to fit their educational interests. The university shines in subject rankings, securing the 15th spot globally.
Fun Fact: This one’s for Harry Potter fans! The University of Glasgow’s iconic archways inspired the design of Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films.
- Queen Mary University of London
QS World University Ranking 2024: 120th globally and 38th in Europe.
Tracing its roots back to 1785, Queen Mary University of London blends tradition with cutting-edge education. With over 200 degree programs across humanities, social sciences and laws, medicine and dentistry, and science and engineering, students can pursue diverse academic paths. Impressively, it ranks 16th globally in subject-specific rankings, highlighting its commitment to specialized excellence.
Fun Fact: Queen Mary University of London was the first institution in the UK to open a dedicated School of Medicine and Dentistry in 1785, making it an innovator in medical education.
- University of Leeds
QS World University Ranking 2024: 82nd globally and 20th in Europe.
The University of Leeds stands out not only for its academic rankings but also for its graduate employability, ranking 4th in the UK. Recognized as one of the top 5 most targeted universities by graduate recruiters in the UK, Leeds offers a promising future for its students. With strong programs in psychology, law, business studies, and criminology, it holds the 16th globally in subject rankings.
Fun Fact: The University of Leeds owns one of the UK’s largest and most impressive art collections, including works by renowned artists like Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth.
- University of Sheffield
QS World University Ranking 2024: 105th globally and 29th in Europe.
The University of Sheffield is a hub for diverse academics. It excels across arts and humanities, business, engineering, law, medicine, dentistry and health, science, and social sciences. Proudly holding the top spot globally in subject-specific rankings, Sheffield offers a supportive learning environment in a city known for its friendliness and green spaces.
Fun Fact: Sheffield is the birthplace of stainless steel, and the university continues this legacy with groundbreaking materials science research!
Think You’ll Never Make It into a Russell Group University?
Applying to top universities is complex and scary. HR International is here to change that. We help you navigate all the difficulties to offer a seamless experience with British Council-certified counselors, admission, comprehensive pre-departure support, and accommodation assistance. To ensure your goal, visit us to get into a top-ranked university in the UK!
