The University of Otago – Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka remains in the top 200 universities worldwide, according to the latest QS World University Rankings.
Released today, the 2027 edition of the rankings places Otago 198 in the world and second in Aotearoa New Zealand, consistent with last year’s results (197th and 2nd).
Vice-Chancellor Grant Robertson
Vice-Chancellor Grant Robertson is pleased Otago continues to provide a first-rate education.
“International rankings are an important part of attracting students and staff, so retaining our position among the best universities in the world is significant.
“Our result reflects the dedication and quality of the fantastic kaimahi we have here at Otago.”
Otago’s strong result is in part due to a rise in four performance indicators – international research networks, academic reputation, employer reputation, and employment outcomes.
Its biggest improvement is in international research networks (to 371 from 413) which measures success in creating and sustaining research partnerships with institutions in other countries.
“Collaborating with experts from around the world is a fantastic opportunity to share expertise and showcase the incredible mahi going on at Otago,” Mr Robertson says.
The rankings are the most comprehensive of their kind, shining a light on the best institutions from across the world.
“The QS Rankings are a very competitive process with an additional 94 institutions ranked this year, and we continue to work hard to maintain and grow our position. While our overall ranking remained steady, our underlying raw score improved to 56.3 this year from 55.8 last year.”
Each of the QS rankings are compiled using a core methodology that employs a range of vital factors including student experience, university partnerships, research activity and faculty qualifications.
Today’s announcement follows success for four Otago subjects earlier in the year.
The QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026 placed sports-related subjects, anatomy and physiology, dentistry, and hospitality and leisure management in the top 50 globally.
They were also ranked first in Aotearoa.
Visit the QS website for more information about the World University Rankings.
University of Otago Rankings
Otago is ranked as one of the best universities in New Zealand and the world.
Find out more here