TIME Magazine 2026 ranking: global recognition for the University of Montpellier
The University of Montpellier has once again distinguished itself internationally in the new World's Top Universities of 2026 ranking published by TIME Magazine on January 28, 2026. With a 244place in the world, UM confirms its attractiveness and overall performance, positioning itself as the best French university outside Paris in this ranking. It also ranks behind Sorbonne University (#185) and Paris-Saclay (#219), attesting to the quality of its teaching, research, and the international impact of its activities.
This ranking, developed by TIME Magazine in partnership with Statista R, aims to provide a rigorous and contemporary assessment of universities around the world. It is based on multidimensional criteria (academic performance, innovation capacity, economic impact, and international influence) to provide a comprehensive snapshot of higher education on a global scale.
The World’s Top Universities of 2026 ranking: objectives and methodology
The World’s Top Universities of 2026 ranking published by TIME Magazine aims to provide an international assessment of the performance of higher education institutions by bringing together more than 500 universities. It is intended for students, institutions, and academic and economic partners, offering them a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the global university landscape.
This ranking is based on a methodology that takes into account several complementary criteria. Institutions are primarily evaluated on their academic and scientific performance, as reflected in their publications, citations, and educational resources. The ranking also considers their capacity for innovation and economic impact, particularly through patents, content dissemination, and digital visibility. Finally, an international dimension is taken into account, through the welcoming of foreign students and staff, as well as the global influence of the universities.
An excellent performance by the University of Montpellier
In this highly competitive environment, the University of Montpellier stands out with its 244th place worldwide in the 2026 edition of TIME Magazine's World's Top Universities ranking. This result places it third nationally, behind Sorbonne University (185th) and Paris-Saclay (219th), and makes it the top French university outside Paris in this international ranking.
" This new ranking by TIME Magazine confirms the strength and consistency of the project that Montpellier University has been pursuing for several years. Our excellent ranking reflects our community's ongoing commitment to quality education, scientific excellence, and innovation. Above all, it is the result of the remarkable work of our researchers, teachers, lecturers, Professors, and all of our administrative and technical staff, whom I would like to warmly thank. This international recognition highlights our ability to remain at the forefront of major contemporary issues, combining scientific and educational influence, international appeal, and a positive impact on our regions and society," said Philippe Augé, President of the University of Montpellier.
The University of Montpellier also stands out in various international rankings.
The UM also ranks among the top 200 in the Shanghai ranking of the world's best universities, coming in14th place globally in ecology. It also features in the THE Impact Ranking, which measures the commitment and performance of higher education institutions in terms of sustainable development. In its sixth edition, UM maintains its top position among French institutions and ranks among the world's top 101-200 institutions for its long-standing commitment to sustainable development.
Finally, the University of Montpellier maintains its status in the CWTS Leiden Ranking. This ranking, which provides important information on the scientific performance of more than 1,500 leading universities worldwide, is based on scientific publications and their citations. In the 2024 Leiden world ranking, the University of Montpellier once again confirms its scientific influence both nationally and internationally, ranking4th nationally (first university outside Paris) and203rd worldwide.