Australia’s new major university has launched into the 2026 QS World Rankings global top 100.
Released today, Adelaide University claimed 82nd position in the world and 8th nationally in its inaugural institutional ranking.
The new university – built on the collective expertise, strengths and achievements of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia – has confirmed its place in the global top 1% as one of the best universities amongst more than 15,000 worldwide.
“This is an outstanding recognition for Adelaide University and one that will hold us in good stead as we approach our opening in early 2026 and execute plans for further improvements across our impactful research, student outcomes and contribution to the global community,” say Professors Peter Høj AC and David Lloyd, co-Vice Chancellors, Adelaide University.
“These results attest that Adelaide University is built on a broad legacy of excellence and will be globally competitive from Day One, demonstrating the value and quality of our work, which will be amplified at scale as we combine our education and research capabilities, along with expansion of our international reach.”
Adelaide University’s ranking reflects the combined synergistic metrics of its foundation institutions along with enhanced visibility and presence on the global stage.
Adelaide University’s bold decadal ambition set out in its Strategic Ambition and Direction 2024-34 is to be recognised in the top 100 universities worldwide on a sustainable basis. With this inaugural ranking, a great start has been secured and further gains are anticipated as the institution continues to deliver on its transformation.
“This ranking is also beneficial as we seek to further attract bright minds from around the world to the State of South Australia and into our leading education and innovation ecosystem,” Profs. Lloyd and Høj say.
Adelaide University will commence its first year of operations as a world top 100 university and member of Australia’s prestigious and research-intensive Group of Eight (Go8), with a bright future ahead.
