HKUST Rises to 6th in Asia and 2nd in Hong Kong in QS Asia University Rankings 2026
Ranking success boosts the "Study in Hong Kong" brand
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) ranked sixth in the QS Asia University Rankings 2026, ranking 2nd in Hong Kong. HKUST's progress closely aligns with the vision outlined in the recent Policy Address to strengthen Hong Kong's position as an international hub for higher education.
This international acclaim underscores the University's excellence in driving innovative interdisciplinary education, fostering a global outlook, and creating a dynamic platform for groundbreaking research and transformative education.
HKUST performed exceptionally across multiple key indicators in internationalization and reputation, fully demonstrating the University's commitment to building a diverse, inclusive, and globally connected academic community, as well as the role it plays in supporting Hong Kong's development as a leading international education hub.
In a significant recognition of research excellence, HKUST received the prestigious "Research and Discovery Champions" award at the QS Higher Ed Summit: Asia Pacific 2025 in Seoul. This honor acknowledges institutions that demonstrate outstanding performance in research quality and academic impact, with particular strength in Research Outputs published in the most prestigious journals in their respective fields, and Research Outputs cited by patents - reflecting the direct application of academic research in technological innovation and commercial development.
Commenting on this achievement, HKUST President Prof. Nancy IP stated, "As we approach HKUST's 35th anniversary, this recognition serves as both an affirmation and an inspiration. It stands as a testament to the collective dedication of our faculty, students, and staff, and significantly supports the HKSAR Government's vision to promote 'Study in Hong Kong.' The 'Research and Discovery Champions' award particularly acknowledges our commitment to research excellence and innovation, demonstrated through our strong publication records in top-tier journals and the practical impact of our research as evidenced by patent citations.”
“At HKUST, we are guided by a mission to create meaningful change in the world. We foster talent with a global vision, enable research that improves lives, and instill in our students the courage to engage with the world's most pressing challenges. Our 'Can-Do Spirit' embodies our commitment to contribute, create, and lead with humility and heart," added President Prof. Ip.
HKUST consistently regards rankings as reference indicators to assess its own performance. The University will remain steadfast in its pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, and knowledge transfer, and is committed to making substantive contributions to Hong Kong, the nation, and the world.
About The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) (https://hkust.edu.hk/) is a world-class university that excels in driving innovative education, research excellence, and impactful knowledge transfer. With a holistic and interdisciplinary pedagogy approach, HKUST was ranked 3rd in the Times Higher Education’s Young University Rankings 2024, 19th Worldwide and No.1 in Hong Kong in Times Higher Education’s Impact Rankings 2025. Thirteen HKUST subjects were ranked among the world’s top 50 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, with “Data Science and Artificial Intelligence” holding the 17th place, maintaining its position as first in Hong Kong. Our graduates are highly competitive, consistently ranking among the world’s top 30 most sought-after employees. In terms of research and entrepreneurship, over 80% of our work was rated “Internationally excellent” or “world leading” in the latest Research Assessment Exercise 2020 of Hong Kong’s University Grants Committee. As of July 2025, HKUST members have founded over 1,900 active start-ups, including 10 Unicorns and 17 exits (IPO or M&A).
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