USM leaps 149 places to lead Malaysia in global university ranking
GEORGE TOWN: Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has emerged as Malaysia’s top university in the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) 2026.
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has risen to the top spot in Malaysia's university rankings according to the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) 2026. The institution climbed 149 places globally, moving from No 730 in 2025 to No 581, while also securing the first position nationally. The ARWU, also known as the Shanghai Ranking, assesses universities based on academic and research performance rather than reputation.
Factors considered include the achievements of alumni and staff, such as Nobel Prize and Fields Medal winners, Highly Cited Researchers, and publications in prestigious journals like Nature and Science. Nobel Prize and Fields Medal laureates contribute 30% to the assessment, while Highly Cited Researchers account for 20%. As an APEX University, USM is committed to enhancing research excellence and generating global impact.
The university now ranks No 424 globally for its publication output, highlighting its strength in producing internationally recognized research. Its performance in the Highly Cited Researchers indicator improved to No 503 globally. This climb from No 730 to No 581 globally, coupled with the move from third to first place nationally, demonstrates USM's continued strengthening of its research ecosystem, characterized by high-quality publications, impactful research, developing world-class researchers, and increased academic productivity.
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