University of Jena improves in international university rankings

Friedrich Schiller University Jena ranks among the top 11 per cent of universities worldwide. In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026 (THE Rankings) published today, the University confirms its position in the 201–250 ranking group among a total of 2,191 institutions of higher education evaluated worldwide—and at the same time improves its position within Germany by two places to 19th out of 55 listed institutions of higher education.

This year, the improvement in the category »Industry« (patents and third-party funding from industry) is particularly significant: Here, the University has climbed more than 120 places in the global ranking, from 341st to 217th, and achieved a new high score of 88.7 out of 100 points (previous year: 78 points). This development underscores the University’s growing importance as a driving force for innovation, transfer and application-oriented research—for example, through initiatives such as the new transfer centre JENAiNNOVATION or the close exchange between the University and the university hospital with companies and start-ups in the region.

The University of Jena also maintains its strong performance in the key areas of research and teaching, and even shows slight improvements in individual indicators. The University performs well in the category »International Outlook«—which includes international cooperation, mobility and the proportion of foreign students and employees. At the same time, the ranking shows potential for further development: with 13.9 per cent international students and 7.5 per cent international employees, the University aims to further expand its international visibility in a targeted manner.

Consistent excellence in a challenging environment

»In light of the predominantly stagnant or declining developments in the THE ranking across Germany, we are delighted with this stable and, in some cases, significantly improved result«, says University President Prof. Dr Andreas Marx. »It confirms that our investments in education, research and innovation are having an impact. At the same time, it motivates us to further expand our international visibility.«

In a global comparison, the Anglo-American region once again dominates this year: the top 10 consists of seven US and three British universities. Among German institutions of higher education, only 18 made it into the top 200—the lowest number since 2015. »This environment in particular shows that a university like ours, with strong regional roots and growing international relevance, can achieve a great deal through consistent profile building and science communication«, Marx continues.

Background

The THE World University RankingsExternal link are among the most prestigious international university rankings. They are based on 18 indicators in five areas: teaching, research environment, research quality, international outlook and industry. For the 2026 edition, 2,191 institutions of higher education worldwide were analysed.