The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) consistently ranks among the top universities globally and holds a prominent position as one of Australia’s best. In the 2025 QS World University Rankings, UNSW proudly sits at 19th worldwide, making it one of the elite institutions on the planet. But what factors contribute to this impressive standing? Let’s explore the key reasons behind UNSW’s high ranking and international reputation.
1. Outstanding Graduate Employability
UNSW is renowned for producing some of the most employable graduates in the world. It ranks 1st in Australia and 29th globally for employment outcomes, reflecting the university’s strong focus on preparing students for the workforce. According to the Australian Financial Review’s Top100 Future Leaders Awards, UNSW has been named the most employable university in Australia for multiple consecutive years, with more students featured in the top 100 future leaders list than any other Australian university.
This success stems from UNSW’s close partnerships with industry leaders and its emphasis on practical, job-ready skills. Students benefit from work-integrated learning, internships, and real-world projects that give them a competitive edge in the job market.
2. Research Excellence and Impact
UNSW’s research output is world-class, with a strong reputation for quality and influence. The university boasts more than 100 research centres and seven faculties leading pioneering work in fields such as renewable energy, quantum computing, climate change, and health sciences. Its research citations per faculty are more than four times the global median, showcasing the significant impact of its scholarly work.
The university’s commitment to addressing global challenges through interdisciplinary research enhances its academic reputation and contributes to its high ranking.
3. Academic and Employer Reputation
Rankings like QS place considerable weight on academic and employer reputation, and UNSW excels in both. It ranks 32nd globally in employer reputation and 41st in academic reputation, based on surveys of over 200,000 academics and employers worldwide. This reflects the university’s standing as a trusted institution for quality education and highly skilled graduates.
4. Internationalisation and Diversity
UNSW attracts a diverse community of students and staff from around the world. It ranks highly for the proportion of international students (30th globally) and international faculty members (44th globally). This global outlook enriches the learning environment, fosters cross-cultural exchange, and strengthens UNSW’s international networks.
5. Strong Performance Across Disciplines
UNSW is a leader in multiple academic fields. It ranks within the top 25 globally for Engineering & Technology (#25), Civil and Structural Engineering (#24), and Computer Science. It also shines in Business and Management Studies, Medicine, and Environmental Sciences. This broad academic excellence across disciplines contributes to its overall university ranking.
6. Commitment to Sustainability and Social Impact
In addition to academic metrics, UNSW is recognised for its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. It ranks 2nd globally for climate action and 7th overall in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings. This focus on creating positive societal impact aligns with contemporary values and enhances the university’s global reputation.
UNSW’s high ranking is the result of a powerful combination of factors: exceptional graduate employability, impactful research, strong academic and employer reputation, international diversity, and leadership across key disciplines. Its dedication to innovation, sustainability, and real-world outcomes ensures that UNSW remains at the forefront of global higher education, making it a top choice for students worldwide seeking quality and opportunity.