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17 Sept 2025

University of Exeter climbs to 17th in Guardian University Guide 2026, securing top 20 ranking across UK

Exeter celebrates top 20 place in Guardian rankings, excelling in engineering and sciences

University of Exeter climbs to 17th in Guardian University Guide 2026, securing top 20 ranking across UK

The University of Exeter Streatham Campus, credit: Caitlin Taylor

The University of Exeter has strengthened its reputation as one of the UK's leading higher education institutions, climbing one place to 17th in the Guardian University Guide 2026, published on Saturday 13 September. 

The move means Exeter now holds a top 20 position in all three of the UK's major university league tables, reflecting consistent recognition for its teaching, student satisfaction and career outcomes. 

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Professor Lisa Roberts, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Exeter, welcomed the news by saying: "We're delighted with this outstanding result, which sees us move up a place to number 17. We are comfortably in the UK top 20 in all three major UK league tables. 

"This recognises the dedication of our entire community in delivering a high-quality educational experience, and our unwavering commitment to addressing the challenges of creating a greener, fairer, healthier society. 

"I'd like to extend huge thanks and congratulations to all our staff, students and supporters for the part they play in our ongoing success." 

The subject tables highlighted particular strengths for Exeter. Electrical and Electronic Engineering achieved the university’s highest subject ranking at 2nd place, while Zoology (5th), Psychology (6th), Earth and Marine Sciences (8th), and Health Professions (8th) also secured top 10 positions.

In total, 24 subjects were ranked in the UK’s top 20, including Theology and Religious Studies, Anthropology and Archaeology (both 11th), Medicine (12th), Business and Finance (13th), Sociology and Social Policy (14th), Philosophy (15th), Civil Engineering (18th), Politics (19th), and Sports Science (20th). 

The achievement comes at a time when Exeter continues to grow its international profile, drawing students to its campuses in Devon and Cornwall while playing a role in regional innovation, research, and skills development.

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