TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - In the academic year of 2025-2026, the best universities in Asia stand as a beacon of progress, continuously making remarkable strides across research performance, and overall education accomplishments.
With dynamic nations like Singapore, China and Hong Kong fueling groundbreaking innovations, these prestigious institutions have proven to provide a transformative learning experience, further cementing its reputation on the global stage.
List of the Best Universities in Asia
US News ranks the best universities in Asia based on multiple ratings including their number of academic communities, both in the region and across the world. Here are the top contenders of the list.
1. Tsinghua University, China
Tsinghua University has long been in a close race with NTU for the title of the best university in Asia, earning global recognition for its excellence in engineering and computer science.
Established in 1911, the institution has built a strong reputation as one of the world’s foremost leaders in these disciplines.
Beyond its academic prestige, Tsinghua also fosters a vibrant campus life. With over 110 student clubs spanning science, technology, humanities, and the arts, the university encourages students to broaden their horizons and pursue their passions beyond the classroom.
2. National University of Singapore, Singapore
The National University of Singapore (NUS) is celebrated for its remarkable academic impact, not just in Asia but worldwide. Renowned for its commitment to innovation, NUS offers an extensive range of programs spanning engineering, business, computer science, arts, and even music.
Pushing boundaries further, this prestigious institution takes pride in its multi-disciplinary research approach, collaborating with leading industry partners to drive real-world solutions and global progress.
3. Peking University, China
Founded in 1898, Peking University stands as one of the most historic and prestigious institutions among the top universities in Asia.
Home to over 33,000 students, it is best known for its cutting-edge research centers, including the Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, the State Key Laboratory of Nuclear Physics & Technology, and the State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Materials Chemistry and Applications.
Committed to nurturing practical and global-minded scholars, the university actively promotes international exchange programs, empowering students to broaden their academic and cultural horizons.
4. Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Another strong contender for the best university in Asia, Nanyang Technological University (NTU) charms its best potential, thanks to its forward-thinking approach and tech-driven innovation. Dedicated to combining excellence with sustainability, NTU proudly holds a 100% Green Mark Platinum certification for its eco-friendly campus.
With a community of around 35,000 students across diverse disciplines, the university fosters a dynamic environment where collaboration and fresh perspectives drive the pursuit of new knowledge.
5. Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
With several prestigious institutions making the list, Hong Kong’s unwavering dedication to education shines through. Many of its faculty members have earned world-renowned honors, including the Nobel Prize, the Turing Award, and the Fields Medal.
Supported by the University Grants Committee of Hong Kong, the region continues to nurture exceptional talent and uphold its reputation for academic excellence.
6. University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
The University of Hong Kong (HKU) stands proudly among the institutions for the best university in Asia, embodying the city’s unwavering pursuit of academic excellence.
Earning a perfect 100 in academic reputation, HKU opens doors to promising careers in diverse fields such as engineering, law, technology, and finance.
Beyond its strong academic foundation, the university’s impressive portfolio of over 1,400 granted patents reinforces its status as a global leader in research and innovation.
7. Zhejiang University, China
Driven by several factors including its innovation and entrepreneurship, Zhejiang University is a frequent member on the discussion of best universities in Asia.
Over the course of decades since it was founded in 1897, the esteemed institution has successfully expanded its wings with other 180 institutions worldwide.
8. Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China
Founded in Shanghai, China, in 1896, Shanghai Jiao Tong University (STJU) operates with the mission of nurturing exceptional professionals who will contribute to the nation’s progress.
Outside of the education ranking, this institution is known for its number of campuses across Shanghai, spanning enormous arenas that cover badminton courts, basketball courts, tennis courts, restaurants, canteens, cafes, and bookstores.
9. City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) is included among the best universities in Asia, celebrated for its strong research reputation and forward-thinking vision.
The university’s unwavering commitment to fostering creativity for social, economic, and technological progress reflects its mission to shape the next generation of global leaders.
10. University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), China
First known as an education institution teaching master and doctoral degrees, UCAS only began to accept undergraduate students back in 2014. Even so, it has built a reputation full of color on the global rankings, successfully occupying the 54th place.
In the past, UCAS produced China’s first doctoral graduates in science and engineering, the nation’s first female PhD holder, and the first scholar to earn dual doctoral degrees.
With the 2025-2026 academic year unfolding, the best universities in Asia remain steadfast in their pursuit of knowledge, collaboration, and progress, empowering the next generation of thinkers, innovators, and leaders who will redefine the world.
And, as you embark on a new journey towards exceptional education, ensure to marvel at the beauty of the best airports in Asia, here.
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