Karazin University in International Academic Rankings: January 2026 Highlights

January 2026 became a landmark period for V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University: the results of three authoritative international academic rankings featuring the University were published simultaneously.

In particular, in the QS World University Rankings: Europe 2026, Karazin University ranked 346th among 958 European universities and 29th among universities in Eastern Europe, thus entering the Top 30 in the region. In the Webometrics Global Web Rankings for Universities (January 2026), the University ranked 6th among higher education institutions in Ukraine and 1390th worldwide, reflecting its presence and impact in the global digital space. In addition, Karazin University was represented in five subject areas of the Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2026, covering Business and Economics, Computer Science, Medicine and Health, Social Sciences, and Physical Sciences.

We discussed the significance of these results, the University’s strategy, and the challenges facing modern academic education with Anton Panteleimonov, Vice-Rector for Academic and Pedagogical Affairs.

Mr Panteleimonov, how would you generally assess Karazin University’s results in the international rankings published in January 2026?

The presence of Karazin University in all three of these international rankings is, without exaggeration, an important indicator of the University’s stability and systematic development. It is not only about positions, but about consistent representation in reputable ranking systems that apply different methodologies and evaluation focuses.

For us, these results confirm that the University is developing in a comprehensive manner — from research and teaching quality to international visibility and digital presence. Under conditions of war and limited resources, this is particularly valuable.

QS Europe 2026: 346th in Europe and 29th in Eastern Europe. What do these positions mean for the University?

QS Europe is a ranking with extremely strong competition, as it includes nearly one thousand leading universities across the continent. Being placed in the first half of the list indicates that Karazin University remains competitive at the European level.

The 29th position in Eastern Europe is especially important. It demonstrates that among universities in the region, we maintain strong positions and do not lose our academic and educational potential even under difficult circumstances.

Which QS indicators proved most decisive for Karazin University?

QS evaluates universities based on a range of criteria, including academic reputation, employer reputation, internationalisation, faculty-to-student ratio, and citation impact of research publications. Traditionally, our strengths include academic reputation and reputation among employers.

At the same time, we recognise that certain indicators require additional attention, particularly international mobility and the recruitment of international students. These are areas we are actively working on, despite external constraints.

Webometrics: 6th in Ukraine and 1390th globally. How important is digital presence for a university today?

In today’s world, a university without a strong digital presence simply does not exist on the global map. Webometrics evaluates not website design, but the depth and quality of content, openness of research materials, citation impact, and accessibility.

For Karazin University, this ranking is an important tool for demonstrating our scientific activity, open educational resources, and communication with international audiences. Sixth place in Ukraine is the result of systematic work by many departments.

Karazin University was included in five Times Higher Education subject rankings. How significant is this achievement?

THE subject rankings represent an extremely complex and detailed evaluation system. They are based on 18 indicators grouped into five key areas and take into account the specific characteristics of each academic discipline.

Participation in five subject rankings simultaneously indicates that the University demonstrates balanced development across multiple research and educational fields, rather than relying on isolated “growth points.”

Are there fields you consider strategically prioritised among these areas?

Certainly, Computer Science, Physical Sciences, and Medicine are strategically important given global trends and societal needs. These fields are where research is most closely connected with innovation and industry.

At the same time, we do not underestimate the importance of Social Sciences and Economics. A modern university must not only generate technological solutions but also respond to complex social challenges.

How difficult is it to maintain international positions during wartime?

It is extremely challenging. War affects mobility, funding, and the psychological wellbeing of faculty and students. However, it has also demonstrated the resilience of the university community.

We have learned to work under crisis conditions, maintain academic standards, and preserve international partnerships even when physical presence is limited.

Do rankings influence the University’s attractiveness to prospective students?

Yes, especially for those focused on international opportunities. Rankings serve as a kind of quality mark, confirming that the University’s degree is recognised worldwide.

For international students, rankings are often one of the key decision-making criteria, and we are well aware of this.

Which development priorities do you consider key for the coming years?

First and foremost, strengthening the research component, expanding English-taught programmes, and developing digital infrastructure, as well as better integration of education with real economic needs.

We also see significant potential in interdisciplinary projects and cooperation with business and the civil society sector.