We’ve been named in the top 50 of the world’s most international universities, by a newly published league table.
The Times Higher Education (THE) ranks Durham as joint 33rd – up five places from last year – in its list of the most international universities in the world 2026.
Our position reflects the proportion of international students and staff within our thriving University community.
Over 120 countries are represented at Durham and 40% of our staff are of non-UK origin.
The ranking also recognises the global collaboration of our research work and our strong reputation among fellow academics around the world.
The data is drawn from the THE World University Rankings 2026.
Alongside this ranking, we’re also a World Top 100 University according to the QS World University Rankings 2026.
Durham has a strong international reputation, forging partnerships and conducting innovative and impactful research across the world.
We work with global universities and organisations on pioneering work that transforms lives and has meaningful impact.
We have observer status at the UN’s annual Conference of Parties (COP) where our interdisciplinary research is helping countries to address scientific, legal and social issues relating to climate change, sustainability and biodiversity.
We have launched an international research centre dedicated to exploring how artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are transforming society.
And we have a long-running partnership with China’s Palace Museum which saw us become the only venue outside of China to host an exhibition marking the museum’s 100th anniversary.
We have a long history of welcoming students from countries across the globe.
Our Colleges are also thriving international communities where people of different nationalities and backgrounds live, socialise and study together.
We believe that all students should be able to gain international experience, so we offer a range of opportunities to study, work and volunteer abroad as we prepare them to be global citizens.
Durham is a truly international university, educating people from across the world and making a difference through our transformative global research. The work we do has a positive impact not just on the lives of those in our University community, but also on the lives of people worldwide and on the planet itself, as recognised by our World Top 50 status in this ranking.
Discover more about the THE’s most international universities in the world 2026.
See more about Global Durham including our work with international partners and networks, and opportunities for students.
Find out how you can study with us, including opportunities for international students.
Read our latest Global Research Newsletter.
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