The University of Alberta's global footprint has landed it at 46th in the world according to the latest Times Higher Education ranking of the "most international" academic institutions. It was also named fourth in Canada, one of only four Canadian universities on the list.
"Solving the world's greatest challenges cannot be achieved by any university alone; it requires global collaboration and international partnerships," says U of A president and vice-chancellor Bill Flanagan. "Our performance in this ranking reflects our commitment to shaping the future through education, shaping ideas and innovation through research, and shaping trust through engagement with communities worldwide. This is how we will have a truly transformational impact."
The U of A's international focus is exemplified by its commitment to making progress on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It was ranked first in North America and sixth in the world in the 2024 THE Impact rankings, which evaluate the progress academic institutions are making toward achieving the 17 UN goals. Additionally, the U of A has demonstrated global research excellence in key areas, including energy and the environment, artificial intelligence, and health and well-being, making strides towards solving the world's most complex issues.
In addition to providing a high-quality education, the U of A prepares students to become global citizens. University of Alberta International runs an international visiting student program, robust study abroad opportunities that include over 250 program offerings in more than 50 countries, as well as international internships and the chance to conduct research across the globe. More than half of the international students who study at the U of A remain in Alberta after graduating, bringing a global perspective and helping to grow the province's economy.
Faculty members engage with collaborators from around the globe as they conduct research that pushes society forward, leading projects such as developing a gene therapy to treat a rare muscle disease, supporting indigenous communities and environmental health worldwide, and tackling critical global challenges of water supply and safety.
"This is a terrific recognition of the amazing students and faculty who come from around the world to the University of Alberta, creating an international university known for making positive change locally and globally," says Doug Weir, acting vice-provost and associate vice-president (international).
University of Alberta International has also created the Global Education Program to provide a way for students, faculty, staff and community members to grow their understanding of global citizenship and critical global issues through events like International Week and offerings like the Certificate in International Learning.
The university's alumni network has likewise made a far-reaching impact, with graduates founding over 75,000 companies around the world and contributing $250 billion to the global economy every year. Additionally, the partnerships the university has formed with organizations around the world play a key role in advancing our international reputation.
The "most international" ranking is based on four metrics from the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, all weighted equally: international student score, international staff score, international co-authorship score and international reputation. According to THE, "the ability of a university to attract undergraduates, postgraduates and faculty from all over the planet is key to its success on the world stage."
