Every student dreams of studying in the top universities in the world, but gets confused about what to choose. Choosing the best university is as important as choosing which subject to pick. So to all those students who are asking about which is the best university in the world, here is a list with all the necessary details.
List of Top 10 Best Universities in the World
1 Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA
MIT is globally recognized for programs in engineering, computer science, and economics. The institution places emphasis on hands-on learning and innovation.
- Admission Process: Applicants have to submit the MIT application, featuring standardized test scores, essays, and recommendations. The process remains highly competitive.
- Average Study Cost(Approx.): The median annual amount paid by undergraduates receiving MIT Scholarships stood at $10,268 for the 2024–2025 academic year.
- Scholarships: MIT commits to fulfilling 100% of demonstrated financial need for international students. Popular scholarships is MIT Scholarship (funded through endowments and alumni gifts)
- Enrollment: Approximately 11,500 students
2 Imperial College London
Imperial College of London is recognized for science, engineering, medicine, and business streams. This university focuses on encouraging students for research and innovate.
- Admission Process: International students have to apply through UCAS. Along with that, you must submit academic transcripts, LOR (letters of recommendation).
- Average Study Cost (Approx.): The approximate cost is around £35,000 to £45,000, which include tuition and living expenses.
- Scholarships: You will get several merit-based and need-based scholarships such as the President’s Undergraduate Scholarship, Imperial College PhD Scholarship, and Global Study Awards for international students.
- Enrollment: Approximately 22,000
3 Stanford University, USA
Stanford University is considered best for those who prefer technology, engineering, and business education. These niches foster innovation and teach students more deeply about the respective fields.
- Admission Process: To apply, you need to give 90$ fee that includes the Common Application and Stanford Questions. Applicants undergo evaluation based on academic performance, essays, and recommendations.
- Average Study Cost(Approx.): International students encounter an estimated total attendance cost of roughly $74,310 per year, encompassing tuition, fees, housing, and dining.
- Scholarships: Stanford extends need-based financial support to international students. Most popular scholarship are Stanford Need-Based Aid, Knight-Hennessy Scholars (for graduate students).
- Enrollment: Approximately 15,000 students
4 University of Oxford, UK
Oxford stands out for offering a wide range of program that includes humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Their education system offers close interactions between students and tutors.
- Admission Process: Applicants submit applications via UCAS, featuring a personal statement and references. Certain courses necessitate additional assessments or interviews.
- Average Study Cost(Approx.): Course fees for international students fluctuate across programs. For detailed course fee information, applicants should reference the relevant course page on the official website.
- Scholarships: Oxford extends several scholarships for international students, featuring Oxford Graduate Scholarships, which include course fees and provide annual grants for living costs. Some of those scholarships are Rhodes Scholarship, Reach Oxford Scholarship etc.
- Enrollment: Around 24,000 students
5 Harvard University, USA
Harvard University offers programs for various disciplines, which include science, engineering, humanities and business.
- Admission Process: Applicants can submit an application via CA(Coalition Application). The evaluation process examines academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, essays, and recommendations.
- Average Study Cost(Approx.): If you are international student then the cost will be around $101,974 per year, which includes tuition, fees, living expenses, and books.
- Scholarships: Harvard delivers generous need-based financial support for all students, irrespective of nationality or citizenship. Some of those popular programs are Harvard College Financial Aid, Harvard International Office Fellowships.
- Enrollment: Approx 23,000 students
6 University of Cambridge, UK
Cambridge delivers extensive programs, featuring particular strengths in mathematics, natural sciences, and engineering. The supervision system facilitates personalized learning.
- Admission Process: Applicants submit via UCAS and may require submission of additional written work or attendance at interviews, contingent on their course.
- Average Study Cost(Approx.): Cost of study is around £1,305, summing roughly £15,660 for 12 months which includes tuition fees, college fees, and living expenses.
- Scholarships: Cambridge offers various scholarships and some of those are Cambridge International Scholarships, Gates Cambridge Scholarship, Cambridge Commonwealth, European and International Trust Awards, etc.
- Enrollment: Around 20,000 students
7 ETH Zurich
ETH is one of the leading universities in Europe, known for its major focus on science, engineering, Mathematics (STEM), and technology. The university focuses on a research-driven learning environment.
- Admission Process: Students applying to this university can apply through ETH Zurich official portal. Along with that, you have to submit proof of German or English proficiency, academic transcript, etc.
- Average Study Cost (Approx.): The total annual cost is around CHF 25,000 to CHF 30,000, covering tuition fees and living expenses, which are comparatively lower than most top universities.
- Scholarships: ETH Zurich offers several funding opportunities such as the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) and ETH-D Scholarship for outstanding international students.
- Enrollment: Approximately 24,000 students
8 National University of Singapore
The National University of Singapore is Asia’s top-ranked institution, offering globally recognized programs in engineering, business, computing, and social sciences.
- Admission Process: Students can directly apply through NUS online application system. With the application, you also have to submit academic records, standardized test scores, and English language proficiency exam scores.
- Average Study Cost(Approx.): The annual cost will be around SGD 45,000, which will include tuition and living expenses. Prices may also change depending on the courses you are opting for.
- Scholarships: NSU provides numerous scholarships, like NUS Global Merit Scholarship, ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship, and the Research Scholarships.
- Enrollment: Approximately 40,000 students.
9 University College London (UCL)
UCL is known for its academic excellence across all the programs and courses offered. This university encourages a global learning environment and a diverse student community.
- Admission Process: Applicants can apply to UCAS online official website and have to provide academic transcripts, a personal statement, reference letters, and proof of English proficiency.
- Average Study Cost (Approx.): The total cost will be approximately £47,000. The price may vary depending on the course you are choosing.
- Scholarships: UCL offers a variety of scholarships such as the UCL Global Undergraduate Scholarship, Denys Holland Scholarship, and UCL Graduate Research Scholarship for international students.
- Enrollment: Approximately 50,000 staff
10 California Institute of Technology (Caltech), USA
The California Institute of Technology mainly focuses on science and engineering. The programs involve research and innovation.
- Admission Process: Applicants have to submit the Common Application or QuestBridge Application, along with standardized test scores, essays, and recommendations.
- Average Study Cost(Approx.): Around $73,000 per year is the total cost which includes tuition, fees, housing, and dining.
- Scholarships: Caltech fulfills 100% of demonstrated financial need via grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans. Most popular scholarships are Caltech Grants, International Student Aid Program etc.
- Enrollment: Approximately 2,200 students
Know more about top ranked universities in the world from here.
How to Apply to Top Global Universities: Requirements and Tips
Academic Records
Most top universities require a strong academic background. International applicants must submit:
- Official transcripts from high school or previous colleges
- Certificates or diplomas
- Standardized test scores, if applicable (e.g., SAT, ACT for U.S. universities)
English Language Proficiency
For non-native English speakers, universities require proof of English proficiency through exams like:
- PTE Academic
- IELTS Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- Duolingo
Each university sets its own minimum score requirements.
Application Form
Applicants typically use one of the following:
- Common Application (for most U.S. universities)
- Coalition Application (for select U.S. universities)
- UCAS (for universities in the U.K.)
The application includes personal information, academic history, and choice of programs.
Personal Statement / Essays
Universities place strong emphasis on personal statements and essays. These help showcase:
- Motivation for applying
- Academic interests
- Extracurricular achievements
- Leadership skills and personal values
Letters of Recommendation
- Most top universities require 2–3 letters from teachers or mentors who can attest to the applicant’s academic abilities and character.
Interviews and Additional Assessments
Some universities, especially Oxford, Cambridge, and selective U.S. programs, may require:
- Interviews (in-person or online)
- Written assessments or portfolio submissions, depending on the program
Financial Documentation
- International applicants may need to provide proof of financial resources to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs, unless applying for need-based scholarships.
For securing admission in the top universities in the world, meeting their specific eligibility requirements is essential. Additionally, achieving a strong score in English proficiency tests like PTE, IELTS, CELPIP, or Duolingo can significantly boost your chances. You can begin your preparation on Gurully, an online mock test platform that offers full-length practice tests with AI-powered scoring, helping you assess and improve your performance effectively.
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