Science
Jun 17, 20262
71%
Hong Kong Universities HKU and CUHK Enter Global Top 20 for First Time
The University of Hong Kong (HKU) and the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) have both ranked in the global top 20 for the first time in the QS World University Rankings 2027, with HKU at 11th and CUHK surging to 18th place. Hong Kong has been recognized as Asia's most improved higher education system for the second consecutive year, with five institutions now ranking among the global top 100.
Quick Facts
Who
University of Hong Kong (HKU)
What
HKU and CUHK entered global top 20 simultaneously for first time
When
June 17-18, 2026
Where
Hong Kong
- HKU and CUHK entered global top 20 simultaneously for first time
- CUHK rose 14 places from 32nd to 18th
- HKU retained 11th position
- Hong Kong designated Asia's most improved higher education system for second consecutive year
- Seven Hong Kong universities improved rankings
The University of Hong Kong (HKU) and the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) have simultaneously entered the global top 20 in the QS World University Rankings 2027, marking a historic milestone for the city. HKU maintained its 11th-place position, while CUHK achieved a significant jump from 32nd to 18th, making the greatest advancement among all institutions in the top 20 and top 50. This dual achievement reflects substantial improvements in both research performance and reputation among employers across Hong Kong's higher education sector.
The accomplishment comes as part of a broader recognition of Hong Kong's academic strength. According to Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), the UK-based education analysis firm that conducted the rankings, Hong Kong has been designated Asia's most improved higher education system for the second consecutive year. Seven of the city's previously ranked universities improved their standings, while two maintained their positions and none declined, underscoring systemic progress across institutions.
Beyond the top two performers, other Hong Kong universities also achieved notable gains. The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology rose 11 places to rank 33rd globally, while the Hong Kong Polytechnic University entered the world's top 50 for the first time at 50th place. City University of Hong Kong ranked 52nd. Five Hong Kong institutions in total now feature among the global top 100, demonstrating the city's growing academic competitiveness on the world stage.
University leaders highlighted the significance of the rankings. HKU's president, Xiang Zhang, emphasized that artificial intelligence is redefining the world and expressed the institution's commitment to advancing scientific inquiry alongside humanistic values. CUHK's Vice-Chancellor and President, Dennis Lo Yuk-ming, stated that the university's entry into the global top 20 reflected steady progress and signaled commitment to advancing impactful research and knowledge transfer.
Hong Kong's government also acknowledged the achievement. A spokesperson for the Education Bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region stated that the significant year-on-year improvements validate the city's appeal as a premier hub for international high-end talent. The government pledged to continue supporting institutions in building world-class universities and disciplines, leveraging Hong Kong's internationalized and diversified post-secondary education system to deepen its role as a global education hub.
Why This Matters
This milestone demonstrates Hong Kong's strengthening position as a global education hub and validates the city's strategy to attract international talent and investment in higher education. For students, researchers, and employers, these rankings signal improved academic quality and research impact, directly affecting employment prospects, research collaboration opportunities, and institutional funding. For policy makers and investors, it underscores Hong Kong's competitive advantage in Asia's knowledge economy and justifies continued support for world-class universities.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 17, 2026
WireQS World University Rankings 2027 announced; HKU retains 11th position, CUHK rises to 18th
Jun 18, 2026
WireFull rankings details released; Hong Kong Education Bureau confirms Asia's most improved higher education system status