Iraqi universities have made significant progress in global academic reputation and sustainability-related rankings (SDGs).
Ten Iraqi universities secured notable positions in the QS World University Rankings 2026, which evaluated over 1,500 universities worldwide. The University of Baghdad ranked 741–750, Al-Nahrain University 951–1000, and both Al-Mustansiriya and Anbar Universities ranked 1001–1200. Meanwhile, Tishk, Babylon, Basrah, Karbala, Kufa, and Mosul Universities were placed in the 1201–1400 range.
This ranking is based on a methodology that evaluates:
- Academic reputation (30%)
- Employer reputation (15%)
- Faculty-to-student ratio (10%)
- Research citations per faculty (20%)
- International faculty ratio (5%)
- International student ratio (5%)
- International research network (5%)
- Employment outcomes (5%)
- Sustainability performance (5%)
In parallel, Iraq demonstrated a strong presence in the Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings 2025, with 88 Iraqi universities participating. This ranking assesses the contribution and impact of higher education institutions in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through indicators covering research, institutional governance, community engagement, and education.
Notably, Al-Mustaqbal University ranked 1st globally in SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, placing it among the top universities worldwide aligned with the SDGs.
