The University of St Andrews has achieved the top spot in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide, surpassing Oxford and Cambridge for the first time in the guide's 30-year history. The Scottish institution has long been known for high student satisfaction rates, and despite a slight decline during the pandemic, it remains four percentage points ahead of any other university in that category.
St Andrews also performed strongly in the Research Excellence Framework, particularly in collaboration with the University of Edinburgh on chemistry and physics. It is renowned for marine research, pioneering medical work, and the Handa Centre for the Study of Terrorism and Political Violence.
Alastair McCall, editor of the guide, said: 'St Andrews' achievement in topping our institutional table should not be underestimated. Never before has any university other than Cambridge and Oxford finished top of our - or any other - domestic ranking of universities.' He added that the lead St Andrews now holds is 'remarkable' and marks its arrival as a serious challenger to Oxbridge.
Principal and vice-chancellor Professor Sally Mapstone said: 'I am thrilled for our students, staff and alumni. They are the people who made this happen.' She expressed hope that the success of a small Scottish institution would inspire others to challenge the status quo.
The University of Glasgow was named Scottish University of the Year and placed 12th overall, its highest ever ranking. Principal Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli attributed this to strong student experience scores and a £1 billion campus investment plan.
