How are NUS and NTU ranked in QS World University Rankings 2026 for a PhD in Singapore?
In the QS World University Rankings 2026, the National University of Singapore ranks 8th globally and Nanyang Technological University ranks 12th. NUS is strong across STEM, medicine and humanities, while NTU is known for engineering, AI and sustainability research. Choose by research area and funding, not rank alone.
In the QS World University Rankings 2026, NUS ranks 8th globally and NTU ranks 12th. Both are top choices for a PhD in Singapore, and the better fit depends on your field.
Ranking and strengths
| University | QS World University Rankings 2026 | Known for |
|---|---|---|
| NUS | 8th | STEM, medicine and humanities; runs its own research scholarship with tuition plus a monthly stipend |
| NTU | 12th | Engineering, AI and sustainability; offers the Nanyang President's Graduate Scholarship across disciplines |
Other Singapore options
- SMU focuses on business, law and social sciences and runs its own PhD scholarship.
- SUTD focuses on architecture, design and applied technology, with its President's Graduate Fellowship.
My Advice
Do not choose on rank alone. Look at the supervisors in your exact research area and the funding each university offers, since fit and funding shape your PhD more than a few places in a table.
Looking for a specific course in Singapore?
We will find the universities that offer it, and whether you will get in.
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