Every university in Wales has been ranked in a new league table released by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025. Cardiff University maintains its position as the highest-ranking university in Wales, although it slipped seven places to 32nd overall in the UK rankings. None of the universities in Wales made it to the top 30 in the UK rankings this year. Aberystwyth and Bangor universities also dropped in the league table.
Swansea University, ranked as the second-best in Wales, was named Welsh University of the Year 2025 for its consistent focus on career-building, student experience, and a significant rise in ranking. The university also saw an improvement in the QS World University Rankings, climbing 118 places.
Meanwhile, Cardiff Metropolitan University experienced a notable rise in rankings due to its initiatives in low-carbon futures and environmental sustainability, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2030. The full list of university rankings across Wales and the UK were provided, with Cardiff University leading the Welsh institutions.
The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025 features various award categories, including University of the Year, Modern University of the Year, and Specialist University of the Year, highlighting different areas of excellence in the higher education sector. The guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of higher education in the UK, incorporating information on university applications, research reputation, facilities, and more.
Editor Helen Davies emphasised the guide’s role in aiding students in choosing the right university, especially amidst challenges in the higher education sector. Changes in methodology, such as incorporating sustainability metrics and enhancing graduate prospects, reflect the evolving landscape of higher education.
The guide also offers a fully searchable website with subject tables and additional features. A 96-page supplement will be released with The Sunday Times on September 22. The ranking system provides a detailed analysis of universities across the UK, assisting students in making informed decisions about their educational journey.