Attending college or university offers more than just career preparation, though selecting the right school and program can significantly enhance your job prospects after graduation.

A global employability ranking, published exclusively by Times Higher Education, highlights the universities that top employers believe best equip students for the workforce. The list features 250 institutions across 42 nations, including the United States and Japan. Employers cast votes for universities both domestically and internationally, especially if they hire globally.

In certain regions, securing a graduate job can be challenging. However, countries like France, Switzerland, and Germany integrate practical experience directly into their academic programs. France, Germany, China, the UK, and the US are among the most prominently featured in the ranking. Notably, Singapore, Japan, and the UK each have a university in the top 10, with institutions from China and Switzerland also ranking highly.

Top universities for graduate employability 2026

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Alongside its globally renowned academic programs, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) provides a range of career-focused initiatives tailored for undergraduates, professionals, and the wider community.

Corporate partnerships play a major role in MIT’s educational and research landscape, often involving interdisciplinary collaboration over extended periods.

Students, faculty, and alumni from MIT are instrumental in driving entrepreneurial breakthroughs, from pioneering sophisticated computer networks to facilitating venture capital deals and pushing the boundaries of biotechnology.

2. Stanford University

Stanford University, situated in Pasadena, California, lies adjacent to the globally recognized tech hub of Silicon Valley.

Businesses established by Stanford graduates and affiliates collectively produce over $2.7 trillion in yearly revenue, an amount that would rank as the world’s tenth-largest economy. Among these companies are industry giants like Google, Nike, Netflix, Hewlett-Packard, Sun Microsystems, Instagram, and Charles Schwab.

In addition to commercial ventures, Stanford alumni have launched impactful non-profit organizations such as Kiva and SIRUM.

3. California Institute of Technology

California Institute of Technology, widely recognized as one of the top universities globally, is highly regarded by international employers. Admission is based on a strong aptitude and passion for mathematics, science, and engineering.

Caltech students not only gain a solid foundation in various scientific and engineering disciplines, but also engage with cutting-edge technologies to tackle major societal issues.

With a student body of just over 1,000 undergraduates and 1,200 postgraduates, Caltech ranks among the smallest universities worldwide. This intimate academic environment fosters strong connections between students and faculty.

4. University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge ranks among the top institutions worldwide.

Established in the 13th century by scholars who left Oxford following disputes with local residents, Cambridge has a rich and storied past.

Today, its graduates are highly regarded across the globe, especially for their deep expertise, nurtured through the distinctive one-on-one teaching approach shared by both Oxford and Cambridge.

5. University of Oxford

The University of Oxford has rejoined the top five in the global employability ranking, making it the second UK institution to achieve this distinction and marking its first return to the top tier since 2020.

Oxford offers a comprehensive careers service that supports both current students and alumni, providing guidance on CVs and cover letters, access to internships, and a variety of skills development workshops.

Data from the university’s website shows that six months after graduation, most Oxford alumni were either employed or pursuing further education. Meanwhile, 8% were engaged in other activities such as travel, and just 4% were actively seeking employment.

You can visit Global University Employability Ranking 2026 to view each institution’s full World University Rankings 2026 profile.