Nearly all Canadian universities lost ground in a global ranking of the top post-secondary schools, reflecting growing pressure from better-funded international
The rankings, released Monday by the Center for World University Rankings, show 37 of Canada’s 38 ranked universities fell compared to last year, while one maintained its position.
The University of Toronto remained Canada’s top-ranked institution at No. 23 globally, holding the same position as last year. McGill University slipped one place to No. 28, while the University of British Columbia dropped to No. 49 from No. 48.
The University of Alberta ranked 82nd globally, followed by the University of Montreal at 126th.
According to CWUR’s 2026 ranking, Canada’s top 10 schools also include:
6. Western University, No. 187 globally
7. McMaster University, No. 190
8. University of Calgary, No. 203
9. University of Waterloo, No. 216
10. University of Ottawa, No. 226
The decline of Canadian universities reflects years of inadequate funding, and the devaluation of science and education as public goods,” said Dr. Nadim Mahassen, president of the Center for World University Rankings.
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