We’re halfway through 2026, and at EDUopinions, this means we’re starting to think about the January 2027 edition of the Student Reviews Guide. Which universities will appear on our rankings? Will there be some surprises?
To find out which universities are on their way to appearing on our annual Best-Rated Universities of 2026 list, we’ve put together this preliminary ranking. The universities on this top ten have received high scores from their student reviewers this year – but will they appear on the final yearly ranking? It’s too early to say for sure – but they’re certainly ones to watch.
Best-Rated Universities in Europe 2026 So Far
Summary and Methodology
To compile this ranking, we analysed ratings from student reviews for European institutions posted between 1st January 2026 and 21st July 2026. We only considered universities with at least 10 reviews posted during this period. (Editor’s Note: This is a lower threshold than in previous years, as the overall total student reviews is lower for this period.)
Our final ranking of the best-rated universities in Europe in 2026 includes institutions from across Europe, including Eastern Europe and Southern Europe. While some countries have multiple universities in the ranking, no one country dominates. All the universities in this top 10 received an average overall rating of more than 4.5 out of 5, meaning students are very happy with their experiences. In fact, the average ratings given by student reviewers are higher in the first half of 2026 than in 2025 overall.
Read on to find out which university takes the top spot!
10. C3S Business School in Barcelona – C3S (4.61 Rating)

Located in central Barcelona, C3S Business School offers Diploma, Bachelor’s, Master’s, MBA and PhD-by-portfolio programmes in business, all taught in English and UK-accredited through Ofqual-regulated bodies like OTHM and Qualifi. As a result, students can get UK-recognised qualifications at roughly a third of the cost of studying in Britain.
Students come from more than 40 nationalities, and classes run just three days a week, leaving room for internships alongside study. Additionally, small class sizes keep the learning experience personal and closely supported. It makes sense, then, that reviewers give C3S high scores for internationality and professors.
Student Review – Logistics and Supply Chain
I had a positive experience at C3S Business School in Barcelona. The lecturers were knowledgeable, approachable, and supportive throughout my studies. The courses were practical and well-structured, helping me develop both academic knowledge and professional skills. The learning environment was welcoming, and the staff were helpful whenever I needed assistance. I also appreciated the opportunity to study in an international environment and meet students from different backgrounds. Overall, I would recommend C3S Business School to anyone looking for a quality business education in Barcelona.
Student Review – Health and Social Care
C3S is a very good Institution for International Students. The lecturers here are so enthusiastic and truly passionate about their subjects; their knowledge and encouragement make me feel ready for my future career. At C3S, I really felt like I belonged; the diversity is incredible, and everyone is genuinely kind. Plus, the support systems are really strong. The courses are top-notch, and the learning experience really sets you up for great career opportunities.
9. University College London – UCL (4.67 Rating)

Based in Bloomsbury, central London, with a second campus at UCL East in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, University College London offers courses across 46 subject areas, ranking top-50 globally in 42 of them – strengths include architecture, education, archaeology, pharmacy and anthropology. Over 150 nationalities are represented among its students, and its Students’ Union runs hundreds of societies and events, offering a student life to rival its academic opportunities.
UCL’s highest individual rating is for internationality, which makes sense given the university’s international reputation and status as the second-largest university in the UK by student enrollment. Students also rate UCL highly for its location; its main campus is in the heart of London, which is consistently ranked one of the best student cities in the world.
Student Review – Data Science
I completed my MSc at UCL after doing a physics minor during my undergrad studies. The transition into data science was smooth because the curriculum is highly analytical, heavy on statistical modeling, and provides a rock-solid foundation in mathematical methods. You get deep, hands-on programming experience using Python and SQL for building complex data pipelines and handling massive datasets, which directly maps to industry needs. The career services team has excellent connections within major tech firms and financial institutions right here in London, making it an ideal choice if you want to jump straight into production-level data roles after graduation.
Student Review – Administration
My experience at the university was overall very positive. The course content is up to date, and the professors show strong knowledge of their subjects, while also being approachable and open to discussion. Classes require dedication but contribute significantly to both academic and professional growth.
One of the things I appreciated most was the diverse and welcoming environment, with people from different cultures, making the experience more enriching. On the other hand, administrative processes could be more organized and efficient, especially regarding deadlines and communication.
Despite these points, I believe the university provides a good overall experience and a solid education. I would recommend it, especially for those who value an international environment and want to grow academically.
8. Kaunas University of Technology – KTU (4.68 Rating)

The first of two universities in Lithuania to make our ranking of the best-rated universities of 2026 so far is Kaunas University of Technology, a public research university founded in 1922. The university teaches across nine faculties, including mechanical engineering, electronics, informatics, architecture, and business. Though a relatively small institution (around 8,000 enrolled students), KTU’s first-year student intake grew 18% in 2025, the fastest of any Lithuanian university.
Facilities include a Bloomberg Financial Markets Lab, a FabLab, and the Santaka Valley science-and-business park. KTU has supported 75 student startups since 2012, and offers 350-plus Erasmus and bilateral partnerships.
Student Review – International Business
I have had a positive experience studying at SMK. The university provides a friendly and multicultural environment where international students feel welcome. The lecturers are approachable and helpful, and the study programs focus on practical skills that can be applied in real jobs. The class schedules are generally flexible, allowing students to balance studies and part-time work. SMK also organizes various events, workshops, and activities that help students develop professionally and socially. While some courses could include more practical projects, overall I am satisfied with my studies and would recommend SMK to students looking for an affordable and career-oriented education in Lithuania.
Student Review – Electrical Engineering
Studying the MSc in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Kaunas University of Technology has been a rewarding and challenging experience. What I appreciate most about the program is the balance between advanced theoretical knowledge and practical engineering applications. The courses cover modern topics such as power systems, electronics, automation, renewable energy technologies, and intelligent control systems, which are highly relevant to current industry needs.
The lecturers are knowledgeable and supportive, and many are actively involved in research projects, which creates opportunities for students to participate in scientific work and develop strong analytical skills. The university’s laboratories are well-equipped, allowing students to gain hands-on experience with real engineering tools and technologies rather than learning only from textbooks.
Another positive aspect is the international environment. Working with students from different countries helped me improve my communication skills and broaden my perspective on engineering challenges. The program also encourages independent thinking, problem-solving, and research, which are valuable for both industry careers and future PhD studies.
7. University of Leeds (4.70 Rating)

The only UK university to make it onto our top ten ranking so far is the University of Leeds. Situated on a single, self-contained campus a ten-minute walk from Leeds city centre, the university offers courses spanning engineering, medicine, business, arts, humanities and social sciences, with 90% of research rated world-leading. More than 16,000 international students from 137 countries study at this institution, making its student environment welcoming and inclusive.
Leeds receives the joint-highest score of the ten universities on this ranking for facilities, and students also rate it highly for location, professors, and student life. Though Leeds may not be as well-known of a destination outside of the UK, it’s considered one of the country’s best student cities, with affordable living and a huge amount of events and entertainment for students.
Student Review – Political Science
Really high quality course with well-informed lecturers, the work placement options are really brilliant. I would especially recommend the Parliamentary Studies pathway for anyone really keen to get first hand experience.
Student Review – Graphic Communication
Overall, my experience at the University of Leeds has been amazing, I have met so many new people that I would never have met before. At first, I did struggle with settling in, as I was so far away from home and campus was very confusing, but after a while, I did get the hang of it and settled in. Another thing I love about the University is that it’s in a city, and there is so much to see and do so you won’t really be bored. I study graphics and communication design, and the tutors are very friendly and approachable, they always answer any questions I have and provide me with useful feedback.
6. Vilnius University (4.71 Rating)

Founded in 1579 in the capital of Lithuania, Vilnius University is one of the oldest universities in the world, and just beats Kaunas University of Technology as the highest-ranked Lithuanian university on this ranking. The university spans 12 faculties and over 22,000 students, teaching in Lithuanian, English and Russian, with its own botanical garden, astronomical observatory and three university hospitals.
Student life is varied and vibrant on this historic campus, while students particularly rate VU highly for professors and value for money. Based in an affordable capital city, and considered one of the best universities in the Baltics, VU offers a great blend of top-quality education and a unique lifestyle.
Student Review – Chemical Physics
Good, the tools are a bit old, but program overall great. Nice location, good lecturers, everyone is focused on making you succeed. Great work-shop sessions. Good atmosphere. Would only wish for more modern labaratory equipment.
Student Review – Applied Computer Science
What I liked most about this university was the focus on real-world projects. It wasn’t just about memorizing facts from a textbook; we actually got to apply what we learned. The student community is incredibly diverse and friendly, which made it easy to make friends and collaborate.
My only minor complaint is that some administrative processes (like enrollment and paperwork) can take a bit of time, but the quality of the education and the professors more than makes up for it.
5. University of Ostrava (4.78 Rating)

The University of Ostrava makes its first appearance on our top-rated universities ranking this year. The school was founded in 1991 and teaches across six faculties: Arts, Fine Arts, Education, Medicine, Social Studies and Science. English-taught programmes and an active Erasmus+ scheme bring around 300 international students to this popular Czech student city each year, with students able to combine their studies with exploring the nearby Beskydy mountains and the Polish and Slovak borders.
Students give the University of Ostrava the highest individual ratings for professors and value for money – the same highest-rated categories as Vilnius University. This suggests that for lesser-known universities in Central and Eastern Europe, appealing to ambitious, budget-conscious applicants could be a valuable strategy.
Student Review – English Philology
I would definitely recommend Ostrava, it is a modern school, it offers a lot of extracurricular activities. If I had to criticize something, it would probably be communication, I feel like some important things didn’t reach me
Student Review – Faculty of Arts
Thanks to OU, I can study a double major that I enjoy. The teachers know us by name and their approach to teaching creates a nice and friendly environment. The syllabus is always perfectly tailored to the specific subject and field. The departments organize great events where you can meet new people. The entire team at OU is simply great and I feel good here.
4. Advantere School of Management (4.81 Rating)

Based at Campus Arrupe in Madrid’s Chamartín district, Advantere School of Management is a boutique graduate business school founded jointly by Comillas Pontifical University, Deusto University and Georgetown University. It offers five English-taught MSc programmes – including finance, strategic marketing and international management – to cohorts of around 100 students.
Teaching follows a Project-Based Learning model, with students completing real consulting briefs for companies such as Zara, BMW, L’Oréal and N26. Teaching is one of the areas that students particularly love about Advantere – it gets a rating of 4.88 out of 5 for professors, alongside high ratings for location and facilities.
Student Review – Master’s in Finance
I had a good experience at Advantere. The teaching staff know their field and the syllabus is well put together, balancing theory with practical work. Beyond the academics, what stood out for me was the atmosphere among students, a supportive, collaborative environment that made the whole experience more enjoyable. A recommendable option if you’re looking for a well-rounded program.
Student Review – Master’s in Talent Management
I really liked Advantere, is a very profesional and personal university. Comming from a public university of Spain, getting to know all the professors and they know you it was an incredible experience. The Talent programme is very well structured and learning by PBLs really make a difference.
3. South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences – XAMK (4.89 Rating)

Another university appearing in our best-rated ranking for the first time (and in the top three, no less) is South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences, also known as XAMK. Founded in 2017 through a merger of two regional institutions, XAMK operates across four campuses in Kotka, Kouvola, Mikkeli and Savonlinna, Finland, and has around 12,000 students. The school also offers English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programmes, covering business analytics, game design, nursing, water technology and more.
XAMK recently ranked first among Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences for reputation, and receives the highest individual score for professors among all universities on this ranking (4.94). Our student reviewers also love the school’s facilities and internationality.
Student Review – Digital Industry and AI
My teachers (at Mikpoli) are great people. Not just great people, great educators. And that can be the difference between a good academic experience, and an unbearable experience; they are honest, intelligent!, supportive, and communicative. You can tell they’re passionate about their work.
The school’s mantra ‘for the future’, is not false; your teachers train you to be professionals, they build you up and give you the necessary skills to survive the harsh business ecosystem.
Student Review – Water Technology and Sustainability
I am student of XAMK university under the department of bachelor of engineering water technology and sustainability. I really like this university because as an international student i didn’t feel that It is a university of different country’s. The teachers and staff’s of this university are really really friendly, I feel like they are like my guardian . Everyone is really helpful when we make mistakes the give us a chance and learn that how to do it . I am enjoying my life here in Finland as an international student of XAMK university . I really appreciate and recommend the future students please come to this university at least one time then I hope you will love this university.
2. University of New York in Prague – UNYP (5.00 Rating)

The University of New York in Prague (UNYP) is consistently among the best-rated universities on our platform – it appeared sixth on our most recent annual ranking – and our mid-year ranking is no different. The school teaches around 1,000 students from over 80 countries, and English-taught bachelor’s, master’s and MBA programmes cover business administration, psychology, international relations, and more.
In addition to being ranked second overall so far in 2026, UNYP receives the highest ratings in two individual categories: career prospects and location. Students benefit from professional links to the State University of New York (SUNY), including a Dual Degree programme that can boost employment prospects across the US and Europe.
Student Review – Bachelor of Business Administration
I studied at UNYP and overall had a very positive experience. What I appreciated most was the international environment, smaller classes, and the chance to interact directly with professors instead of feeling like just another student in a huge lecture hall.
The university has a practical, English-speaking atmosphere, and it is a good fit for students who want an American-style education in the center of Prague. I also liked that many classes encouraged discussion, presentations, and real examples rather than only theory.
Of course, like at any university, some administrative processes can take time and the experience may depend on the program and professors you choose. But from a student perspective, UNYP gave me useful academic experience, international connections, and a lot of personal growth.
I would recommend it to students who want a smaller, international university environment in Prague and are ready to be active in their studies.
Student Review – Communication and Media
UNYP truly stands out thanks to its personal and individual approach to students. The classes are highly engaging, dynamic, and discussion-based, which makes the entire learning experience much more interactive and meaningful. This is not a university where you are forced to memorize useless scripts of information for exams. Rather, students are encouraged to think critically, participate, and genuinely engage with the topics being discussed.
One of the biggest strengths of UNYP is its professors. They are not only experts in their respective fields, but also incredibly inspiring people with a very human and approachable attitude toward students.
The international environment is another huge advantage. You are constantly exposed to different cultures and perspectives through both classmates and professors from all around the world, which adds so much value to the experience overall.
If you are looking for a high-quality, engaging, and international English-language education in any major, UNYP is an excellent choice.
1. EHL Hospitality Business School – EHL (5.00 rating)

Finally, we’ve arrived at the best-rated university in Europe in 2026 so far – and it’s EHL Hospitality Business School in Switzerland. Incredibly, across 17 student reviews posted between January and July this year, EHL achieves an average overall rating of 5/5, and the highest individual ratings on this list for accommodation, facilities, student life, and value for money.
Founded in 1893 as the world’s first hotel management school, EHL is based in Lausanne, Switzerland, with additional campuses in Passugg and Singapore. Ranked the world’s best hospitality and leisure management school by QS for eight consecutive years, EHL teaches over 4,000 students from 125-plus nationalities. Its Bachelor in International Hospitality Management includes 25 practical workshops and two six-month internships, with an optional Singapore exchange semester; Master’s and Executive MBA programmes are also offered.
Student Review – BSc International Hospitality Management
My time at EHL has been incredible. Beyond the academics, what stands out the most is the people. EHL helps you build real friendships and a global network that will stay with you long after graduation. I’ve learned so much, not just about hospitality but about myself, working in teams, and adapting to new challenges. The opportunity to go to the SG campus was unforgettable, new country, new perspective, and amazing memories with friends. EHL really pushes you to grow, and I’m so glad I’m part of
Student Review – Master in Hospitality Management
When you first come to EHL, you notice that there is always something going on, from a culinary challenge to a workshop with Alvarez & Marsal. EHL is a university full of opportunities if you take hold of them.
The professors are open to helping students understand difficult concepts and advising them on their projects. It is always nice to see passionate professors who constantly try to improve their classes and listen to the students.
In our classes, I enjoy that we get a blend of group projects and exams, both of which require very different approaches and skill sets. A personal favourite were my private equity and hotel asset management classes.
The facilities range from a swimming pool, tennis courts, to a Michelin-starred restaurant, and the list goes on and on.
But what makes this place special is the strong community. Students are very active in their committees and create a hospitable environment, exactly what this school is about.
Conclusion

The variety of countries and types of institutions represented in our Best-Rated Universities of 2026 So Far ranking reflects the diversity of student opinions posted on EDUopinions. In our mid-year ranking, we have institutions from all four corners of Europe, from Spain to Finland, with some popular student destinations noticeably absent from the ranking, including France and Germany.
We’ll publish our annual ranking of the best-rated universities in Europe in January 2027 – so make sure to check back to find out which of these universities make the annual edition!
You can see all of our annual rankings from the most recent Student Reviews Guide 2026 here.
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