Shoolini University has reached a landmark milestone: in the newly released Times Higher Education (THE) Asia University Rankings 2026, it has been named the #1 private university in North India — the only institution of its kind in the region to earn a top-tier ranking among participating universities.
The numbers tell a compelling story. Among 128 ranked Indian institutions, Shoolini stands 4th in India overall — alongside giants like the Indian Institute of Science and IIT Indore. It ranks 2nd in India for International Outlook, a testament to its growing web of global research partnerships. And on the continental stage, Shoolini holds #158 in Asia, competing across 929 universities from 36 countries and territories.
This is no small leap. Last year, Shoolini ranked 5th in India.
"It is particularly encouraging to see Shoolini placed among leading institutions in India, alongside premier names such as the Indian Institute of Science and IIT Indore," said Shoolini University Founder-Chancellor Prof PK Khosla. "This milestone marks a significant step forward," he added.
Pro Chancellor Vishal Anand reaffirmed the university's horizon: "Our strategy is to build Shoolini into a top global campus for research and innovation by 2030. This milestone reinforces our belief that we are on the right path."
The Times Higher Education Asia Rankings evaluate universities across teaching, research environment, research quality, industry income, and international outlook — using 18 detailed performance indicators. Shoolini's consistent rise reflects years of institution-building since its founding in 2009: a research engine that has generated over 1,900 IP portfolios and more than 1,300 patents — driven by students and faculty alike — alongside a growing network of international collaborations and a model that prizes both depth and real-world impact.
Vice Chancellor Prof Atul Khosla summed up the spirit behind the achievement: "Being ranked among Asia's top universities is proof of our sustained focus on research and innovation. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas near Shimla, we welcome the global academic community to experience the spirit of learning and inspiration that defines Shoolini."
These rankings reflect Shoolini's growing global reputation for research excellence, academic quality, and international outlook. The university also ranks #1 in Asia for Citations per Paper in the QS Asia University Rankings.