UAL rises to top 10 in the Guardian University Guide

We are proud that The Guardian has recognised UAL as one of the UK’s top ten Universities of the Year for 2026, rising to 9th place.

We were previously ranked 13th out of 122 UK institutions, so this recognition highlights the sustained progress we have made to improve student experience and strengthen our position as a global leader in creative education.

This achievement reflects the creativity, ambition and success of our students, graduates and staff community. It is testament to UAL’s commitment to delivering an inclusive and high-quality creative education that equips graduates to thrive and lead in a changing world.

Our progress is underpinned by year on year improvements across the 2024 National Student Survey (NSS) and Course Student Survey (CSS), demonstrating the impact of placing students at the heart of everything we do. Staff, students, alumni and partners across UAL’s Colleges continue to foster a culture of excellence, care and creativity that drives positive change within and beyond the University.

Graduates from UAL pursue careers that are as diverse as the creative industries themselves. As entrepreneurs, freelancers, activists and leaders, they contribute to an industry that is creating jobs three times faster than the national average. Beyond the numbers, our graduates shape cultural and social life in the UK, helping to build more equitable and sustainable futures.

At a time of change across higher education, UAL is moving forward with clarity, creativity and conviction. We are committed to delivering a student journey that is supportive, inclusive and connected to real-world creative industries.