Two Texas universities have been recognized among TIME magazine’s top universities for 2026, highlighting the state’s growing influence in higher education and research.
The University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University were included on the global list, which evaluated institutions based on student success, innovation and overall impact. The rankings, released this week, assessed universities worldwide using performance indicators that measure academic outcomes, research contributions and institutional influence.
TIME’s ranking methodology considers factors such as graduation rates, academic resources, research output and the broader impact universities have on their communities and industries. The list aims to identify institutions that demonstrate strong performance across teaching, innovation and long-term student success.
The University of Texas at Austin, located in the state capital, is one of the nation’s largest public universities and a leading research institution. The university enrolls more than 50,000 students and is widely known for its engineering, business and public policy programs. UT Austin also plays a major role in Texas’ technology and economic development sectors through research partnerships and workforce training initiatives.
Texas A&M University, headquartered in College Station, is another major public research institution with a large student population and strong emphasis on engineering, agriculture and military education. The university enrolls more than 70,000 students and operates research programs that support industries including energy, infrastructure and national defense.
State education leaders say national and global recognition of Texas universities reflects continued investment in research, innovation and student achievement. Public universities in Texas have seen steady enrollment growth in recent years, driven in part by population increases and expanding academic programs.
The inclusion of both institutions on TIME’s list underscores Texas’ position as a major center for higher education and research. Officials say recognition can help attract students, faculty and research funding, contributing to regional economic growth and workforce development.
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