
The University of Warwick has been named as the number one university in the West Midlands in the 2026 Complete University Guide.
Warwick was also ranked 9th in this year’s guide, climbing one place from last year, placing the University 6th within the Russell Group.
The Complete University Guide ranks 130 universities from across the UK. The guide’s methodology considers various factors including student satisfaction, research quality, and graduate prospects, providing valuable insights for prospective students and stakeholders.
Professor Stuart Croft, Vice-Chancellor and President, University of Warwick, said, “This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of our staff, students, and wider community. At Warwick, we are committed to academic excellence, innovation, and creating a supportive environment where talent can thrive, and it’s fantastic to see that commitment recognised at a regional and national level, especially in our 60th anniversary year”.
Each year, the Complete University Guide publishes its UK university and subject league tables to help prospective students make informed choices about their future, including those weighing up late decisions or exploring Clearing options.
Professor Amanda Chetwynd, Chair of the Complete University Guide Advisory Board, said “Congratulations to The University of Warwick for securing the top spot in this year’s West Midlands Complete University Guide rankings and to all Universities in the region for supporting their students to achieve their ambitions. Our methodology draws on a range of trusted, independent measures that reflect the factors students care most about, including teaching quality, student satisfaction and graduate outcomes.
“Our regional tables show the strength and quality of Higher Education throughout the UK. Whether making early choices or preparing for Clearing, our university and subject league tables, along with regional insights, are here to help students navigate one of the most important decisions of their lives.”
The main league table is based on ten measures: entry standards, student satisfaction, research quality, research intensity, academic services spend, spending on student facilities, continuation, student-staff ratio, graduate prospects – outcomes, and graduate prospects – on track. It includes 130 institutions.
With academics and students coming from over 140 countries, the University of Warwick’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation continues to drive its impact locally and globally.
With a focus on collaboration, diversity, and societal engagement, Warwick remains steadfast in its mission to advance knowledge and empower future generations.
The full West Midlands rankings can be seen here.