St Andrews holds top spot in Scotland in Complete University Guide

The University of St Andrews has once again claimed the top spot in Scotland and secured its place among the UK’s leading higher education institutions, ranking in the top four nationally in The Complete University Guide 2026, published this week (Wednesday 11 June).

St Andrews leads in student satisfaction, ranking first in the UK, highlighting its commitment to helping prospective students make confident, informed choices about their future.

Subject-specific rankings see English and German climb to first in the UK, both up from third in the 2025 Guide. Other notable advancements include Theology and Physics, each rising six places to third and fifth respectively, while Biological Studies sees a seven-place increase to fifth in the UK.

Mathematics, Spanish, Geology, Chemistry, and the Business School also move up in their rankings, with Business and Management Studies ranking second in the UK.

St Andrews maintains strong positions in Italian (second), Art History (second),  Economics (fourth), Computer Science (fourth), Biomedical Sciences (fourth), and Politics (IR) (second), showcasing broad academic excellence. Subjects ranking in the top three in the UK included Anthropology, Classics, and History.

Professor Amanda Chetwynd, Chair of the Complete University Guide Advisory Board, said: “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. The close competition within the top 20 highlights the consistently high standards across UK higher education.”

Simon Emmett, Chief Executive Officer of IDP Education, said: “The rankings demonstrate the breadth of excellence in UK HE. We’re proud to provide main tables, subject tables and unique data sets to enable students to make the right choice for them.

“Factors such as course continuation rates and outcomes are important to students, the sustainability of the sector and the economy as a whole.”

Professor Chetwynd added: “Across the sector, on average 74% of graduates have successfully transitioned into graduate-level or professional roles, or are pursuing postgraduate education, just over a year after graduation. However, this year’s Complete University Guide shows that some universities are exceptional in this regard and, no doubt, this is also a reflection of the dedication and tenacity of their students.”

The University of St Andrews measures 87% in this metric, reflecting its strong emphasis on student achievement and consistent delivery of positive graduate outcomes.

President of the University of St Andrews Students’ Association, Cam Brown, said: “We’re absolutely buzzing to see St Andrews come out on top for student satisfaction once again. It’s a real nod to the incredible community we’ve built here, where students are at the heart of everything. Whether it’s through top-tier teaching, vibrant student life, or the support we offer every step of the way, this place is truly something special.

“The University and the Students’ Association work side by side to make St Andrews the best it can be, and we’re so proud to see that recognised. To anyone wondering if this is the place for them, we’d say come see for yourself; this is your sign!”

For a full rundown of all subject rankings, and to sort by other metrics, visit the Complete University Guide website here.