The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2027 names St Andrews as the top UK university, pushing Oxford and Cambridge out of the top three for only the second time in the guide’s 33-year history.

Oxford slides from fourth to fifth place, while Cambridge remains fourth; LSE climbs to second and Imperial College London rises to third.

Imperial College London is crowned UK University of the Year for 2027, highlighting a competitive landscape for attracting talent in higher education.

The broader narrative connects degree costs, graduate employment prospects, and long-term financial considerations for students and graduates.

Reporting also covers university funding pressures, student loans, and the economics of higher education in the UK.

St Andrews’ leadership stresses comprehensive strengths—entry tariffs, teaching quality, research, and support services—amid funding pressures facing higher education.

Professor Dame Sally Mapstone emphasizes St Andrews’ teaching, research excellence, and student support as crucial amid public scrutiny of higher education finances.

The guide’s editor notes a focus on career preparation and hands-on learning, while acknowledging broader financial and employment challenges for students and universities.

There is a trend toward practical, career-ready education with enhanced facilities and simulations as universities respond to financial pressures and a tough graduate jobs market.

Editors highlight universities investing in practical, hands-on learning to attract students amid financial strains and a challenging graduate outcomes landscape.

The full rankings will be published in the 96-page guide on Sunday.

Zoe Thomas, the guide’s author, points to St Andrews’ distinctive undergraduate experience and high student satisfaction as key drivers of its top position.