Singapore's local institutions are increasingly distinguishing themselves in global rankings and drawing international students. Singapore has four ranked universities in the latest QS World University Rankings for 2026, with SMU jumping from 585th to 511st. SMU Provost Professor Alan Chan said that SMU'S "steady upward movement" in global rankings over the past year is encouraging. He highlighted that SMU graduates are "known for being career-ready and resilient", with the university attracting top students through its interdisciplinary, industry-relevant, and responsive approach to emerging global challenges. Commenting on Singaporean scholars' preference for overseas education, SMU Professor Emeritus of Operations Management Arnoud De Meyer, who co-authored a book, "Building Excellence in Higher Education: Singapore's Experience", said that this dates back to found Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew where he and many of the pioneers of the early years of Singapore's political development were educated overseas. He added that studying overseas remains a popular option for scholars because of the opportunities to build a strong international network for future placements in the civil service or politics.
