Learn more about Courses and the requirements, fees and other details.
Ask Questions to get an education expert’s advice immediately.
Get the latest information about education news, tips and career opportunities.
Find out information about different Institutions and apply to them directly.
A link will be sent via e-mail to initiate password reset. Please check your inbox.
If you have not received it, Seconds, please click here.
If you have not received it, please click here.
You have reached your password reset limit for today. Please check your spam folder, retry tomorrow or contact us now
A One Time Password (OTP) has been sent to your number at Update Phone Number
Skip Now
Back
Want to change your mobile number? Update Mobile Number
Didn’t get a call from us? Retry now Want to change your mobile number? Update mobile number
Want to change your mobile number? Update mobile number
We have saved your mobile number successfully! You may retry tomorrow.
Your IVR verification call has been initiated.
Visit the International Students section on our website to find out the latest news and everything you need to know about studying in Malaysia.
Published by Afterschool.my on Mar 26, 2025, 06:02 pm
The global education landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, with Asian universities rapidly gaining ground against traditional powerhouses in the United States and the United Kingdom.
According to the latest QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, institutions across Singapore, China, and Hong Kong have shown remarkable progress, reflecting Asia's growing influence in global academia.
Asian Institutions Gaining Momentum
While US institutions continue to dominate, leading in 32 subjects, and UK universities excel in 18 subjects, Asian universities are making notable strides. Harvard leads in 15 subjects, while the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) claims the top spot in 11, reinforcing the US's academic dominance. Meanwhile, the University of Leeds achieved a standout performance in the UK, securing 53 subject entries: the most among British institutions.
However, Asian universities are rapidly improving their global standing. China expanded its top 50 subject entries from 100 in 2020 to 231 in 2025, a staggering 131% increase. Its presence in the global top 10 has quadrupled, jumping from 5 to 21 entries. Singapore has shown even more dramatic growth, with top 10 entries climbing from 8 to 34, a remarkable 325% surge.
Hong Kong universities are also thriving, with the University of Hong Kong now boasting 55 subjects ranked in the global top 200 — the most in Asia. The Chinese University of Hong Kong saw 43 of its subjects improve in rankings this year, further emphasising the region's upward trajectory.
Shifting Global Dynamics in Higher Education
This upward momentum among Asian universities signifies a changing global dynamic. As QS Vice President Ben Sowter noted, "Countries that have traditionally dominated global rankings are now facing increasing competition from emerging education markets."
This shift comes amid financial challenges for universities in the US, UK, Australia, and Canada. With these institutions grappling with budget cuts, policy changes, and declining international student numbers, Asian universities have capitalised on opportunities to expand their influence and strengthen their academic offerings.
European Institutions Show Consistency
Meanwhile, European universities continue to perform consistently well. Switzerland’s ETH Zurich secured the top position in three subjects, while the Netherlands and Italy also claimed key rankings in agriculture, communication and ancient history.
Canada’s University of British Columbia emerged as a standout performer, ranking among the top globally in 52 subjects, showcasing North America’s continued presence in the rankings despite mounting pressures.
India’s Mixed Results
Indian institutions are also making their mark, with nine universities ranking among the world’s top 50 in various disciplines. However, some key institutions, including the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), experienced declines in their standings. Despite this, computer science and information systems saw impressive growth, with Indian universities now boasting 42 ranked entries—the fourth highest globally.
Looking to the Future
As the global education landscape evolves, Asian universities are clearly positioning themselves as formidable competitors. With dynamic growth in subject rankings and strengthened academic offerings, institutions across Singapore, China, and Hong Kong are poised to shape the future of higher education. Traditional leaders may still dominate the top spots, but the rapid progress of Asian universities signals an era of increased competition and shifting academic influence on the world stage.
With Donald Trump securing a second term in office, his policies on immigration and international relations are once again in the spotlight. While much attention has been placed on how UK universities might benefit, there are important considerations for students from Southeast Asia, including ..
Taylor’s University has made history by introducing Malaysia’s first Bachelor in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) (Honours) programme, marking a significant milestone in the country’s higher education landscape. Inspired by the prestigious PPE programme at Oxford Universit..
The global education landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, with Asian universities rapidly gaining ground against traditional powerhouses in the United States and the United Kingdom.According to the latest QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, institutions across Singapore, C..
Many would find 21-year-old Nigel Chuah's decision to abandon a promising career in sustainability questionable. Why leave behind a stable career path to pursue the uncertain venture of entrepreneurship in the health industry?To Nigel, this decision didn't sprout from impulse, but rather, fr..
MSU FISE students at iReX 2024, showcasing innovative projects and transformative ideas that inspire creativity and collaboration.The creative arts and hospitality programmes at Management and Science University (MSU) are built on the belief that anyone can be a great designer who offers exceptional..
Few people have seamlessly moved through industries as distinct as engineering, procurement, and pageantry as Natalie Ang has. As an Associate Consultant at Inverto (a BCG subsidiary), a former procurement specialist at Nestlé, and a Miss World Malaysia titleholder, Natalie has carved a uniqu..
Medieval literature isn’t the most conventional field of study, but for Sabrina, it offers a gateway to understanding the rich complexities of history, culture and the human experience. From deciphering ancient manuscripts to uncovering narratives of bygone eras, Sabrina's academic venture..
Some people prefer to map their lives meticulously, carefully planning every step toward a definitive goal and advancing from one milestone to the next. But others, like Shasha Jamal, view life as more of an open canvas, one meant to be filled with a plethora of varying colours, textures, and even u..
For Management and Science University (MSU) graduates Adi Putra Zaki Alhafiz Abd Kahar and Mohammad Khamal Haqqim Abd Ibrahim, their alma mater provided the best foundation to launch their careers and business.Adi earned his Master in Business Administration (MBA) in 2024, while Khamal graduate..
At the heart of Rachel Gunardi's work, whether in design, entrepreneurship or event planning, is a drive for real and organic connection, something she believes is dying out in an increasingly digital age. Originally from Indonesia, Rachel came to Malaysia in 2021 to pursue her degree in gr..
Get the information first
Afterschool.my
Shares
0
Need help?
