The AD Scientific Index 2026 provides one of the most detailed assessments of academic performance worldwide. With data from over 2.6 million scientists and 24,552 institutions across 221 countries, the Index evaluates research productivity, impact, and momentum using transparent and verifiable indicators (source: www.adscientificindex.com).
For Singapore, the 2026 results are impressive: 61 universities and institutions and nearly 11,000 scientists are ranked, demonstrating the nation’s global strength in higher education and research.
National University of Singapore (NUS): The Nation’s Flagship
The National University of Singapore (NUS) stands as the #1 university in Singapore, #1 in Asia, and 32nd in the world. With over 1,672 scientists in the world’s top 30%, NUS is a powerhouse across disciplines such as engineering, medicine, computer science, and the social sciences.
Nanyang Technological University (NTU): A Global Technology Hub
Ranked 2nd nationally, 4th in Asia, and 64th worldwide, Nanyang Technological University (NTU) is recognized for its excellence in engineering, materials science, and environmental studies. With more than 1,458 scientists in the world’s top 30%, NTU continues to be a magnet for global talent.
Rising Stars: SMU, SUTD, and Duke-NUS
Beyond the two giants, Singapore is home to younger institutions with growing international visibility:
- Singapore Management University (SMU) – Ranked #3 nationally and #828 globally, SMU is a leader in business, economics, and social sciences.
- Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) – Ranked #4 nationally and #864 globally, excelling in architecture, design, and innovation.
- Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School – Ranked #5 in Singapore, this unique collaboration with Duke University (USA) is transforming medical education and biomedical research.
Public Universities: Expanding Reach
Other important public universities also rank prominently:
- Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) (#6 Singapore, #2083 world)
- Yale-NUS College (#7 Singapore, #2761 world)
- Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) (#8 Singapore, #2877 world)
- Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Singapore Polytechnic, Temasek Polytechnic, Nanyang Polytechnic, and Republic Polytechnic, all of which contribute to applied research, professional training, and innovation.
Specialized Institutions and International Partnerships
Singapore’s research ecosystem also includes specialized and international institutions that add global depth:
- Singapore MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART) (#3787 world)
- Advanced Digital Sciences Center (#3504 world)
- Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) (#5982 world)
- Kaplan Higher Education, Curtin University Singapore, PSB Academy, and Management Development Institute of Singapore (MDIS), representing private higher education.
Hospitals and Research Institutes: Medical Excellence
Singapore also shines in healthcare and biomedical research:
- Tan Tock Seng Hospital (#1 hospital nationally, #39 in Asia)
- Singapore General Hospital (#43 in Asia)
- KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital
- Khoo Teck Puat Hospital
- Raffles Hospital.
Research centers such as the National Cancer Centre Singapore, A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), and the Singapore Eye Research Institute further highlight Singapore’s role in cutting-edge biomedical sciences.
Conclusion: Singapore as a Knowledge Powerhouse
The AD Scientific Index 2026 confirms that Singapore, despite its small size, is a global leader in higher education and research. From world-class institutions like NUS and NTU to dynamic younger universities such as SMU, SUTD, and Duke-NUS, alongside strong public polytechnics, hospitals, and research centers, the nation demonstrates a comprehensive and competitive academic ecosystem.
As global challenges demand innovative solutions in healthcare, technology, sustainability, and social policy, Singapore’s universities are not only keeping pace but also setting new benchmarks in academic excellence.
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