Is Jindal Global University the First in the World to Earn 5 Stars in Global QS Ratings 2025?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- JGU received a 5-Star rating from QS, marking a significant achievement in higher education.
- The award ceremony took place at the House of Lords, showcasing JGU's global influence.
- Recognition was based on over 50 indicators, affirming JGU's excellence in various domains.
- Commitment to sustainability, arts, and international collaboration was highlighted in the evaluation.
- JGU's Chancellor emphasized the importance of this accolade for India's educational aspirations.
London, Sep 25 (NationPress) During the distinguished India-UK Roundtable on "The Innovation Corridor: UK–India Higher Education" at the House of Lords, Palace of Westminster, on September 24, O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) received the esteemed Global QS 5 Stars Rating Certificate.
The accolade was bestowed upon Professor (Dr) C. Raj Kumar, Vice Chancellor of JGU, by Jessica Turner, CEO of QS, in the presence of notable figures such as The Lord Patel of Bradford OBE, Dr Ashwin Fernandes, Regional Director of QS, Dr Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General of the Association of Indian Universities, and Professor Padmanabha Ramanujam, Dean of Academic Governance at JGU, alongside more than 25 Vice Chancellors and Presidents from leading universities in both India and the UK.
The QS Stars framework assesses universities based on over 50 criteria, and JGU's remarkable achievement was recognized in areas such as teaching, online learning, employability, arts & culture, sustainability, governance, research, and law and legal studies.
This honor not only highlights JGU's global reputation as a comprehensive, world-class higher education institution but also underscores its significant contribution to enhancing India-UK academic relations and influencing the future of global higher education.
O.P. Jindal Global University has achieved an overall 5-Star Excellent Rating in the Global QS Stars Ratings 2025—a respected international evaluation that rates universities across various dimensions including teaching, research, employability, and sustainability.
JGU's recognition with an overall 5-Star Excellent Rating solidifies its status as one of the leading universities globally.
The QS Stars system employs a comprehensive structure to evaluate and demonstrate university performance across diverse criteria, providing a multidimensional view of excellence in higher education.
In addition to this overall recognition, the QS assessment awarded JGU:
5 Stars: Teaching, Online Learning, Employability, Environmental Impact, Arts & Culture, Good Governance, Global Engagement
4 Stars: Law & Legal Studies, Research
Embracing this significant global honor, Naveen Jindal, Chancellor & Benefactor of JGU, remarked: “This prestigious recognition embodies our vision of establishing a world-class institution in India. It reaffirms JGU’s dedication to excellence, innovation, and global engagement—values closely aligned with our nation's aspirations.”
Professor (Dr) C. Raj Kumar, Founding Vice Chancellor of JGU, stated: “This achievement reflects our diverse strengths and the holistic nature of our academic ecosystem. This recognition is a collective effort and a testament to our community's ethos. Over 16 years, we have transformed from an aspiration into an Institution of Eminence—characterized by academic excellence, a vibrant culture, sustainability, innovation, and global engagement. It is a tribute to the visionary leadership and generosity of our Chancellor and Benefactor, Naveen Jindal, whose commitment and philanthropy have laid the groundwork for JGU’s journey. It belongs equally to our inspiring faculty, our diligent administrative staff, our resilient and creative students, and our alumni who carry forward JGU’s values into the world.”
Commenting on JGU’s achievement, Dr Ashwin Fernandes, Executive Director of QS, noted, “JGU’s 5-Star Excellent Rating is a clear acknowledgment of its comprehensive strengths in teaching, research, employability, sustainability, governance, and global engagement. Very few institutions globally reach this level of distinction, and JGU’s success reflects its academic vision and commitment to international standards. It also highlights India's expanding presence on the international higher education stage, with universities like JGU leading the charge.”
Professor Padmanabha Ramanujam, Dean of Academic Governance at JGU, remarked: “The QS Stars recognition validates our commitment to institutional integrity, accountability, and adherence to global standards. It symbolizes JGU’s determination to continuously enhance its governance frameworks and uphold the highest educational quality.”
Key Highlights of the QS Stars Evaluation
Teaching (5 Stars): JGU’s expansion from a small founding faculty to over 1,100 professors, scholars, and practitioners reflects its steadfast dedication to academic quality. This year alone, 129 new world-class faculty members joined JGU, marking a historic leap in Indian higher education. High student satisfaction, personalized mentoring, and impressive retention rates showcase the university’s nurturing culture and commitment to intellectual growth.
Online Learning (5 Stars): Through JGU Online, learners benefit from world-class degree programs and certifications that maintain the same academic rigor as traditional offerings. Features like live and recorded lectures, COIL-based global collaborations, inclusive design, career support, and 24/7 student services have set new standards in digital learning excellence.
Employability (5 Stars): Graduates from JGU are recognized worldwide for their impact, leadership, and practical skills. This rating affirms JGU’s commitment to preparing students not just for initial employment, but for enduring success and leadership throughout their careers.
Environmental Impact (5 Stars): Sustainability is integral to JGU’s operations through responsible funding, procurement, and climate-conscious practices. The Office of Sustainability monitors and reduces emissions, minimizes waste, and promotes community engagement, while the Jindal School of Environment & Sustainability (JSES) focuses on research and innovation aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Arts & Culture (5 Stars): JGU nurtures a vibrant ecosystem where creativity and education harmoniously coexist. Initiatives such as India’s first Constitution Museum and the Rights and Freedoms Academy enhance cultural awareness, civic learning, and global citizenship.
Good Governance (5 Stars): This rating recognizes JGU’s transparent, accountable, and inclusive governance practices that ensure excellence in both academic and administrative domains.
Global Engagement (5 Stars): With over 575 collaborations across more than 80 countries, JGU has established one of the most globalized academic ecosystems worldwide. Dual degrees, exchanges, and research partnerships facilitate accessible, structured, and impactful international education.
Law and Legal Studies (4 Stars): The Jindal Global Law School (JGLS) has been ranked as India’s top law school for six consecutive years in the QS World University Subject Rankings. With global collaborations, innovative curricula, and experiential learning, JGLS continues to enhance India’s legal education landscape.
Research (4 Stars): JGU has created dynamic research centers and think tanks that tackle global challenges through interdisciplinary approaches. By balancing teaching and research, faculty remain at the forefront of knowledge creation while enriching student learning.