Annissa Wulan
Jan 28, 2026
Planning your academic future in Indonesia’s cultural capital? Yogyakarta remains a powerhouse of Indonesian education, with its institutions consistently ranking among the best in Southeast Asia. Based on the latest QS World University Rankings 2026 and Webometrics 2026 data, here is the list of the top universities in the city of students. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of the top-tier universities in Jogja, ranking them based on their academic reputation, research impact, and student success.
1. Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM)
As the oldest and largest state university in Indonesia, UGM continues to hold its crown, ranking #1 in Indonesia and #409 globally in the 2026 QS Sustainability Rankings. In 2026, the university is doubling down on "dynamic capabilities," shifting its academic culture from purely teaching to a research-driven powerhouse that bridges the gap between laboratory innovation and industrial application. With its sprawling "educopolis" campus, it remains the ultimate destination for students seeking prestige and a multidisciplinary environment.
Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM)
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2. Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY)
Long known as a leader in teacher training and educational sciences, UNY has evolved into a comprehensive research university, currently ranked #1201-1400 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026. The university is recognized for its high international faculty-to-student ratio and strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the area of quality education. Entering 2026, UNY is focusing heavily on modernizing its infrastructure, including significant digital library upgrades and campus-wide smart-building initiatives.
Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY)
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3. Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY)
UMY has made a historic leap in 2026, securing its position as the #1 Islamic university in Indonesia and rising to #526 in Asia according to the QS Asia University Rankings. The institution is distinguished by its "Progressive Islam" approach, integrating Sharia principles into modern fields like AI, health, and environmental research. It notably ranks first nationally in Environmental Research and Health & Wellbeing indicators, proving that private institutions can lead the charge in global sustainability efforts.
Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY)
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4. Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII)
As the oldest private university in the country, UII maintains a sterling reputation for its "Superior" accreditation and its strong focus on ethical leadership. In 2026, UII is celebrating its 83rd anniversary under the theme "Harmony for a Sustainable Legacy," while undergoing a strategic leadership transition to adapt to global digital disruption. Its faculties of Law and Business remain some of the most competitive in the nation, consistently producing top-tier alumni in Indonesia's judicial and financial sectors.
Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII)
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5. Universitas Atma Jaya Yogyakarta (UAJY)
UAJY remains a top choice for students seeking a private institution with strong global networks and high employability rates. Recognized by THE WUR 2026 as one of the elite private campuses in the region, Atma Jaya is particularly praised for its Architecture and Communications programs. The campus culture is defined by a blend of local Javanese hospitality and a modern, inclusive environment that prepares students for the competitive international job market.