The University of Crete has once again strengthened its international recognition by achieving outstanding results in the Times Higher Education (THE) Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026, one of the world’s leading global university rankings evaluating institutions based on their social and developmental impact in relation to the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The University is participating in the rankings for the fifth consecutive year, with performance assessed across nine Sustainable Development Goals.

In the overall rankings, the University of Crete placed 2nd among Greek universities and ranked in the 401–600 band worldwide, among 1,646 universities from 116 countries.

Particularly noteworthy is the University’s performance in SDG 4 – Quality Education, where it ranks 1st in Greece for the fourth consecutive year and is placed in the 101–200 band globally. This distinction reaffirms the University’s long-standing student-centered approach and its continuous investment in the quality of education.

Strong performances in the Sustainable Development Goals related to Good Health and Well-being, Reduced Inequalities, Sustainable Cities and Communities, Life Below Water, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, Gender Equality, Climate Action, and Partnerships for the Goals further demonstrate that sustainability has become a defining element of the University of Crete’s identity and institutional mission.

These achievements reflect the collective efforts of the University’s faculty members, researchers, students, and administrative staff, whose daily contributions support the institution’s strategic vision of academic excellence, international engagement, and responsible development. They also represent the outcome of the University of Crete’s long-term commitment to connecting education, research, and innovation with today’s social and environmental challenges, creating meaningful value for society.

University of Crete Performance in the THE Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026

• 2nd in Greece in the overall rankings (Global Rank: 401–600)
• 1st in Greece in SDG 4 – Quality Education (Global Rank: 101–200)
• 1st in Greece in SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities (Global Rank: 201–300)
• 2nd in Greece in:
  • SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being (201–300)
  • SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities (201–300)
  • SDG 14 – Life Below Water (201–300)
  • SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (301–400)
  • SDG 13 – Climate Action (401–600)
• 3rd in Greece in:
  • SDG 5 – Gender Equality (401–600)
  • SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals (601–800)