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Think Small, Dream Big: The Best Small Universities Around the World

While large universities with sprawling campuses and bustling student life often attract the spotlight, many students find immense value in the personalised, close-knit experience offered by smaller institutions. For those who prefer smaller class sizes, greater access to faculty, and a more intimate academic community, small universities can be a perfect choice.

To spotlight these hidden academic gems, Times Higher Education (THE) has unveiled its latest list of the top small universities in the world for 2025. These institutions span continents—from North America and Asia to Europe—proving that excellence can indeed come in smaller packages.

What Makes a ‘Small University’?

To be eligible for THE’s small university ranking:

  • The institution must be listed in the World University Rankings 2024.

  • It must offer more than four subject areas.

  • It should have fewer than 5,000 students.

The average student population among these small universities is approximately 3,215, compared to around 25,000 at universities featured in THE’s general ranking.

Top 20 Small Universities in the World

1. California Institute of Technology (Caltech), USA
With just over 2,200 students, Caltech remains a global leader in science and engineering. Ranked 7th overall in THE’s World Rankings, Caltech’s compact size belies its massive reputation. It boasts elite faculty, facilities like the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and a legacy of 39 Nobel Prize winners.

2. Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), South Korea
Established in 1986, POSTECH is a hub for aspiring engineers and entrepreneurs. It nurtures innovation through start-up training, patent workshops, and leave options for venture creation.

3. Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa, Italy
Founded in 1810, this elite university has fewer than 700 students and an alumni list that includes Nobel laureates and national leaders. It specialises in humanities, sciences, and social sciences.

4. Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), South Korea
Founded in 2009, UNIST delivers all programs in English and aspires to rank among the world’s top 10 science and tech universities by 2030.

5. Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies, Italy
Located in Pisa, this competitive institution is free for admitted students and known for producing some of Italy’s top minds in politics and neuroscience.

6. Indian Institute of Science (IISc), India
Based in Bengaluru, IISc is one of India’s premier research universities, offering top-tier programmes in disciplines ranging from biological sciences to mechanical engineering.

7. École Normale Supérieure de Lyon, France
This elite French university upholds high academic standards by selecting students from rigorous preparatory programmes. International applicants must pass a demanding entrance test.

8. Abu Dhabi University, UAE
Though the largest private university in Abu Dhabi, its student count still qualifies it for this list. It has campuses in Khalifa City, Al Ain, and Dubai, and offers diverse programmes across six colleges.

9. Università della Svizzera Italiana, Switzerland
Founded in 1995, this multilingual university (German, Italian, and English) encourages overseas study and maintains an 8:1 student-to-teacher ratio.

10. Brandeis University, USA
Located in Massachusetts, Brandeis combines academic rigour with a creative spirit. Notable alumni include Pulitzer Prize winners, novelists, and even the creators of the TV show Friends.

 

Other Notable Small Universities:

11. Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (Sweden) – With campuses across the country, it focuses on agriculture, architecture, engineering, and economics.

12. Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), South Korea – Offers six tech-focused majors and actively supports interdisciplinary research.

13. Sabancı University (Turkey) – A modern institution offering a globalised curriculum and multiple exchange opportunities worldwide.

14. Free University of Bozen-Bolzano (Italy) – Known for multilingual education and a strong international outlook, with campuses in the scenic Dolomites.

16. Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), South Korea – A government-backed university specialising in applied science and engineering research.

=17. École des Ponts ParisTech (France) – One of France’s oldest and most prestigious Grandes Écoles, now offering a broad range of disciplines.

=17. University of Vaasa (Finland) – A leader in business education with robust global exchange programs and a tight-knit student body.

19. SOAS University of London (UK) – Situated in central London, SOAS specialises in the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

20. IMT Atlantique (France) – Created through a merger in 2017, this school spans three cities and is part of France’s Grandes Écoles system.

Why Choose a Small University?

Small universities often offer:

  • More personalised attention from faculty

  • Smaller class sizes and closer peer connections

  • Greater opportunities to participate in research and campus leadership

  • A calm, focused academic atmosphere

For students who value academic intensity, community, and flexibility, small universities may offer an ideal educational experience—proving that big achievements often begin in small places.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right university is a deeply personal decision, and for many, the allure of smaller institutions lies in their ability to offer world-class education within an environment that feels more supportive, accessible, and collaborative. The 2025 list of the world’s best small universities showcases that academic excellence isn’t reserved for sprawling campuses or massive student populations.

Whether you're drawn to cutting-edge scientific research, interdisciplinary learning, or a strong sense of academic community, these small universities prove that big impact often starts in compact spaces. So, if you're considering your higher education options, don’t overlook the power of going small.