​Stellenbosch University (SU) has consolidated its position as one of the top universities within the emerging economies in the world.  

It again claimed 24th (up from 42 in 2017) position on the Times Higher Education (THE) Emerging Economies University Rankings 2020. It was placed third in South Africa. Overall, more than 530 universities from 47 countries feature in the table. South Africa has 10 institutions in the top 200.

The rankings includes only institutions in countries or regions classified by the Financial Times Stock Exchange (FTSE) as “advanced emerging", “secondary emerging" or “frontier".

According to the THE, the Emerging Economies University Rankings use the same 13 carefully calibrated performance indicators  as the THE World Universities Rankings​ to provide the most comprehensive and balanced comparisons, trusted by students, academics, university leaders, industry and governments – but the weightings are specially recalibrated to reflect the characteristics of the emerging economy universities.

The performance indicators are grouped into five areas: Teaching (the learning environment); Research (volume, income and reputation); Citations (research influence); International outlook (staff, students and research); and Industry income (knowledge transfer).

“Within the emerging economies, great emphasis is placed on the societal impact that universities can make," comments Prof Hester Klopper, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Strategy and Internationalisation at SU. “Together with our rise in stature among universities worldwide, our established ranking on this particular ranking, underscores one of our core strategic themes namely, Research for Impact." She adds that it is proof of SU's research impact world-wide and the recognition afforded to the calibre and stature of its researchers.

“While we are cognisant of the importance of rankings in the overall perception of an institution's academic and research standing, our focus is on academic and research excellence that will shape a better world for all," she reiterates. “It is, however, hugely gratifying when we gain international recognition in our quest to deliver solutions to societal problems through world-class research and scientific programmes."

The institution endeavours to become Africa's leading research-intensive university, globally recognised as a place of excellence, innovation, and where knowledge is advanced in service of society.

• In September 2019 it was announced that Stellenbosch University had improved its overall position in the Times Higher Education World Universities Rankings from 301–350 to 251–300, occupying the third spot among leading universities in South Africa. This places Stellenbosch University in the top 1% of universities globally.