IE University, 17th worldwide in the Times Higher Education 2026 Employability Ranking

IE University ranks 17^th worldwide in the 2026 Global Employability University Ranking published today in Times Higher Education. This annual ranking is based on the perspectives of recruiters from across the globe who rate the employability performance of graduates from more than 1,000 universities worldwide.

"This achievement reflects IE’ University's strong and long-term partnerships with top companies across industries, built on a shared commitment to innovation, talent development, and future-ready skills. Through these collaborations, IE University ensures its programs remain closely aligned with market needs, equipping graduates with the mindset, adaptability, and purpose to drive meaningful impact in their organizations and communities", said Ines Drieselmann, Vice President of Global Alumni and Talent & Careers at IE University.

The Talent & Careers team at IE University provides impactful advising, learning resources, and development tools that allow students and alumni to achieve their career goals. The team works closely with international recruiters that are seeking top talent.

Earlier this month, IE University held the annual IE Careers Forum, a conference on employability giving students and graduates the opportunity to connect with recruiters from 100 global firms across a range of sectors with the aim of promoting their professional development at an international level. Among the participating companies this year are Amazon, Bain & Company, LVMH, L'Oréal, Roche, PwC, EY, Salesforce, Celonis, Santander, BBVA, Intesa Sanpaolo, Bertelsmann and BMC.

Based 119,967 votes from 12,350 corporate managers in 32 countries, the Global Employability University Ranking is based on a framework of six key drivers identified by businesses as the main contributors to creating employable graduates: academic excellence: research output, quality of teaching staff; digital performance: innovative learning methods, specialist training on digital jobs; focus on work: entrepreneurial environment, relevant work experience as part of the curriculum; soft skills and digital literacy; internationalism: international curriculum and staff; and specialization: up-to-date technical or business expertise, relevant specialized research. According to the authors, the ranking shows a turn toward evidence-based evaluation, with employers are now valuing demonstrable capabilities and adaptability over static credentials.