University rankings grow in influence but leave institutions confused

Universities feel pressured to use rankings despite confusion and criticism over their scope and methodology, the European University Association has said.

A study by the lobby group says that the rising influence of league tables has pushed universities to follow rankings closely to maintain or improve their reputations. Of the 171 higher education institutions in 39 European countries surveyed for the study, 60 per cent said they took rankings into account when developing plans.

However, there is some confusion at universities about what can be considered a ranking and how meaningful the different indicators are, according to the group’s report, Rankings in Institutional Strategies and Processes: Impact or Illusion.