Comparative Analysis of Global University Ranking Systems Based on Research Output: A Study

Abstract

In this paper, a comparative assessment of three of the leading global university ranking tables—Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU), QS World University Rankings (QS), and Times Higher Education (THE)—based on their research output indicators is presented. Based on secondary data of the top ten universities in each of these ranks, the paper reviews most significant indicators such as the number of Scopus-indexed papers, contributing authors, and provision of research databases. Descriptive statistics and inferential tests like Independent Samples t-tests and Mann-Whitney U tests were used to compare differences and similarities between ranking systems. Findings show that, despite methodological variations, the universities listed under ARWU, QS, and THE are similar in research productivity and infrastructure capabilities. The results point to differences in disciplinary emphasis and faculty involvement, consistent with varied institutional agendas consistent with ranking indicators. This analysis highlights the necessity for understanding ranking results in the context of larger scholarly and infrastructural environments. The research provides useful insights for university leaders, policymakers, and scholars by encouraging a rich appreciation of global ranking schemes and how they affect institution assessment and strategic planning. Finally, this study recommends the holistic evaluation of research distinction, challenging stakeholders to look beyond mere rank positions in the ever-growing, competitive higher education sector.