Best universities for reducing inequalities 2026
Universities are key drivers of tackling social change and reducing inequalities in their local communities and globally. Explore the top 100 universities for reducing inequalities based on data collected for the Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings
Published on June 24 2026
Last updated June 23 2026
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First-generation students and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds are still poorly represented in higher education. But universities are working hard to rectify this, and the Sustainability Impact Ratings are an indicator of which institutions are doing this successfully.
To compile this ranking, we mapped how universities around the world are committing to the 17 United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. The SDGs are a global call to action to tackle poverty, climate change and inequality.
The SDGs look to tackle some of today’s biggest global issues, and SDG 10 in particular covers reducing inequalities.
Some of the metrics that helped measure which universities are excelling at reducing inequalities were the number of first-generation students, the number of students from developing countries, the proportion of students and staff with disabilities, measures against discrimination and the amount of research a university undertakes on reduced inequalities. More information on the methodology can be found here.
These are the top five universities for reducing inequality:
1. University of Huddersfield
The University of Huddersfield has implemented a range of anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies for students and staff.
The university offers mentoring, counselling and peer support to members of the university community: for example, with care-experienced students through the work of care-leaver support coordinators, or among staff through the work of diversity champions and the networks for BAME, LGBTQI+, female and disabled staff.
2. Western Sydney University
The disability service at Western Sydney University is made up of a team of professional disability advisers and trained educational support staff. The service helps with pre-admission advice, academic support and advocacy on disability-related issues.
There is also a wide range of support for international students. There are guides providing practical advice on living and studying in Australia, as well as important information about mental health and loneliness.
There is also a specific support centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
3. RMIT University
RMIT University is committed to working across all the SDGs, and SDG 10 is no exception.
RMIT is conducting a number of research projects that explore inequalities in all aspects of society in Australia and beyond. One such project focuses on the liveability of Australian cities through analysing public transport systems, public open spaces, housing affordability, walkability, employment and food and alcohol environments.
4. Flinders University
In early 2026, Flinders University launched Agenda 2035: Impact with Purpose, to mark the university’s 60th anniversary. The strategy aims to increase access to high-quality education for students from diverse backgrounds as well as creating solutions to economic challenges.
The university is a partner for the Centre for Social Impact, which is a national and research collaboration that aims to catalyse social change.
5. University of Canberra
The University of Canberra moves up five places to re-enter into the top five this year. It is a relatively new university having been established in 1990.
The university is also committed to recruiting staff and students from under-represented groups.
Recent research projects include exploring better economic outcomes for women, medication accessibility and care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.
The top 100 universities for reducing inequality: 2026
View the full ranking for reducing inequalities here
