In 2025, advancing gender equality remains a critical focus for higher education, with universities leading through research, inclusive policies, and campus initiatives. The Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025, evaluating contributions to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality), highlight institutions excelling in eliminating discrimination, enhancing women’s access to education, and promoting leadership opportunities. Led by Western Sydney University, the top 10 universities for gender equality in 2025 demonstrate innovative approaches to fostering equity. This article explores their efforts and impact in 2025.
1. Western Sydney University, Australia
Western Sydney University, Australia, leads the global ranking for gender equality in 2025, retaining its top position for the second year with a THE Impact score of 92.3. Serving 50,000 students, the university’s Respectful Relationships program combats sexual violence, while its Athena Swan Bronze accreditation drives diversity. In 2025, 55% of its research on gender equality is authored by women, and 60% of leadership roles are female-held. Its partnerships with local communities and focus on women’s STEM participation make it a global leader in 2025.
2. Institut Mines-Télécom Business School, France
Institut Mines-Télécom Business School (IMT-BS), France, ranks second in 2025 with a score of 89.7. Based in Évry, IMT-BS integrates gender equality into its curriculum, with 40% of its 1,500 students female. In 2025, its research center publishes 100 gender-focused papers annually, and its mentorship programs support women in tech. The school’s inclusive policies, including gender-neutral facilities, and 50% female faculty enhance its reputation. IMT-BS’s commitment to equity in business education makes it a standout in 2025.
3. The Women University Multan, Pakistan
The Women University Multan, Pakistan, secures third place in 2025 with a score of 88.5. As Multan’s first women-only university, serving 8,000 students, it empowers women through education, with 90% of graduates pursuing advanced studies. In 2025, its Women’s Leadership Center offers career workshops, and 70% of its research focuses on gender equality. Affordable tuition ($500/year) and safe campus spaces make it a beacon for women’s education in South Asia in 2025.
4. Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia
Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia, ranks fourth in 2025 with a score of 87.9. Based in Surabaya, it enrolls 35,000 students, with 72% of new applicants female in 2025. Its campus support units provide safe spaces for reporting harassment, and 60% of its gender research is women-led. In 2025, initiatives to boost female STEM enrollment and partnerships with UN Women enhance its impact. Universitas Airlangga’s inclusive policies make it a regional leader in gender equality in 2025.
5. Al Ain University, United Arab Emirates
Al Ain University, UAE, fifth in 2025 with a score of 86.4, serves 10,000 students and prioritizes female enrollment (65% female students). Its Women’s Empowerment Program offers scholarships, and 50% of leadership roles are held by women. In 2025, the university’s research on gender equality in the workplace gains traction, with 80 papers published annually. Al Ain’s safe campus and cultural inclusivity make it a key player in advancing gender equity in the Middle East in 2025.
6. Towson University, United States
Towson University, Maryland, USA, ranks sixth in 2025 with a score of 85.2. With 20,000 students, Towson’s Center for Student Diversity promotes gender equity through workshops and mentorship. In 2025, 55% of its faculty are women, and its research on gender-based violence produces 70 papers annually. The university’s inclusive policies, including gender-neutral housing, and low tuition ($10,000/year for residents) enhance access. Towson’s commitment to equity makes it a U.S. leader in 2025.
7. Fatima Jinnah Women University, Pakistan
Fatima Jinnah Women University (FJWU), Pakistan, seventh in 2025 with a score of 84.7, is Rawalpindi’s first women-only university, serving 7,000 students. Its Journal of Gender and Social Issues publishes 50 papers annually, and 85% of its graduates enter professional fields. In 2025, FJWU’s counseling services and safe campus spaces empower women. Affordable tuition ($400/year) and partnerships with U.S. institutions enhance its impact, making FJWU a vital force for gender equality in 2025.
8. Flinders University, Australia
Flinders University, Australia, ranks eighth in 2025 with a score of 84.1, climbing to joint-fifth in the THE rankings. Based in Adelaide, it serves 25,000 students and holds Athena Swan Bronze accreditation. In 2025, 60% of its research on gender equality is women-authored, and its STEM programs boost female enrollment (40%). Flinders’ campus safety initiatives and partnerships with UN Women make it a leader in fostering inclusivity in Australia in 2025.
9. Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Argentina
Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Argentina, ninth in 2025 with a score of 83.5, serves 90,000 students. Its Gender Studies Institute produces 120 papers annually, focusing on women’s rights. In 2025, the university’s inclusive policies, with 50% female leadership, and free tuition enhance access. Community outreach programs addressing gender-based violence strengthen its impact. Rosario’s vibrant campus and affordability make it a Latin American leader in gender equality in 2025.
10. Alisher Navo’i Tashkent State University of Uzbek Language and Literature, Uzbekistan (tied)
Alisher Navo’i Tashkent State University, Uzbekistan, ties for tenth in 2025 with a score of 83.0. Serving 5,000 students, it promotes gender equality through language and cultural studies, with 60% female enrollment. In 2025, its research on women’s roles in Central Asian literature gains recognition, producing 40 papers annually. Affordable tuition ($1,000/year) and safe campus spaces make it an emerging hub for gender equity in 2025.
10. La Trobe University, Australia (tied)
La Trobe University, Australia, also tenth in 2025 with a score of 83.0, serves 38,000 students in Melbourne. Its SAGE Athena Swan program drives gender equity, with 55% female leadership. In 2025, La Trobe publishes 100 gender-focused papers and offers mentorship for women in STEM. Its Workplace Gender Equality Agency accreditation and community initiatives, like Square the Ledger, make it a leader in fostering inclusivity in 2025.
Conclusion
In 2025, Western Sydney University, Institut Mines-Télécom Business School, The Women University Multan, Universitas Airlangga, Al Ain University, Towson University, Fatima Jinnah Women University, Flinders University, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, and Alisher Navo’i Tashkent State University alongside La Trobe University lead global efforts in gender equality, with THE Impact scores of 83.0–92.3. These institutions excel in women-led research, inclusive policies, and safe campuses, empowering women through education and leadership. From Australia’s progressive frameworks to Pakistan’s women-focused universities, they set the standard for gender equity in 2025.
