Best UK universities for graduate social mobility ranked

WorldOpinion
24 Mar 2026 • 4:08 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • The University of Bradford has been named England's top institution for graduate social mobility in the comprehensive 2025 annual rankings.
  • The English Social Mobility Index evaluates how effectively universities support socio-economically disadvantaged students from their enrolment to their post-graduation success.
  • Compiled by London South Bank University, the index draws on data concerning undergraduate access, continuation rates, and subsequent outcomes, including median graduate salaries.
  • Aston University secured second place in the 2025 rankings, with The University of Wolverhampton taking third, and four West Midlands universities featuring in the top 10.
  • Among Russell Group universities, Imperial College London, the London School of Economics, and King’s College London were the highest-ranked, placing eighth, tenth, and eleventh respectively.

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