The latest Global Employability University Ranking and Survey (GEURS) for 2025 has highlighted the University of Cape Town (UCT) and Stellenbosch University as leading global institutions known for producing employable graduates.

This unique survey evaluates the employability performance of higher education institutions, making it the only ranking that identifies the world’s top 250 universities based on employer assessments, insights, and expectations.

In its 14th edition, the GEURS gathered an impressive 129,126 votes from 13,240 operational and international managers across 33 countries; marking the largest sample size to date.

Stellenbosch University has climbed to the 245th position in this year’s rankings, a noteworthy improvement from last year's 250th spot. UCT follows closely behind at 243rd, also advancing two places from its previous ranking of 245th for graduate employability.

The report emphasizes that employers increasingly prioritize graduates who have gained practical work experience. While other factors like skills and a digital mindset remain crucial, this trend is becoming exceptionally significant in employer evaluations.

Among the top 250 universities, the United States leads with 52 institutions. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) proudly holds the top position, followed by the California Institute of Technology in second place. In a surprising turn, Harvard University ranks fourth, while Stanford University secures third place.

The United Kingdom's University of Cambridge has earned fifth place, with the University of Oxford not far behind at seventh. A total of 13 UK universities made it into this year's rankings, with Imperial College London taking the tenth spot.

Asia also made a strong showing with 52 representations in the survey, notably featuring ten Indian universities. Peking University in China ranks 11th, followed by Tsinghua University at 19th and Shanghai Jiao Tong University at 35th. The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi experienced a slight dip to 28th place compared to last year's 27th position. The Indian Institute of Science made remarkable strides to secure 47th place, becoming the second Indian university in the top 50.

The report attributes the success of these institutions largely to their focus on technology, which continues to attract international employers.

Egypt marks its presence as the second African nation in this survey, with Cairo University achieving the 247th position; an improvement from its previous rank of 249th. Notably, nearly half of employers (45.9%) indicated they hire graduates based on their ability to learn and adapt to new technologies and trends. Collaboration skills, including communication and teamwork, are also highly valued by 45.1% of employers; essential attributes in today’s dynamic workplace.