University rankings

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university of birmingham experts best uk universities 2026 times higher education awards etc

Six surprising universities are selected by education experts as the best in the UK in 2026

Only two Russell Group universities are nominated for University of the Year

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Ranked: Every Russell Group university in the Daily Mail 2027 guide – Cardiff fell six places

Birmingham was named university of the year after rising seven places to 13th, while Cardiff fell six places to 36th, the lowest of any Russell Group university

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The 10 UK unis that catch the most students smoking or vaping in halls – many are Russell Group

Manchester Metropolitan Uni fined students £10,980 for smoking and vaping since 2024

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Ranked: Welsh unis by international fee reliance – Wrexham at 29.6 per cent of total income

Cardiff and Swansea both derive less than 16 per cent of income from international fees, as international applications to Welsh universities fall for the second consecutive year