An anatomy of the academic ranking of world universities (Shanghai ranking)

Abstract International academic rankings of research universities are widely applied and heavily criticised. Amongst the many international rankings, Shanghai ranking has been particularly influential. Although this ranking’s primary data generally accessible its methods published in outline format, it does not follow that outputs predictable or straightforward. In practice, annual time series rely on rules complex, variable, fully revealed. Patterns changes may be misinterpreted as intrinsic properties institutions systems when they actually beyond influence any university nation. This article dissects connect raw institutional to ranking, using 2020 edition a reference. Analysing an ARWU review over 2004–2016, we show how exogenous methodological have often driven ranking. Stakeholders can misled if believe institutions’ performance. We hope inform warn media, governments, about merits risks evaluate relative performance evolution.