What are the most popular Universities and Colleges in Albania? uniRank answers this question by publishing the 2025 Albanian University Ranking of 35 Albanian higher-education institutions meeting the following uniRank selection criteria:
Explore the uniRank League Table and University Ranking of 35 Universities in Albania
The Republic of Albania is divided into 12 counties (Albanian: qark or qarqe). A significant number of higher education institutions that meet the uniRank selection criteria are concentrated in Tirana County (Albanian: Qarku i Tiranës), home to the nation's capital, Tirana, and its most populous region. The following uniRank league tables or sub-rankings consider all counties that have at least one Albanian higher education institution meeting the uniRank selection criteria.
Durres (1)
Elbasan (1)
Gjirokaster (1)
Korce (1)
Shkoder (1)
Tirana (27)
Vlore (3)
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Albania's higher education system comprises universities and non-university institutions offering bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees. The sector includes 35 accredited institutions categorized as public (state-funded) or private (independent) universities. Public universities typically have longer histories and larger enrollments, while private institutions emerged post-1990 to meet growing demand. Universities range from comprehensive institutions covering diverse disciplines to specialized schools focusing on fields like agriculture, technology or business. All degrees follow the Bologna Process framework, ensuring international recognition.
Albania's 35 universities demonstrate a significant private sector presence. Private institutions constitute 63% (22 universities), while public universities make up 37% (13 universities). This distribution reflects the expansion of private education since the 1990s, complementing the established public sector. Tirana hosts the highest concentration of both types, serving as Albania's primary academic hub.
While Albanian universities serve critical national roles, none currently rank among the world's top 200 or top 1,000 institutions according to major global rankings. The highest-ranked Albanian institution holds a global position around #4982. This indicates opportunities for enhanced international research collaboration and academic investment to boost global competitiveness.
Q: What is the largest university in Albania?
A: The University of Tirana is Albania's largest and highest-ranked institution, serving over 35,000 students.
Q: Are degrees from Albanian universities recognized internationally?
A: Yes, degrees from accredited institutions follow the Bologna Process and are recognized throughout the European Higher Education Area.
Q: What languages are used for instruction?
A: Most programs are in Albanian, but many universities offer English-taught programs, particularly at master's level and in private institutions.
Q: How affordable is university education in Albania?
A: Public universities charge modest tuition (typically €300-€1000/year), while private institutions range from €2000-€4000/year.
Q: Which city has the most universities?
A: Tirana hosts over half of Albania's universities, including 7 of the top 10 institutions.
Since 2005, UniRank provides original research, valuable information and resources to help you explore and make informed decisions about Albanian universities and their online presence.