Universities are the backbone of modern education. They serve as centers for research, innovation, and knowledge-sharing. While we often think of universities as a modern concept, the truth is that higher education has existed for more than a thousand years. Ancient universities not only shaped cultures but also influenced science, philosophy, law, and religion across generations.

In this article, we will explore the top 10 oldest universities in the world that are still active today. These institutions stand as living proof of humanity’s long-standing quest for knowledge.

^{1. Taxila University (Ancient India) – 6th to 5th century BCE}

Taxila University, also known as Takshashila University, was one of the world’s earliest and most renowned centers of higher learning. Located near present-day Taxila in Pakistan’s Punjab province, it flourished for centuries as a hub of education, philosophy, politics, and culture. Scholars consider it not only a university but also a meeting ground where the intellectual traditions of India, Greece, Persia, and China interacted.

Origins and Establishment

The roots of Taxila date back to around the 6th–5th century BCE, during the reign of the Gandhara kingdom. Ancient texts like the Gita, Mahabharata, Jatakas, and Buddhist scriptures mention Taxila as a city of great learning. Unlike modern universities with a single campus, Taxila functioned more like a collection of gurukuls (teacher’s residences), where various scholars offered specialized instruction.

Taxila’s reputation grew under the Achaemenid Empire (6th century BCE), when it became an important administrative and cultural center. Later, under the Mauryan Empire, especially during the reign of Chandragupta Maurya and Ashoka, the city rose to its intellectual peak.

Academic Excellence and Subjects

Students from across Asia—including regions of modern-day India, Tibet, China, Babylon, and Greece—traveled to Taxila to study. Entry was highly competitive, and students were often required to master basic education before being admitted.

The curriculum at Taxila was vast and diverse. Subjects included:

• Religion and Philosophy: Hinduism, Buddhism, Vedic texts, and logic.
• Medicine (Ayurveda): Surgery, anatomy, and herbal treatments.
• Mathematics and Astronomy: Geometry, arithmetic, astrology, and cosmology.
• Military Science: Strategy, archery, and weapon training.
• Law and Politics: Governance, diplomacy, and jurisprudence.
• Arts and Languages: Sanskrit, grammar, poetry, and music.

One of the most celebrated teachers of Taxila was Chanakya (Kautilya), the political thinker and author of the Arthashastra. He is credited with mentoring Chandragupta Maurya, who went on to establish the Mauryan Empire.

2. Nalanda University (India) – 5th century CE

Nalanda University, located in present-day Bihar, India, is one of the oldest and most prestigious centers of learning in the world. Established in the 5th century CE during the Gupta Empire, it became a global hub for knowledge, attracting scholars from across Asia, including China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, and Central Asia. The university is considered a shining example of India’s rich educational heritage.

Nalanda was not just a place of religious studies but a multidisciplinary institution. It offered courses in philosophy, medicine, mathematics, astronomy, logic, and literature alongside Hinduism & Buddhist studies. The campus spread across 14 hectares with impressive libraries, monasteries, lecture halls, and residential quarters. At its peak, Nalanda housed over 10,000 students and 2,000 teachers, making it a true international university of its time.

One of the most remarkable features of Nalanda was its library, known as Dharmaganja, which consisted of three multi-storied buildings—Ratnasagara, Ratnodadhi, and Ratnaranjaka. These contained countless manuscripts, texts, and scholarly works. Unfortunately, the library was set ablaze in the 12th century during the invasion of Bakhtiyar Khilji, leading to the decline of the institution.

Despite its destruction, Nalanda’s legacy continues to inspire. The remains of its grand structures are preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbolizing India’s contribution to global education. In 2014, a modern Nalanda University was re-established near the ancient ruins, supported by several countries. It aims to revive the spirit of cross-cultural learning and intellectual exchange that once defined the original university.

Nalanda University remains a timeless reminder of India’s intellectual glory and stands as an enduring beacon of knowledge, wisdom, and cultural exchange.

3. Vikramashila University (India) – (783 to 820 CE)

Vikramashila University was one of the most prominent centers of learning in ancient India, established during the late 8th century by King Dharmapala of the Pala dynasty. Along with Nalanda and Odantapuri, it became a leading hub for Hinduism & Buddhist education and attracted students and scholars from across Asia. Located in present-day Bhagalpur district of Bihar, Vikramashila played a key role in preserving and spreading Hinduism & Buddhist philosophy, Tantric practices, and higher education for nearly four centuries.

The university was founded mainly to fill the gap in Hinduism & Buddhist education when Nalanda faced decline due to internal conflicts and growing criticism. King Dharmapala envisioned Vikramashila as a place of excellence that would nurture highly skilled scholars. The institution quickly rose to fame for its rigorous curriculum and strict discipline.

Vikramashila University was organized in a grand manner, spread over a vast area with more than one hundred monasteries and six large gates, each guarded by scholars known as Dvarapanditas. The central hall housed the famous Vajra Sena, where debates and discussions were held. The main subjects taught included Hinduism & Buddhist philosophy, logic, grammar, metaphysics, medicine, and astrology. However, it became most famous for the study of Tantric Buddhism, which attracted monks from Tibet, China, Nepal, and other regions.

At its peak, Vikramashila housed over 100 teachers and more than 1,000 students. Some of the greatest scholars of that time, such as Atisha Dipankara, who later spread Buddhism to Tibet, were associated with the university. The institution was known for maintaining very high standards in education, with strict examinations before admitting new students.

Unfortunately, like Nalanda, Vikramashila University met its downfall in the 12th century. During the invasions led by Bakhtiyar Khilji around 1193 CE, the university was destroyed, its libraries burnt, and monks killed or dispersed. This tragic event marked the end of one of the greatest Hinduism & Buddhist learning centers of India.

Today, the ruins of Vikramashila stand as a reminder of its glorious past. Archaeological excavations have revealed the remains of a large stupa, monasteries, and other structures, showcasing the scale of the institution. Efforts have been made to preserve and promote the site as a heritage monument.

Vikramashila University holds a significant place in Indian history as a symbol of the golden age of learning and culture. It not only enriched Hinduism & Buddhist philosophy but also played an important role in connecting India with the wider intellectual traditions of Asia.

4. University of al-Qarawiyyin (Fez, Morocco) – 859 AD

The University of al-Qarawiyyin is officially recognized by UNESCO and the Guinness World Records as the oldest existing and continually operating university in the world.

• Founder: Fatima al-Fihri, a visionary woman who dedicated her wealth to education.
• Significance: Originally a madrasa, the institution taught Islamic law, theology, and eventually expanded to sciences, mathematics, astronomy, and philosophy.
• Legacy: The university has been a bridge between Islamic knowledge and European scholars during the Middle Ages.

Today, Al-Qarawiyyin continues to thrive as a respected center of Islamic studies.

5. Al-Azhar University (Cairo, Egypt) – 970 AD

Founded during the Fatimid Caliphate, Al-Azhar University is one of the most prestigious Islamic institutions.

• Specialization: Islamic law, Arabic grammar, logic, philosophy, and theology.
• Influence: Considered the “Vatican” of the Muslim world, Al-Azhar provides religious guidance across nations.
• Modern Role: Along with religious studies, it now offers courses in engineering, medicine, and science.

It stands as a shining example of how ancient Islamic learning shaped education globally.

6. Jagaddala University (Ancient India) – 11th Century

Jagaddala University was one of the great centers of Buddhist learning in ancient India, flourishing during the Pala dynasty. Established in the late 11th century by King Ramapala of the Pala Empire, this university became a prominent seat of Mahayana and Vajrayana, alongside other renowned institutions like Nalanda, Vikramashila, Somapura, and Odantapuri. Though not as widely documented as Nalanda, Jagaddala played an important role in preserving Hinduism & Buddhist philosophy and culture during a time when Hinduism & Buddhism was facing decline in the Indian subcontinent.

Located in present-day Varendra region (modern northern Bangladesh), Jagaddala was strategically built to strengthen Hinduism & Buddhist education and monastic life in Bengal. The Pala kings were great patrons of learning, and their contributions gave rise to some of the world’s oldest universities. Jagaddala, in particular, was known for specializing in Vajrayana Buddhism, a tradition that spread from India to Tibet, Nepal, and other parts of Asia.

Historical records suggest that Jagaddala University was not just a monastery but also a research and translation hub. Several Hinduism & Buddhist scholars associated with the university contributed significantly to Hinduism & Buddhist literature. Tibetan sources mention that many important Sanskrit texts were translated into Tibetan here, preserving Hinduism & Buddhist teachings for future generations. The university was also a center for Tantric studies, philosophy, and logic, attracting monks and students from faraway lands.

Archaeological discoveries in the Rajshahi division of Bangladesh have unearthed ruins believed to be linked to Jagaddala University. Excavations revealed terracotta plaques, monastic cells, and ancient artifacts, all indicating a flourishing intellectual and spiritual life. Though the exact extent of the university complex remains uncertain, it is widely accepted as one of the five great Mahaviharas established by the Pala dynasty.

Jagaddala University’s decline came in the 12th–13th centuries, when invasions and the spread of Islam in Bengal gradually led to the downfall of Hinduism & Buddhist centers. Many monks fled to Tibet and Nepal, carrying with them manuscripts and traditions that continued to influence Hinduism & Buddhist practices abroad.

Today, Jagaddala University remains a symbol of the rich intellectual history of Bengal and the Pala Empire. Though less famous than Nalanda or Vikramashila, its contributions to Hinduism & Buddhist philosophy and cross-cultural exchange were immense. As archaeological research continues, Jagaddala’s legacy is increasingly recognized as a vital link in the chain of ancient universities that shaped Asia’s educational and spiritual heritage.

7. University of Bologna (Italy) – 1088 AD

The University of Bologna holds the title of the oldest university in Europe.

• Focus: Law, literature, philosophy, and the arts.
• Unique Contribution: Introduced the term universitas, meaning a community of teachers and scholars.
• Alumni: Dante Alighieri, Petrarch, and Copernicus.

Bologna set the foundation for the European university system that still exists today.

8. University of Oxford (England) – 1096 AD

The University of Oxford began teaching as early as 1096, making it one of the most ancient English-speaking universities.

• Growth: Expanded significantly after 1167 when King Henry II banned English students from attending the University of Paris.
• Global Reputation: Ranked among the best in the world for research and innovation.
• Famous Alumni: 30 UK Prime Ministers, Nobel Prize winners, and global leaders.

Oxford’s prestige has only grown, making it both ancient and modern.

9. University of Paris (France) – 1150 AD

The University of Paris, also known as the Sorbonne, became a major European center of knowledge.

• Focus: Theology and philosophy.
• Historical Influence: Played a key role in shaping Catholic doctrine during the Middle Ages.
• Challenges: Suppressed during the French Revolution (1793) but restructured into multiple modern universities.

The Sorbonne remains a respected name in global education.

10. University of Cambridge (England) – 1209 AD

Established when scholars fled Oxford after disputes, the University of Cambridge quickly became a hub of innovation.

• Strengths: Mathematics, science, technology, and humanities.
• Achievements: Home to the famous Cambridge University Press, the oldest publishing house in the world.
• Alumni: Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Alan Turing, and Stephen Hawking.

Cambridge is an ancient institution that continues to lead in science and research.

11. University of Salamanca (Spain) – 1218 AD

The University of Salamanca is the oldest in Spain and among the earliest in Europe.

• Legacy: Known for shaping the Spanish language.
• Historical Role: Christopher Columbus consulted Salamanca scholars about his expedition to the New World.
• Focus Areas: Law, language, and humanities.

It remains one of Spain’s most respected universities.

12. University of Padua (Italy) – 1222 AD

Founded by scholars who left Bologna, the University of Padua became a leading center for innovation.

• Contributions: Galileo Galilei taught here.
• Fields of Study: Medicine, law, astronomy, and philosophy.
• Reputation: Known for academic freedom and scientific discovery.

Padua stands as a symbol of Renaissance-era learning.

13. University of Naples Federico II (Italy) – 1224 AD

Founded by Emperor Frederick II, this was the first publicly funded university in Europe.

• Goal: To create an institution free from church control.
• Focus Areas: Law, philosophy, and public administration.
• Modern Role: Today, it is a leading Italian research center.

Naples Federico II is a pioneer in state-supported education.

14. University of Coimbra (Portugal) – 1290 AD

The University of Coimbra is one of the oldest universities in continuous operation in Europe.

• Origins: Began in Lisbon and later moved to Coimbra.
• UNESCO Status: Recognized as a World Heritage Site.
• Legacy: Famous for law, humanities, and science.

It remains Portugal’s most prestigious academic institution.