ShanghaiRanking Consultancy is a fully independent organization specializing in research and consultation on higher education intelligence. Since 2009, it has been the official publisher of the highly respected Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU). The ARWU, first published in 2003 by the Center for World-Class Universities at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, is updated annually and objectively ranks universities worldwide using six indicators.

These include the number of Nobel Prize and Fields Medal winners among alumni and staff, the number of highly cited researchers, and the number of articles published in prestigious journals like Nature and Science. Over 1800 universities are ranked, with the top 1000 being published. The ARWU's scientifically sound methodology and transparent approach have made it the most widely used and influential international ranking.

Its influence has extended to university campuses, governments, and the media worldwide, serving as a valuable resource for identifying national strengths and weaknesses, facilitating reform, and informing new initiatives. ShanghaiRanking Consultancy's dedication to providing accurate and comprehensive rankings has solidified its reputation as a trusted authority in the field of higher education assessment