Choosing where to study engineering can feel overwhelming—there are so many rankings out there! Different organizations use different criteria, so we recommend checking multiple sources. This will give you a clearer picture of which universities might be the best fit for your goals. If you're still in high school but dreaming of an engineering career, why not test the waters first? Oxford Engineering Summer School offers hands-on engineering courses where you can learn from experts, try out real-world projects, and experience world-class teaching—all before you even apply to university.

Below, we’ve highlighted some of the top engineering schools worldwide (in no particular order). We’ve considered teaching quality, research opportunities, and innovative programs to help you find your perfect match. Remember: the "best" school isn’t just about rankings—it’s about where you will thrive

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA

For decades, MIT has ranked among the best engineering universities in the world, drawing top professors and researchers who work on groundbreaking projects—from offshore energy solutions to wind and tidal power. What makes MIT special? Students don’t just learn theory; they join real-world research, like Transportation@MIT, where teams tackle climate-friendly transport solutions.

If you're a high school student dreaming of engineering, you don’t have to wait for college to dive in! The best summer engineering programs for high school students (like IT's own offerings or Oxford Summer School’s courses) let you experiment with cutting-edge concepts, learn from experts, and even boost your college applications. Imagine studying renewable energy or robotics before freshman year—that’s the kind of head start that sets you apart!

2. California Institute of Technology (Caltech), USA

Don’t let its size fool you—with just 2,000 students, Caltech ranks among the world’s top engineering schools, thanks to its superstar labs like the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (NASA’s go-to for space tech!) and earthquake research centers. Here, engineering isn’t just a major—it’s everywhere, from bioengineering to cutting-edge aerospace projects.

Why high schoolers should take note:

Want hands-on experience early? Caltech’s vibe proves small programs = big opportunities.

Dreaming of rockets or robots? Aerospace engineering high school internships summer 2025 (like those at NASA-linked labs) could be your launchpad! Nobel Prize proof: 35 wins by Caltech grads/faculty—think you could be next?

Summer tip: While Caltech’s undergrad program is ultra-competitive, best summer engineering programs for high school students (like MITES or SIMR) offer similar lab-heavy learning to prep your STEM future.

Bottom line: If you love space, earthquakes, or inventing the future, Caltech’s blend of tiny classes + giant research is gold.