The idea of structured higher education is as old as civilization itself. Across ancient societies, scholars gathered to teach astronomy, medicine, philosophy, and politics, forming the earliest learning hubs. But which of these institutions qualifies as the oldest university in the world?
The answer depends on how we define a university. Is it a place where degrees were awarded? Or a center of higher learning, regardless of structure?
Many institutions claim this title—from Nalanda in India to al-Qarawiyyin in Morocco. This blog by MSM Unify covers several critical questions including:
- Which is the oldest university in the world?
- Is Nalanda the oldest university in the world?
- Which is the oldest medical university in the world?
- Where is the world’s oldest university located?
- How old is the oldest university in the world?
Excited already? Let’s dive into thousands of years of academic history and enjoy this fun and insightful read!
Ancient universities
Before structured universities existed, centers of learning in India, China, Egypt, and Greece played crucial roles in shaping education.
Read on to learn about these ancient universities that are the origins of higher Learning and some key details about them.
Takshashila (Taxila): The First Learning Center
- Location: Present-day Pakistan
- Founded: 5th Century BCE
Takshashila, or Taxila, was an ancient educational hub. It welcomed students from Persia, Greece, China, and India, teaching subjects like:
- Medicine
- Political Science
- Military Strategy
- Astronomy
Fun fact: The famous economist and strategist Chanakya, known for the Arthashastra, was one of its most distinguished scholars from Takshashila.
But, many of you might wonder why isn’t Takshashila the oldest university in the world?
The answer is that it lacked a formalized degree system and did not operate like modern universities, and thus Takshashila is not recognized as the the oldest university in the world.
Nalanda University: The First Residential University
- Location: Bihar, India
- Founded: 5th Century CE
Nalanda University was the world’s first true residential university, housing over 10,000 students and 2,000 teachers. It specialized in:
- Buddhist Philosophy
- Logic & Mathematics
- Astronomy
- Medicine
Students from China, Korea, and Southeast Asia traveled to study at Nalanda, with Xuanzang (Hsuan Tsang) writing about its rigorous entrance exams and structured curriculum.
Now, curious minds might ask, why isn’t Nalanda the oldest university in the world?
Here’s the reason! Although one of the greatest ancient institutions, Nalanda was destroyed in the 12th century and ceased to operate for centuries. It was revived in 2010, but its continuous operation was lost.
The oldest universities in the world (Still operating today)
Unlike Nalanda and Takshashila, some ancient universities continue to function today.
So, which is the oldest running university in the world?
The University of al-Qarawiyyin in Fez, Morocco, founded in 859 CE, is the oldest functioning university in the world according to UNESCO and Guinness World Records.
Below is a table with some interesting information about the oldest university in the world. Read on!
|
University |
Country | Founded |
Key facts |
|
University of al-Qarawiyyin |
Morocco | 859 CE | Recognized by UNESCO & Guinness as the oldest running university in the world |
| University of Bologna | Italy | 1088 CE |
The oldest university in Europe and the first to introduce structured degrees |
|
University of Oxford |
UK | c. 1096 CE | The oldest university in the English-speaking world |
| University of Paris (Sorbonne) | France | c. 1150 CE |
One of the first institutions in Europe offering formal education |
|
University of Salamanca |
Spain | 1134 CE | The third-oldest European university |
| University of Cambridge | UK | 1209 CE |
Established by scholars fleeing Oxford, now one of the world’s top universities |
The oldest medical university in the world
The Schola Medica Salernitana (Salerno Medical School), founded in 9th-century Italy, is the oldest medical university in the world. It revolutionized medical education with scientific methods and practical training.
Are you wondering, why is this important today?
Many modern medical universities still use principles developed at Schola Medica Salernitana, blending theory with clinical practice.
Why are these universities still relevant today?
These universities have adapted over time and are still prestigious global institutions. Many students dream of studying at places like Oxford, Bologna, or al-Qarawiyyin.
If you’re considering studying abroad, MSM Unify overseas education consultants can guide you on how to get into these historical institutions.
Conlcusion
The oldest universities in the world have shaped education as we know it. Whether it’s the philosophy of Nalanda, the structured degrees of Bologna, or the continuous operation of al-Qarawiyyin, these institutions still influence global learning.
For students looking to join these prestigious universities, MSM Unify overseas education consultants provide expert guidance on choosing the right university, securing scholarships, and applying successfully.
So, explore your study abroad options with MSM Unify today!
FAQs
1. What is the oldest university in the world that still operates?
The University of al-Qarawiyyin in Morocco, founded in 859 CE, is the oldest running university in the world.
2. Is Nalanda University the oldest university of the world?
Nalanda was one of the earliest (5th century CE), but it ceased to operate for centuries, so it’s not the oldest running university.
3. Where is the world’s oldest university located?
The oldest university in the world, the University of al-Qarawiyyin is located in Fez, Morocco.
4. Which is the oldest university museum in the world?
The Ashmolean Museum at Oxford University (1683) is considered the oldest university museum in the world.
5. How old is the oldest university in the world?
As of 2025, the University of al-Qarawiyyin, the oldest university in the world, is 1,166 years old.
