<p>I think we are digressing. It's quite pointless to argue which ranking list is better than the other because each has its own methodology and which you agree with depends very much on what you value more. Traditionally, the lists that attempt to rank all the universities in the world weighs very heavily on research prowess (or reputation, which hinges on research prowess anyway). It is in no way representative of the student quality at the institution, not to mention the quality of education that is offered. Take NUS for example. Well enough, being the NATIONAL university of Singapore (where all the academia in Singapore congregate) and one of the only TWO research universities here (effectively receiving half of the government funding or more), it produces enough research for it to be ranked as high as 18th on the THES. But that speaks nothing about the students. Our top students invariably end up at overseas universities, they simply dread going to the local universities (unless you're doing medicine). Surely, there are still many bright students at our local varsities but they are more likely to be 'mugging' (our colloquia for studying) their asses off to keep themselves on the dean's lists rather than engaging in intellectual discussions with you. While I will not say categorically that the education experience in NUS is inferior, I will at least say it is very different. If you're doing engineering, NUS is not so bad. The academic rigor you get here will definitely be more intense than you will get elsewhere. But you're doing the more art-sy majors, or want a more well-rounded education, or more research opportunities, I suggest you stay away from Singapore.</p>