Universities in Sri Lanka
Explore top-rated universities and colleges in Sri Lanka. Discover rankings, campus details, and key information about top Sri Lankan higher education institutions to help you choose the best place to study.
Sri Lanka is home to 31 universities and colleges listed in our directory, spread across 12 cities. Of these, 21 are public and 7 are private institutions. The highest-ranked institution is Eastern University, Sri Lanka (world rank #1204). The oldest dates back to 1974. Use the filters to compare them by ranking, campus setting, and control type.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many universities are there in Sri Lanka?
Our directory lists 31 universities and colleges in Sri Lanka across 12 cities. You can filter them by control type, campus setting, and more.
Which is the top-ranked university in Sri Lanka?
Based on world ranking, Eastern University, Sri Lanka is the highest-ranked institution in Sri Lanka in our directory (world rank #1204).
Are there public and private universities in Sri Lanka?
Yes. Sri Lanka has 21 public and 7 private institutions in our directory. Public universities are typically state-funded, while private institutions are independently run.
How do I choose the right university in Sri Lanka?
Compare institutions by world and country ranking, location, campus setting (urban, suburban, or rural), and control type. Open any university profile for detailed admission information, programs, and fees.
What is the difference between an urban and a rural campus?
An urban campus sits in or near a city, putting internships, public transport, and cultural life within easy reach, though living costs are often higher. A rural or suburban campus offers a quieter, community-focused environment with more space and typically lower costs. Use the Campus Type filter to match the setting to your lifestyle.
Top Universities in Sri Lanka
Eastern University, Sri Lanka
Chenkalady, Eastern Province, Sri Lanka
University of Sri Jayewardenepura
Nugegoda, Western Province, Sri Lanka
University of Colombo
Colombo, Western, Sri Lanka
University of Jaffna
Jaffna, Northern, Sri Lanka
University of Peradeniya
Peradeniya, Kandy, Sri Lanka
Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
Belihuloya, Sabaragamuwa, Sri Lanka
University of Moratuwa
Moratuwa, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology
Malabe, Sri Lanka
University of Kelaniya
Kelaniya, Western, Sri Lanka
Rajarata University of Sri Lanka
Anuradhapura, North Central, Sri Lanka
University of Ruhuna
Matara, Southern, Sri Lanka
Wayamba University of Sri Lanka
Kuliyapitiya, North Western, Sri Lanka
General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University
Colombo, Western, Sri Lanka
South Eastern University of Sri Lanka
Oluvil, Eastern Province, Sri Lanka
Informatics Institute of Technology
Colombo, Western, Sri Lanka
Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka
Homagama, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka Law College
Colombo, Western, Sri Lanka
Bandaranaike Centre for International Studies
Colombo, Western, Sri Lanka
Open University of Sri Lanka
Nugegoda, Western Province, Sri Lanka
University of the Visual and Performing Arts
Colombo, Western, Sri Lanka
