---
title: What is the Russell Group and why does it matter?
description: "The Russell Group is a prestigious association of 24 leading UK research universities, representing excellence in research and teaching. However, not being in Russell Group doesn't mean a university is bad. Many excellent universities exist outside the Russell Group too."
url: "https://www.collegeaccessprogram.in/faq/what-is-the-russell-group-and-why-it-matters/"
updated: "2026-01-02"
category: Study in UK
---

# What is the Russell Group and why does it matter?

The Russell Group is a prestigious association of 24 leading UK research universities, representing excellence in research and teaching. However, not being in Russell Group doesn't mean a university is bad. Many excellent universities exist outside the Russell Group too.