The best fashion schools in the world

Whether in the field of business, technology, medicine, or, as in the present case, fashion, rankings of the best schools generate considerable interest and have a significant impact on the reputation and recruitment of their graduates. However, while the evaluation criteria for these rankings may seem objective, they also reflect cultural disparities, institutional biases, and trends that can skew the results. The 2024 ranking of the best fashion schools by CEO World is a perfect example of this. Basing its rankings on the opinions of a large panel of 286,000 industry professionals, it takes into account essential qualitative criteria such as academic reputation, admission criteria, and graduate employability. However, out of the 124 mentioned, American and English schools overwhelmingly dominate the ranking. Similarly, in France, the esteemed French Institute of Fashion finds itself in 35th place, far behind schools such as Esmod and the Paris College of Arts. Without further ado, here are the institutions that have managed to make it into the top ten of the ranking.

Parsons School of Design, United States

Located in New York, Parsons School of Design tops the CEO World ranking. Renowned for its innovative approach to design education, Parsons boasts a vast alumni network and excels in learning and research, alumni networking, and entrepreneurship, as evidenced by its outstanding scores in all evaluated criteria. Notable alumni include Donna Karan and Marc Jacobs.

Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), United States

Located in the heart of Manhattan in New York, the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) ranks second in CEO World's evaluation. With a strong emphasis on industry relevance and practical skills, FIT provides a dynamic learning environment. Notable alumni such as Calvin Klein and Michael Kors contribute to its strong alumni network. Its entrepreneurial initiatives also contribute to its high scores in all evaluation categories.

London College of Fashion, University of the Arts London, United Kingdom

The London College of Fashion, part of the renowned University of the Arts London, stands out as a global hub for fashion education. It encourages creativity and innovation, with notable alumni such as Jimmy Choo and Stella McCartney. Its outstanding performance in learning and research, alumni networking, and entrepreneurship underscores its leadership position in the field. It ranks third in the ranking.

Drexel Westphal College of Media Arts & Design, United States

Based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the Drexel Westphal College of Media Arts & Design offers a diverse range of programs in fashion and design. Notable alumni such as Marc Ecko and Zola Jesus contribute to its strong reputation in the industry. Its emphasis on practical learning and industry links earns it the fourth place in the ranking, with high scores in all evaluated criteria.

ESMOD (École supérieure des arts et techniques de la mode), France

As one of the oldest fashion schools in the world, ESMOD (École supérieure des arts et techniques de la mode) in Paris benefits from a rich tradition of excellence in fashion education. Notable alumni such as Thierry Mugler and Jacquemus reinforce its reputation. ESMOD's commitment to academic rigor, a strong alumni network, and entrepreneurship is reflected in its fifth-place ranking.

Polimoda (Ente per le Arti applicate alla Moda e al Costume), Italy

Located in the historic city of Florence, Polimoda is renowned for its cutting-edge programs in fashion and costume design. Notable alumni such as Massimiliano Giornetti and Stefano Pilati have emerged from its ranks. With a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and industry partnerships, Polimoda equips students with the skills needed to succeed in the global fashion landscape. Its sixth-place ranking reflects its commitment to excellence in learning and research, alumni networking, and entrepreneurship.

Royal College of Art, United Kingdom

The Royal College of Art (RCA), located in London, is a prestigious institution known for its avant-garde approach to fashion education. Notable alumni such as Christopher Bailey and Ozwald Boateng have made their mark on the industry. RCA fosters creativity and critical thinking among its students, earning it a seventh-place ranking and reinforcing its reputation for academic excellence and industry links.

Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London, United Kingdom

Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London (CSM), in London as its name suggests, is celebrated for its pioneering approach to fashion education. Notable alumni such as Alexander McQueen and John Galliano illustrate its influence in the industry. With a dynamic learning environment that encourages experimentation and risk-taking, CSM, as it's affectionately known, ranks eighth despite its international fame.

Swedish School of Textiles - University of Borås, Sweden

Nestled in the picturesque city of Borås, Sweden, the Swedish School of Textiles - University of Borås is a leading institution in textile and fashion education. Notable alumni such as Ann-Sofie Back and Camilla Norrback demonstrate its impact. With a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation, the school prepares students to tackle industry challenges, earning it the ninth place.

National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), India

The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), with campuses across India, is a leading institution for fashion education in the country. Notable alumni such as Manish Arora and Ritu Beri have made significant contributions to the industry. With a rigorous curriculum and industry-focused programs and research, NIFT ranks tenth.