The concept of university rankings is rapidly becoming one of the most important tools used by both students and academic professionals across the world. Universities use them to define their performance, professional reputation and status, whilst students use them to choose their future place of study and research. With the higher education sector widely acknowledged as one of the essential drivers of economic growth, this places an ever greater importance on the systems for assessing and comparing the higher education options available.Recognising the need for greater clarity, the European Commission recently implemented the second phase of its major initiative U-Multirank - independent from public authorities and universities. Its aim is the design and testing of a new multidimensional university ranking system, one with a more global outreach and offering an alternative to systems that are focused mainly on research excellence.Targeting universities worldwide, and seeking to integrate different dimensions of excellence into ranking systems, U-Multirank will publish its first results in early 2014 reporting on at least 500 higher education institutions, with the coverage of institutions and fields to be extended progressively thereafter. It is hoped that a comprehensive ranking system will assist policymakers in developing longer term strategies as part of the broader higher education modernisation agenda.This annual international symposium, now in its fifth year, will assess the latest developments and future outlook of the U-Multirank initiative, and the challenges that lie ahead in maintaining comprehensive and user-friendly systems for ranking universities. Indicators and data collection are key areas which need to be addressed and explored through an integrated and joined-up approach under the guidance of the European Commission. The symposium offers an invaluable opportunity to discuss the dynamics between international rankings and national initiatives developed in various countries, collaborate and communicate strategies and share best practices.Public Policy Exchange welcomes the participation of all key partners, responsible authorities and stakeholders. The symposium will support the exchange of ideas and encourage delegates to engage in thought-provoking topical debate.