Ivan Franko National University of Lviv

Ivan Franko National University of Lviv (IFNUL) is the oldest university in present-day Ukraine. The history of the university can be traced back to 1661, when it was founded as a Jesuit college. The college was granted the status of a university by King John II Casimir of Poland in 1661, and it quickly became one of the leading universities in Central Europe.

In the 18th century, the university was reformed by the Austrian Emperor Joseph II, and it became a secular institution. The university continued to grow and develop throughout the 19th century, and it became a major center for Ukrainian culture and learning.

After World War I, Lviv became part of Poland, and the university was renamed the Jan Kazimierz University of Lviv. The university continued to thrive during the interwar period, and it produced a number of notable alumni, including the writers Stefan Banach and Stanisław Lem.

During World War II, Lviv was occupied by the Soviet Union and the Nazis. The university was closed during the war, and many of its faculty and students were killed.

After the war, Lviv became part of the Soviet Union, and the university was reopened as Lviv State University. The university was subjected to Soviet propaganda and censorship, but it remained a center for Ukrainian culture and learning.

In 1991, Ukraine gained its independence, and Lviv State University was renamed Ivan Franko National University of Lviv. The university has continued to grow and develop since independence, and it is now one of the leading universities in Ukraine.

IFNUL has played an important role in the history of Ukraine. It has produced many notable alumni, including writers, scientists, politicians, and cultural figures. The university has also been a center for Ukrainian culture and learning for centuries.

Ivan Franko National University of Lviv is ranked as the #8 top university in Ukraine during 2026. The rank is improved by 1 point from last year.