The proliferation of university rankings in the 2000s, alongside higher education reforms and a discourse on academic excellence, is examined through the lens of the Shanghai Ranking's media coverage in France. Despite its initial lack of intended French dissemination, the ranking gained prominence due to its utility for various actors navigating French HE reforms. The study analyzes the intensification of media coverage from 2007, the roles of specific media organizations and individuals, and the prevalence of depreciative framing of French universities to "create a buzz." It highlights the ranking's co-construction as a journalistic resource, a political tool for reform arguments, and a communication asset for university presidents.

Christine Barats