The Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2020 for the second year was released on April 22, and 766 universities from 89 countries and regions participated in the ranking. The impact rankings measure a university’s performance in achieving the United Nations’ (UN) 17 Sustainable Development Goals, which include targets such as good health and well-being, climate action, and gender equality.

YZU’s overall impact ranks 401-600 in the world, and sixth in China. Among 17 goals, the university's target of good health and well-being ranks 301-400 in the world, and third in China. The target of decent work and economic growth ranks 101-200 in the world, and fourth in China. The target of industry innovations and infrastructure ranks 101-200 in the world, and fifth in China.

The impact rankings use carefully calibrated indicators to provide comprehensive and balanced comparisons across three broad areas: research, outreach and stewardship. According to THE, these are the first international rankings to use such criteria.