Top 30 cities for students in the world

Methodology: QS ranks cities with a population of at least 250,000, and with at least two universities placing in the QS World University Rankings. The ranking offers a powerful lens into the sentiments of both prospective and former students, with over 98,000 survey responses contributing to the Desirability (prospective students) and Student View (former students) indexes.

Quacquarelli Symonds(QS) has released the list of Best Student Cities for 2023, with London emerging as the top city for students looking to study abroad. The capital city of the UK has been bagging the top spot since 2018.

Munich and Seoul share the second position this year, followed by Zurich in the fourth spot. Around 140 cities have been ranked by QS this time.

The rankings are based on six key categories: University Rankings, Student Mix, Desirability, Employer Activity, Affordability, and Student Voice. All the indicators are given equal weightage when calculating the overall scores.

With an overall score of 100, London got 94.8 in Ranking, 94.9 in Desirability, 19.4 in Affordability, 92.7 in Employer Activity, 94.9 in Student Mix, and 98.5 in Student View.

QS World University Rankings 2024 Out

Interestingly, four London-based universities feature on the QS World University Rankings in the top 100 list this time. Imperial College London at the sixth spot, UCL at eighth, King’s College London at 37th, and The London School of Economics and Political Science at 56th position have been rated as the best colleges in the city.

Additionally, four Indian cities feature on the list. With an overall score of 48.5, Mumbai is placed in the 103rd spot. Bangalore followed it at 114th, Chennai in 125rd, and Delhi at 129th position.

upGrad Abroad Team

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In a world increasingly defined by global connectivity and cultural exchange, the choice of where to pursue higher education has never been more exciting or daunting. The Campus Advisor’s latest release, “Top 50 Student Cities in the World for 2023“, offers a comprehensive guide for students navigating this crucial decision.

This ranking sheds light on what makes a city truly student-friendly. It takes into account factors like cost of living, nightlife, public transport, amenities, safety, and, most importantly, the experiences and opinions of current students.

These cities are not just hubs of academic excellence; they are vibrant, dynamic environments that offer a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, social opportunities, and personal growth.

From the historic streets of Milan to the bustling avenues of Melbourne, each city presents a unique blend of tradition and modernity, creating an ideal backdrop for the transformative journey of higher education.

RankCityCountryOverall Score50MilanItaly3.8149AucklandNew Zealand3.8248NottinghamUnited Kingdom3.8447ParisFrance3.8646PécsHungary3.8745LeuvenBelgium3.8844LilleFrance3.9043AalborgDenmark3.9142TokyoJapan3.9241AustinUnited States3.9240UtrechtNetherlands3.9439Ann ArborUnited States3.9538DublinIreland3.9637PoznanPoland3.9836MunichGermany3.9935VilniusLithuania4.0134ManchesterUnited Kingdom4.0333PittsburghUnited States4.0432Kuala LumpurMalaysia4.0531Athens GAUnited States4.0730LiverpoolUnited Kingdom4.1129TorontoCanada4.1228AmsterdamNetherlands4.1427CopenhagenDenmark4.1826LundSweden4.2025LondonUnited Kingdom4.2124LisbonPortugal4.2223GroningenNetherlands4.2222CorkIreland4.2421ZurichSwitzerland4.2720TurinItaly4.2819KrakowPoland4.2918BudapestHungary4.3117SydneyAustralia4.3216ChicagoUSA4.3215UppsalaSweden4.3314MadridSpain4.3613PragueCzechia4.3712EdinburghUnited Kingdom4.3911BostonUSA4.4110SingaporeSingapore4.429MontrealCanada4.458WarsawPoland4.467GalwayIreland4.476ViennaAustria4.525SeoulS. Korea4.534BrnoCzechia4.553NewcastleUnited Kingdom4.582BerlinGermany4.631MelbourneAustralia4.68

50. Milan, Italy

Milan, ranked 50th in the world for students, stands out for its unique mix of Italian tradition and international flair. It’s a hub for students from all over, offering a vibrant lifestyle and diverse activities. The city boasts a rich culinary scene, ranging from classic Italian eateries to international dining options. Nightlife is varied, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants. While the cost of living is relatively high, Milan compensates with excellent public transport and safe streets. It’s not just about fashion and art; Milan offers a well-rounded experience for students, blending cultural richness with practical living.

49. Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland, with an overall score of 3.82 out of 5, is known for its scenic beauty and vibrant lifestyle. Despite being expensive, its convenience and stunning harbourside vistas make it a favorite among students. The city offers a great mix of outdoor activities, diverse food options, and a moderate climate. Its nightlife, especially in Ponsonby, is a highlight for those over 20. Auckland’s central business district is praised for its accessibility, eliminating the need for a car, and offering a range of food choices and outdoor spaces.

48. Nottingham, United Kingdom

Scoring 3.84 out of 5, Nottingham is a blend of history, culture, and education. The city’s architecture, including the iconic Nottingham Castle, adds to its charm. Known for its arts and music scene, bustling markets, and dining options, Nottingham is a hub for students. The city’s vibrant atmosphere and safety make it an ideal place for intellectual growth and innovation. Its historic Lace Market and green spaces provide a perfect mix of tradition and modernity.

47. Paris, France

Paris scores 3.86 out of 5, celebrated for its exciting lifestyle and cultural richness. The city is a hub for students and young workers, offering great work opportunities despite high rents. Paris is known for its bars, restaurants, museums, and art galleries, catering to diverse tastes. It’s recommended for international students, offering a plethora of touristic places, activities, and a chance to meet a diverse group of people.

46. Pécs, Hungary

With a score of 3.87 out of 5, Pécs is recognized for its vibrant student life and affordability. The city is filled with cultural activities, parties, and a variety of restaurants and bars. Pécs is known for its traditional culture, art, and architecture. It’s smaller and less expensive than Hungary’s capital, offering a unique and welcoming environment for students, with cheaper rent and a charming city center.

45. Leuven, Belgium

Leuven, scoring 3.88 out of 5, is a quiet town predominantly populated by students. It’s known for its safety, numerous bars, and international student community. The town offers many job opportunities for students and is easily navigable by bike. Leuven’s quiet and safe environment, coupled with the prevalence of English, makes it an easy place for international students to live.

44. Lille, France

Lille, with a score of 3.90 out of 5, is highly student-friendly, offering a range of activities from bars to parks and cinemas. The city is tailored for students, with activities organized by local institutions like EDHEC Business School. Lille’s excellent metro system and bus routes cover the entire metropolitan region, making it convenient for students.

43. Aalborg, Denmark

Aalborg scores 3.91 out of 5 and is known for its student-friendly environment. It’s smaller than Copenhagen, offering cheaper living costs and a high student population. The city has many green areas, a beautiful harbor, and offers various student job opportunities. Aalborg’s pedestrian streets, cafes, nightlife, and cultural experiences make it an attractive destination for students.

42. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo, with a score of 3.92 out of 5, is renowned for its safety, student-friendly environment, and convenience. The city offers well-paid part-time jobs, helping students gain experience and improve their language skills. Tokyo’s dense population and high rent costs are balanced by its vibrant student community and excellent language education opportunities at local colleges.

41. Austin, United States

Austin scores 3.92 out of 5 and is known for its rising cost of living but offers great job opportunities, especially in tech. The city’s nightlife and music scene, including 6th street and ACL, are major attractions. Austin’s diverse and welcoming community provides numerous opportunities for students, though its increasing urbanization is leading to higher living costs.

40. Utrecht, Netherlands

Utrecht, with an overall score of 3.94 out of 5, is highly regarded for its student-friendly atmosphere. It’s a favorite among students for its numerous eateries, fun spots, and green parks. The city’s bike-friendly nature makes it easy to explore, and the fluent English of the locals adds to its appeal. While it’s less busy than Amsterdam, Utrecht offers a lovely, well-kept environment with accessible amenities, though the cost of living can be high.

39. Ann Arbor, United States

Ann Arbor scores 3.95 out of 5, known for its lively atmosphere throughout the year. As a college town, it’s always bustling with activities, especially on game days. The city’s diverse bars, restaurants, and progressive nature make it a great place for students. The community’s diversity and the range of things to do contribute to its appeal, making it a recommended place for students.

38. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin, with a score of 3.96 out of 5, is a wonderful city for students, offering numerous opportunities to meet people from various countries. The city’s pubs are popular spots for socializing after classes, and there are plenty of dining options. Dublin is also known for its stunning bookshops and vibrant life, especially in the summer, making it a lively place for students.

37. Poznan, Poland

Poznan scores 3.98 out of 5 and is celebrated for its student-friendly atmosphere and affordability. The city offers a great student town vibe, with good quality and inexpensive academic accommodations. Public transport is efficient, and the city center offers a lot to students, making it a recommended city in Poland for international students.

36. Munich, Germany

Munich, with a score of 3.99 out of 5, is loved for its inclusive environment and wide range of cultural, entertainment, and work opportunities. The city is known for its rich culture, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife, offering numerous opportunities for personal growth and exploration, making it a top choice for students.

35. Vilnius, Lithuania

Scoring 4.01 out of 5, Vilnius is highly rated for its affordability, especially compared to Western European countries. The city offers a variety of options for students, from exploring the old town to enjoying the nightlife. Most universities provide low-cost campus accommodation, and the city center is known for its beautiful architecture and cultural attractions.

34. Manchester, United Kingdom

Manchester, with a score of 4.03 out of 5, is praised for its quality of life, especially for international students. The city offers incredible nightlife, diverse dining options, and is known for the Trafford Shopping Centre. Manchester’s high student population and diverse activities make it a lively place for student life.

33. Pittsburgh, United States

Pittsburgh scores 4.04 out of 5 and is recognized as a small yet vibrant city. It offers various attractions like museums, art institutes, and a bustling social scene. The city is filled with green spaces and cultural outlets, making it an amazing place for students. Pittsburgh’s universities often provide free admission to many local organizations, adding to its appeal.

32. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, with a score of 4.05 out of 5, is known for its friendly people, affordable living, and safety comparable to Western countries. The city’s diverse culture, food, and entertainment options make it a cool place for students to explore and experience various cultures. Its public transportation system is easily accessible, enhancing its student-friendly environment.

31. Athens, GA, United States

Athens of Georgia scores 4.07 out of 5 and is renowned for its college town vibe and one of the best nightlife scenes in the country. The city’s music scene is particularly notable. Athens is bike-friendly and has efficient public transport, making it easy to navigate. The city’s vibrant atmosphere is a major draw for students.

30. Liverpool, United Kingdom

Liverpool, with a score of 4.11 out of 5, is an amazing and diverse city, often underrated for its beauty and attractions like music, food, and culture. The city’s friendly and diverse nature makes it a welcoming place for international students. Liverpool offers a wide range of cafes, restaurants, and an unmatched nightlife, making it an exciting place for students.

29. Toronto, Canada

Toronto, with a score of 4.12 out of 5, is celebrated for its diversity, history, and cultural richness. The city’s public transit is accessible and efficient, making it easy to navigate. Safety is generally good, though caution is advised at night. Toronto’s diverse population contributes to a variety of cuisines and cultural experiences, though the cost of living can be high, especially on the outskirts where public transit is less reliable.

28. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam scores 4.14 out of 5, known for its picturesque canals, stunning architecture, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. The city is ideal for exploring on foot or by bike, offering a diverse and inclusive atmosphere. It’s a perfect city for international students, offering cultural activities, dining, and a welcoming environment for non-Dutch speakers.

27. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen, with a score of 4.18 out of 5, is lauded for its beauty, cleanliness, and safety. The city has a cool European vibe, with a vibrant cultural atmosphere, young population, and great public transport. Though the cost of living is high, the city’s welcoming nature and cozy vibe make it a popular choice for students.

26. Lund, Sweden

Lund scores 4.20 out of 5 and is appreciated for its ideal size for students, offering ease of navigation and plenty of activities. The robust public transportation system, including direct trains to Copenhagen airport, enhances its appeal. Lund is described as a student-friendly city with a supportive community.

25. London, United Kingdom

London, with a score of 4.21 out of 5, offers a unique experience for students, being a hub of culture, history, and opportunity. The city’s rich cultural scene, alongside its status as a global financial center, provides excellent networking and job prospects. Public transport is extensive, though the cost of living is high.

24. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon scores 4.22 out of 5 and is ideal for a student life full of diverse experiences. The city offers numerous bars, restaurants, co-working spaces, and attractions. It’s known for its large international community and affordable prices for food, drinks, and activities compared to other European capitals.

23. Groningen, Netherlands

Groningen, with a score of 4.22 out of 5, is a student-friendly city with a vibrant nightlife. The city center is the main attraction, offering pubs, bars, clubs, and restaurants close to each other. Groningen’s small size creates a homely atmosphere for students.

22. Cork, Ireland

Cork scores 4.24 out of 5 and is known for its welcoming atmosphere, vibrant cultural scene, and friendly locals. The city offers a blend of traditional charm and lively energy, with numerous restaurants, supermarkets, and pubs. Cork’s beautiful scenery adds to its appeal as a student destination.

21. Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich, with a score of 4.27 out of 5, is praised for its quality of life, offering beautiful landscapes and cultural activities. The city is known for its historical significance and lively cultural life. While the cost of living is high, student accommodation can be found at affordable prices, making it a great city for students.

20. Turin, Italy

Turin scores 4.28 out of 5 and is recognized as an open and student-friendly city. It’s home to students from all over the world, offering safety, organization, and a wide choice of Italian restaurants and bars at affordable prices. The city is perfect for students, with many pubs, cafes, and gyms offering discounts.

19. Krakow, Poland

Krakow scores 4.29 out of 5, celebrated for its stunning European beauty, including the Main Square and Kazimierz district. Ideal for an Erasmus adventure, it offers surprises at every corner, affordable public transport, and good connections. Krakow is a city that never sleeps, boasting a vibrant nightlife, numerous attractions, and excellent universities, making it a fantastic choice for students.

18. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest, with a score of 4.31 out of 5, is a favorite among students for its dramatic history, flamboyant architecture, and unrivaled nightlife in Eastern and Central Europe. The city is beautiful and affordable, offering a diverse range of clubs and bars. It’s also known for its great scholarship programs for international students and plentiful activities and job opportunities.

17. Sydney, Australia

Sydney scores 4.32 out of 5 and is known for its large and diverse student population, including many international students. The city offers a variety of student-targeted accommodations, abundant food options, and a multicultural environment. Sydney is appreciated for its beautiful beaches, coastal walks, and overall safety, with efficient public transport, though not always punctual.

16. Chicago, United States

Chicago, with a score of 4.32 out of 5, is a wonderful place for students, offering a huge city with many cultural and job opportunities. The public transit system is good, and the city is full of things to see and do, especially during warmer months. Chicago’s architecture and cultural scene make it an attractive destination for students.

15. Uppsala, Sweden

Uppsala scores 4.33 out of 5 and is known for its lively student community and youthful vibe. The university attracts students globally, creating a diverse environment. The city offers many cultural events and activities, excellent public transportation, and is relatively affordable. Uppsala’s beautiful green spaces and proximity to nature make it ideal for outdoor activities.

14. Madrid, Spain

Madrid, with a score of 4.36 out of 5, is a great place for students, offering excellent public transport, a variety of food options, bars, museums, and cultural activities. The city is friendly with a significant international presence. Though accommodation can be pricey, sharing flats and living a bit further from the city center offers better deals.

13. Prague, Czechia

Prague scores 4.37 out of 5 and is highly student-friendly, with a significant number of international students. The city is known for its beauty, delicious Czech food, and a variety of student social groups. Prague offers a booming nightlife, cheap alcohol, beautiful sights, and efficient public transport, making it an ideal city for students.

12. Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Edinburgh, with a score of 4.39 out of 5, is perfect for students, offering a safe environment full of exciting attractions and nightlife. The city is friendly and welcoming, with a rich cultural history, including the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Students are well-catered for with numerous discounts near universities.

11. Boston, United States

Boston scores 4.41 out of 5 and is known for its diverse attractions, including museums, restaurants, and clubs. The city is relatively safe, making it comfortable for students to stay out late. Boston’s manageable size, reliable public transportation, and presence of great companies make it an excellent place for both studying and post-college life, despite its cold winters.

10. Singapore, Singapore

Singapore scores 4.42 out of 5, ranking first in safety for 2023. It’s celebrated for its diverse and attractive student life, with an international community and various socializing and study spots. The city is extremely safe, enhancing the experience for students, especially international ones. The diversity in Singapore provides a great environment for making friends from different backgrounds.

9. Montreal, Canada

Montreal achieves a score of 4.45 out of 5, known for its vibrant student life and active nightlife. The city is teeming with universities, making it easy to meet new people. Montreal is student-friendly and safe, offering a diverse environment with efficient public transport. It’s famous for its beautiful areas like Old Montreal and Old Port, and markets like Atwater.

8. Warsaw, Poland

Warsaw scores 4.46 out of 5, ideal for international students with its variety of dining, drinking, and nightlife options. The city is friendly and easy to navigate with excellent public transportation. Warsaw is slightly pricey but offers a great blend of history and modernity, making it an attractive place for students.

7. Galway, Ireland

Galway, with a score of 4.47 out of 5, ranks first in student friendliness for 2023. Known for its friendly locals and rich variety of pubs, Galway offers a fantastic cultural scene and art facilities. It’s ideal for international students seeking a lively social environment and a great restaurant scene.

6. Vienna, Austria

Vienna achieves a score of 4.52 out of 5, recognized for its safety and diverse opportunities. The city offers a variety of restaurants, bars, clubs, museums, and parks. Vienna is green with swimming options in lakes and the Danube. It’s affordable for students, with excellent public transport, though slightly expensive.

5. Seoul, South Korea

Seoul scores 4.53 out of 5, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. The city is affordable compared to most of Europe and is very safe with an amazing public transport network. Seoul offers a variety of options for international students, including cultural attractions and a safe environment.

4. Brno, Czechia

Brno achieves a score of 4.55 out of 5, known for its student-friendly environment with three universities. The city offers good public transport, popular student events like Majales, and affordable living. Brno is safe with many pubs, bars, clubs, and student communities, making it an excellent city for students.

3. Newcastle, United Kingdom

Newcastle scores 4.58 out of 5, ranking first in nightlife for 2023. The city offers a great student experience with a vibrant nightlife, including main clubs and areas like Jesmond for low-key drinks. It’s affordable, with safe student housing areas and a variety of activities, from cinemas to hiking in Northumberland.

2. Berlin, Germany

Berlin achieves a score of 4.63 out of 5, ranking first in public transport for 2023. The city is diverse with people from all over the world, offering food, attractions, social events, and a vibrant clubbing scene. Berlin is never boring, with many libraries and easier networking opportunities in the capital.

1. Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne scores 4.68 out of 5, ranking first overall as the best student city and for amenities in 2023. Known for its cosmopolitan and multicultural environment, Melbourne offers outstanding arts, food, wine, shopping, and sporting opportunities. The city balances nightlife perfectly and is easy to navigate with public transport. Melbourne’s art, culture, and fashion make it an ideal place for creative students.

What is the best student city in the world ranking?

London remained in the top spot for another year, accumulating the second highest score in 'Student Voice' (98.4) and 'World University Rankings' (94.9) respectively. Melbourne earned the second greatest score with 98.4 in 'Student Voice' and the third highest in 'Student Mix' with 98.6 points.

What is the most liveable city for students in the world?

This year's top ten cities include Sydney, Tokyo, Seoul and Zurich – but once again, the top spot goes to London. A student favourite for many years, the UK capital is home to some of the world's most prestigious academic institutions, including King's College London and UCL (University College London).

Which is the best student city in the world 2024?

QS Best Cities for Students 2024: London tops the list for fifth time in a row, Munich slips from 2nd position last year to 5th position this year. Mumbai has ranked 118, the highest among Indian cities in the latest Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Rankings for Best Student Cities 2024 released on July 19.

What city in the world has the best education?

This year's ranking is once again topped by London. Home to several leading universities, including UCL (University College London), Imperial College London, and King's College London, the city has been a student favourite for years and has plenty of world-class academic institutions for students to choose from.