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Top 10 Student Cities in the World

Study Abroad

Studying abroad marks a significant milestone in a student’s academic journey, but it involves many important considerations. While the reputation of a university and the quality of its academic programs are essential, choosing the right d​estination is equally important.
 The city selected for study can greatly impact the overall educational experience, factoring in elements such as living costs, availability of part-time jobs, quality of life, safety, and more. Ultimately, the goal goes beyond simply earning a degree; it includes finding an environment that fosters academic, social, and professional development. 
With these factors in mind, this discussion will explore the top ten student cities worldwide for higher education in 2025. We will delve into the reasons these cities are highly regarded by international students, based on their overall global rankings. 
Before diving into this analysis, it is important to outline the methodology and key criteria used in assessing the QS Best Student Cities.

QS Best Student Cities Methodology

When choosing the best city for studying abroad, rankings are an essential tool for prospective students. Quacquarelli Symonds, commonly known as QS Rankings, is one of the most esteemed organizations in this field. Each year, QS evaluates and ranks top study destinations around the world. Their assessment involves thorough research on more than 160 locations, using a range of indicators grouped into six main categories: 

1. University Rankings 
2. Student Mix 
3. Desirability 
4. Employer Activity 
5. Affordability 
6. Student View 
These indicators together provide a detailed insight into the ​factors that make a city attractive to international students. Having explored the methodology behind these rankings, we can now focus on the cities that have emerged as the leading student destinations in the QS Rankings for 2025.

Top 10 Student Cities in the World – QSWR Rankings 2025

Below is a list of the top cities, along with their respective countries and QSWR rankings, showcasing the overall student experience. Find out which city matches your study abroad aspirations

 

 

City Country QSWR
London United Kingdom 1
Tokyo Japan 2
Seoul South Korea 3
Munich Germany 4
Melbourne Australia 5
Sydney Australia 6
Paris France 7
Zurich Switzerland 8
Berlin Germany 9
Montreal Canada 10

 

Having familiarized with the best student cities and their QS rankings for 2025, let us look at the highlights of these student cities.

Key Features of the Top 10 Student Cities in the World

In this section, we will examine the fundamental traits that make these cities particularly appealing to international students.

1. London

For the sixth year in a row, London has retained its title as the World’s Best Student City, achieving a flawless score of 100 in the QS Best Student Cities ranking for 2025. The city is renowned for its rich history, cultural diversity, and prestigious educational institutions, which include some of the most highly regarded universities in the world. Notably, Imperial College London ranks as the second-best university globally, alongside other prominent institutions such as University College London, King’s College London, the London School of Economics and Political Science, and Queen Mary, University of London. In addition to its academic strengths, London offers a global appeal with a dynamic cultural landscape, a wide range of activities, and a variety of job opportunities. For international students, the city presents countless chances to immerse themselves in its multicultural atmosphere.

Here is a summary of the key features of this city:

 

Total Number of QS Ranked Universities 18
Average International Tuition Fees  US$25,900
Average Cost of Living US$25,900 per year
Student Mix Rank 7th
Desirability Rank 17th
Affordability Rank 126th
Employer Activity Rank 4th
Student View Rank 3rd

 

Given its outstanding ratings across multiple categories, it’s no surprise that London remains the top choice for students from around the globe.

2. Tokyo

As the leading student city in Asia, Tokyo ranks second overall, just behind London, with an impressive score of 99.2. The city is home to 18 international universities listed in the QS World Rankings of 2025, including the University of Tokyo, which is ranked 32nd in the world. Tokyo creates an excellent atmosphere for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture. As a major financial center, it offers a wealth of internship and job opportunities for students. Here’s a summary of the key features that Tokyo has to offer:

 

Total Number of QS Ranked Universities 18
Average International Tuition Fees  US$7,700
Average Cost of Living US$353.88  per year
Student Mix Rank =79th
Desirability Rank 1st 
Affordability Rank 85th 
Employer Activity Rank 1st 
Student View Rank 22nd 

 

Tokyo offers an environment marked by low crime rates, creating a strong sense of safety and security for students.

3. Seoul

Ranked as the third-best student city in the world, Seoul is renowned for its exceptional educational system, vibrant culture, and ample career prospects. As the capital of South Korea, it hosts esteemed institutions like Seoul National University, Yonsei University, and Korea University, which are globally ranked 56th, 31st, and 67th, respectively. With an impressive overall score of 97.8, Seoul is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, providing a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences. Additionally, the cost of education in Seoul is relatively lower compared to that of Western cities. Here are the key features of Seoul:

 

Total Number of QS Ranked Universities 23
Average International Tuition Fees  US$6,300 per year
Average Cost of Living US$,900 per year
Student Mix Rank 41st
Desirability Rank 23rd
Affordability Rank 91st
Employer Activity Rank 2nd
Student View Rank 46th

 

Studying in Seoul offers more than just earning a degree; it delivers a unique and enriching educational experience.

4. Munich

As the third largest city in Germany, Munich ranks fourth in the QS list of the best student cities worldwide. The city is celebrated for its outstanding quality of life, rich cultural scene, and strong job opportunities, making it a top choice for international students looking to study in Germany. The Technical University of Munich and Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München are ranked 28th and 59th, respectively. In addition to hosting numerous prestigious higher education and research institutions, Munich boasts a modern and lively atmosphere.

Here are the key features of Munich:

 

Total Number of QS Ranked Universities 2
Average International Tuition Fees  US$300 per year 
Average Cost of Living US$3500 per year
Student Mix Rank 11th
Desirability Rank 2th
Affordability Rank 54th
Employer Activity Rank 8th
Student View Rank 10th 

 

Munich is widely regarded as the safest city for international students in Europe, known for its low crime rates and high quality of life.

5. Melbourne

Melbourne has consistently been recognized as the ‘Best Student City’ and ranks fifth in the QS World Best Student City Rankings for 2025, boasting an impressive score of 97.1. The city is home to several esteemed universities, including the University of Melbourne, Monash University, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Deakin University, La Trobe University, Swinburne University of Technology, and Victoria University.

Famous for its vibrant student culture, Melbourne attracts students from around the world, featuring one of the most diverse student populations globally. The city is also known for its efficient public transportation system, making commuting easy and convenient. Additionally, Melbourne is celebrated as Australia’s cultural capital and is highly ranked among the world’s most livable cities.

Now, let’s explore some of the unique features that add to the allure of this extraordinary city.

 

Total Number of QS Ranked Universities 7
Average International Tuition Fees  US$28,00
Average Cost of Living $1,400 to $3,920 per month
Student Mix Rank 1st 
Desirability Rank 5th
Affordability Rank 131st
Employer Activity Rank 20th
Student View Rank 2nd 

 

Melbourne is a city that fosters academic success while offering a rich and satisfying lifestyle. It serves as an ideal location for individuals who prioritize both education and personal well-being.

6. Sydney 

Ranked as one of the premier student cities globally, Sydney occupies the 6th position with an impressive overall score of 95.4. Renowned for its dynamic culture and esteemed institutions such as the University of Sydney and the University of New South Wales, Sydney is a highly sought-after destination for numerous international students. As Australia’s largest city and its economic and financial center, Sydney presents a wealth of opportunities for students.

Known as Australia’s largest city is one of the safest cities in Australia, Sydney is celebrated for its pleasant climate, stunning beaches, and vibrant sports culture.

The following are some of the city’s notable characteristics:

 

Total Number of QS Ranked Universities 6
Average International Tuition Fees  US$30,600
Average Cost of Living $1,400 to $4,000 per month
Student Mix Rank 4th
Desirability Rank 4th
Affordability Rank 130th
Employer Activity Rank 18th
Student View Rank 8th

 

If you’re looking for a safe and inviting place that offers a rich cultural experience while you study, Sydney should be your top choice.

7. Paris

Paris is famous not only for its romantic ambiance but also for being one of the top student cities in the world, ranking 7th with an impressive score of 94.6. The city boasts over 12 prestigious institutions, including Université PSL, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Sorbonne University, Université Paris-Saclay, Ecole des Ponts ParisTech, Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne, Université Paris Cité, Sciences Po, CY Cergy Paris University, University Paris 2 Panthéon-Assas, Université Paris 13 Nord, and Université Paris-Nanterre, making it an excellent choice for higher education.

Often considered one of the most culturally rich cities globally, Paris provides international students with the chance to explore a vast array of museums, art galleries, and historical sites while they study. The city offers numerous opportunities to engage in diverse fields such as fashion, culinary arts, music, and visual arts.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the key features of Paris:

 

Total Number of QS Ranked Universities 12
Average International Tuition Fees  US$3,000
Average Cost of Living €800 to €1,200 per month
Student Mix Rank 7th
Desirability Rank 15th
Affordability Rank 87th
Employer Activity Rank 6th
Student View Rank 39th

 

Paris is a perfect city for you if you are keen to enrich your academic and cultural experience. 

8. Zurich

Zurich represents an exemplary choice for individuals seeking to enhance their academic and cultural pursuits. Ranked 8th in the QS Best Student Cities 2025, Zurich has achieved an impressive overall score of 94.5. As the largest city in Switzerland, it is home to ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology), recognized as one of the premier universities globally.

The student experience in Zurich transcends the confines of university lectures, with a plethora of events and activities available throughout the city. Additionally, Zurich provides outstanding healthcare and educational services, establishing it as a prime destination for studying abroad. For those with a penchant for adventure, the city serves as a gateway to remarkable outdoor activities.

Highlighted below are some of the distinctive attributes that contribute to Zurich’s appeal:

 

Total Number of QS Ranked Universities 2
Average International Tuition Fees  US$2,100
Average Cost of Living CHF 1,500 to CHF 2,500 per month
Student Mix Rank 19th
Desirability Rank 3rd
Affordability Rank 98th
Employer Activity Rank 20th
Student View Rank 12th

 

Zurich offers a plethora of opportunities beyond its lively atmosphere, boasting numerous tourist attractions and a wide range of entertainment options.

9. Berlin

Berlin’s growing appeal as a destination for international study abroad programs is evident in its ranking among the top ten student cities in the world. Securing the 9th spot, Berlin has established itself as one of the most vibrant urban centers globally, achieving an impressive overall score of 94.4. The city is home to Freie Universität Berlin, which ranks among the top 100 universities worldwide. Berlin is celebrated for its high quality of life, marked by affordable housing and excellent healthcare services.

Here are the key features of this city:

 

Total Number of QS Ranked Universities 3
Average International Tuition Fees  US$500
Average Cost of Living €800 to €1,200 per month
Student Mix Rank 51st
Desirability Rank 13th
Affordability Rank 58th
Employer Activity Rank 14th
Student View Rank 1st

 

Berlin, the capital of Germany, is renowned not only for its exceptional educational institutions but also for its dynamic cultural scene and unique way of life.

10. Montreal

According to the QS World Rankings for 2025, Montreal ranks 10th among the world’s Best Student Cities, achieving an impressive overall score of 97.7. Each year, over 40,000 international students from 150 countries choose Montreal as their home.

The universities in the city are recognized for providing high-quality education at an affordable cost. Montreal is a global leader in Artificial Intelligence, offering students the chance to specialize in this cutting-edge field. The city is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, with concerts and festivals taking place throughout the year. Key highlights of Montreal include:

Here are the key features of this city:

 

Total Number of QS Ranked Universities 3
Average International Tuition Fees  US$18,400
Average Cost of Living CAD 1,000 to 1,500 per month
Student Mix Rank 10th
Desirability Rank 19th
Affordability Rank 14th
Employer Activity Rank 39th
Student View Rank 15th

 

Montreal stands out for its bilingual environment, vibrant cultural diversity, and reasonable living costs, making it an ideal destination for those looking to pursue their education abroad.

In conclusion, each of the student cities mentioned offers unique advantages that can enrich your study abroad experience. It’s important to reflect on your personal priorities and choose the option that best fits your goals. If you face any difficulties or need assistance, our team at Martiza Overseas Education is here to help you find the right university and student city. 

If you’re looking for a Study Abroad Consultant in New Delhi Martiza Overseas Education is prepared to assist you. Contact Martiza Overseas and turn your study abroad dreams into reality.