QS Best Student Cities 2026: Top 10 study-abroad destinations for students worldwide
In a rapidly globalizing education landscape, choosing the right city to study in can be as important as picking the right university. The QS Best Student Cities 2026 ranking offers a comprehensive look at urban destinations that offer students the best overall experience, balancing academic quality, career opportunities, affordability, student satisfaction, and lifestyle.
This year, Seoul has claimed the top spot globally, signalling a shift in student preferences toward cities that offer both academic excellence and a high quality of life. While traditional education hubs like London and Tokyo remain strong contenders, cities across Europe and Australia continue to appeal with their unique cultural offerings, affordability, and openness to international students.
Top 10 student destinations around the world
The QS rankings analyse cities over various parameters including desirability, affordability, university rankings, student mix, and employer activity. Check scores of top 10 cities below:
Rank
City
Overall Score
Student View
Student Mix
Employer Activity
Desirability
Affordability
University Rankings
1
Seoul
100.0
79.3
77.0
93.3
90.2
51.8
100.0
2
Tokyo
99.9
87.1
68.0
100.0
91.0
57.1
87.8
3
London
97.1
98.3
92.7
92.9
86.2
12.6
94.7
4
Munich
96.3
94.8
88.3
90.0
87.4
52.1
60.8
5
Melbourne
95.7
98.2
100.0
87.7
88.5
25.0
71.2
6
Sydney
94.7
96.5
98.7
87.1
92.0
20.7
70.6
=7
Berlin
93.3
100.0
77.6
85.5
84.2
53.7
57.9
=7
Paris
93.3
81.2
80.9
87.5
85.6
45.4
78.3
9
Zurich
91.5
94.4
92.4
85.8
88.7
25.3
63.4
10
Vienna
90.8
89.9
86.5
77.9
92.7
54.9
44.5
Here's a closer look at the top 10 cities where students around the world are most eager to live, study, and grow.
1. Seoul, South Korea
Overall score:
100
Seoul's rise to the top is powered by its strong academic institutions, including Seoul National University and KAIST, and a booming innovation ecosystem. It offers a vibrant blend of modern tech infrastructure and deep-rooted tradition, making it an exciting and culturally rich place to live.
Students praise its safety, nightlife, and strong connectivity, while employers increasingly value Seoul-educated graduates.
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While affordability is moderate, the city's academic reputation and student life easily make up for it.
Notable strengths:
University rankings (100), employer activity (93.3), desirability (90.2)
2. Tokyo, Japan
Overall score:
99.9
Tokyo offers a perfect mix of futuristic innovation and centuries-old culture. Home to some of the world's top universities like the University of Tokyo, it remains a hub for engineering, science, and business studies.
Students are drawn to Tokyo's efficient transport, clean environment, and unmatched safety.
The city also scores highest for employer activity, reflecting the strength of its job market.
Notable strengths:
Employer activity (100), desirability (91), student view (87.1)
3. London, United Kingdom
Overall score:
97.1
Long considered a global capital for higher education, London continues to draw students from across the world with its diversity and rich academic heritage. It is home to prestigious institutions like UCL, Imperial College London, and LSE, and offers access to internships, cultural landmarks, and a vibrant social scene.
However, it drops from the top spot mainly due to its very low affordability, a concern for many students.
Notable strengths:
Student view (98.3), student mix (92.7), rankings (94.7)
Weak point:
Affordability (12.6)
4.
Munich
, Germany
Overall score:
96.3
Munich offers a high-quality education experience at a fraction of the cost compared to many English-speaking cities. Germany's public universities are often tuition-free for international students, and the city's clean environment, safety, and startup scene make it especially appealing.
With high student satisfaction and excellent career prospects, Munich combines efficiency with quality living.
Notable strengths:
Student view (94.8), affordability (52.1), employer activity (90)
5. Melbourne, Australia
Overall score:
95.7
Often labeled Australia's cultural capital, Melbourne is known for its inclusive vibe, diverse student population, and strong universities like the University of Melbourne and Monash University.
It ranks highest for student mix (100), reflecting its multiculturalism, and students praise the city's art, music, food, and green spaces.
While affordability is a concern, the student experience is rated among the best globally.
Notable strengths:
Student view (98.2), student mix (100), desirability (88.5)
6. Sydney, Australia
Overall score:
94.7
Sydney's appeal lies in its stunning beaches, outdoor lifestyle, and leading institutions like the University of Sydney and UNSW. It offers strong employment prospects and high desirability among international students.
The city's global connections, startup scene, and focus on sustainability make it a favorite for students in tech, business, and media.
Notable strengths:
Student mix (98.7), student view (96.5), desirability (92)
Weak point:
Affordability (20.7)
7. Berlin, Germany
(tie)
Overall score:
93.3
Berlin is a favourite among budget-conscious students seeking high-quality education. Known for its free public universities, artistic energy, and progressive culture, it offers an unmatched urban experience at relatively low living costs.
It scores a perfect 100 in student view, showing high satisfaction across the board.
Notable strengths:
Student view (100), affordability (53.7), employer activity (85.5)
7. Paris, France
(tie)
Overall score:
93.3
Paris offers a blend of elegance, history, and academic excellence.
With institutions like Sorbonne University and Sciences Po, it remains one of Europe's top academic destinations.
While living costs are moderate, Paris continues to appeal to students looking for a dynamic intellectual and cultural experience.
Notable strengths:
Desirability (85.6), rankings (78.3), student mix (80.9)
9. Zurich, Switzerland
Overall score:
91.5
Zurich combines the efficiency of Swiss infrastructure with the prestige of universities like ETH Zurich. Though living costs are high, the city scores well on student satisfaction and quality of life.
It's a great destination for students in STEM, business, and finance, thanks to its proximity to global firms and research hubs.
Notable strengths:
Student view (94.4), student mix (92.4), desirability (88.7)
10. Vienna, Austria
Overall score:
90.8
Vienna rounds off the top 10 with an ideal combination of affordability, public safety, and academic reputation.
It consistently ranks high in global quality-of-life indices and is known for its classical music heritage, student-friendly transport, and multilingual programs.
Notable strengths:
Desirability (92.7), affordability (54.9), student view (89.9)
What do these cities have in common?
The top 10 student destinations in the world have following things in common
Diverse student populations and welcoming environments
Strong university reputations and global employer networks
A mix of affordable (Berlin, Vienna) and premium (London, Sydney) cities
High student satisfaction, often shaped by culture, safety, and career support
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