Which Indian cities rank among the world's best for students in 2026?
India has made a strong impression in the QS Best Student Cities 2026 Rankings, with Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai securing spots among the top 130 global education destinations.
The rankings, released by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), evaluate cities on seven key parameters: affordability, employer activity, university rankings, student mix, student view (satisfaction), desirability, and overall score.
These rankings reflect not just the academic excellence of these cities but also their potential to offer students a well-rounded university experience.
How Indian cities performed in QS 2026
As per the QS Best Student Cities 2026 rankings, Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai were analysed on the basis of the following parameters:
City
Global Rank
Overall Score
Affordability
Employer Activity
Student View
Student Mix
Desirability
University Rankings
Mumbai
98
61.6
86.3
77
48.5
9.8
42.2
39.1
Delhi
104
93.3
96.5
78.4
17.8
19.5
34.5
50.7
Bengaluru
108
59.6
84.3
67.4
56
15.2
38.6
31.5
Chennai
128
54.1
80.1
64.1
18.5
20.9
38.8
43.6
Mumbai (Rank 98)
Overall Score:
61.6
Mumbai leads among Indian cities in the 2026 list. It stands out for its strong employer activity score (77) and high affordability (86.3), making it an appealing choice for students looking to balance quality education with real-world career opportunities.
Student life in Mumbai
Home to prestigious institutions like IIT Bombay, TISS, and University of Mumbai, the city offers a dynamic student atmosphere. With vibrant cultural festivals, coastal charm, and public spaces like Marine Drive, Mumbai blends academics with real-world experiences.
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Student-friendly neighbourhoods like Churchgate and Vile Parle are filled with budget eateries, bookstores, and easy access to public transport.
Delhi (Rank 104)
Overall Score:
93.3
Delhi has the highest affordability score globally (96.5), due to low living expenses and heavily subsidised tuition at public universities. It also boasts strong scores in employer activity and university reputation.
Student life in Delhi
The capital is a hub of intellectual and political life, home to Delhi University, JNU, and Jamia Millia Islamia.
North and South Campus areas are popular for libraries and affordable cafes. While air quality and congestion remain concerns, the cultural exposure and career prospects, especially in policy, media, and research, are unmatched.
Bengaluru (Rank 108)
Overall Score:
59.6
Bengaluru saw the biggest rise among Indian cities, thanks to a high student satisfaction score (56) and excellent opportunities for tech careers. It's also known for its affordability and increasing employer activity.
Student life in Bengaluru
Often called India's Silicon Valley, the city is home to IISc, IIM Bangalore, and top-tier engineering institutes. Students flock to areas like Koramangala, Indiranagar, and Whitefield, where they find co-working spaces, cafés, and internship opportunities at start-ups and global tech firms. Pleasant weather and a modern lifestyle make it a student favorite.
Chennai (Rank 128)
Overall Score:
54.1
Though ranked lower than its peers, Chennai is making strides.
It scores well in employer activity (64.1) and student mix (20.9), highlighting its academic and professional diversity.
Student life in Chennai
Known for its cultural richness and safety, Chennai offers a balance of heritage and modern education. With institutions like IIT Madras and Anna University, the city attracts students from across India and abroad. Neighborhoods like Adyar, Guindy, and Taramani provide budget-friendly accommodations, and the city's metro expansion has made commuting easier.
India's growing presence in global education
The inclusion of these cities in the QS Best Student Cities 2026 list highlights India's competitive edge in providing quality education at affordable rates. Strong performance in affordability and employer engagement suggests that Indian cities are well-positioned to attract and support a growing student population.
As reforms under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 continue to roll out, India's global standing as a student-friendly nation is expected to rise even further.
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