Latest news with #QuacquarelliSymonds
The Hindu
a day ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
QS rankings and Indian universities: Are they meaningful or just window dressing?
According to the Union Education Ministry, Indian universities have achieved their best-ever performance in the World University Rankings 2026. The rankings are done by a British company, Quacquarelli Symonds, also known as QS. QS rankings and Indian universities: Are they meaningful or just window dressing? The new QS rankings feature a total of 54 Indian universities, which makes India the 4th most represented country, with only the US (192), the UK (90) and China (72) having more universities ranked than India. Among Indian universities, 48% have also improved their rankings compared to the previous year, with six featuring in the top 250. IIT, Delhi is the highest ranked Indian university in the list, coming in at #123. The government has claimed that the numbers indicate a revolutionary transformation of India's educational landscape. How exactly are the QS rankings arrived at? What idea of the university is being evaluated in these rankings? Are the metrics relevant to the Indian context and Indian students? Guest: Professor Anita Rampal, former Dean, Faculty of Education, at Delhi University. Anita, welcome to the pod. Host: G. Sampath, Social Affairs Editor, The Hindu Edited by Sharmada Venkatasubramanian Listen to more In Focus podcasts
Filipino Times
5 days ago
- Business
- Filipino Times
Manila ranks 88th in QS best student cities 2026
Manila ranked 88th in the 2026 edition of the QS Best Student Cities rankings released by global higher education analyst Quacquarelli Symonds (QS). The ranking evaluates cities based on several indicators, including affordability, student mix, desirability, employer activity, student view, and the presence of top-ranked universities. Manila received an overall score of 63.9. It scored highest in affordability at 85.3, which reflects the cost of tuition and student living expenses. The city also earned a 68.4 in employer activity, measuring how employers view graduates from Manila-based institutions. For student view, which gauges student satisfaction and the city's friendliness and sustainability, Manila received a score of 57. It earned 37.2 in desirability and 31.2 in student mix, which refers to the proportion of students in the city population, including international students. In terms of institutional presence, the Philippines scored 35.2, with six universities included in the QS World University Rankings 2026. These are: • University of the Philippines (362nd) • Ateneo de Manila University (511st) • De La Salle University (654th) • University of Santo Tomas (851st–900th) • Adamson University (1,001st–1,200th) • Mapúa University (1,401st) Seoul topped the 2026 QS rankings, ending London's six-year run as the number one student city. Tokyo placed second, followed by London, Munich, and Melbourne. QS also noted that 10 of the top 20 cities are in the Asia-Pacific region, including Sydney, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Beijing, Taipei, Hong Kong (SAR), and Kyoto. Cities included in the ranking must have a population of at least 250,000, at least two universities featured in the QS World University Rankings, and a low to moderate risk level based on the International SOS index. The indicators were based on various sources, including Numbeo's Quality of Life and Traffic indices, and the Economist Price Index.
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Business Standard
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Standard
QS 2026: Not London or Boston, Seoul is top city for foreign education
Seoul, not London, has emerged as the most preferred city for international students, according to the QS Best Student Cities Ranking 2026. The South Korean capital has taken the top spot, pushing London to third place, while Tokyo has climbed to second. This is the first time two Asian cities have led the global student city rankings. Compiled by UK-based Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), the annual index considers a mix of factors including affordability, student mix, desirability, quality of universities, and employment outcomes after graduation. London, United Kingdom Munich, Germany Melbourne, Australia Sydney, Australia Berlin, Germany Paris, France Zurich, Switzerland Vienna, Austria Singapore Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Beijing, China Taipei, Taiwan Boston, United States 'Seoul's rise to the top spot, overtaking long-time favourites like Tokyo and London, is a clear message that the global higher education scene is evolving strongly and shows diversity in the study options for students globally. For Indian students and parents, this means that they now don't have to run behind the Anglosphere and can choose other hot spots,' said Mamta Shekhawat, founder at 'It additionally confirms that Asian cities, especially East Asian cities such as Seoul and Tokyo, provide a very real and exciting blend of academic excellence, lively student experience, and strong post-graduation career options,' she told Business Standard. Indian students still prefer familiar routes 'It's a wake-up call for Indian families to look beyond the traditional US–UK–Canada triangle and consider high-performing, culturally rich destinations like South Korea that are investing heavily in international education,' Ritesh Jain, co-founder of LaunchEd Global told Business Standard. Mary Gogoi, head of admissions at eduVelocity, agreed the trend is slowly shifting. 'Students are becoming more open to exploring countries like South Korea and Japan, especially for courses in STEM, business, and international studies. This is often driven by curiosity, cultural appeal, and the availability of government scholarships,' she told Business Standard. Still, many Indian families continue to lean towards English-speaking destinations. 'For many families, these factors offer a sense of comfort and long-term opportunity, especially in terms of career prospects,' said Gogoi. Korean wave and government support drive interest According to LaunchEd Global and there has been a clear uptick in enquiries over the past 12 to 18 months. 'We've seen a clear uptick in interest, particularly from students in tech, design, and media-related fields. South Korea's pop culture influence—K-dramas, K-pop, etc.—is a huge pull among Gen Z, but it's not just about fandom,' said Jain. 'Students are now recognising the strong academic infrastructure and the generous scholarships Korean and Japanese universities are offering to international students.' 'While difficulties like learning a new language and finding work after graduation are still real, both South Korea and Japan are actively trying to make things easier for international students, including those from India,' said Shekhawat. Language barriers and career planning 'While many top universities in Seoul and Tokyo offer programmes in English, daily life and internships often require some knowledge of the local language. Also, the path to staying and working after graduation isn't as clear-cut as it is in Canada or Australia,' said Jain. 'Knowing the local language becomes essential for internships, part-time jobs, and long-term employment. Post-study work options exist, but navigating them requires good planning and language skills. It's important for students to be prepared for that adjustment,' said Gogoi. She added that Seoul and Tokyo offer high-quality education at comparatively lower costs, excellent public safety, and a modern lifestyle. 'Generous scholarships and a growing focus on internationalisation make them attractive. Career opportunities in tech, design, and research are also a big plus.' 'Seoul has built a strong reputation through universities like KAIST and SNU, especially in tech, engineering, and research. Scholarships and government support help too,' said Mayank Maheshwari, co-founder and COO at University Living. 'Tokyo's been a go-to for innovation for years whether it's AI, robotics, or design. Both cities have universities that are respected around the world, which is why they score well in the employer-related parts of the QS ranking,' he said. 'But students also care about what happens after—can they stay back, work, and build a life there? And even during their studies, they think about the everyday stuff: food, language, part-time work, and whether they'll feel at home in a completely new culture. That's why, for many Indian students, countries like the UK, Canada, the US, and Australia still feel easier. The language, the work rights after graduation, and even access to familiar food and communities—all of that helps when you're going abroad for the first time.' Cost of living: Seoul vs Tokyo vs Europe 'When it comes to cost of living, Seoul is generally more affordable than both Tokyo and many major cities in Western Europe. International students in Seoul usually spend around $550 to $750 per month, depending on lifestyle and housing,' said Maheshwari. 'Dorms are reasonably priced, public transport is student-friendly, and food, especially on campus, is affordable.' According to him: Tokyo tends to be slightly more expensive, with monthly student expenses between $700 and $900 (around ₹58,800 to ₹75,600). Rent and commuting costs are higher, but quality of life is strong. In European cities like Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, or Dublin, student budgets can range between $1,200 and $1,800 per month (around ₹1 lakh to ₹1.5 lakh). Housing in Europe generally ranges from €500 to €900 (around ₹45,500 to ₹81,900), with total monthly costs often crossing €1,000 (around ₹91,000). 'However, many students manage these costs through part-time work opportunities, which are more accessible and flexible in Europe compared to some Asian destinations,' he said. 'In the end, Seoul offers a strong mix of affordability, safety, and quality education. Tokyo appeals to students keen on tech, design, and innovation. And Europe remains one of the top choices, not just for academic excellence and cultural diversity, but also for its student-friendly work policies and career pathways,' Maheshwari said.
GMA Network
6 days ago
- Business
- GMA Network
Manila ranks 88th in QS 2026 'world's best student cities'
The Philippine capital has earned a place on the global academic map as Manila ranked 88th in the 2026 QS Best Student Cities Ranking, released by international education analyst Quacquarelli Symonds (QS). The annual index evaluates cities worldwide based on factors that matter most to students: academic reputation, student diversity, affordability, and employability. With an overall score of 63.9, Manila stood out for its affordability (85.3) and employer activity (68.4) — two crucial metrics for local and international students alike. The city also scored a respectable 57 in student view, reflecting generally positive perceptions of the student experience in the metro. Though it placed lower in categories like student mix (31.2) and desirability (37.2) — which reflect internationalization and quality of life — Manila's inclusion highlights the country's growing relevance in the global higher education landscape. To qualify for the rankings, cities must have over 250,000 residents and at least two universities featured in the latest QS World University Rankings. In Manila's case, top-performing universities such as the University of the Philippines (UP) and Ateneo de Manila University help anchor its presence in the index. Asia's momentum Manila's inclusion coincides with a broader trend across Asia: the continent is on the rise in international higher education. For the first time, Seoul has been crowned the world's best student city, dethroning London after six consecutive years. South Korea's capital was praised for academic excellence, safety, and cultural vibrancy — a model that many Asian cities, including Manila, may look to emulate. 'Asia's continued ascent signals a broader shift in the global education landscape, as emerging hubs challenge long-standing Western dominance,' said Ben Sowter, QS Senior Vice President. Other Asian cities also climbed the ranks: Kuala Lumpur (12th) broke into the top 15 for the first time. Beijing (13th) and Taipei (14th) achieved record-high placements. Hong Kong (17th) re-entered the top 20. Global overview The 2026 edition of the QS Best Student Cities Ranking evaluated 150 cities across 58 countries and territories, using six indicators: University Rankings Student Mix Desirability Employer Activity Affordability Student Voice Meanwhile, the Top 10 cities are: Seoul Tokyo London Munich Melbourne Sydney Berlin and Paris (tie) Zurich Vienna In contrast to Asia's momentum, many Western cities saw stagnation or decline, particularly due to high living costs. London, despite strong performance in employer activity and student mix, dropped to third place due to affordability issues. US cities also struggled with metrics on desirability and diversity, while Canadian cities dropped slightly in rank. Now in its 11th edition, the QS Best Student Cities Ranking is produced annually by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), a global authority on higher education insights. The index is widely consulted by students, educators, and policymakers worldwide as a trusted guide to the world's top study destinations. —VAL, GMA Integrated News
Business Standard
7 days ago
- Business
- Business Standard
Melbourne Ranked Fifth Best City in the World for Students - University of Melbourne at the Heart of the City's Appeal
BusinessWire India New Delhi [India], July 16: Melbourne has once again been recognised as one of the world's best cities for students, ranking fifth globally in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Best Student Cities 2026 rankings. This marks the fourth consecutive year that the city of Melbourne has been ranked in the top five student cities globally, reflecting the city's top class educational system, rich cultural scene, and vibrant multicultural student population. The University of Melbourne, Australia's number one ranked university, encapsulates all the elements of what makes Melbourne such an enticing and welcoming city for students from around the world. University of Melbourne Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Global, Culture and Engagement) Michael Wesley said Melbourne's consistent ranking reflects its unique appeal to students: "The news of the 2026 QS Best Student Cities ranking captures what makes Melbourne special - a city where world-class education meets vibrant cultural diversity and a thriving social scene. At the University of Melbourne, international students join a global community that challenges them academically while supporting their personal growth. Our graduates leave with valuable qualifications, lifelong connections, and meaningful experiences that prepare them to lead on the global stage." An international, world-class education Access to a globally recognised education is central to attracting students from across the world and the University of Melbourne continues to be the benchmark in Australia. The University is the highest ranked Australian university across the three major global rankings - ranked number 19 in the world in the Quacquarelli Symonds World University Rankings, number 39 in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings and 37 in the Academic Ranking of World Universities. In the 2025 QS World University Rankings by Subject, the University of Melbourne also ranked in the top 50 globally across all five broad subject areas and ranked in the top 100 globally for all its 52 narrow subject areas. Vibrant student community Melbourne's high student population, international student community and culture of inclusivity contributed to a strong score in the 'Student mix' metric of the rankings. Over 150 nationalities are represented in the University of Melbourne's international student cohort, creating a flourishing global community and dynamic learning environment. The highest represented countries within the University's international student cohort include China, Indonesia, India and Malaysia, and the University is proud to welcome the brightest students from all over the world. Ashwin Chhaperia, a University of Melbourne alum and volunteer of the India Alumni Network, said, "Studying at the University of Melbourne didn't just give me a degree, it prepared me for life. It wasn't just the world-class academics or the iconic campus - it was the people, the connection, and the sense of belonging that I felt during my time at uni." A pathway to employment In line with a desire for a reputable and internationally recognised degree, students also want to ensure that their studies will lead to secure employment. The University of Melbourne ranked number 1 in Australia for Employer Reputation and Academic Reputation in the 2026 QS rankings announced in June this year, proudly producing graduates who are ready to lead and collaborate on a global stage. Thriving campuses and cultural experiences Melbourne provides an ideal setting for academic and personal growth, with its vibrant multicultural community and rich cultural offerings across art and exhibitions, ethnic food and entertainment and more. The University of Melbourne complements this environment through its world-class arts facilities, from its Southbank campus to the Arts and Culture Precinct on the Parkville campus, all-new student canteen offering affordable meals, and over 200 student-led clubs and societies. Together, these opportunities enrich the academic journey, helping students from around the world grow both intellectually and personally during their studies.
