The Lens
QS Best Student Cities 2025
In the 12th edition of the QS Best Student Cities ranking, 150 premier study destinations have been compared using indicators related to student feedback, universities, affordability, liveability, employment, and diversity.
London continues to remain the world’s best student city for the sixth consecutive edition, followed by Tokyo in second and Seoul in third place. Munich has climbed to fourth position, while Melbourne has dropped to fifth.
The QS Best Student Cities ranking showcases the best urban destinations for international students, based on a diverse range of indicators grouped into six key categories. To be considered for inclusion, each city must have a population of over 250,000, and be home to at least two universities featured in the most recent QS World University Rankings®. For population metrics, the metropolitan area is used where possible.
The six key categories are:
- University rankings
- Student mix
- Desirability
- Employer activity
- Affordability
- Student view