Student Life Abroad: The Best Student Cities of the World

Education, especially international education has a lot to offer. And what adds to the experience is not merely the college, the global diversity and the curriculum but also the city. A big part of growing up also depends on which city you choose. It defines the general culture, the kind of opportunities available and more importantly what all you can expect out of the entire experience. For we believe that when we grow up, we learn as much from the corner shop and our neighbors as from our professors and dorm buddy. It’s all part of the international experience, so there are no surprises that QS releases a list of the Best Student Cities based on various metrics. We present the list of top 10 student cities as per QS Best Students Cities 2022 and help you understand what all it means for you.

Before we share the list, it is important to understand how the cities are ranked. Understandably, there are many things that matter to a student. QS Best Student Cities 2015 Rankings is based on 5 broad parameters, namely:

1. Number of Internationally Ranked Universities
2. The Size and Diversity of Student Population in the City
3. Desirability/ Quality of Life
4. Employer Activity
5. Affordability

For different students, the criterion of choice would differ. While some might choose employer activity, some might want to have a look at the diversity of student population in the city and others might wish to stick to international universities that promise a better academic experience and interface. Whatever be your choice, we understand, it cannot be based on only one decision. With that in mind, we present the list of the top 10 student cities of the world and how they rank basis all the 5 criterion mentioned above.

Interestingly, while the USA continues to be a favoured study abroad destination, Boston is the only US city that features in the top 10 list of best student cities. No doubt the presence of two of the biggest names in higher education, namely Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, making it a giant in itself. But when you look at different features, cities in Australia rank consistent on quality of life and diversity of students. Similarly, when we look at affordability, cities in Europe and Asia fare far better than those in USA, UK, or Australia. Canadian Cities, interestingly, maintain a steady balance and feature amongst the top 30 ranks under the various categories.

We come back to the same thought…there is no solution that fits all. Every student has different priorities, thoughts, and most importantly aspirations from his/her study abroad experience. The city adds to the experience and may or may not be the reason for choosing a university. Whatever be your personal thought process, we suggest you have your own permutations and combinations, assess all possibilities, and find not the best college there is for you but the best college for you…

All the Best!