TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The UK-based higher education analyst Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), known for its global university rankings, has revealed its list of best student cities in the world for 2027.
The list provides an overview of the best places around the world to live and study for international students, taking into account several factors: employer activity, affordability, quality of local universities, and opinions of current students.
At the top of the QS Best Student Cities 2027 list is Seoul, the heart of South Korea and home to 'SKY' (Seoul National, Korea, Yonsei) universities, the country's most prestigious and competitive educational establishments.
Besides Seoul, which cities across the globe are perfect for international students? Check out below, citing data from QS:
Despite Seoul topping the best student cities list, cities across Europe dominate the chart. Meanwhile, Australia ties with Asia with two cities each.
1. Seoul, South Korea
Overall score: 100
Seoul has ranked #1 for the second year in a row, with a thriving, bustling hub of a city that promises students endless entertainment and a smooth transition into a successful career for graduates, as reflected in the high Employer Activity ranking.
While the South Korean capital is strong all-around, it ranks first for University Rankings, which measures the number and standing of a city's institutions.
2. Tokyo, Japan
Overall score: 98
Tokyo promises students a high quality of life, with its safe streets and top-notch transportation system. While it is not the cheapest to live in, the plethora of career choices make up for it. From high tech to trade, finance, and medicine, there is no shortage of employment opportunities for graduates from universities in Tokyo.
Speaking of which, Tokyo has a low proportionate student population despite the abundance of internationally ranked universities, making it the perfect choice for students who seek total immersion in local culture instead of living in a "student bubble."
3. London, United Kingdom
Overall score: 97.3
London is home to over 20 universities listed in the QS World University Rankings, with two standout performers: Imperial College London and University College London.
It is also one of the most diverse cities in the world, with 36.7 percent of its residents born outside the UK. This works in favor of international students, as many pockets of London carry distinct flavors of other cultures.
The city also scores high for Employer Activity, with many international companies like Google, Amazon, and Unilever seeking recruits from London graduates.
4. Melbourne, Australia
Overall score: 94.8
Melbourne becomes the highest-ranked Australian city on the best student cities list, and for good reasons. It is hailed as one of the most internationally diverse and student-friendly cities, with its long and comprehensive list of public transportation.
While the cost of living varies depending on whether students opt to live on campus or in private accommodation, Melbourne also ranks highly in Employer Activity. Meaning, students have ample job opportunities after graduation. International students are also allowed to work up to 40 hours per week on a student visa, giving them a head start on work experience.
5. Munich, Germany
Overall score: 94.1
Munich sees a growing reputation as an international study destination, thanks to its high ranking in Employer Activity and Affordability.
There's no tuition fee for undergraduates in public universities in Germany, including for international students. The city also has lower prices compared to other European hubs under this list.
For career opportunities, a plethora of multinational companies are headquartered in this city, helping graduates kick-start their careers across industries and sectors.
6. Sydney, Australia
Overall score: 94.1
Another Australian city in the mix is Sydney, and it is no less desirable as one of the best student cities for its diversity and overall high quality of life.
Similar to Melbourne, the cost of living is veers into the pricier side, but the attractive job prospects in Sydney help offset it. Some of the most profitable industries include tourism, healthcare, and science and technology.
7. Paris, France
Overall score: 92.5
The City of Love not only makes way for romance but is also home to highly reputable universities and specialized schools, including Université PSL and Institut Polytechnique de Paris.
The cost of living, however, is quite high, with Paris' bustling entertainment and culture, but it's largely balanced out by low tuition fees, according to QS.
Nevertheless, Parisian graduates are highly sought after by employers, and hundreds of international companies have offices in Paris.
8. Berlin, Germany
Overall score: 91.8
Berlin may not be an academic hub on par with other known student cities, but it has been seeing a growing appeal for international students due to a large number of courses in English.
Compared to the other best student cities listed, Berlin is desirable for its affordable housing, travel, and healthcare, making one the best in terms of quality of living. Employers also look to graduates from German universities.
9. Vienna, Austria
Overall score: 90.9
Vienna is one of the world's most livable cities, with a high quality of life and affordable cost of living and tuition fees. It is no wonder that the Austrian city is one of the most desirable student cities in the world.
While the selection of universities is smaller than London or Paris, the job prospects of Vienna graduates remain high, as the city is a hub for many international organizations.
10. Zurich, Switzerland
Overall score: 90.6
Zurich is renowned for its high quality of life and world-class education. While the living cost is quite high, it is offset by low tuition fees.
The city is also one of the world's best for employment, with excellent job prospects for graduates.
While the list of best student cities provides student hopefuls with insight into affordability, job prospects, and cost of living, international students should also consider which university fulfills their need the most.
Read: List of Best Universities in the World 2026 According to QS World Ranking
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
