A student-friendly city offers a supportive ecosystem with top-notch academic opportunities, affordable living costs, access to healthcare, diverse cultural and recreational activities, and a safe environment.
Choosing a university for studying abroad is a critical decision, but for international students, it is equally important to choose a suitable location.
Understanding a city's lifestyle, affordability, entertainment options, and work prospects becomes essential in making the final choice.
It's not merely about picking a place to visit; it's about selecting your home for the upcoming years.
Here are the 6 best student cities in the world:
London
London, the capital of the United Kingdom, is widely regarded as a student-friendly city for several reasons.
London boasts a remarkable array of prestigious universities and institutions renowned for their academic excellence. With institutions like Imperial College London, University College London (UCL), and the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), students can access world-class education and diverse programs spanning various disciplines.
In terms of affordability, while London is known for its relatively higher living costs, it also offers numerous opportunities to accommodate students on different budgets. Various accommodation options are available, including university halls, shared apartments, and private rentals, allowing students to find options that suit their financial constraints. Students can also take advantage of student discounts offered in many shops, restaurants, and cultural venues, helping them manage their expenses.
London prioritizes safety as a fundamental student concern and is widely recognized for its security measures. The city boasts a well-developed public transportation system featuring the iconic red buses and the reliable London Underground, facilitating convenient travel. Law enforcement agencies maintain a visible and vigilant presence, fostering a secure environment that ensures the well-being of both residents and students.
Montreal
Montreal, located in Canada's province of Quebec, is home to several prestigious universities, including McGill University and the University of Montreal, which offer a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.
These institutions are known for their high-quality education, world-class faculty, and research opportunities, making Montreal an attractive destination for students seeking academic excellence.
Affordability is a standout feature of Montreal, making it an ideal city for students. Compared to other major cities, Montreal's living cost is relatively lower, including affordable housing options and reasonable transportation expenses. The province of Quebec offers a tuition fee rate for Canadian students that is among the most affordable in North America, making education more accessible and easing the financial burden on students.
Safety is also a priority in Montreal, and the city consistently ranks among the safest urban centers in North America. The streets are well-lit, and public transportation is reliable, allowing students to travel safely throughout the city. Montreal's welcoming and inclusive environment fosters a sense of security, making it an ideal place for students to live and study.
Zurich
Zurich stands out as a student-friendly city due to its exceptional educational institutions, notably the prestigious ETH Zurich and the University of Zurich. These universities are internationally recognized for their outstanding academic programs, renowned faculty, and innovative research opportunities. Students can anticipate an enriching academic experience characterized by rigorous standards and a vibrant intellectual atmosphere.
Zurich is known for its exceptionally high standard of safety. Switzerland, as a whole, has a low crime rate, and Zurich exemplifies this with its safe and secure environment. Students can feel confident and at ease while navigating the city, even during late hours. The city boasts efficient public transportation networks, and a strong law enforcement presence, ensuring the safety of residents and students alike.
Melbourne
Melbourne, Australia's largest city with a population of over 5 million people, offers a combination of high living standards and affordable costs of living.
The city prides itself on its multiculturalism, with immigrants comprising nearly 40% of the population. Melbourne is renowned for its inclusivity and welcoming nature, attracting a diverse community that includes more than 100,000 international students from around the globe. Top universities include the University of Melbourne, RMIT University, La Trobe University, and more.
In terms of livability, Melbourne achieved an impressive 10th ranking on the Economist magazine's 2022 Global Liveability Index. International students studying in Melbourne can look forward to a vibrant and accessible lifestyle.
The city's renowned universities provide an exciting and engaging educational experience, while its lively nightlife further enhances its appeal. Melbourne's well-connected public transport network, exceptional culinary scene, and inviting beaches contribute to its popularity among international students.
Seoul
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, boasts a population of nearly ten million residents. In recent years, Seoul has made impressive progress, ascending seven places in the QS Best Cities rankings.
The city continuously enhances its key aspects, including employability, infrastructure, public safety, and transportation choices, solidifying its position as an attractive destination for international students.
Seoul stands out as a hub for higher education with an impressive concentration of universities. Four of Seoul's universities, including Seoul National University (SNU), Yonsei University, Korea University, and Sungkyunkwan University, are ranked among the top 100 globally. This concentration of esteemed institutions ensures that students in Seoul have access to high-quality education and a thriving academic environment.
Munich
Munich, the capital and largest city of the German state of Bavaria, is a major European industrial center known for its automobile and defense equipment manufacturing.
As Germany gains popularity as an international student destination, Munich has risen in prominence as a university city. This is due to improvements in factors such as employer activity and affordability indicators.
One key factor that makes Munich appealing is the extremely low tuition fees charged by German public universities for international students pursuing undergraduate courses. Renowned universities in Munich include the Technical University of Munich, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, and more.
The city boasts a diverse student population, with nearly one-fourth being foreign residents. This multicultural environment, well-developed public infrastructure, and high living standards contribute to the city's attractiveness as a study destination.
Factors to Consider
When choosing a city to study in, it's important to consider factors that can greatly impact your experience.
Here are some factors to consider:
- Academic Opportunities. The city should have renowned universities and educational institutions offering various programs across disciplines. The presence of distinguished faculty, academic resources, and global recognition contribute to the city's academic reputation.
- Cost of Living. Affordability is important for students, considering tuition fees, accommodation, transportation, and daily expenses. The cost of living should be reasonable and manageable, enabling students to live comfortably and focus on their studies without financial strain.
- Job Opportunities. A city with strong job prospects and career opportunities enhances students' employability after graduation. Factors such as a robust job market, internships, and industry connections contribute to a city's potential to offer fulfilling career paths.
- Healthcare Accessibility. Access to quality healthcare services is essential for students' well-being. The presence of reputable hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities, along with comprehensive health insurance coverage, ensures that students can receive prompt medical attention when needed.
- Safety and Security. Safety is paramount for students, both on and off campus. A top student city ensures a secure environment with low crime rates, reliable public transportation, and effective law enforcement measures to provide students and their families peace of mind.