Melbourne and Sydney have once again proven their allure for international students, securing the 5th and 6th spots respectively in the prestigious 2025 QS Quacquarelli Symonds Best Student Cities ranking. This remarkable achievement solidifies Australia's position as a global leader in higher education, with Germany being the only other country boasting two cities in the top ten.
Australia's Dominance in Student Appeal
The QS ranking highlights the immense popularity of Australian cities among prospective students worldwide. Both Melbourne and Sydney are celebrated for their diverse and vibrant student communities, offering a unique and enriching experience for those seeking an international education.
Notably, Australia's success extends beyond these two major cities. A total of seven Australian cities have made it into the top 100 best student cities, showcasing the country's widespread commitment to academic excellence and student well-being. Brisbane, Adelaide, Canberra, Perth, and the Gold Coast also feature prominently in the ranking, providing a wide array of options for students considering studying in Australia.
Navigating a World of Choices
With a multitude of top-ranked cities and universities across Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom, prospective students are presented with a wealth of choices when deciding on their ideal study destination. The QS Best Student Cities ranking serves as a valuable resource, guiding students towards urban centers that excel in various aspects of student life.
Understanding the QS Ranking Methodology
The QS Best Student Cities ranking is a comprehensive evaluation of urban environments that cater to the needs and aspirations of international students. To qualify for inclusion, cities must have a population exceeding 250,000 and host at least two universities featured in the QS World University Rankings. The ranking considers a diverse range of indicators, categorized into six key areas:
- University Rankings: This category assesses the number and performance of universities in the city according to the QS World University Rankings.
- Student Mix: Factors such as the proportion of students in the population, the number of international students, and the overall inclusivity of the city and country are taken into account.
- Desirability: This category evaluates the city's safety, pollution levels, and overall appeal to prospective students based on survey responses.
- Employer Activity: The ranking considers youth employment rates and employer perceptions of graduates from universities in the city.
- Affordability: Tuition fees, living costs, and the availability of financial aid are analyzed to gauge the affordability of studying in the city.
- Student View: This category incorporates student ratings on various aspects of city life, such as friendliness, sustainability, and diversity. It also examines the proportion of students who choose to remain in the city after graduation.
Indicators Shaping the Ranking
Within each category, specific indicators contribute to the overall assessment of a city's suitability for international students. For instance, under the "University Rankings" category, the ranking considers the number of universities featured in the QS World University Rankings and their respective positions. In the "Desirability" category, factors like safety, pollution levels, and student survey responses play a crucial role.
Empowering Student Decision-Making
The QS Best Student Cities ranking empowers prospective students with the information they need to make informed decisions about their educational journey. By considering a wide range of factors, from academic reputation to affordability and quality of life, students can identify cities that align with their individual preferences and aspirations.
The 2025 QS Best Student Cities ranking reaffirms Melbourne and Sydney's status as top global destinations for international students. With their diverse student communities, world-class universities, and vibrant cultural scenes, these cities offer a truly exceptional study experience. As Australia continues to attract students from around the world, the ranking serves as a testament to the country's unwavering commitment to providing a welcoming and enriching environment for those seeking an international education.
For more information, read https://www.topuniversities.com/city-rankings
