QS Best Student Cities ranking

Where to start with the Italian capital? Well, most people probably start with the main sights – the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, the Forum, the Spanish Steps or the catacombs.

But as a student in Rome, the fun lies in discovering new sides to the ‘Eternal City’. Simply walking around can be a great way to feel the energy of the place – at once reminiscent of ancient Roman history and thriving with a modern, cosmopolitan vibe.

You might also want to take in a show in one of Rome’s many theaters or enjoy a large outdoor performance at the Stadio Falminio or Olympic Stadium. The cost of living is fairly high, though it’s offset by relatively low tuition fees. And for bargain hunters, Rome’s antique fairs and flea markets offer reams of vintage and second-hand goodies waiting to be discovered.

There are a range of excellent universities in Rome, with the highest-ranked being the Sapienza - Università di Roma.

Rome achieves its highest score in the desirability indicator, reflecting students’ positive perception of studying here. It received praise in our student survey for its culture, beauty, history and relaxed atmosphere.

When asked to name the best things about Rome, one respondent said: “It's the one of the oldest cities in the world, its history, architecture, monuments, nature, weather and people are just amazing and I can't imagine any city having all these,” while another described it as “the most beautiful city in the world”

Would Rome get your vote? Tell us why.

Internationally ranked universities in Rome

To find out how each of the above categories is calculated, view the methodology.

You have decided that studying in the US is the perfect move for your education, you have great ideas and big expectations, but do you know how to impress US university admissions officers?

Great academic scores will always be an important factor in university admissions, but you might find that communication skills and passion could also be key elements in achieving your success. In order to guarantee your conquest, you need to do your research and make all the necessary preparations that will help you get closer to the finish line.

The great wish of university admissions officers is to find bright and talented young people who want to use education to create a better future for themselves and for society. As a smart applicant, you could try to anticipate the aspects that US universities are really looking for when assessing candidates. That won’t even be much of a burden for you since we’re telling you exactly what they are searching for!

According to this year’s findings from the 10^th annual University Admissions Officers Report from ACS International Schools, the International Baccalaureate Organisation (IB) and the International Baccalaureate Schools and Colleges Association (IBSCA), here are the most valued attributes by university admissions officers.

1. Evidence of passion for your chosen subject 

The survey showed that 93% of university admissions officers in the UK and US rated evidence of passion for students’ chosen subject as important or very important. Excellent academic scores alone may not be enough to show that you are passionate about the subject, though of course they are still important.

The perfect combination includes both passion and high academic scores. Don’t assume that university admissions officers only care about grades. Always be open and let them see that you are passionate about learning more about your chosen field and creating a career around it. Passion brings dedication and determination to the table, so do not try to hide it.

2. Having held any positions of responsibility

Responsibility is an important quality and it’s not surprising to note that 35% of university admissions officers reported looking for candidates who have held some position of responsibility.

This is why getting involved in student organizations and participating to events regarding your field of study can help you stand out. Being in a position of responsibility will prove to universities that you are interested in making all the necessary efforts in order to achieve success and that you are able to make decisions on your own.

3. A good level of written English 

This is not surprising, but it’s important to mention, because this attribute is also considered as important or very important by 93% of university admissions officers.This skill might be demonstrated by the way you use English to support your ideas in the application essays or personal statement you write, but also during interviews with US universities.

Make sure that your discourse is well-structured, error-free and that you are not trying to imitate a certain style. It is always best to let your personality come through because that proves you confident about expressing yourself in English.

4. A reasonable level of mathematics

Mathematical skills will not benefit you only if you enroll on a mathematics course. These skills often prove one’s ability to think rationally and make logical connections. Almost two-thirds (61%) of surveyed UK and US university admissions officers reported looking for this attribute.

This should not scare you, as it only means that you are able to juggle with basic mathematical concepts without much difficulty. If you are really good at this, even better. Sound numerical skills will not only help you during your study years, but also when you start work.

5. A positive attitude towards studies 

If you have managed to get face to face with US university admissions officers, you are definitely interested in education, but you still need to let them grasp your positive attitude towards studies. Some 86% of admissions officers see this attribute as important or very important.

In order to do this, you can let them know about any relevant efforts you put into learning more about your field of study, discuss books and papers that you have found helpful, and declare your commitment to becoming more advanced in your studies with every year.

6. Ability to think and work independently

Proving that you are able to think and work independently is also an attribute sought by 72% of UK and US university admissions officers. Being confident in your own judgement and able to take important decisions on your own proves them that you have all the chances of achieving high performance during your study years and beyond.

These values might be illustrated by your involvement in clubs and organizations related to your future field of study and situations where you proved your leadership and decision-making skills.

7. Success through a difficult start or background 

As you might have already understood, universities don’t look just at your grades, they want to really get to know you. And this is why 42% of university admissions officers declared that they are interested in applicants’ backgrounds.

The ability to overcome certain hurdles in life and getting through a difficult start can prove strength of character. Do not feel shy about telling your personal story if you feel that there is something worth mentioning. We all have a story worth telling, so do not keep yours a secret.

These were the top seven attributes most valued by surveyed UK and US university admissions officers. Other aspects that are often taken into consideration by universities include: awareness of global or cultural differences, work experience, entrepreneurial attitude and participation in community or voluntary services.

Do not think about these elements as rules, but more as guidelines to help you show off your qualities and ensure the road to your university admission ends in success. If you are ready to walk down this road, check out our QS World University Tour #StudyinUSA Virtual Fair.

QS Best Student Cities ranking

Known for its proud links to the Robin Hood legend, Nottingham is located in the East Midlands of England in the UK, and affectionately referred to as the ‘Queen of the Midlands’. It’s also known for being a major sporting center, named the 'Home of English Sport' in October 2015.

Getting about is easy in Nottingham thanks to its award-winning public transport system, and there are a great deal of things to do, with large shopping centers, theaters, galleries, music and entertainment venues. There’s also plenty of history and culture to explore, from museums, to Nottingham Castle (along with the famous Robin Hood statue), and the Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, which claims to be the oldest pub in England.

Nottingham receives a high score in the student mix indicator of the QS Best Student Cities ranking. Not only is there a large international student population in Nottingham, but the city’s highest-ranked university, the University of Nottingham, has branch campuses in Malaysia and China, and has been praised for its international approach to higher education.

However, Nottingham’s highest score is for the student view indicator, ranked 30^th. The city is certainly proving popular with its students and received lots of praise in our student survey for its thriving student lifestyle, nightlife and friendliness. One student said there’s a “great balance between top ranking university education and brilliant nightlife – I had the stereotypical student life and loved it!” Another explained, “The campus is beautiful and the city is really affordable for the UK.”

Are you studying in Nottingham? Rate your experience.

Internationally ranked universities in Nottingham

To find out how each of the above categories is calculated, view the methodology.

QS Best Student Cities ranking: Joint 68^th

Although not as well-known as many of the cities in the QS Best Student Cities ranking, Hsinchu is a great option for those who want to study in Taiwan but would prefer a smaller, more laid-back student city to the bustling capital, Taipei. And while you may think the nickname ‘the Windy City’ belongs to the US’s Chicago, Hsinchu also lays claim to this title, thanks to its similarly windy climate. Hsinchu rises five places this year to take joint 68^th place in the city ranking, thanks to improved scores in several indicators, including employer activity, showing how sought after the city’s graduates are by employers.

You can explore more than 400 years of Hsinchu’s history in its many museums – but it’s also very much forward-thinking and fast-developing place, with the nearby Hsinchu Science and Industrial Park dubbed the ‘Silicon Valley of the Orient’.

This focus on innovation is reflected in the city’s universities, with National Tsing Hua University and National Chiao Tung University both in the top 250 of the QS World University Rankings® 2020. Both universities are also highly international, with 12 percent of their students coming from outside of Taiwan.

Hsinchu receives a very high score for affordability in the cities ranking – the cost of living is low and international tuition fees are also on the low side (averaging US$2,900 per year).

Are you studying in Hsinchu? Rate your experience.

Internationally ranked universities in Hsinchu

More about Hsinchu

To find out how each of the above categories is calculated, view the methodology.

QS Best Student Cities ranking: 115^th

If you like picturesque and historic cities, you can’t really do much better than Quebec City. Founded in the early 17^th century, Quebec is the capital of the province with which it shares its name, and of French-speaking Canada as a whole. Its Old Town, with pretty cobbled streets surrounding the striking Château Frontenac and the only preserved city ramparts in North America, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Quebec as a whole is full of historic and architectural interest. In fact, there are 37 National Historic Sites of Canada in Quebec City and its enclaves.

But of course Quebec is not just a giant museum – it’s very much a living and changing city. There’s no shortage of things to do here, in terms of both nightlife and culture, and the city is especially known for its colorful Winter Carnival, lively gay scene, and intimate live music venues.

Quebec has a large and diverse student population in relation to its size, ranking just outside the top 50 for student mix in the QS Best Student Cities 2018. Notable universities in Quebec include Laval University (ranked 416^th in the QS World University Rankings® 2020) and the Université du Québec (561-570). The city is also home to the oldest educational institution for women in North America, the Ursuline Convent of Quebec City. Teaching at universities in Quebec City is primarily in French.

Would Quebec get your vote? Tell us why.

Internationally ranked universities in Quebec

More about Quebec

To find out how each of the above categories is calculated, view the methodology.

QS Best Student Cities ranking

Sweden’s second-largest city, this port town is renowned for its continental feel and its friendly locals, with a fairly large student population. Universities in Gothenburg include two institutions ranked in the top 300 of the QS World University Rankings®: the Chalmers University of Technology and the University of Gothenburg.

There’s a great deal of culture to explore here, as the city hosts some of the largest annual events in Scandinavia, including the annual Gothenburg Film Festival and the Gothenburg Book Fair. In summer, a wide variety of music festivals are held in the city, while sports fans can enjoy the annual Gothia Cup, the world's largest football tournament in terms of the number of participants.

Although not cheap, Gothenburg is more affordable than many other Swedish cities, and has plenty of pubs and bars. It’s proved a hit with its students, claiming a high position for student view, one of the indicators used to compile the QS Best Student Cities ranking. 

Are you studying in Gothenburg? Rate your experience.

Internationally ranked universities in Gothenburg

To find out how each of the above categories is calculated, view the methodology.

QS Best Student Cities ranking

Located on Portugal’s west coast, Lisbon (or Lisboa) is pretty much everything you could want from a European capital city: rich in culture, character and history, full of great food, wine, music and nightlife.

Against an attractive backdrop of historic buildings, winding streets and vintage trams, Lisbon offers an eclectic selection of activities and experiences, from traditional fado music to new electronic bands, and from traditional public baths to lively cafés and even livelier nightclubs.

The great scenery in Lisbon is made all the better due to the city’s hilly terrain, and although this makes walking and cycling more of an effort, the views (and the improved fitness levels) are most definitely worth it.

Two public universities in Lisbon are featured in the QS World University Rankings® – the University of Lisbon and the Universidade Nova de Lisboa – as well as one private institution – the Universidade Catolica Portuguesa, Lisboa.

Lisbon’s been well received by its students, with a lot of praise in our student survey – and not just for the idyllic weather! When asked to name the best things about studying in Lisbon, one respondent mentioned: “Quality of life of the city, diversity of backgrounds of students and teachers, extreme tolerance/embracing of that diversity by the city's population and the quality of the education.”

Would Lisbon get your vote? Tell us why.

Internationally ranked universities in Lisbon

To find out how each of the above categories is calculated, view the methodology.      

QS Best Student Cities ranking: 45^th

The capital of Canada, Ottawa is ranked 45^th in this year’s Best Student Cities ranking. A diverse and dynamic city, Ottawa is also multilingual, with many residents fluent in both English and French.

Ottawa is home to the Rideau Canal, the oldest continuously operated canal system in North America, which is also a world heritage site. There are countless other cultural and historical spots of interest to explore, including the most-visited museum in Canada, the Canadian Museum of History. The city is also home to the impressive neo-gothic parliament building ‘Centre Block’.

The two top universities in Ottawa are both ranked within the top 700 in the world, with the University of Ottawa at joint 281^st in the QS World University Rankings® 2020.

Ottawa is ranked within the top 30 for the student view indicator, a score which reflects the city’s lively student life, diversity and friendliness.

It received praise in our student survey, with one respondent saying: “I love the opportunities and the diversity as well as the student-centered culture” while another praised the “diverse array of activities, programs and events you can get involved in.”

Are you studying in Ottawa? Rate your experience.

Internationally ranked universities in Ottawa

More about Ottawa

To find out how each of the above categories is calculated, view the methodology.

QS Best Student Cities ranking: 65^th

Ranked 65^th in this year’s QS Best Student Cities ranking, Christchurch is New Zealand’s second-highest entry (behind Auckland). The largest city on New Zealand’s South Island, Christchurch is known as ‘the Garden City’ – a testament to its beautiful, award-winning parks and gardens. Located on the east coast, close to the Southern Alps, it’s also traditionally known as the most English of New Zealand’s cities. There’s no shortage of things to do in Christchurch and the surrounding area, including skiing, bungee jumping, whitewater rafting, mountain biking, wind surfing, whale watching and more.

Though a number of earthquakes have hit the city in recent years, Christchurch has been experiencing rapid growth, with the Christchurch Central Recovery Plan aiming to ensure it is a safe, enjoyable and accessible city.

The two top universities in Christchurch are both within the top 400 in the world – University of Canterbury, ranked joint 227^th in the world (fourth in New Zealand), and Lincoln University, ranked joint 356^th in the world.

Would Christchurch get your vote? Tell us why.

Internationally ranked universities in Christchurch

More about Christchurch

To find out how each of the above categories is calculated, view the methodology.

The new edition of the annual QS Best Student Cities index will be published on 1 December, with the list extended to feature even more of the world’s top cities for students.

Designed to celebrate the planet’s most appealing urban study destinations, the index draws on a wide range of indicators to assess cities in five key categories: university rankings, student mix, employer activity, desirability, and affordability.

For the past three years the index has been topped by Paris, due to the French capital’s impressive selection of internationally ranked universities, combined with tuition fees which compare favorably to many of its rival study destinations.

Which cities tick all the right boxes?

This year the index will feature 75 cities around the world, extended from the current list of 50. To be considered for inclusion, each city must have a population of at least 250,000, and be home to at least two institutions included in the QS rankings.

A total of 18 criteria are used to create the index, including details of the city’s universities, student population and costs, as well as lifestyle and wellbeing indicators such as The Economist’s Safe Cities Index, Numbeo’s Pollution Index, and Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index.

The aim is to provide a rounded picture of how well each city meets the range of criteria considered by prospective international students and their families – universities, lifestyle, student community, employment prospects, and of course, the price tag.

The results are presented in an interactive table, which can be sorted on each of the five categories assessed, with supplementary information provided about each city’s performance on individual indicators.

In the latest edition, the UK capital dropped to third place, with Melbourne climbing to second. The top 10’s diversity – featuring cities across Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America – is continued throughout the list, reflecting the global range of options available to today’s prospective international students.

To be the first to get the new results on 1 December, follow us on Facebook and Twitter, and join the conversation with #QSBestCities.