London Keeps Its Crown as the World’s Best Student City
Congratulations to the city of London for being named the world’s best student city by the QS Best Students 2025 rankings! It’s the sixth year in a row that London has taken the world’s top spot on QS’ list, which assesses cities’ strengths in the areas of affordability, diversity, employment opportunities, student feedback, and university rankings. The list features over 150 student cities, and Tokyo, Seoul, Munich, and Melbourne round out this year’s top five. Read on for reasons why London is the world’s best student city, and short features on some of its academic institutions.
QS isn’t the only organization highlighting everything London offers international students! The ApplyBoard team is also proud to support London Higher and their Study London campaign this summer. We’ve matched our technical savvy with London Higher’s unparalleled knowledge of this vibrant, beautiful city: the ApplyBoard platform is integrated into London Higher’s partner university pages to create a smoother application experience.
With roots going all the way back to 1848, London Metropolitan University is a cornerstone of academia in London. The University offers degree courses across six schools, five of which are based in its main Holloway Road campus. (The School of Art, Architecture and Design is on the Aldgate campus.)
LMU is known for excellence in teaching quality and student experience. In fact, it ranked in the UK’s top 10 for both categories, according to the Times Good University Guide 2024. The University also deserves recognition for its impressive sustainability efforts. LMU has reduced its carbon emissions by an impressive 80% since 2005-06.
University of Greenwich
For students seeking a high-quality education taught by passionate and experienced staff on a beautiful and historic campus on the banks of the Thames, the respected University of Greenwich checks every box.
The university offers students all the quality and prestige of an old, established university alongside modern amenities: since 2013, they’ve invested over £150 million in student facilities, laboratories, and teaching spaces. And with 1 in 5 students coming from outside the UK, international students can expect to study alongside peers from over 140 countries.
Middlesex University
Students at Middlesex University in north London thrive in a hands-on environment where they’ll build practical, field-specific skills. Plus, international students are set up to thrive, with access to student success tools like a 1:1 tutor, learning assistants, and mental health support. Graduate employability is excellent: per HESA 2022 data, 93% of Middlesex graduates are employed or pursuing further study.
Undergraduate and postgraduate course offerings range from advertising to computing, leading to a diverse student body. Plus, downtown London is only a 30-minute trip away, so students are never far from world-class arts, sports, and entertainment.
Coventry University London
Coventry University has taught students for over 180 years. Their London campus opened in the financial district in 2010 to offer a learning experience surrounded by top businesses. CU London is now one of Europe’s largest providers of business-related degrees. Every course includes the opportunity to apply for an internship or placement, which gives students a chance to test their skills and build their network even before graduation.
While Coventry’s full student body is over 32,000, only around 2,000 of those students are based at CU London. This smaller campus size encourages students to get to know their peers through taking similar courses and attending campus events. Students looking for a heart-of-the-city experience will thrive at CU London. And, when they want to get out of town, Liverpool Street Station is a short walk away.
Curious about other universities in the United Kingdom? Find one that fits your study style in our Top-Ranked UK Universities post.
So… Why Study in London?
Everyone has different reasons! Ours lean on what helped London take the Best Student City crown again, and thoughts from the Chief Executive Officer at London Higher. Read on for her top reason.
Loved by Its Students
QS ranked London third in the world based on student and alumni feedback. London offers students lively and world-class sport and cultural opportunities, whether students want to participate in a campus league or watch from the stands.
Diversity of Students
Study London notes that London is “significantly more diverse than the rest of the UK,” which makes sense for somewhere over 300 languages are spoken! This can help it feel like home to students who have come to London from around the world. In London, it’s easier to find restaurants that remind you of home, or faith communities to connect with.
Top Academic Institutions
London is home to 4 of the UK’s top 10 universities, per Study London. Plus, degrees from London-based universities are recognized worldwide by employers. That means that no matter where students go after graduation, their credentials will travel effectively. This sets students up for career success.
“…[There are] fantastic employability opportunities waiting for you after you graduate. London is the heart of many UK sectors and industries, from the creative industries through to the life sciences … Whatever you want to do, you can find it here in London.”
We hope these university spotlights and city features have encouraged you to study in London.
