Seoul Dethrones London as World’s Best Student City in QS 2026 Rankings
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London has lost its long-held crown as the world’s top student city, with Seoul taking the number one spot in the latest QS Best Student Cities Rankings 2026. The South Korean capital’s rise marks a significant shift in the global higher education landscape, showcasing Asia’s increasing dominance.
Seoul’s top ranking is driven by strong performances in academic reputation, cultural vibrancy, innovation, and safety. The city is home to three top 100 universities, Seoul National University, Yonsei University, and Korea University; and hosts over 200,000 international students. Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Ju-Ho Lee called the recognition “an honour,” highlighting Seoul’s global academic appeal.
Tokyo secured second place, with particularly strong employer activity scores. London, which had led the rankings for six consecutive years, slipped to third place largely due to its plummeting affordability score, ranking 137th globally in that category.
Despite being home to 18 top-ranked institutions and a hub for international students, affordability remains a pressing issue for London. The city’s average student rent of £13,595 now exceeds the maximum maintenance loan available, creating a barrier for many prospective students. “This is no longer just a concern, it’s a barrier,” warned QS senior vice president Ben Sowter.
All 16 UK cities included in the rankings saw affordability declines, with none placing in the top 100 for that metric. However, they performed well in the Desirability category, with Edinburgh ranking 12th and London at 16th.
Liz Hutchinson of London Higher acknowledged London’s global appeal but stressed the need for urgent action. “We’re facing a chronic shortage of affordable housing and rising living costs, which could undermine London’s status as a top destination for international students,” she said.
While London remains a premier academic hub, QS’s report is a stark reminder that maintaining global leadership requires affordability, inclusion, and student-friendly policy reforms.
Source: THE PIE NEWS
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