Top 10 UK Student Cities

Each year the QS Best Student Cities index analyses factors like student mix, employer activity, affordability, and more to create a list of the best student cities worldwide. London currently ranks 1st out of 120 cities overall, followed by Tokyo and Melbourne. Discover where the top student cities in the UK rank overall.

1. LONDON

(GLOBAL RANKING - 1)

The large concentration of world-class universities is not the only reason the capital ranks as the best student city in the world. Aside from academics, London is one of the most prominent business, culture and travel spots in Europe, with plenty to offer students looking for diversity and life experience.

The only drawback is affordability, as it's also one of the most expensive cities in the world. Fortunately, there are loads of ways to live in London cheap as a student, from using student discounts for travelling on the underground and overground, to knowing which areas are more affordable for London student accommodation.

2. EDINBURGH

(GLOBAL RANKING - 15)

Edinburgh's scenery, the entertainment scene, and local friendliness make it one of the best places to be while you study. The Scottish capital is known for its history, charm, and excellent quality of life. Massive annual events like the Edinburgh International Festival and the New Year's Hogmanay street party are a dream for students.

It's easy to stay close to the action with plenty of Edinburgh student flats and shared apartments to choose from, and travel around the city is convenient and straightforward. While tuition fees are slightly higher than other UK cities, it is entirely subsidized for undergraduate students from within the EU (excluding the rest of the UK) by the Student Awards Agency for Scotland. Home to the University of Edinburgh (in 20th place in the world rankings), the city is one of the UK's highest scorers on the student view, student mix, and desirability indicators. According to our survey, students admire the city's "combination of nature, history, world-class facilities and diversity".

3. MANCHESTER

(GLOBAL RANKING - 29)

Manchester is one of the top student cities, thanks to its several world-class universities and exceptional student culture. Famous acts hailing from this city include Oasis, Joy Division, Stone Roses, and The Smiths, so if you're into music, you're in for a treat. With a thriving arts and entertainment scene, vibrant nightlife, and loads to see and explore, Manchester's highest ranked university, the University of Manchester is a member of the prestigious Russell Group and places 27th in the world rankings.

4. GLASGOW

(GLOBAL RANKING - 39)

Glasgow is home to several stellar universities and colleges, and as a student city, there's no shortage of affordable student accommodation options either.

Academics aside, there are loads of other reasons to study in Glasgow, from the city's entertainment and art to its thriving music scene. A huge mix of international students call the city home, and the diverse melting pot of cultures makes it one of the most exciting UK cities to settle into.

The city is home to two universities which feature in the top 300 of the World University Rankings: the University of Glasgow, which ranks 67th, and the University of Strathclyde at joint 296th, with the former dating back to the 15th century. The largest city in Scotland, Glasgow is known for its rich history, varied contemporary culture, and the friendliness of its locals.

5. COVENTRY

(GLOBAL RANKING - 47)

This city has gained attention due to its proximity to the University of Warwick, although the highly reputable Coventry University should not be overlooked. Affordable studios or student flats in Coventry offer proximity to campuses, and traveling anywhere in town is easy. It's also just an hour away from London for quick day trips into the capital.

If you're looking for some culture, Coventry is home to several art galleries and theatres and hosts numerous music and sports events. It has also been named the UK City of Culture for 2021 for its diversity and culture.

6. NOTTINGHAM

(GLOBAL RANKING - 48)

Nottingham University has strong global ties, with a large international student population and branch campuses in Malaysia and China. In addition to its strong academic game, the city has an abundance of things to do, from shopping and theatres to entertainment venues and restaurants. Getting around is easy, and you're in for a warm welcome from friendly locals.

7. BIRMINGHAM

(GLOBAL RANKING - 49)

Birmingham's five high-ranking universities attract thousands of international students each year, making it one of the most culturally diverse cities in the UK. It's also the second-largest, with a student-friendly environment, vibrant culture and nightlife scene, and loads of affordable accommodation options.

The large student population means there's no shortage of music festivals, international acts, sporting matches, and locals bars and clubs.

8. NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

(GLOBAL RANKING - 57)

Regularly voted one of the top student cities in the UK, Newcastle has a large student population, a great mix of private and shared accommodation catering to students, and a relatively low cost of living, making it the cheapest UK city for a date!

The city is steeped in history and home to plenty of cultural and entertainment options. The local 'Geordies' are known for their hospitality and friendliness. In addition to academics, there are plenty of fun things to do in Newcastle for students, from live poetry jams and art museums to the biggest pub crawl in the city.

9. ABERDEEN

(GLOBAL RANKING - 64)

Aberdeen has been voted the best Scottish city to live and work in. Between its stellar academic opportunities, cheap student accommodation, and insanely beautiful scenery, the city attracts students from all over the world each year, making it one of the most cosmopolitan.

The stunning coastline and surrounding countryside provide a great scenic backdrop for outdoor activities, while a thriving creative, arts and culture scene offers non-stop entertainment and inspiration.

10. BRIGHTON

(GLOBAL RANKING - 83)

One of the liveliest cities in the UK, Brighton caters to its large student population with year-round festivals, gigs, pubs and clubs, beach parties, and more. Vintage clothing shops, cafes, comedy clubs, and restaurants are sprinkled throughout the city, and with something to do around every corner, a wander through the graffiti lined alleys of Brighton won't leave you disappointed.

Brighton has the largest student ratio of all UK student cities, with students making up 11.7 percent of the total population and international students making up 27 percent of the student population. The city, perhaps unsurprisingly, earns its best score in the student mix ranking, where it comes 24th in the world. Its highest-ranked university is the University of Sussex, placing 246th in the QS World University Rankings® 2020 

Source: UK rankings sourced from Top Universities City Rankings 2019