Choosing where to study abroad is about much more than selecting a university. The city you live in shapes your lifestyle from academic experience to career opportunities. In 2025, international students are looking for the safest countries to travel to, ones that combine world-class education with affordability, safety, and lifestyle richness. To help you decide, we’ve highlighted the 15 best cities for international students worldwide this year.
How We Chose These Cities
Our selection is based on a combination of factors, including:
- University rankings and academic reputation
- Student experience and diversity
- Safety, transport, and quality of life
- Post-study work opportunities and visa options
The 15 Best Cities for International Students in 2025
1. London, United Kingdom
London remains the top destination for students in 2025. With institutions like UCL, Imperial College, and LSE, it offers academic excellence and strong graduate prospects. Living costs are high, but the UK’s post-study visas make London attractive for long-term opportunities.
2. Tokyo, Japan
A fascinating blend of tradition and innovation, Tokyo is one of the safest and most student-friendly cities in Asia. The University of Tokyo and Waseda University offer globally respected programmes, and Japan’s increasing number of English taught degrees makes it more accessible to international students.
3. Seoul, South Korea
Known for its vibrant culture and affordable lifestyle, Seoul is rapidly becoming a favourite among international students. Universities like Yonsei and Seoul National University lead in innovation and technology, while generous scholarships make the city especially appealing.
4. Munich, Germany
Munich offers tuition-free or low-cost education at prestigious institutions such as LMU Munich and TUM. Its high quality of life, central European location, and strong industries in engineering and finance provide outstanding opportunities for graduates.
5. Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne consistently ranks as one of the world’s most liveable cities. Students benefit from a diverse community, excellent universities, and part-time work opportunities. Its cultural vibrancy and inclusivity make it particularly attractive to international students.
6. Sydney, Australia
Sydney combines stunning coastal living with academic prestige. Institutions like the University of Sydney and UNSW are globally respected, and the city’s thriving job market offers great opportunities. Living costs are high, but the lifestyle is difficult to match.
7. Paris, France
Home to Sorbonne and Sciences Po, Paris is a hub of intellectual and cultural life. Tuition fees are relatively affordable, especially at public universities, although living costs can be challenging. The city’s unique charm continues to draw students from across the globe.
8. Zürich, Switzerland
Zürich offers exceptional safety, high living standards, and world-leading institutions such as ETH Zürich. The city is ideal for students seeking strong research opportunities and international networking, though living costs are relatively high.
9. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is known for its affordability compared with other capitals, along with its creative culture and strong universities such as Humboldt and Freie Universität. Its vibrant arts scene and welcoming international community make it a lively and innovative place to study.
10. Montreal, Canada
Montreal offers a unique bilingual environment, mixing French and English cultures. With world-class universities like McGill and relatively affordable living costs, it combines academic excellence with a rich cultural and social life.
11. Toronto, Canada
Toronto’s multicultural character makes it one of the most inclusive student cities in the world. Home to the University of Toronto, the city provides excellent career opportunities and a dynamic urban experience, though costs can be higher than in Montreal.
12. Vienna, Austria
Consistently ranked as one of the most liveable cities globally, Vienna is a safe, affordable, and historic destination for students. Its public universities offer high-quality education at lower tuition fees, particularly for EU and international students alike.
13. Singapore
Singapore stands out as a hub for innovation and technology, home to institutions such as NUS and NTU. English is widely spoken, making it easy for international students to adapt. The city is clean, safe, and well-connected to the rest of Asia.
14. Cambridge, United States
Cambridge is a global centre of academia, with Harvard and MIT attracting students from around the world. The academic environment is unmatched, though living costs are high. Students benefit from rich research opportunities and strong job markets.
15. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is known for its progressive education system, wide selection of English taught programmes, and inclusive atmosphere. It offers a high quality of life, a thriving cultural scene, and excellent job prospects in the creative and tech industries.
How to Choose the Right City for You
When deciding where to study, consider:
- Budget – can you manage living expenses comfortably?
- Language – will you thrive in an English-speaking city, or are you open to learning a new language?
- Career goals – which cities align with your desired industry?
- Lifestyle – do you prefer vibrant, busy capitals or calmer, historic environments?
The best cities for international students in 2025 offer something for everyone, and your choice will depend on your academic ambitions, career aspirations, and personal lifestyle.
At IMM Consult, we specialise in guiding students to the destinations that best fit their goals. Our team can help you navigate visas, applications, and the entire study abroad process.
