For aspiring international students, choosing a study destination involves a multitude of factors beyond academic prestige. A vibrant city life, affordability, and a welcoming environment all play a crucial role. According to the recent Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Best Student Cities ranking for 2025, Montreal stands out as a compelling option, securing a coveted spot in the top 10.
A City Rooted in Education
Landing 10th place out of 150 global cities, Montreal boasts an impressive overall score of 92.1. This success can be partially attributed to its strong academic institutions. The city is home to world-renowned universities like McGill University and Concordia University, both located in the heart of the action. These universities consistently rank high in global university rankings, ensuring students receive top-notch education.
Beyond Rankings: A Diverse and Inclusive Student Experience
The QS ranking delves deeper than just university prestige. It utilizes six key categories to assess a city’s suitability for international students. One such category, “Student Mix,” examines the proportion of students within the population, focusing on international student presence. Montreal thrives in this aspect, welcoming over 40,000 international students annually, representing over 150 countries. This cultural melting pot creates a vibrant and enriching learning environment. Furthermore, the ranking considers the inclusivity of the city and its surrounding environment, ensuring students feel comfortable expressing their identities and backgrounds.
Safety, Affordability, and Beyond
Montreal shines in the “Affordability” category, with a score of 41.6. This stands in stark contrast to Canadian counterparts like Toronto (21.2) and Vancouver (25.1). Considering the high cost of living in major Canadian cities, Montreal offers a more budget-friendly option for international students. This affordability includes housing – Montreal remains significantly cheaper than other major Canadian cities for renting apartments.
Beyond affordability, Montreal also scores well in terms of “Desirability” (85.1). This category considers factors such as safety, pollution levels, and student preferences. While Toronto takes the lead in this category, Montreal maintains a reputation for being a safe and clean city. Furthermore, “Student View” plays a crucial role in the ranking. This category reflects the experiences of students themselves, incorporating factors like diversity, friendliness, and access to public transport. While Toronto edges Montreal slightly in this category, Montreal remains highly regarded by student residents.
A City with Career Prospects
While academics are paramount, post-graduation opportunities are also a major concern for international students. The QS ranking recognizes this by including “Employer Activity” as a key category. This category analyzes how attractive graduate talent is to potential employers. Despite trailing Toronto and Vancouver in this category, Montreal still possesses a strong pull for recruiters. The presence of well-respected universities combined with a thriving economy translates to good career prospects for international graduates.
Montreal: A Compelling Choice for International Students
Montreal’s ranking as a top 10 student city in the world is a testament to its many advantages. From world-class universities and a diverse student population to affordability and a vibrant city life, Montreal offers a compelling package for international students seeking a well-rounded educational experience. For those considering pursuing their studies in Canada, Montreal stands out as a top contender, offering a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural richness, and a positive post-graduation outlook.