Brisbane named in top cities in the world for students

Despite the international education sector being hit hard by the pandemic, Brisbane is still one of the best cities in the world for students according to a major new study. SEE THE LIST

Brisbane has been named as one of the top 10 cities in the world for students thanks to its reasonably priced rent, young population and safety in a new international study.

The Best Student Cities in the World index for 2021 has been released by international student company Studee, and named the River City at No.9 in the world, ahead of fellow Aussies cities including the Gold Coast (14), Canberra (16) and Sydney (18).

Researchers found Brisbane scored above average in six of the nine categories which were analysed, including on the costs of rent and living, food options, free speech and safety.

But Brisbane was trumped by Melbourne at No.2 – which was applauded for its exceptional food scene, cheap technology and safety – along with Adelaide (5) and Perth (7).

Brisbane has been named the ninth best city in the world for international students.

Japan’s Tokyo came in at No.1, thanks to its high number of world-class universities, high internet speeds, and high levels of free speech.

Canada’s Quebec and Montreal also made the list, along with Seoul, Houston and Pittsburgh.

Studee president Jihna Gavilanes said deciding where to study was a huge decision for prospective international students.

“With so many options available, choosing where to study can feel overwhelming, especially if you're moving away from home for the first time,” she said.

“The things that are important to one student won’t be to another, so our ranking system uses several factors that actually make a difference to students.

“You’re not just choosing where to study, you’re picking the place you will call home and the neighbourhood where you could start your career.”

Many factors are considered when compiling the list, including safety, internet speed, cost of living and lifestyle.

Reseachers also took into account a city’s internet speeds – for which Brisbane was rated among the lowest of the top cities – as well as the cost of a MacBook and what percentage of the population was aged between 15 and 24-years-old.

“When choosing where to attend university or college, you need to consider everything that could impact your experience,” Ms Gavilanes said.

“Your surroundings, the cost of living, and your social life are all factors you should think about before deciding where to enrol.

“Getting an education can be expensive so you must find the right place that works for you for the next few years and beyond.”

FULL LIST

1. Tokyo

2. Melbourne

3. Seoul

4. Quebec

5. Adelaide

6. Montreal

7. Perth

8. Houston

9. Brisbane

10. Pittsburgh