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The 5 Best Cities for International Students – And Their Top 10 Universities
- OUS Academy in Switzerland
- Jul 29
- 5 min read
Every year, thousands of students leave their home countries to study abroad. They are not only looking for a good education, but also for a life-changing experience. Some cities have become favorites for international students because of their culture, safety, lifestyle, and world-class universities.
In this article, we take a look at five of the most popular cities for international students—London, Munich, Melbourne, Paris, and Tokyo—and explore ten of the top universities across these cities that offer great opportunities for learning, career growth, and personal development.
1. Imperial College London – London, United Kingdom
Imperial College is one of the best universities in the world for science, technology, engineering, and medicine. Located in South Kensington, a central and beautiful part of London, Imperial brings together top students and researchers from over 130 countries.
Students benefit from excellent facilities, real-world research, and strong connections with industries like engineering, biotech, and healthcare. The atmosphere is fast-paced and ambitious, and many graduates go on to work for top companies or continue research at leading institutions.
Why students love it: High academic quality, modern labs, international community, and strong career support.
2. University College London (UCL) – London, United Kingdom
UCL is one of London’s largest and most diverse universities. It offers a wide variety of courses across arts, sciences, law, health, and social sciences. Located in Bloomsbury, UCL’s campus is surrounded by museums, parks, and cafes.
The university is known for encouraging creative thinking and independent learning. Many international students choose UCL for its inclusive environment and excellent teaching. UCL also has many partnerships with universities and companies around the world, offering students many opportunities to connect globally.
Why students love it: Central location, open academic culture, and wide program choices.
3. Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich – Munich, Germany
LMU Munich is one of Germany’s oldest and most respected universities. Founded in 1472, it has a long history of academic excellence, especially in philosophy, literature, medicine, and law.
The university offers many master’s and doctoral programs in English, making it attractive for international students. Located in a clean and safe city with a high standard of living, LMU combines history and innovation. The peaceful campus and access to research centers make it ideal for students who want both quality education and a good lifestyle.
Why students love it: Free or low tuition, strong academic tradition, and beautiful city setting.
4. Technical University of Munich – Munich, Germany
Often called TUM, this university is focused on science, engineering, and innovation. It has built a strong reputation for producing skilled professionals in areas like artificial intelligence, robotics, data science, and mechanical engineering.
TUM offers many English-taught programs, especially at the master’s level. It also partners with many global companies in Germany’s powerful industry sectors, helping students gain valuable work experience. The university has a practical, hands-on approach, and the campus is modern and well-equipped.
Why students love it: Innovation-driven learning, close industry ties, and friendly student life.
5. University of Melbourne – Melbourne, Australia
The University of Melbourne is known for its beautiful campus, high academic standards, and active student life. It’s the oldest university in Victoria and one of the best in the southern hemisphere. International students come here to study everything from law and medicine to the arts, business, and environmental science.
The campus is located just a short walk from the city center, with easy access to cafes, galleries, and green parks. The university focuses on global learning and research that addresses real-world challenges.
Why students love it: Cultural diversity, lively campus, and flexible degree options.
6. Monash University – Melbourne, Australia
Monash is a large and internationally active university. It has campuses not only in Melbourne, but also in Malaysia, China, and even Italy. It is especially strong in fields like pharmacy, education, public health, and sustainability.
Monash takes pride in its modern approach to teaching, offering practical experience and real-world projects. Its Clayton campus is a student city on its own, with everything from libraries to sports facilities and international student services.
Why students love it: Global mindset, modern facilities, and wide network of campuses.
7. Sorbonne University – Paris, France
The Sorbonne is one of the most iconic names in European education. Located in the heart of Paris, it offers top-level programs in arts, science, and engineering. The historic buildings, cobbled streets, and intellectual atmosphere make it a dream place to study.
Though the university teaches mainly in French, more and more English-taught programs are available, especially for graduate students. With a long tradition of producing poets, scientists, and thinkers, the Sorbonne continues to be a magnet for those who value classic education in a cultural capital.
Why students love it: Rich cultural life, historic reputation, and inspiring academic setting.
8. Sciences Po – Paris, France
This highly respected university specializes in political science, international relations, economics, and law. It is a favorite choice for students who dream of working in diplomacy, global organizations, or public policy.
Sciences Po has several campuses across France, but its Paris campus is the most well-known. It offers a wide range of programs in English and hosts students from more than 150 countries. The university promotes discussion, critical thinking, and real-world impact.
Why students love it: Global focus, strong public affairs training, and access to policy networks.
9. The University of Tokyo – Tokyo, Japan
Often called “Todai,” the University of Tokyo is the top national university in Japan. It is known for excellence in science, engineering, economics, and law. The university has beautiful campuses, including the main Hongo campus with historic red-brick buildings.
While many programs are taught in Japanese, the university offers international courses in English for graduate students, especially in technology and public policy. It’s a place for those who want to experience Japan deeply while studying at a high academic level.
Why students love it: Strong research, rich history, and connection to Japanese innovation.
10. Waseda University – Tokyo, Japan
Waseda is a leading private university located in the heart of Tokyo. It has a very international environment and offers several undergraduate and graduate programs fully in English.
Students at Waseda enjoy the energy of one of the world’s largest cities while studying in a supportive and creative setting. The university has a strong reputation in humanities, business, and media studies. It also has partnerships with many universities abroad, making exchange and double-degree options available.
Why students love it: Friendly international atmosphere, excellent city life, and flexible programs.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right city to study in is just as important as choosing the right university. Cities like London, Munich, Melbourne, Paris, and Tokyo offer more than just education—they offer experiences that shape your future, friendships that last a lifetime, and opportunities that open global doors.
The universities mentioned above are more than academic institutions. They are communities of learning, creativity, and innovation. If you're looking for a place to grow, explore, and prepare for a global career, these cities and their universities should be at the top of your list.
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