Montreal has been ranked among the World’s Top 10 Cities for International Students by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) in their 2025 Best Student Cities. Recognized as a cultural hub and a top destination for food lovers. Montreal secured 10th place out of 150 cities globally, achieving a remarkable overall score. It provides an exceptional experience for international students, blending world-class education with a full-of-spirit lifestyle.
Montreal Leads in Canadian Cities
Montreal ranked highest among Canadian cities. Toronto placed 11th place, and Vancouver came in 19th. QS Top Universities study evaluates cities across six key criteria, including population and the presence of at least two universities. Featured in the recent QS World’s top 10 University Rankings. In Montreal, these universities are McGill University and Concordia University.
Contrast of top 10 cities for abroad students in 2025
According to the survey, the top 10 cities for abroad students in 2025 are:
| Rank | City | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | London | Cultural hub with various opportunities |
| 2 | Tokyo | High quality of education and innovative culture |
| 3 | Seoul | Tech-driven environment with vibrant student life |
| 4 | Munich | Strong economy and student-friendly atmosphere |
| 5 | Melbourne | The strong economy and student-friendly atmosphere |
| 6 | Sydney | Outdoor activities and strong job market |
| 7 | Paris | Historic charm and a melting pot of cultures |
| 8 | Zurich | High living standards and excellent safety |
| 9 | Berlin | Artistic culture with affordable living options |
| 10 | Montreal | Cultural diversity, affordability, and academic excellence |
Why is Montreal the World’s Top 10 Cities for International Students?
Montreal’s position among the World’s Top 10 Cities for International Students is due to several key factors:
Diversity and Inclusivity
Montreal excels in the “student mix” category, which evaluates the diversity of a city’s student population. The city welcomes 40,000 international students from 150 countries each year. Creating a highly inclusive environment that celebrates cultural diversity.
Safety and Quality of Life
Montreal scored 85.1 in categories measuring safety, pollution levels, and the number of students. Who aspire to study there, reflecting its appeal as a dream city for many students worldwide.
Employment Opportunities
This is also recognized for its “employer activity,” ranking as a significant recruitment hub for companies looking to hire new graduates. This category considers youth employment rates and the attractiveness of local universities to both domestic and international employers. Among Canadian cities, Toronto leads with a score of 84.3, followed by Vancouver at 78.9 and Montreal at 77.
Affordability
Montreal stands higher in affordability compared to other Canadian cities, scoring 41.6, significantly above Toronto (21.2) and Vancouver (25.1). This category evaluates tuition costs and living expenses using various metrics, including the “Big Mac Index.”
Student Experience
Based on student ratings, Montreal scored 93.6 in the category assessing factors like tolerance, diversity, public transit, friendliness, nightlife, culture, sustainability, and the likelihood of students staying in the city after graduation. This score is slightly below Toronto’s 94.3 but still reflects a high level of student satisfaction.
Top Choices for International Students
Overall, Montreal’s combination of cultural diversity, affordability, and academic excellence makes it an attractive destination for students from around the globe. And that’s not all—the city also offers a fantastic range of things to do, from affordable dining options to amazing free activities that enhance the overall student experience.
For students looking for the perfect place to live in Montreal Downtown, Appartements Le Parc is an ideal choice. Conveniently located right between McGill University and Concordia University, it’s just a few minutes’ walk from each campus. Le Parc Apartments offers premium, hotel-style living in a vibrant and welcoming apartment complex, providing comfort and convenience that makes student life even more enjoyable.
Conclusion
Montreal is one of the World’s Top 10 Cities for International Students, ranking 10th in the QS Best Student Cities for 2025. With its rich cultural diversity, excellent universities, and vibrant lifestyle, the city offers a unique and fulfilling experience.
For those seeking convenient living, Appartements Le Parc is ideally located between McGill and Concordia universities, providing a comfortable home base. Embrace the opportunity to study and thrive in this dynamic city that truly welcomes students from around the globe!
