India has made a strong impression in the QS Best Student Cities 2026 Rankings, with Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai securing spots among the top 130 global education destinations.

The rankings, released by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), evaluate cities on seven key parameters: affordability, employer activity, university rankings, student mix, student view (satisfaction), desirability, and overall score.These rankings reflect not just the academic excellence of these cities but also their potential to offer students a well-rounded university experience.

As per the QS Best Student Cities 2026 rankings, Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai were analysed by scores on the basis of the following parameters:

Overall Score: 61.6Mumbai leads among Indian cities in the 2026 list. It stands out for its strong employer activity score (77) and high affordability (86.3), making it an appealing choice for students looking to balance quality education with real-world career opportunities.

Home to prestigious institutions like IIT Bombay, TISS, and University of Mumbai, the city offers a dynamic student atmosphere. With vibrant cultural festivals, coastal charm, and public spaces like Marine Drive, Mumbai blends academics with real-world experiences.

Student-friendly neighbourhoods like Churchgate and Vile Parle are filled with budget eateries, bookstores, and easy access to public transport.

Overall Score: 93.3Delhi has the highest affordability score globally (96.5), due to low living expenses and heavily subsidised tuition at public universities. It also boasts strong scores in employer activity and university reputation.

The capital is a hub of intellectual and political life, home to Delhi University, JNU, and Jamia Millia Islamia.

North and South Campus areas are popular for libraries and affordable cafes. While air quality and congestion remain concerns, the cultural exposure and career prospects, especially in policy, media, and research, are unmatched.

Overall Score: 59.6Bengaluru saw the biggest rise among Indian cities, thanks to a high student satisfaction score (56) and excellent opportunities for tech careers. It’s also known for its affordability and increasing employer activity.

Often called India’s Silicon Valley, the city is home to IISc, IIM Bangalore, and top-tier engineering institutes. Students flock to areas like Koramangala, Indiranagar, and Whitefield, where they find co-working spaces, cafés, and internship opportunities at start-ups and global tech firms. Pleasant weather and a modern lifestyle make it a student favorite.

Overall Score: 54.1Though ranked lower than its peers, Chennai is making strides.

It scores well in employer activity (64.1) and student mix (20.9), highlighting its academic and professional diversity.

Known for its cultural richness and safety, Chennai offers a balance of heritage and modern education. With institutions like IIT Madras and Anna University, the city attracts students from across India and abroad. Neighborhoods like Adyar, Guindy, and Taramani provide budget-friendly accommodations, and the city’s metro expansion has made commuting easier.

The inclusion of these cities in the QS Best Student Cities 2026 list highlights India's competitive edge in providing quality education at affordable rates. Strong performance in affordability and employer engagement suggests that Indian cities are well-positioned to attract and support a growing student population.As reforms under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 continue to roll out, India’s global standing as a student-friendly nation is expected to rise even further.TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here.