Metro Manila ranks 103rd in Best Student Cities 2025
30TH BEST IN THE WORLD Metro Manila sparkles at night as befits its recent inclusion among the “Global Top 30,” an elite roster of the world’s most populous, productive and connected cities, according to the global property consulting firm Jones Lang Lasalle (JLL). The JLL cited Metro Manila’s economic scale, vast population, large gross domestic product and BPO specialization as its competitive edge. JILSON SECKLER TIU
MANILA, Philippines — Metro Manila placed 103rd among 150 cities worldwide that were most conducive to students, the 2025 edition of the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Best Student Cities rankings said on Wednesday.
According to QS, Metro Manila was the only location in the Philippines to make it in the rankings.
READ: UP is Philippines’ top university in 2025 QS world rankings
The area also improved from its 2024 ranking, where it placed in the =115 bracket. It was also the only Philippine entry in the 2024 edition.
In terms of desirability, where QS measured safety, pollution levels, and the desire of students in its survey to study in the city, Metro Manila placed 119th. In contrast, in terms of affordability, it placed 25th.
When it comes to student mix, which measures the proportion of the city’s population that is well and the inclusivity of the city for international students, Metro Manila was ranked 131st. On the other hand, employer activity, which accounts for youth employment and employers’ views on the city’s graduates, was ranked 80th, showcasing the city’s potential for career opportunities.
Metro Manila ranked 95th at the last parameter, student voice, which considers the view of the students surveyed by QS on the city’s friendliness, sustainability, and diversity, as well as the proportion of students who lived in the city after they graduated.
Manila is part of Metro Manila, the capital region. In the rankings, QS mentioned the city of Manila but included the University of the Philippines and the Ateneo de Manila University, both of which are in Quezon City, among the top universities.
Meanwhile, here are the top 10 cities for students worldwide:
- London, United Kingdom
- Tokyo, Japan
- Seoul, South Korea
- Munich, Germany
- Melbourne, Austria
- Sydney, Australia
- Paris, France
- Zurich, Germany
- Berlin, Germany
- Montreal, Canada
READ: UP makes it to 2024 QS World University Rankings in 3 subjects
The QS’s methodology for its Best Student Cities rankings includes university rankings, student mix, desirability, employer activity, affordability, and student view.
The QS is a United Kingdom-based higher education network.
