Four Canadian Cities Rank in 2026’s Top 100 for International Students

Canadian Cities Shine in Global Rankings for International Students

In a recent global ranking by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) for the Best Student Cities of 2026, four Canadian cities—Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, and Ottawa—earned spots within the top 100, reflecting both the strengths and challenges faced by these educational hubs.

Rankings Overview

• Montreal: 18th
• Toronto: 22nd
• Vancouver: 29th
• Ottawa: 80th

Montreal continues to be regarded as a leading destination for students, despite a drop from 10th place last year. Its strengths lie in high student satisfaction ratings (94.4 in Student View) and a vibrant student mix (91.5). However, its affordability rating has plummeted, indicating increasing living costs that could deter potential international students.

Toronto, Canada’s largest city, also saw a significant decline from 11th to 22nd, with notable strengths in student perception and employer activity. The high cost of living remains a critical issue, reflected in its low affordability score (17.4). The presence of top-tier universities, including the University of Toronto, contributes to its appeal.

Vancouver, known for its scenic beauty, ranked 29th, buoyed by a diverse student population (91.8 in Student Mix). Yet, it faces challenges as Canada’s most expensive city, which impacts its affordability rating. The University of British Columbia, ranked 40th globally, remains a major draw.

Ottawa, the capital, ranked 80th and showed promise in student satisfaction categories but struggled with employer activity and affordability. The University of Ottawa’s position at 218th in global rankings reflects broader concerns about the capital’s educational offerings.

Insights and Analysis

The decline in rankings for Canadian cities mirrors a broader trend across North America, where many urban centers have experienced similar drops. While Canadian cities remain attractive compared to U.S. counterparts, the challenges of affordability and employer engagement are becoming increasingly prominent.

Affordability Crisis: The common theme across all four cities is a notable decrease in affordability scores. As living costs soar, particularly in cities like Vancouver and Toronto, international students may find it increasingly difficult to justify the financial investment required for studying in these urban environments. This may lead prospective students to consider more affordable alternatives, both domestically and internationally.

Employer Engagement: The low scores in Employer Activity suggest a disconnect between educational institutions and local job markets. This could present a hurdle for students seeking to secure internships or job placements post-graduation. Cities need to foster stronger links between universities and local industries to enhance employment prospects for graduates.

Diversity and Inclusion: Despite the challenges, the high scores in Student Mix and Student View indicate that Canadian cities are perceived as inclusive and welcoming. This is a vital asset in attracting international students, who often prioritize a sense of community and belonging in their educational environments.

Conclusion

As Canadian cities navigate the complexities of maintaining their status as top educational destinations, addressing affordability and enhancing employer engagement will be crucial. While the allure of world-class universities and vibrant student communities remains strong, a strategic focus on these challenges will be vital to sustain their rankings in the years to come. Prospective international students should weigh these factors carefully as they consider their educational journeys in Canada.

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