Melbourne has cemented its position as Australia’s best student city after the release of global rankings today highlighted the state’s unparalleled education opportunities, affordability, and cultural diversity.

The results, released today by global higher education specialist Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) ranks Melbourne as the world’s fifth-best student city and solidifies the city as Australia’s top destination for international students.

QS’s Best Student Cities index is based on affordability, quality of life, standard of universities and diversity. The index saw Victoria’s capital rise from third to first in the Student Mix indicator which assesses on-campus diversity, reflected in the state’s 287,000 international enrolments coming from around 175 countries to study in Victoria.

Melbourne also ranks second for Student View, an indicator based on student experience across eight categories: tolerance and inclusion, diversity, friendliness, transport, affordability, nightlife, employment opportunities, arts and culture, and sustainability.

Melbourne leads the nation in QS’ measure of employment and work experience opportunities, highlighting the city as a hub for jobs and industry, as well as the importance of international students to meet the state’s workforce demands.

The Allan Labor Government is supporting Victorian universities to be the best in the world by providing $350 million to support universities with capital works, applied research and research infrastructure through the Vic-torian Higher Education State Investment Fund.

Victoria’s outstanding education sector is home to two of Australia’s universities ranked in the top 50 of the QS Universities Rankings, with the University of Melbourne this year climbing higher to place 13th overall and reinforcing its position as Australia’s top ranked university, while Monash University rose to 37th from 42nd place globally.

Last year, Melbourne also retained the title of Australia’s most liveable city in the Economist Intelligence Unit Global Liveability Index and moved up to third in the world rankings, thanks to our world-class education, healthcare and infrastructure.

International education is Victoria’s biggest services export, generating $14.8 billion in revenue in 2023 and supporting 63,000 jobs across the state.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Economic Growth Tim Pallas

“It’s no surprise Melbourne has once again proven to be Australia’s top destination for international students. With unmatched education opportunities, a world-class cultural scene, and an inclusive community, we’ve cemented our position on the global stage.”

“We will continue to invest in the international education sector, recognising its pivotal role in fostering economic growth through the diverse perspectives and innovative ideas brought by international students.”