Delhi has been ranked the most affordable student city in the world in the latest QS Best Student Cities Ranking 2026, standing out among hundreds of global cities for its low tuition fees and cost-effective student life. While it placed at #111 overall, it topped the affordability index — offering students a unique blend of academic opportunity and financial ease.
This recognition places India’s capital firmly on the map for higher education, especially for students who want access to quality universities without the crushing costs often seen in Western study destinations.
What Is the QS Best Student Cities Ranking?
Compiled annually by QS Quacquarelli Symonds, this ranking evaluates major global cities on factors that matter most to students. These include:
- University rankings – Reputation and performance of local institutions
- Student mix – Diversity and percentage of international students
- Employer activity – Career opportunities and employability
- Desirability – Quality of life, infrastructure, safety, and culture
- Affordability – Living costs, tuition fees, housing
- Student voice – Surveyed feedback from students studying in the city
In the affordability category, Delhi emerged #1 globally, beating out cities like Kuala Lumpur, Warsaw, and Mumbai.
Why Delhi Topped the Affordability Rankings
Affordability in Delhi is more than just low rent or food costs — it’s an entire ecosystem that supports students on a budget, without sacrificing academic or personal development.
Key factors include:
- Subsidized tuition at leading public universities like Delhi University (DU), JNU, and Jamia Millia Islamia
- Inexpensive student housing through hostels, PGs, and rentals, even in central zones
- Extensive public transport via Delhi Metro and buses, reducing commute costs
- Accessible meals and groceries, from street food to subsidized messes and local markets
- Cultural and career exposure that comes with living in India’s political and educational capital
Students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees in Delhi can typically complete their education at a fraction of the cost of one semester abroad — often without compromising on quality.
Delhi’s Academic Infrastructure
Delhi is home to some of India’s top public universities, which have produced generations of scholars, policymakers, scientists, and thought leaders.
Notable institutions include:
- University of Delhi (DU) – Known for its wide range of undergraduate colleges
- Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) – Focused on postgraduate research and social sciences
- Jamia Millia Islamia – Offers professional and liberal education with strong national rankings
- Ambedkar University Delhi – Recognized for social science and humanities
- Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (IPU) – Offers professional and technical courses
Delhi also offers access to think tanks, internships, startups, and government institutions — enriching student life beyond textbooks.
Delhi vs Other Global Cities
Cities like London, Tokyo, and Melbourne may lead the QS rankings overall due to global prestige, but they are among the most expensive student cities to live in. Delhi, by contrast, offers:
- English-language programs
- Lower cost of living
- Access to vibrant cultural and professional spaces
- Strong public infrastructure for mobility and safety
Mumbai also appeared in the QS list, ranked #118 overall and #4 globally in affordability, further highlighting India’s growing presence in the global student economy.
FAQs About Delhi’s QS Student City Ranking
Why is Delhi considered the most affordable student city in the world?
Due to its low tuition fees, inexpensive living options, and well-connected transport systems, Delhi offers students an entire education lifecycle at minimal cost.
What is Delhi’s overall global rank in the QS Best Student Cities 2026?
Delhi ranks #111 overall, but it is #1 in affordability worldwide.
Which Indian cities were included in the 2026 QS rankings?
Both Delhi and Mumbai. While Delhi ranks highest in affordability, Mumbai is close behind at #4 in affordability and #118 overall.
What types of courses are available in Delhi’s top universities?
Delhi’s institutions offer undergraduate and postgraduate programs in science, arts, commerce, law, engineering, social science, business, and media.
Does Delhi attract international students?
Yes. With English-medium education, diverse programs, cultural richness, and affordability, Delhi continues to attract students from South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.