Auckland ranked among the world's best student cities

The QS Best Student Cities 2027 once again puts Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland as the best in New Zealand, and the University of Auckland plays a big part.

Auckland's position as New Zealand's highest-ranked city in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Best Student Cities 2027 highlights what students already know: Auckland offers student a unique combination of world-class education, diversity, lifestyle and opportunity.

The city has ranked 26th globally and number one in New Zealand, a result that reflects the

strength of Auckland's tertiary education sector as a whole. The result reflects the contribution of both the University of Auckland and Auckland University of Technology (AUT), and the broader strengths of Auckland's tertiary education sector.

The QS rankings show that one of Auckland's standout strengths is its diversity. The city is ranked among the world's top student destinations for student mix, reflecting its large and internationally diverse student population. Students benefit from studying alongside people from a wide range of cultures and backgrounds. That diversity broadens perspectives, builds global connections and enriches the student experience.

The ranking also recognises Tāmaki Makaurau’s desirability as a place to live and study.  

Students are drawn to Auckland because of the education, the people, the opportunities and the chance to be part of a diverse city where they can learn, make connections and prepare for life after university.

Professor Sarah Young, Deputy Vice-Chancellor EducationWaipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland

“Beyond the classroom, students have access to a city that combines career opportunities, arts and culture, natural attractions and a high quality of life,” says Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education, Professor Sarah Young. “With beaches and regional parks, entertainment and business hubs, Auckland offers students opportunities both during and after their studies.”

The city also performs strongly in measures relating to employer activity, reflecting Auckland's position as New Zealand's economic centre and its strong connections with employers, industry, government and community organisations. “Those links help students gain valuable experience and develop pathways into future careers,” says Young.

Facilities also play an important role in the student experience. Hiwa, the University of Auckland's recreation and wellness centre, is available to students, staff and the wider community. Spaces like Hiwa demonstrate the role universities can play in supporting wellbeing and community connection, alongside teaching and research. Earlier in the year, the University held its first place in New Zealand in the QS World University Rankings 2027, coming in at 67th.

While the ranking provides plenty to celebrate, it also highlights challenges that remain. Affordability continues to be a concern, with living costs placing pressure on students across Auckland. Auckland ranks 91st of 150 for affordability, with high living expenses weighing on students. Ensuring that students can access affordable housing, transport and essential services will be critical to maintaining Auckland's appeal in an increasingly competitive international education market.

"As New Zealand continues to grow its international education sector, Auckland remains an attractive place to study," says Young. "While rankings are encouraging, what matters most is the experience students have here. They're drawn to Auckland because of the people, the opportunities and the chance to be part of a diverse city where they can learn, make connections and prepare for life after university."

The QS Best Student Cities 2027 ranking scores cities on six measures: the strength of their universities, their desirability, their appeal to employers, their affordability, the diversity of their student body and the views of students themselves. To qualify, a city needs a population above 250,000 and at least two universities in the QS World University Rankings 2027.