Brighton ranked in the top 100 best student cities in the world

The latest QS Best Student City rankings for 2026 have been announced, and Brighton has earned its place in the top 100 worldwide.

Year after year Brighton makes it into the QS world rankings for best student cities, and it’s easy to see why. Brighton is a special place to live and study – exciting, inclusive and friendly with seaside charm, but not too far from the UK’s capital city, London. Brighton offers an unforgettable student experience that goes far beyond the classroom.

A true student city

Brighton isn’t just a city with students, it’s a city of students. Around 14% of Brighton’s residents are students, which means you’ll be living and learning in a place where education is part of the culture.

Whether you’re walking along the iconic seafront, grabbing coffee in a quirky café, or discovering hidden gems in the Lanes, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a community of learners, creatives and change-makers.

Proximity to London

Brighton is only an hour by train from central London and 30 minutes from London Gatwick International Airport.

Lots of people commute from Brighton to London for jobs or work opportunities, and it also means you can utilise London’s connections to the rest of the UK and Europe.

University in the heart of Brighton

The University of Brighton is more than just a place to study – it’s part of the city. The university’s roots can be traced back to 1859, when artists were taught in the kitchens of the Royal Pavilion.

Known for its welcoming, diverse, and creative environment, it’s a university where international students quickly feel at home. At the University of Brighton, you’ll be encouraged to think differently, explore ideas and engage with real-world challenges in a supportive setting.

We have three campuses across Brighton: one in the city, one in Moulsecoomb, and one in Falmer.

So, why Brighton?

Brighton is unique: big enough to be inspiring and small enough to feel like home. A city with a beach on the edge of beautiful countryside, Brighton is a place where everyone belongs.

Time Out also ranked us in their top 50 best cities in the world for 2025, and we were the third-highest ranked city in the UK on the list.

Take a look at what Brighton students get to experience in the below image gallery.

A place where you’ll belong

Whatever you are coming to study, this city offers more than academic experience. It’s a place where you can truly find yourself within its rich art and music scenes, inclusive culture, and open-minded community. There’s always something happening to inspire and connect you.

Sunniest city in the UK

Let’s not forget one of Brighton’s biggest bonuses: the sunshine.

Last year, Brighton was named the sunniest city in the UK by newsapaper, The Independent. Although the UK can sometimes offer sunshine in small amounts, Brighton is the best place to soak up some vitamin D.

Discover your future in Brighton

Choosing where to study is a big decision, especially if you’re coming from overseas. Brighton makes that choice easier by offering not just excellent academics, but a lifestyle that supports your growth and wellbeing.

Discover how you can belong at Brighton.