In 2024, Prague was named the best student city in Europe by The Campus Advisor platform. Unlike traditional rankings, which mainly focus on the academic performance of universities, The Campus Advisor ranking takes into account the opinions of students themselves and is focused on creating an “exceptional life experience.” This time, attention was paid not only to the quality of education but also to other aspects of student life.
How Were the Leaders Determined?
The ranking methodology is based on an assessment of five key categories:
- Cost of Living – affordability of housing, food, and services.
- Nightlife – availability of cultural and entertainment events.
- Public Transport – accessibility and efficiency of getting around the city.
- Amenities and Safety – infrastructure for students and the overall level of safety.
- Student Friendliness – how comfortable and welcoming locals are to international students.
What Made Prague So Impressive?
Prague took first place in the ranking thanks to several key aspects:
- Friendliness and Multiculturalism: Students appreciate the friendliness of the locals and the variety of cultural events. Prague has long established itself as an international hub for students from different countries, creating an atmosphere of openness and tolerance.
- Developed Infrastructure: Public transport in Prague is convenient and accessible. The network of trams, buses, and the metro makes it easy to get around the city, and students can take advantage of special discounts, making travel even more affordable.
- Cost of Living: Despite being the capital of a European country, life in Prague is relatively affordable compared to other popular student cities in Europe. Affordable prices for housing and food make Prague especially attractive to students.
- Nightlife and Cultural Opportunities: Prague is known for its vibrant nightlife. Students note the large number of bars, clubs, concerts, and cultural events. The city is also famous for its museums, galleries, and theaters, which makes it a true cultural capital.
Heidelberg and Galway Are Worthy Competitors
Prague beat out Heidelberg (Germany) and Galway (Ireland), which took second and third places respectively.
- Heidelberg stood out for its student amenities. It is a small but cozy city that combines a high level of infrastructure with a calm atmosphere.
- Galway received the highest marks for student friendliness, making it one of the most comfortable places to live and study in Europe.
Why Is This Ranking Important?
The Campus Advisor ranking stands out because it focuses on the real-life experiences of students. It helps prospective students not only choose a place to study but also decide where they will be most comfortable living and developing. While many rankings focus on academic success, this one considers quality of life, which is becoming an increasingly important factor when choosing a school.
Prague, with its diverse culture, convenient infrastructure, and affordable living conditions, continues to attract thousands of students from all over the world, confirming its status as one of the best student cities in Europe.