Delhi Named World's Most Affordable Student City

In a remarkable achievement, Delhi has been ranked the world’s most affordable student city in the QS Best Student Cities 2026 list. The Indian capital topped the affordability index, beating cities like Berlin, Warsaw, and Kuala Lumpur — thanks to low tuition fees, subsidized accommodation, and a robust public transport system.

Why Delhi?

The QS Ranking evaluates cities based on factors like affordability, university quality, student mix, employer activity, and desirability. Delhi ranked particularly high in:

Tuition Costs: Public institutions like the University of Delhi (DU), Jamia Millia Islamia, and JNU offer world-class education at fees as low as ₹5,000 to ₹12,000 per year for undergraduate programs.
Living Expenses: Affordable PG accommodations, low-cost meals (₹50-₹80/day in university canteens), and subsidized utilities make Delhi a cost-effective destination.
Transport: The Delhi Metro, DTC student passes, and shared mobility options significantly cut down daily travel costs.
Student Services: Free Wi-Fi zones, digital libraries, and student support cells enhance the overall learning experience.

Education Meets Opportunity

Delhi is home to over 500 colleges and universities, including 8 central universities and numerous research institutions. Its diverse academic environment attracts students from South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

The city's central location also gives students access to national internships, government fellowships, and corporate jobs — making it not just affordable, but also opportunity-rich.

Challenges Remain

Despite its top ranking, Delhi still faces issues like:

Air Pollution: Winters can be particularly difficult for students with respiratory conditions.
Safety Concerns: Students, especially women, have raised concerns about public safety in off-campus housing.
Accommodation Shortage: With rising demand, there’s a shortage of well-regulated, affordable housing.

The Road Ahead

Government initiatives like the “Study in India” campaign, ongoing metro expansion, and digital infrastructure investments are expected to further boost Delhi's student-friendly ecosystem. This recognition by QS could also attract more international collaborations and academic funding.