Indian students going abroad for higher studies have reached a record high of 7.5 lakh-plus in 2022. However, according to the QS Best Student Cities survey, no Indian city managed to secure a spot in the top 100 best cities for international students. Mumbai emerged as the most affordable Indian city, ranking 21st globally in this indicator. Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai also made it to the list, but they have a long way to go to compete with other global cities. The desirability indicator, which considers factors like quality of life, pollution index, safety, and the propensity of students to choose a city for their university experience, also showed no Indian city in the top 100. Mumbai’s affordability can attract more students seeking cost-effective study options, and its strong performance in the employer activity indicator showcases ample opportunities for graduates. Delhi’s universities received recognition in the 2024 QS World University Rankings, while Bengaluru stood out in the student voice indicator. Chennai also showed promise in the employer activity indicator. To attract more international students, India needs to invest in infrastructure, environmental initiatives, safety, and cultural experiences. By addressing these aspects, Indian cities can become more appealing as study destinations and improve living standards for all. The QS Best Student Cities survey compares 160 premier educational destinations, and to be included, a city must have a population of 250,000 or more and house at least two universities featured in the QS World University Rankings.