Philadelphia

Philadelphia

Laura Tucker

Updated July 15, 2021 Updated July 15

QS Best Student Cities ranking: 62nd

Home of Ivy League member the University of Pennsylvania (15th in the QS World University Rankings® 2020), as well as the esteemed Drexel University and Temple University, Philadelphia certainly holds its own as an international study destination.

The city has played a key role throughout US history and politics. It was here that the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776, and here that the Liberty Bell – a symbol of US independence – is housed.

This rich history, combined with a good selection of museums, galleries and thriving arts, theater and music scenes, makes Philadelphia a popular tourist destination, as well as a pleasant and interesting place to live.

Beyond the tourist trail, the ‘city of brotherly love’ (a nickname based on the Greek meaning of ‘Philadelphia’), is a multifaceted modern metropolis. The city’s residents are known for being passionate about sport at both professional and university level.

In recent years Philadelphia has also become something of a foodie’s favorite, though the city’s cuisine will always be associated primarily with the simple pleasures of the steak and cheese submarine sandwich (the ‘Philly cheesesteak’).

Are you studying in Philadelphia? Share your experience.

Internationally ranked universities in Philadelphia

University of PennsylvaniaDrexel UniversityTemple University

More about Philadelphia

Number of universities ranked by QS

3

Highest-ranked institution

University of Pennsylvania (15th)

Population

6,096,000

Average international fees (at ranked unis)

US$29,900

Desirability rank

59th

Employer Activity rank

35th

Affordability rank

130th

Student View rank

83rd

To find out how each of the above categories is calculated, view the methodology.

This article was originally published in November 2015 . It was last updated in July 2021

Written by

Laura is a former staff writer for TopUniversities.com, providing advice and guidance for students on a range of topics helping them to choose where to study, get admitted and find funding and scholarships. A graduate of Queen Mary University of London, Laura also blogs about student life.

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