Top 5 student cities in Peru

Are you thinking of living in the Andean country for a while? The 5 best student cities in Peru stand out for their academic quality, variety of universities and an environment that’s increasingly chosen by international students. The country offers alternatives for different budgets, cities with a strong university life and accommodation options designed specifically for students.

 

In this article, we review the best cities to study in Peru, analysing the pros and cons of each destination, the most renowned universities, and student accommodation in each city. In addition, our online student accommodation platform helps you find accommodation easily and securely.

 

Lima

Lima is the country's main academic centre and the city with the largest number of universities in Peru. It’s a popular destination for both domestic and international students. Its size, diversity of neighbourhoods and student life make it an ideal choice for those seeking quality education and a dynamic university experience.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Lima

Being a student in Lima has many favourable aspects, but there are also factors that may be less appealing.

 

Pros of studying in Lima

• Wide range of public and private universities.
• Excellent opportunities for internships and employment while studying.
• An active cultural life, with events, museums and renowned cuisine.

 

Cons of studying in Lima

• Heavy traffic and long journeys.
• Higher cost of living than in other cities in the country.
• Fast pace of life in some areas.

 

Top Universities in Lima

The capital is home to a host of renowned institutions.

 

Universidad de Lima (University of Lima)

The University of Lima is one of the most renowned private institutions in the country. It’s noted for its practical approach and recognition in areas such as business, communication, engineering, and law.

Its campus brings together all of the institution's faculties and infrastructure. It’s located in Santiago de Surco, a district southeast of the historic centre. If you’re thinking of studying there, we recommend reading our guide to housing close to the University of Lima.

 

Student housing in Lima

Rent for students in Lima varies depending on the district and type of accommodation, but it’s usually the highest in Peru. Rooms in shared flats usually start at €280-370 per month, while private studios can exceed €460, especially in areas such as Miraflores, San Isidro or Barranco.

 

For more information about university life, accommodation and areas to live in the Peruvian capital, you can read our guide on student accommodation in Lima.

 

Cusco

Cusco is one of Peru's most iconic cities and a very attractive destination for students seeking a university experience in a unique historical and cultural setting. Its student atmosphere, constant tourism and a cost of living that’s generally more affordable than Lima make it an interesting choice as a destination.

 

Pros y contras de estudiar en Cusco

Cusco offers many academic opportunities, although it isn’t without certain drawbacks for students.

 

Pros of studying in Cusco

• It’s usually more affordable than the capital.
• World-renowned cultural and historical environment, close to Machu Picchu!
• The student atmosphere is quiet and friendly.

 

Cons of studying in Cusco

• More limited academic offerings.
• Fewer job opportunities.
• It’s a smaller city with less infrastructure.

 

Top Universities in Cusco

In Cusco, one university stands out above all others.

 

Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco

This institution is one of the oldest universities in the Americas. It stands out in the country for its tradition and importance in areas such as humanities, social sciences and engineering. Its campus is located east of the historic city centre.

 

Student housing in Cusco

Cusco is more affordable than the capital, although it also depends greatly on the area where the accommodation is located, as it’s a very touristy city. Rooms in shared flats can usually be found for €170-230 per month, while private studios start at around €280, especially in areas close to the historic centre or universities.

 

Arequipa

Arequipa is one of the leading university cities in southern Peru and a highly valued alternative due to its quality of life, pleasant climate and strong academic identity. Its medium size and student atmosphere make it attractive for those seeking a balance between study and everyday life.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Arequipa

Studying in Arequipa can be incredible, although there are also some drawbacks that should be taken into account.

 

Pros of studying in Arequipa

• High academic standards and renowned universities.
• Lower cost of living than in Lima.
• A well-organised city with good quality services.

 

Cons of studying in Arequipa

• Quieter nightlife.
• Less diversity in specialised careers.
• Fewer job opportunities than in the capital.

 

Top Universities in Arequipa

An important institution is based in Arequipa.

 

Universidad Nacional de San Agustin de Arequipa

It’s one of the most prestigious public universities in the south of the country and is renowned for its academic standards. It has several campuses, many of them just a few minutes' walk from the historic city centre.

 

Student housing in Arequipa

Rent for students in Arequipa is usually more affordable than in Lima. Single rooms in shared flats can be found for €200-270 per month, while private studios start at around €330.

 

Trujillo

Trujillo is an important university town in northern Peru. It has a good student atmosphere, is close to the sea and has a more relaxed pace of life than the capital. It’s an attractive option for those looking to study in a medium-sized city with moderate costs.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Trujillo

Trujillo stands out for its benefits for students, but it also has some weaknesses.

 

Pros of studying in Trujillo

• Expenses are cheaper than in Lima.
• Active and dynamic university environment.
• Warm climate throughout most of the year and proximity to the beach.

 

Cons of studying in Trujillo

• More limited academic offering.
• There are fewer job opportunities.
• Fewer services.

 

Top Universities in Trujillo

Trujillo is home to an institution that stands out above the rest.

 

Universidad Nacional de Trujillo

The National University of Trujillo is one of the oldest public universities in the country and is renowned for its academic record and influence on professional training in northern Peru. Its campus is located very close to the city centre.

 

Student housing in Trujillo

The price of student accommodation in Trujillo is usually more affordable than in Lima and Arequipa. For example, rooms in shared flats usually start at €180-240 per month, while private studios start at around €300.

 

Piura

Piura is a city in northern Peru that is increasingly chosen by students seeking a peaceful environment, warm climate and affordable cost of living. Its academic growth and university atmosphere position it as an interesting alternative outside the major capitals.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Piura

The academic experience in Piura has many advantages, but certain disadvantages could influence your stay.

 

Pros of studying in Piura

• Low cost of living and rent.
• Warm climate all year round.
• A comfortable city for everyday life.

 

Cons of studying in Piura

• Less cultural and nightlife.
• More limited academic offering.
• Fewer job opportunities.

 

Top Universities in Piura

Among the higher education institutions in Piura, one stands out.

 

Universidad de Piura

It’s one of the most highly regarded private universities in the country. It’s recognised above all for the quality of its teaching, its ethical approach and its prestige in areas such as engineering, economics and law.

 

Student housing in Piura

Rent for students in Piura is among the most affordable in the country. Rooms in shared flats can usually be found for €160-220 per month, while private studios start at around €260, especially in areas close to university campuses.

 

Find accommodation in Peru with Erasmus Play

Peru offers a wide variety of options for those seeking a quality university experience, with cities to suit different budgets and lifestyles. From large academic centres such as Lima to quieter alternatives such as Cusco, Arequipa, Trujillo or Piura, each destination has its own particular advantages.

 

Through our online student accommodation platform, it’s possible to compare accommodation options and find something simple and secure in Peru's main university cities. Choosing the right city will depend on the course, budget and type of experience each student is looking for.

Other guides on studying and living in Peru

Here you can find more information about studying in the Andean country:

• Studying in Peru