Top Cities for Gen-Z and the RMC Semester/ Year Abroad Programs that can take you there!

by: The RMC Office of International Education

Every year Time Out publishes the "Best Cities of" list that has over 18,000 locals rank their cities from "everything from food, nightlife and culture to affordability, happiness and the overall city vibe." This year, 2025, they adjusted this survey to answers from those under 30 to find the Best Cities for Gen-Z According to Gen-Z!

You may be asking yourself, how can I go to these top ranked places?! The OIE has you covered! Learn more about programs abroad for a semester/year available at RMC and study abroad in a location literally ranked for you!

Best Cities for Gen-Z According to Gen-Z by Time Out Media

and the RMC Semester/ Year Abroad programs Available

1. Bangkok, Thailand

ISEP Exchange: Thammasat University

With golden temples, zooming traffic, and colorful tuk-tuks, Bangkok overwhelms and delights! Fragrant aromas of jasmine, complex Thai spices, and fresh mango sticky rice are abundant in this foodie’s paradise. Even street vendors here earn Michelin stars! Enjoy the warm weather and juxtaposition of modern skyscrapers and ancient architecture. The centrally-located Tra Prachan campus is right downtown in the historic heart of the city, directly across the street from the Grand Palace. 

Consider studying abroad in nearby Chiang Mai or Khon Kaen with USAC!

2. Melbourne, Australia

USAC Direct: Melbourne

The Deakin University program offers you the opportunity to enroll in a wide range of courses from the following academic faculties: arts; business and law; education; health; nursing and behavioral sciences; and science and technology. You may also choose from coastal campus locations near the world-famous Great Ocean Road, home to Australia’s best beaches, or in Melbourne, a cosmopolitan capital boasting world-class recreational facilities and events.

Additional programs just outside of Melbourne through the ISEP Exchange program at La Trobe University

3. Cape Town, South Africa

USAC Direct: Stellenbosch, South Africa

One of the most beautiful parts of South Africa, Stellenbosch features historic architecture, rich cultural heritage, and easy access to outdoor and sporting activities. It is also located in the heart of South Africa's wine country, providing fantastic cuisine, vibrant culture, and stunning scenery. Surrounded by mountains in the Jonkershoek Valley, it offers the best of both worlds: a small, historic, university town with convenient access to the amenities of the bigger metropolitan area of Cape Town.

4. New York City, United States

   As this location is in the US, RMC does not offer study abroad opportunities for a semester/ year in NYC.

5. Copenhagen, Denmark

While RMC does not currently offer any programs in Denmark consider applying for other options in Northern Europe.

ISEP Northern Europe Programs

6. Barcelona, Spain

ISEP Direct: Universitat Pompeu Fabra

Barcelona is unlike any other city in the world. With a blend of mosaics and original creations by famous local visionary architect, Antoni Gaudi, it is a vibrant and exciting city. Located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona is famous for its colorful architecture, amazing food and welcoming people. With its unique characteristics, it is no surprise that Barcelona is consistently ranked as one of the world's top 10 tourist destinations. Flock to the sandy coasts to indulge in the Spanish culture of living life to the fullest. 

Interested in studying somewhere else in Spain? Check out USAC's programs in Spain and ISEP's programs in Spain

7. Edinburgh, United Kingdom

ISEP Exchange: Edinburgh Napier University

In addition to being home to the Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh hosts the largest international arts festival in the world and offers numerous cinemas, theatres, restaurants, bars, clubs and shops. At the heart of the city is the famous Edinburgh castle. Edinburgh is a good communications hub for travel to other parts of the U.K., Ireland and continental Europe.

Interested in studying somewhere else in Scotland? Check out the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow through ISEP Direct

8. Mexico City, Mexico

While RMC does not currently offer any programs in Mexico City consider applying for other options in Mexico like ISEP Exchange: Universidad de Monterrey.

9. London, UK

RMC Partner: Richmond American University of London

Richmond is a unique London-based university offering exciting and cutting-edge Study Abroad programmes which are accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education in the US and validated in the UK. The University uniquely awards a UK and US qualification at both undergraduate and master’s degree level. Richmond is the first and the only university in the UK that has been granted the power to award dual taught degrees (August 2018).

Want to study in the UK but outside of London? Check out our partnership with Wroxton College

10. Shanghai, China

USAC Direct: Shanghai

The Shanghai program is ideal for students who are interested in studying the economic and business environment of China and East Asia. Once a sleepy fishing town, Shanghai is now the hallmark of China’s booming economy. It is the perfect place for you to learn about the business environment of East Asia and study Chinese language.

Other programs in China offered by USAC available to RMC students: USAC Direct: Chengdu

11. Sydney, Australia

ISEP Exchange: University of Technology Sydney

The University of Technology, Sydney is situated in the vibrant and culturally diverse city of Sydney, within Sydney’s creative industries precinct. The City Campus is located across the street from Central Station, Sydney’s major train and bus station, easily connecting students to nearby suburbs and beaches. It is also a short walk from Darling Harbour.

Looking into other programs in Australia? Check out USAC's programs and ISEP's programs available to RMC students!

12. Beijing, China

While RMC does not currently offer any programs in Beijing consider applying for other options in Mexico like USAC Direct to Shanghai and Chengdu!

13. Paris, France

ISEP Exchange: American Business College Paris

Study Abroad students can participate in a number of activities hosted by the IGS Group’s Student Life Office: parties, trips, athletic competitions and cultural activities. Community life and athletics are an integral part of ABC Paris’s DNA.

The CIS - Council of International Students - gathers ABC Paris students from different cultures to organize events together (Valentine's Day, Christmas dinner, Cultural Day, integration parties, etc.). These events facilitate the integration of students, especially international students and create a strong School Spirit.

Want to study in France but the ABC,Paris program doesn't offer the classes you want? Look into nearby Amiens available through the ISEP Exchange: Université de Picardie Jules Verne

14. Tokyo, Japan

ISEP Exchange: Toyo University

Toyo University's Hakusan campus exemplifies this fusion through its central location in the center of the city but also in one of the fascinating traditional districts. In the heart of Tokyo, it provides ideal accessibility to all major areas, such as Shinjuku, Asakusa, Ueno, Ikebukuro and Roppongi.

Interested in studying in Japan but want to get out of the hustle and bustle of Tokyo? Explore our RMC Partners in Japan at Rikkyo Univesity and Kansai Gaidai University

15. Berlin, Germany

While RMC does not currently offer any programs in Berlin consider applying for other options in Germany like USAC Direct: Luneburg, ISEP Exchange: Philipps-Universität Marburg, or ISEP Exchange: Technische Universität Dortmund

16. Seville, Spain

While RMC does not currently offer any programs in Seville consider applying for other options in Spain through USAC or ISEP Exchange: Universidad de Murica

17. Chicago, United States

    As this location is in the US, RMC does not offer study abroad opportunities for a semester/ year in Chicago.

18. Chiang Mai, Thailand

USAC Direct: Chiang Mai

The program is ideal for students who are interested in the economics, philosophy, politics, religions, culture, and language of Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries, in a city that is manageable, walkable, beautiful, and unforgettable. In exploring Chiang Mai and the surrounding area, you will discover both what makes it a beloved part of Thailand for visitors and locals alike; though a popular destination, while living and studying there you will find easy access to non-touristy areas for a unique, colorful, profound experience.

Other program locations in Thailand- USAC Direct: Khon Kaen

19. Prague, Czech Republic

USAC Direct: Prague

Prague is an open textbook of modern and traditional literature, art, architecture, and culture enclosed in the beautiful scenery of the city, including its walls, castles, and frescoes. This program includes at least two one-day field trips and an optional 1-credit Vienna and Budapest Field Study course that represent exceptional opportunities to discover the cultural and historical richness of Prague and Central Europe.

Additional programs in Prague available through ISEP Direct: University of New York in Prague

20. Lisbon, Portugal

USAC Direct: Lisbon

Known as the “city of the seven hills,” Lisbon offers breathtaking views of both urban landscapes and coastal scenery. It is one of the oldest cities in the world and the second-oldest European capital city. Today, it serves as the country’s political, economic, and cultural hub, home to the nation’s government, courts, and diplomatic offices. The city has something for everyone – historical monuments, shopping, gardens and parks, festivals, water sports, restaurants and cafés, museums, sporting events, sandy beaches, and more.

Interested in Studying Abroad for a Semester/Year? Contact the OIE to learn more!