Studying in the USA is a dream of many, yet getting into a university in the country requires much more from international students. For centuries, the USA has been hosting many outstanding top-quality and old-established universities in the world, all of which are acknowledged by scholars worldwide.

The USA holds the greatest number of international students in the world, which is alone a valid reason for enrolling at a university in the country as students are encouraged to pursue their academics while enjoying a diverse cultural environment. Moreover, the American model of education is pioneering in the world with its unique curriculum and multicultural atmosphere.

Read more to discover the top public universities in the USA and their visions for learning.

Can International Students Enroll in Public Universities in the USA?

Yes. Every year, more and more international students choose to continue their education in the USA for an enriching and exciting study-abroad experience. Most public universities in the country encourage having more students from all around the world to create a multicultural environment in which students can inspire each other academically and culturally.

Eligibility requirements depend on the degree of study, the university’s requirements, and the regulations of the state the university is in. Overall, some of the most acknowledged public universities in the USA encouraging international student enrollment are Arizona State University, the University of California, Georgia Institute of Technology, Purdue University, and the University of Michigan.

Top Public Universities in the USA for International Students

There are about 2,000 state universities in the USA, each of which has its regulations depending on the university or state. Hence, different requirements and regulations may apply to international students. In order not to miss an opportunity, international students need to make sure they meet the criteria of the program, university, and state before completing their applications. Below is a list of the best public universities in the USA with the best quality education and facilities.

1. University of California (UC)

With nine main campuses located in Berkeley, Los Angeles, Davis, San Francisco, San Diego, and more, the University of California is a leading institution recognized worldwide. For decades, the university has been ranked as the top for its unique approach to education; UC is currently the 8th best university in the world with more than 280,000 students and 2.0 million alumni worldwide. In addition to its academics, UC promises international students cultural diversity and equity, a modern vision of life and profession, and top-class opportunities only UC students can take advantage of.

The University of California offers a wide range of degree programs for international students with 150 academic disciplines. At the moment, there are international students from more than 100 countries at the university, and the number of overseas enrollments is aimed to increase even more with each admission.

2. Georgia Institute of Technology

Established in 1885, Georgia Institute of Technology is the top national university in the USA hosting students from 150 countries. In addition to its main campus located in Atlanta, Georgia Tech has overseas campuses in France and China, all of which have prominent degree-seeking programs in fields like engineering, design, business, and liberal arts.

Georgia Tech is regarded as the highest-ranked institution in engineering and computer sciences with a vision of advanced technology and creating a better future for everyone. For 135 years, the university has led thousands of research projects to promote innovations with multidisciplinary collaborations. Georgia Tech is accepting all talented and ambitious students from around the world to take the university’s vision into action.

3. University of Michigan

The University of Michigan has a long history and traditions. It was established in 1817 when it was founded 20 years before the foundation of the state of Michigan. Besides being one of the top public universities in the USA, the university is reported as the 25th best university worldwide.

Operating as a public research university, Michigan encourages international student enrollment by providing the involvement of diversity in its academics and creating equity in campus life. Currently, 15% of the student population comprises international students from over 130 countries.

Michigan offers around 250 disciplines at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, yet the university is specifically known for its medical, pharmacy, public health, and dentistry schools.

4. Purdue University

Founded in 1869 by the businessman John Purdue, Purdue University is a public land-grant research university in West Lafayette, Indiana. Since its foundation, Purdue has been a respected institute recognized worldwide for its engineering school.

In addition to being the 10th best public university in the USA, Purdue is at the top tier list of many university rankings, including being the 7th best value school in the USA and 9th in best undergraduate engineering programs.

Purdue provides world-class education to international students with unique talents in their pursuit of academic development. Each year, the university opens its doors to students from different parts of the world with unique scholarship opportunities and a multicultural atmosphere at the campus.

5. Arizona State University (ASU)

Arizona State University is a top-class institution ranked #1 for innovation, quality of online education, sustainability, international trade, and more. Since its foundation in 1885, ASU has been delivering academic excellence, influential leadership, revolutionary public health services, and advanced research opportunities.

Having more than 800 unique degree programs, Arizona State University encourages successful students from all countries to enroll. In 2022, ASU was reported to be one of the most reputable public universities for international students which is stated to be over 15,000 by the end of 2022.

6. University of Virginia

The University of Virginia is located in Charlottesville, Virginia, and has been operating as a public university since its foundation in 1819. Virginia differs from other public universities in the USA with its unique structure and historical foundations.

With its diverse and distinguished faculties, the University of Virginia is ranked 25th among national universities in the USA. There are currently more than 2,000 international students seeking a degree at the university.

7. University of Florida

The University of Florida is an excellent public university in the USA with more than 56,000 students. The university is regarded as a preeminent university and holds many rankings such as the 5th best public university and 28th best university in the USA (2022).

The University of Florida is also known for its continuing support for providing international students with great opportunities during their education. There are reported to be over 30,000 international students from 200 different countries at its campuses.

 

USA has some of the top public universities in the world. It is without a doubt that studying at a public university in the USA will be a great experience for international students since most of the universities are established, prestigious, and authentic. Successful and determined students from all over the world can experience this exceptional experience at one of the best public universities in the world and shape their future most efficiently.

We hope this article on the best Public Universities in the USA for international students was helpful. If you’re interested in knowing more,  feel free to visit our USA Scholarships Page for more information about the different universities and scholarship opportunities in the USA!

About the Author: Hyun Lee

Hyun is the founder at Global Scholarships. He has received a full-tuition scholarship at Birmingham-Southern College as well as $1,000 Burger King Scholarship for his undergraduate degree and has been offered a fully funded scholarship consisting of tuition, living stipend, and health insurance for computer science Ph.D. program at North Carolina State University. Read more about his scholarship journey here.

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