List of Best Universities in Texas

When it comes to pursuing world-class education, Texas stands out as a top choice, especially if you're an Indian student looking to study abroad. I believe this state offers more than just academic excellence—with its top-ranked universities, vibrant cultural diversity, and thriving career opportunities that can significantly shape your future. 

As you navigate your options, I'll guide you through the best universities in Texas and share valuable insights to help you make the right decision.

Why Study in Texas

Texas is the second-largest state in the USA in terms of population and area. Here are a few reasons to consider Texas as your study-abroad destination. 

1. Home to Some of the Best Universities in the USA: There are plenty of options to consider if you are looking for some of the best colleges, technical schools, or universities in Texas. The state has some of the most prestigious universities in the US, of which eight were featured in the QS World University Ranking, 2025. 
2. Lucrative Career Prospects After Graduation: Texas has emerged as a technology hub with the opening up of Fortune 500 companies like American Airlines Group, Kimberly-Clark, ConocoPhillips, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Oracle, Sysco, Phillips 66, Dell Technologies, AT&T, McKesson, etc., that have set up their headquarters in the state. The Tesla Gigafactory in Texas, the company's corporate headquarters, is a testament that the state is an attractive base for many of the world's biggest employers. 
3. Affordable Living: A few cities in Texas have a lower cost of living, compensating for the money spent on tuition fees without burning a hole in their pockets. For instance, Houston's average cost of living is 3.1% lower than that of the US On the other hand, San Antonio's cost of living is 8.7% lower than the US average. 
4. Cultural Diversity and Many Recreational Activities to Enjoy: According to the US Census Bureau, Texas bagged the sixth place as the most diverse state in the country. This means that international students studying at colleges or universities in Texas can widen their horizons and perspectives as they can exchange thoughts about their own culture. At the same time, they learn about new cultures from their peers, as Spanish and Mexican cultures have a significant influence due to Texas' proximity to Mexico. 

Students can explore many outdoor recreational activities thanks to the mountains, beaches, lakes, and state and national parks. They can either go for a hike on the hills, climb natural rock faces, surf along the coast, or raft down rivers. Not just that, they can put up tents or camp at any location they find peaceful.

Criteria for Choosing University 

While choosing a university for studying abroad, it is necessary to weigh factors like the institution's academic reputation, student-to-faculty ratio, proportion of international students, and the impact of an institution's research. These factors help the university bag a ranking in reputed world university rankings. 

Once you have prepared the list of universities in Texas you want to apply to, you need to consider the affordability of education and the cost of living, including accommodation, transportation, food, health insurance, books, and other miscellaneous expenses. Research the recent trends and opportunities in the industry and look out for your post-graduation prospects and the graduate employment rate of the university you are applying to. 

Top Universities in Texas 

1. University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at Austin bagged the 9th place in Top Public Schools by the US News & World Report, 2024. The university is well known for its communication and media programs, for which it was ranked fourth in the world in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024. As the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin offers more than 200 venues and dozens of shows that students can explore, besides going on a hike at Mount Bonnell for sunset or kayaking through the spring-fed waters of Barton Springs Pool. 

Global Ranking: 66th rank in the QS World University Rankings 2025

Location: Austin, Texas

Campus Life: From museums and libraries to unique venues spread across the campus, you will have dozens of things to explore within the campus as the destination creates a beautiful world on its own. Whether it is the Cactus Cafe, Blanton Museum of Art, Briscoe Center for American History, Harry Ransom Center, Gregory Gym Aquatic Complex, Moody Center, LBJ Presidential Library, William C. Powers, Jr. Student Activity Center, Stark Center, or the Visual Arts Center, each of these creative hubs has its unique exhibits that will never make you feel bored. 

Academic Excellence: At the University of Texas at Austin, you don't just get academic learning but career education and experiences that support your future goals. The learning experience at the university encourages you to exchange and expand your thoughts through discussion, debate, and intellectual partnerships. The university also has a Sanger Learning Center, where more than 20,000 students are tutored through free workshops to reach their goals. Apart from that, there are events organized by the university where you can connect with employers and opportunities and learn more about your field of study.

Popular Programs: With 78 doctoral, 116 master's, and more than 170 undergraduate degree programs from engineering and business to arts, sciences, and humanities, the university has it all. For bachelor's degrees, some popular programs are advertising, management, petroleum engineering, business honors, visual art studies, and American studies. However, if you are considering a master's degree program, an MBA, Architectural History, Communication studies, Journalism, Chemical engineering, Professional Accounting, Business Analytics, Finance, and Health Care Transformation are good options.

Career Prospects: Students graduating from the University of Texas at Austin get enough support from the career center to get industry-ready. Whether through career fairs or career coaching, no matter which field you have graduated from, you will find enough employment opportunities after completing your degree from the best public university in Texas.

Notable Alumni: 

• Connie Kadrovach Duckworth - Retired Partner and Managing Director, Goldman Sachs Founder, Chairman and CEO ARZU, Inc.
• Phillip D. Green - Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Cullen/Frost Bankers, Inc. and Frost Bank
• Bill Gurley - General Partner Benchmark
• Kyle Hranicky - Senior Executive Vice President, CEO of Commercial Banking Wells Fargo & Company
• Paul Knopp - Chair and CEO of KPMG LLP

Student Support Services:  There are people at UT Austin's Student Support Services that help you connect to resources that support you to stay well, get tutoring, and plan for the future. Besides, the Vice President for Student Affairs acts as a bridge between the president of the university and the directors of bodies like the Office of the Dean of Students, Division of Student Affairs, which encompasses the Counseling and Mental Health Center, the Longhorn Wellness Center, University Health Services, New Student Services, the Department of Recreational Sports, Texas Parents, University Unions and the Center for Students in Recovery. The vice president leads the development of these programs so that students experience an enriching campus life besides the classroom experience.

Scholarships: 

Name of the scholarship	Benefit or eligibility
The National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program	Offered for outstanding graduate students pursuing research-based master's and doctoral degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The student would receive a three-year annual stipend of $32,000 plus tuition, and fees would be paid to the institution as a cost of education allowance for tuition and fees.
General ISSS Financial Aid	International students, with financial need, who have completed at least 2 semesters at the university are awarded a cash scholarship.
International Education Fee (IEF) Scholarship	Supports both incoming international students and outbound students studying abroad.

Admission Requirements: 

• Check the coursework requirements and information on calculus readiness to ensure that your application meets the course needs you are applying to.
• Submit essays and short answers, high school transcripts, and any college transcripts
• Submit the SAT/ACT scores without the SAT Essay or ACT Writing scores
• International applicants must submit their IELTS (minimum band score of 6.5) or TOEFL iBT (minimum score - 79) to prove their proficiency in English

2. Rice University

Rice University is reputed and one of the top-ranked private research universities in the USA, and it is known for contributing to a better world by transforming students' lives. The university is just minutes from downtown Houston and home to the highly respected schools of Engineering, Business, Architecture, Continuing Studies, Humanities, Music, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences. 

Global Ranking: #=141 in QS World University Rankings 2025

Location: 6100 S Main, Houston, Texas

Campus Life: Rice has more than 200 student organizations, including academic, athletic, political, performance, media, religious, and cultural groups. Whether you're into theater or politics, a range of cultural and educational events or exhibitions await you.  The Barbara and David Gibbs Recreation Center at Rice offers an array of recreational programs and services to foster the students' health and wellness. 

Academic Excellence: Rice University's unwavering commitment to educational excellence has been attracting students from all over the globe. From a world-class faculty inclusive of Nobel laureates and Pulitzer Prize winners to small class sizes with a student-faculty ratio of 6:1, an environment of learning and individual attention is always prioritized. Ample research opportunities, state-of-the-art facilities, and resources are available, and students can access cutting-edge projects. They can engage in hands-on experience in their chosen fields. Therefore, it provides students with the tools they need to succeed.

Popular Programs: Some of the most popular programs at the Rice University are as follows:

• Computer and Information Sciences
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical and Electronics Engineering
• Economics
• Psychology
• Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
• Biology/Biological Sciences
• Cognitive Science
• Biochemistry
• Political Science and Government

Career Prospects: The Doerr Institute for New Leaders looks after cultivating leadership excellence through coaching, workshops, and practical leadership experiences. In addition, there is a Center for Career Development which extends its support through career counseling and guidance, internship and job placements, and networking and alumni connections.

Notable Alumni: 

• James H. Newman, four-time space shuttle mission astronaut
• Alberto Gonzales, former US Attorney General
• Annise Parker, former Houston Mayor 
• Larry McMurtry, novelist, screenwriter, and winner of the Pulitzer Prize for the book "Lonesome Dove”. 
• Lynn Elsenhans, President and CEO of the petrochemical firm Sunoco, was ranked No. 10 on the Forbes list of the 100 Most Powerful Women in 2009

Student Support Services: The Boot Camps at Rice University provide extensive support to students right from their admission to post their graduation. To provide additional support through virtual office hours, students get assistance from instructors, support staff, and fellow students. The student success and career services team at Rice University helps you through various additional benefits like Portfolio or Homework Reviews, Technical Interview Training, Soft Skills Training, One-on-One Career Coaching, Virtual Tech Panels, and much more.

Scholarship: 

Name of the scholarship	Benefit or eligibility
Merit scholarships	Offered to incoming first-year students enrolling in a bachelor's degree and have excelled in academics, the arts, or community organizations.
Fellowships	Students pursuing master's and Ph.D can apply for fellowships with benefits like full tuition fee waiver and departmental stipends of $34,000-$40,000 per year to cover living expenses.
Need-based aid	Offered to students enrolling in a bachelor's degree. The assistance is calculated based on the applicant's International Student Financial Statement.

Admission Requirements:

• Students applying to undergraduate programs should submit their last applicable ACT and SAT score
• Letters of recommendation
• Official academic transcript from a certified English translation
• Should submit English language proficiency scores to demonstrate their ability to undertake classes in English

3. Texas A&M University

Established in 1876, Texas A&M University is the first public institution of higher learning in Texas and has strategically grown into one of the nation's most diverse and comprehensive universities. It is a leading research-intensive university, which helped it bag the 16th place in the country for total research and development expenditures for fiscal year 2015 by the National Science Foundation.

Global Ranking: 154th rank in the QS World University Ranking 2025

Location: 400 Bizzell St, College Station, Texas

Campus Life: Student organizations and activities like the Corps of Cadets or Fraternity and Sorority, self-service to give back to the community, leadership opportunities at the Maroon & White Leadership Fellows / Society, and recreational sports facilities and programs for indoor rock climbing, aquatics, personal training and outdoor adventures, are all a part of your campus life at Texas A&M. Not just that, you can experience the best of the Aggie life by attending a home game in the Southeastern Conference and join the crowd in cheering the Aggies to victory. Multiple events such as open houses, conferences, speaker events, entertainment, and workshops are organized for students and the community.

Academic Excellence: Texas A&M has a name for offering a world-class education at an affordable cost. 26% of the student body are first-time college goers, and the university ranks second among public universities nationally for enrollment of National Merit Scholars. It has continuously maintained its place in the top 10 and top 20 universities for the number of science and engineering doctorates awarded and the number of doctoral degrees offered to minorities, respectively. Many of these programs have been recognized nationally by the National Research Council (NRC). 

Popular Programs: Here are some of the most popular programs at the Texas A&M University:

• Engineering/Engineering-related technologies
• Business, Management, Marketing, and related support services
• Biological and Biomedical Sciences
• Health Professions and associated programs
• Social Sciences
• Computer and Information Sciences and support services
• Psychology
• Agricultural/Animal/Plant/Veterinary Science and related fields

Career Prospects: The Career Center at Texas A&M provides full support in offering part-time on-campus and full-time off-campus employment opportunities. The university ties with various organizations to host 15+ career fairs and recruiting events each semester. In addition, the university has a job/internship platform, HireAggies, where recruiters can post a position and create an On-campus Recruiting schedule (OCR). Companies like Google, Amazon, Oracle, IBM, Microsoft, Samsung, Schneider Electric, etc., have hired graduates from the university.

Notable Alumni: 

• Mike Wilkinson - CEO - Paragon Innovations
• Joseph Cerney - President - JMC Technology
• Jonny Hinojosa - Senior Vice President / Chief Technical Officer (CTO) - NetNearU
• Wayne Johnson - Vice President of Technical Services - Lockard & White
• Pierce Primm - President, Primm Technology
• Adam Burke - President - TX Green Technology
• James Davis - President - Network USA

Student Support Services: The Student Assistance Service the university provides connects students to appropriate resources and guidance. From Academic Success Center, Counseling and Psychological Services, and Education Abroad opportunities to facilitate inclusive international experience, campus safety, and emergency support, the university extends its support to address their personal and academic matters of Aggies.

Scholarship:

Name of the scholarship	Benefit or eligibility
George J. Eppright ‘26 International Student	This is the highest honor for an international student who can receive a $3,000 scholarship annually. The students should be enrolled for two full semesters and demonstrate excellence in academics, leadership, service, and participation in extracurricular activities.
Goodman International Scholarship Fund	Any undergraduate or graduate student with financial need can receive this one-time Fall semester award. They should have a full-time enrollment of 12 hours (undergraduate) and 9 hours (graduate).
Bill and Rita Stout Academic Excellence Award	This is a one-time, one-semester scholarship recognizing international undergraduate students' outstanding academic and leadership achievements.

Admission Requirements: 

• For admission to undergraduate programs, an essay on "Tell us your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today?" has to be submitted along with a Self-Reported Academic Record.
• For graduate programs, applicants should have a bachelor's degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor's degree or higher.
• All master's and Ph.D. applicants must submit their GRE scores and have a 3.0 out of 4.0 GPA. 
• No matter the program you are applying to, you must submit your IELTS (minimum band requirement of 6 to 6.5) or TOEFL (minimum 80-90) score. Every degree has different requirements for English proficiency, so it is better to check them before applying. 

4. University of Texas Dallas

The university is home to nearly 30,000 students, including 5,000 international students from approximately 100 countries. It is well-known for its academic rigor and is backed by The University of Texas System. In 2021, UT Dallas and UT Southwestern Medical Center developed a pathbreaking cross-collaborative facility with support from Texas Instruments, a global semiconductor design and manufacturing company. This initiative made it possible to conduct advanced research in bioengineering and drive innovations in biomedical needs.  

Global Ranking: 596th in the QS World University Ranking 2025

Location: 800 W Campbell Rd, Richardson, Texas

Campus Life: UT Dallas offers a dynamic campus life for its students that lets them live, play, and get involved. From more than 300 registered student organizations on campus, esports teams, intercollegiate teams for volleyball and basketball, indoor and outdoor recreation facilities, vibrant and multicultural fraternities and sororities to enjoy the Greek life, to a gaming wall, pool tables, basketball courts, and hammocks in the student's spaces, the university has it all. 

Academic Excellence: UT Dallas aims to prepare graduates for leadership roles in science, engineering, business, research, and arts through its degree programs that are honed to produce world-class graduates. It has seven schools across undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels, embodying the importance of educational opportunities. Besides these schools, the academic, social, and cultural events held at the Hobson Wildenthal Honors College encourage students to pursue intellectual excellence and curiosity across various disciplines. 

Popular Programs: Computer and Information Sciences, Biology/Biological Sciences, Digital Arts, Psychology, and Information Technology are some of the most popular courses students choose at UT Dallas. 

Career Prospects: 5697 internships were reported to be offered to students, amongst which 36.31% were from bachelor's, 61.86% from master's, and 1.82% students were from Doctoral (Ph.D) programs. As for the post-graduation career outcomes, 1591 students were placed in some of the most well-reputed companies, with the internet and software industry being the highest employer and management consulting being the lowest. 

Notable Alumni: 

• Gorden Cheng, Deputy Corporate Security Architect, Oracle Inc.
• Naveen Jindal, Chairman, Jindal Steel and Power
• Daniel J. Healy, Founder and CEO, Civitas Capital Group
• Allison A. Lawrence, President, eCommerce, Stanley Black & Decker
• Lauri Hudgins-Boudreaux, President and CEO, NOVA Electronic Materials

Student Support Services: Here are some of the initiatives taken by the university to support its students:

• Student Success Center - Offers academic support through review sessions and tutoring.
• Media Services - Enhances classroom teaching and learning through audio/video systems and classroom and event technology support.
• UT Dallas Bookstore - Students can pick up necessary books and supplies from the Visitor Center and University Bookstore. 
• Student Counseling, Health, and Wellness Center - Dedicated to addressing the student's concerns in a non-judgmental space to promote their health and well-being 

Scholarship:

Name of the scholarship	Benefit or eligibility
Comet Scholars Program	Awarded to students with financial needs and a high school or community college record of academic excellence. The scholarship covers tuition fees and accommodation costs, from which each student receives $5,000 per year for a maximum of eight semesters of undergraduate study.
The Robert Plant Armstrong Endowed Scholarship Fund	Applicable for undergraduate and graduate students undertaking humanities as a primary course of study in the Harry W. Bass Jr. School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology. The scholarship allows nonresident students to pay in-state tuition fees.
Dean’s Teaching Fellowship	Applicable for PhD candidates, and provides an increased TA stipend and research funds.

Admission Requirements:

• For undergraduate programs - SAT I or ACT scores, high school rank, and GPA need to demonstrate the preparation taken to succeed in the major applied for.
• Students need to submit their English language proficiency proof. The minimum score requirement for IELTS is 6.5, 80 for TOEFL iBT, 67 for PTE Academic, and 105 for the Duolingo English Test.
• For master's or doctoral degree programs - Diplomas and degree certificates, college/university transcripts or mark sheets, and letters of recommendation. All these documents should be uploaded in their original form, along with a translated English certification from the previous academic institution or a government agency.

Read more about: The University of Texas at Dallas

5. Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University was founded in 1923 and gradually grew into one of the top universities with the most significant student enrollment in Texas. The campus is spread across 1,800 acres and has over 40,000 students, 2,20,000 alums, and over 150 degree programs. 

Global Ranking: #781-790 in the QS World University Ranking 2025

Location: 2500 Broadway Lubbock, Texas

Campus Life: Texas Tech University has over 550 student organizations, such as a Tech Rowing Club, where you can engage and grow through leadership development opportunities and experiences. Besides, there is a Raider Red's Food Pantry, Texas Tech Spirit Program, Red to Black Peer Financial Coaching, and many more student activities that you cannot miss. 

Academic Excellence: Texas Tech University pays top priority to educational excellence. Hence, they have a dedicated Office of Student Success for students worried about academic performance. The office staff extends its support through university coaching, retention management & innovation, student engagement, educational testing services, a learning center, and university academic and career advising. 

Popular Programs:

• Engineering
• Computer and Information Sciences
• Business, Management, Marketing, and related support services
• Communication, Journalism, and related programs
• Biological and Biomedical Sciences
• Social Sciences
• Psychology
• Education
• Agricultural/Animal/Plant/Veterinary Science and related fields
• Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences

Career Prospects: According to a survey conducted by Texas Tech University, 32% of graduates were reported to have opted for higher education. In comparison, 68% were employed in government service, pre-K-12 education, military, healthcare, etc.

Notable Alumni: 

• Ed Whitacre, former chairman and CEO of AT&T and General Motors
• Grammy-nominated country singer Pat Green
• Actor Brad Leland, who was seen in the feature film and television series "Friday Night Lights."

Student Support Services: There is a TRIO Student Support Services on-campus that helps students demonstrating financial need with financial aid assistance, academic and career advising, preparing them for graduate school, and developing leadership skills amongst first-generation students. The body also extends its support through in-person one-on-one tutoring, free access to 24/7 online tutoring, financial literacy workshops, and much more. 

Scholarship: 

Name of the scholarship	Benefit or eligibility
General Fellowships for New and Continuing Graduate Students	Offered to new and continuing graduate students, with rewards typically ranging from $3,000–$5,000/yr.
National Merit Scholars	Qualifying students receive 100% of the federally approved attendance cost, including their tuition fees, room, transportation, books, and a personal/miscellaneous allowance.
Presidential Merit Scholarships	Non-residents of Texas can pay the in-state tuition fee.

Admission Requirements: 

• Students applying to the university must submit their academic transcripts, which record all the courses taken and all grades received.
• Official proof of English language proficiency with an overall band score of 6.5 on IELTS Academic, 79 in TOEFL iBT, 60 in PTE, and 100 in Duolingo.
• A 1-2 page Statement of Purpose narrates your goals and how the course and university would help you achieve them. 

6. The University of Texas at Arlington

The University of Texas at Arlington is a comprehensive research ranked the #1 public university in North Texas by The Wall Street Journal 2024. The institution is built across 420 acres. It has a vision to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and the pursuit of excellence. The university believes in offering real-world experiences through internships or research programs to help students contribute to the world.

Global Ranking: #1001-1200 on the QS World University Rankings 2025

Location: 701 S. Nedderman Drive, Arlington, Texas

Campus Life: The University of Texas at Arlington has hundreds of student organizations based on academics, religion, service, professional passions, and other fun. You can choose the one that best suits your interests. At EXCEL, you get to participate in extracurricular opportunities for recreation. The university promotes diversity through the Cultural Engagement and Social Change department, which offers an all-inclusive experience through cultural events.

Academic Excellence: The institution is well-known for its quality of education, which sets the standards for innovation, global leadership, and diversity. It is ranked 1 in Dallas-Fort Worth for return on investment and the highest first-year median wage. It is also ranked 5th for undergraduate diversity and has offered $30 million in scholarships to students each year.

Popular Programs: Here are some of the most popular programs across bachelor's, master's, and PhD levels of study.

• Engineering and Technology
• Business and Management
• Arts and Humanities
• Life Sciences and Medicine
• Social Sciences
• Natural Sciences

Career Prospects: The Career Development Center at UTA offers a wide variety of engagement through Employers' Events & Services, Internships, and Off-campus Work Study Programs. In addition, the university drives on-campus recruitment activities by allowing recruiters to post employment and internship opportunities on a tool named Handshake. From Fortune 500 companies, top DFW workplaces, and medium-sized businesses to non-profit, education, government agencies, and healthcare organizations, the Career Development Center at UTA is divided into three pillars that care for recruitment at these organizations. 

Notable Alumni: 

• Kalpana Chawla was an astronaut and the first woman from India to travel in space.
• Greg Abbott, Governor, State of Texas (2015–Present)
• Kathleen Cooper, former U.S. undersecretary for economic affairs (2001-2005) and  founding director of Texas Security Bank in Dallas
• Lauren Lane, the actress, starred as C.C. Babcock on the television series 'The Nanny,' and is a full-time lecturer at Texas State University.
• Karen Borta, Morning Anchor, KTXT

Student Support Services: The university has a TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) program funded by the U.S. Department of Education to support students with disability, low-income, and first-generation learners. The staff members assist students through services like Coaching & Guidance, Workshops, Financial Education, Tutoring, and advising in personal, financial, and career matters.

Scholarship:

Name of the scholarship	Benefit or eligibility
UTA Thornton Success Scholarship	First-generation learners enrolled as full-time undergraduates are eligible to apply and get a scholarship of $5,000.
Alan H. Plummer and John L. Mancini Scholarship	Students majoring in Civil and Environmental Engineering and having completed their last two semesters with a minimum GPA of 2.5 are eligible to get a scholarship of $928.57.
COB Welcome Back Graduate Scholarship	A scholarship of up to $2,000 is offered to incoming graduate business students who have completed their undergraduate degree from The College of Business (CoB) from Spring 2006 to Fall 2022 with a GPA of 3.5 or higher.

Admission Requirements: 

• Submit official transcripts of previous academic records.
• Complete the submission of program-related documents such as letters of recommendation, statements of purpose, or writing samples.
• Submit GRE/GMAT test scores if the department you are applying to requires you to
• Submit your English language proficiency test score - The minimum required IELTS band score is 6.5, 79 for TOEFL, and 100 for Duolingo. 

7. University of North Texas

The University of North Texas is a student-focused public research university named one of America's Top Colleges by Forbes 16 years in a row and 7th Best College Town in the nation, according to 247WallSt.com. As a student at UNT, you get to work closely with renowned faculty, immerse yourself in its high academic standards, and gain the knowledge, experience, and connections needed to shape your future.

Global Ranking: #1001-1200 in QS World University Rankings 2025

Location: 1155 Union Circle, Denton, Texas

Campus Life: Studying at UNT is more than just getting a degree. From maximizing your on-campus experience by offering more than 450 student organizations to explore, hosting a wide range of activities like Bubble Soccer, University Day, and Union Fest, and performances by musicians from the university's College of Music, an opportunity to join esports teams on campus, to participate in 36 club sports clubs like archery and rugby.

Academic Excellence: The university focuses on offering the best education to its students both in terms of quality and affordability. There are 2,100 outstanding faculty members, including many distinguished scholars, researchers, and artists, and more than 106 academic programs are ranked among the nation's top 100, thus making it a choice of over 46,000 students.

Popular Programs: Some of the nationally and internationally recognized programs at the University of North Texas are as follows:

• Business
• Engineering
• Journalism
• Education
• Arts and Sciences
• Music
• Merchandising and Hospitality Management
• Public Affairs and Community Service
• Visual Arts and Design

Career Prospects: UNT's partnership with top companies, including the Dallas Cowboys, and the Dallas-Fort Worth area being home to 24 Fortune 500 companies makes the place a hot spot for landing a suitable internship or job. You can enroll in the Career Connect program and highlight your skills to showcase them to potential employers. The Career Center at UNT helps you prepare your resume, prepare for interviews, and find the right internship to ace your career. Moreover, the university boasts 476,000 successful alums working all across the country and the world, shining in their respective fields, from music and sports to business.

Notable Alumni: 

• Ben Rogers and Jeff "Skin" Wade are radio broadcasters famous for their program "The Ben and Skin Show."
• Adel al-Jubeir, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs for Saudi Arabia
• Dave Barnet, Emmy Award-winning broadcaster for Fox Sports1 and American Sports Network
• Lewis Abernathy Jr., actor and director, rose to fame by playing the role of a member of the treasure-hunting team in Titanic.

Student Support Services: The TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) at the University of North Texas was funded with $2 million for the 2020-2025 grant cycle to cater to 258 participants. The body aims to provide services like academic tutoring and support with referrals to campus resources, assistance while registering for courses, enrolling in graduate/professional schools, completing financial aid applications, and financial literacy education and counseling. 

Scholarship: 

Name of the scholarship	Benefit or eligibility
UNT Excellence Scholarships	Awarded to first-time freshmen with a record of excellent academic performance. Six award levels are offered for four years, with benefits ranging from $4,000 to $48,000.
UNT Transfer Scholarships	Applicable for transfer students from a community college or an accredited university enrolling in an undergraduate program at UNT. The awards are offered for two years based on the GPA, with benefits ranging from $1,500 to $4,000 annually.

Admission Requirements: 

• Submit your official high school transcripts electronically if you apply to an undergraduate program.
• An ACT score of 18 in English, 22 in Reading, 22 in Mathematics, and 23 in Science, and an SAT score of 1090 out of 1600 should be met to secure admission to a bachelor's program.
• Students applying to master's or doctoral programs should submit their previous degree mark sheet and complete 30+ hours of university-level academic coursework with an overall GPA of 2.25 or equivalent.
• English language proficiency test scores have to be submitted, and a minimum overall band score of 6 in IELTS or 79 in TOEFL iBT has to be met.

8. University of Texas El Paso

The University of Texas, El Paso (UTEP) is renowned for having a majority Mexican-American student population, which is reported to be around 80%. The university started as a school in 1914, focusing on mining engineering and metallurgy, and now offers nearly 170 degree options.

Global Ranking: #1001-1200 in QS World University Rankings 2025

Location: 500 West University Avenue, El Paso, Texas

Campus Life: UTEP has a vast campus with many options, amenities, and recreational and learning opportunities to improve your campus life. Whether you want to participate in a favorite sport or activity by indulging in several student organizations or explore the region's spectacular natural beauty by participating in e-week activities, life at UTEP never gets boring.

Academic Excellence: According to a report by Reserach.com, the University of Texas at El Paso topped the charts among all Texas colleges and universities in best value ranking. The study assessed factors like academic excellence, affordability, return on investment, and degree offerings. 

Popular Programs: Besides offering world-class research experience in cybersecurity, 3D printing, aerospace, cancer, bilingual education, and cross-border economics, here are some of the most popular programs at UTEP.

• Computer Science
• Mechanical Engineering
• Finance
• Biological Sciences
• Nursing
• Psychology
• Education
• Criminal Justice

Career Prospects: The University Career Center at the University of Texas at El Paso organizes career expos and several other events so that students can explore on-campus student employment opportunities and internships, network with potential employers and alums, and professional development sessions with employer partners.

Notable Alumni: 

• Edward Escuder, President and CEO of High Desert Capital, LLC
• William F. “Willie” Quinn, a retired professional civil engineer with El Paso Natural Gas
• Joe M. Gomez, director of business development and community affairs at Jordan Foster Construction in El Paso

Student Support Services: The university offers the Student Support Services Program (CSP) to 200 students annually as a part of the Federal TRIO programs sponsored by the US Department of Education. It would assist students in encouraging their academic performance regardless of socioeconomic, cultural, or ethnic background and make their college experience even better. The program can be availed by first-year students, sophomores, or juniors who meet the eligibility criteria.

Scholarship: 

Name of the scholarship	Benefit or eligibility
Frank and Polly Ann Morrow	These honors are bestowed on international students from countries other than the United States. These students should demonstrate outstanding leadership skills and be involved in various UTEP and Community Service activities.
International Student Financial Aid	This is a need-based financial aid offered to international students with financial needs. They receive assistance of $2,000, which can be used for tuition fees.

Admission Requirements: 

• First-time freshmen should submit their official high school transcript or GED score report indicating the distinguished curriculum level completed.
• Official SAT & ACT scores
• Students applying to graduate programs should have a bachelor's degree from an institution that is recognized by one of the regional accrediting agencies, with a minimum GPA of 2.75 or higher in the last 60 semester credit hours.
• International students should submit their TOEFL test scores and have a minimum score of 24 for speaking, 22 for listening, 22 for reading, and 21 for writing.

Comparative Analysis of Texas’ Top Universities

University	Specialized Entrance Exam Required	Financial Aid Available	On-Campus Housing	Internship/Research Opportunities	International Student Support
University of Texas at Austin	A GRE or GMAT test score is required for admission to graduate programs or business school. For admission to the School of Law, a Law School Admission Test (LSAT) score is required.	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Rice University	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Texas A&M University	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
University of Texas Dallas	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Texas Tech University	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
The University of Texas at Arlington	GRE/GMAT score required	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
University of North Texas	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
University of Texas El Paso	Standardized test scores like ACT/SAT or an English language proficiency test score have to be submitted. Besides, the candidate has to pass the Pre-admission Content Test (PACT) for the desired certification area while applying to graduate programs.	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes

Source: University Website

Student Life in Texas

The student life in Texas depends on the university you are applying to and its location. If the university is located at a prime location, you get to explore a host of activities both on-campus and off-campus. For instance, the University of Texas at Austin organizes thousands of events, from film screenings and concerts to football games. 

Moreover, there are more than 1000 student organizations where you get to be a part of the vibrant community. With 15 residence halls with state-of-the-art facilities and access to museums, music venues, libraries, and activity centers, you would be spoilt for choices.  

On the other hand, some universities like Texas State University offer access to recreation and performing arts centers, or they can go wild with peers on outdoor recreation. More than 400 social, artistic, academic, and service-oriented student groups exist. So you can explore them and find the one that suits your interests. Engaging in such societies or clubs and connecting with like-minded people would make you feel at home away in a foreign country. 

Living in Texas: Tips and Tricks 

Texas is well known for its rich culture, relatively affordable housing, growth in the job sector, and much more. No wonder people are choosing to pursue their higher education in the state. However, we will provide some tips and tricks to help you during your time in Texas.

• Taxes are lower than expected: Texas has one of the USA's lowest state and local tax burdens. It is one state where people do not have to pay state income tax and relatively lower state sales taxes. 
• Affordable cost of living: Living in areas like Harker Heights, Austin, Dallas, Little Elm, Pearland, and San Antonio is comparatively cheaper and can help you save a lot on the cost of living. The cost of living in Harker Heights is 16.3% lower than the US average, whereas Pearland is 0.3% lower than the average living cost in the US.  
• Don’t take toll roads to avoid Texas traffic: The public transport system in Texas is less intense in all the cities. However, given the spread-out nature of the state, many Texans own a car, which leads to getting stuck in traffic for quite a long time. Construction on the freeways and toll roads is expected. Therefore, using GPS and avoiding taking toll roads is advisable, or you will end up paying a hefty bill at the expressways. If you prefer catching trains, it's better to look for accommodation in a city with a decent public transport system. 
• Lower electricity costs: Texas follows energy deregulation, meaning you can choose your electricity provider instead of the local electrical utility. Thus eliminating the monopoly of the service provider and leading to lower costs and better service. You can choose the company, look at their energy rates, and choose the one that best suits your needs. On average, people in Texas spend around $233 per month on electricity, which adds up to $2,796 annually.
• Heaven for food lovers and an ethnically diverse state: From steak, BBQ, or Tex-Mex, if you are fond of trying out different kinds of food, Texas is a paradise. Given the multi-ethnic nature of the state, you are not confined to just one kind of cuisine. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, groceries and food costs around $286.19 per week. 

Career Opportunities Post Graduation 

After completing your higher studies at one of the best universities in Texas, securing the right job is a significant concern. Therefore, universities have a compiled variety of resources to help you succeed. You can get the support of career coaches in the university career centers, who will help you become marketable to employers. They can help you develop your career plan and understand the nuances of CPT, OPT, and sponsorship so that you can work legally in the US, make connections, and learn how to talk to employers. 

Once you have identified your career interests and know the employment authorization regulations, you can use platforms like My Visa Jobs, LinkedIn, GoinGlobal, RileyGuide, and THE DREAM. US. You can find employment trends at organizations like Amazon, Google, Ernst & Young, Infosys, Microsoft, and Apple. In addition, you get access to interview advice, tips on creating a CV or resume, salary range, etc. You can also connect with university alumni on LinkedIn to learn which companies hire from the institution. 

Besides, participate in career events to network with potential employers, talk to your faculty, or volunteer or intern at organizations to meet professionals in your field. Go through the materials provided at the career fairs to know how to talk to employers. 

Here are some top career opportunities and job roles you can explore in Texas post graduation. 

Top job roles	Average annual salary
Physician	$2,00,000 - $3,00,000
Chief Executive Officer	$1,00,000 - $2,00,000
Radiologist	$2,00,000 - $3,00,000
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon	$2,00,000 - $4,00,000
Psychiatrist	$2,00,000 - $3,00,000
Orthodontist	$2,00,000 - $3,00,000
Nurse Anesthetist	$1,00,000 - $3,00,000
Airline Pilot	$1,00,000 - $3,00,000
Ophthalmologist	$2,00,000 - $3,00,000
Petroleum Engineer	$1,00,000 - $2,00,000

Source: Glassdoor

Conclusion 

In choosing the best university in Texas, consider factors like academic reputation, campus facilities, and career opportunities. The state offers top-tier institutions like UT Austin, Rice University, and Texas A&M, each excelling in different areas. Your decision should align with your academic goals and personal preferences to maximize your educational experience.