Best States in the US for international students (2024)
- California
- New York
- Texas
- Illinois
- Minnesota
- Virginia
- Massachusetts
- Indiana
- Michigan
- Pennsylvania
- Florida
- Colorado
- Georgia
- Oregun
- Washinton DC
One of the frequently asked questions we have received in recent times has been, “What are the best states in the US for international students”?
You’ll agree that the US is an amazing education destination, but certain states stand out for their exceptional offerings for international students.
See Also: Best cities to study for international students in the UK – 2024
From top-ranked universities to welcoming communities, these states provide international students with a fulfilling and enriching experience.
In this article, I’ll show you the best states you should study in the US and all you need to know.
Table of Contents
California
California has one of the largest populations of international students in the US. It has a diverse cultural scene and many opportunities for internships and job placements.
Here are the top 10 best countries to study in the world in 2024
Being the biggest state in the USA, California is a state you would really love as a student.
California is home to many of the world’s largest film and television studios, and it is the birthplace of many iconic American movies and TV shows.
Best universities in California for international students 2023-2024
- Stanford University
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley)
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
- University of Southern California (USC)
- University of California, San Diego (UC San Diego)
- University of California, Davis (UC Davis)
- University of California, Irvine (UC Irvine)
- San Diego State University (SDSU)
- California State University, Fullerton (CSUF)
- California State University, Fullerton (CSUF)
New York
New York is a major global hub for business, finance, and media, which can be attractive for international students looking to pursue careers in those fields.
The state also offers a diverse cultural scene and many world-renowned universities.
You’ll find New York amazing as a student and find opportunities and career prospects after college.
NYC is the most populous city in the US and is home to many of the world’s largest financial institutions, media companies, and cultural attractions.
Best Universities in New York State for international students
- Columbia University
- New York University (NYU)
- Cornell University
- University of Rochester
- Stony Brook University
- Syracuse University
- Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
- Fordham University
- Binghamton University
- Rochester Institute of Technology
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Texas
Texas has a low cost of living compared to other major cities in the US, making it an affordable option for you as an international student.
The state is also known for its friendly culture and has many top-ranked universities, thus, one of the best states in the US for international students in 2023-2024.
Texas is known for its huge size and diversity, with a varied landscape that includes deserts, mountains, and coastal areas.
It has a rich history and culture that includes cowboys, oil production, and Tex-Mex cuisine.
Best universities in Texas for international students
Rice University
University of Texas at Austin
Southern Methodist University
Texas A&M University
University of Houston
Texas Christian University
Baylor University
University of North Texas
University of Texas at Dallas
University of Texas at San Antonio
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Best States in the US for International Students – Illinois
Illinois State is another good option you should consider if you are an international student looking to student in the US.
See Also: Best cities to study in the UK as an international student.
The state is home to several prestigious universities and a diverse population of international students.
This is one of the states in the USA best for education.
Best universities in Illinois for international students
- University of Chicago
- Northwestern University
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Illinois Institute of Technology
- Loyola University Chicago
- DePaul University
- Illinois State University
- Southern Illinois University Carbondale
- Bradley University
- Northern Illinois University
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Minnesota
The state of Minnesota is another place you’ll love in the US as an international student.
Minnesota has a strong education system and quality of life.
Minnesota is known for the Mall of America, one of the largest shopping centers in the world, located in Bloomington, with over 500 stores, an indoor amusement park, and an aquarium; its music and amazing lakes.
Best universities in Minnesota for foreign students in 2023-2024
- University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
- Carleton College
- St. Olaf College
- Macalester College
- Gustavus Adolphus College
- University of St. Thomas
- Hamline University
- College of Saint Benedict/Saint John’s University
- Bethel University
- Concordia College-Moorhead
Best States in the US for international students (2023 – 2024)
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Virginia
Virginia is a southeastern state in the US known for its rich history, including landmarks like Colonial Williamsburg, Monticello, Mount Vernon, and Jamestown, and its beautiful natural landscapes, and vibrant culture.
The State is one of the most suitable and popular states for international students in the US.
Best universities in Virginia State for international students
- University of Virginia
- William & Mary
- Virginia Tech
- George Mason University
- Virginia Commonwealth University
- James Madison University
- Liberty University
- University of Richmond
- Radford University
- Old Dominion University
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Massachusetts
Massachusetts is one of the best destinations for international students.
Massachusetts is known for its world-class universities, and revolutionary history, as the state played a significant role in the American Revolution.
The state is a beautiful state that is known for its beautiful coastal towns, delicious seafood, and vibrant cultural scene.
Best universities in Massachusetts, US for international students
- Harvard University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Tufts University
- Boston University
- Northeastern University
- Brandeis University
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI)
- Babson College
- Boston College
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Indiana
Indiana is home to several top-ranked universities and has a lower cost of living compared to other states.
The state also has a strong business community and many opportunities for internships and job placements for students after their programmes.
Best universities in Indiana for international students
- Harvard University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Tufts University
- Boston University
- Northeastern University
- Brandeis University
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI)
- Babson College
- Boston College
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Michigan
Michigan is known for its stunning natural beauty, as it is home to four of the five Great Lakes in the United States.
It is also known for its significant contributions to the automotive industry, with Detroit serving as the center of the American automobile industry.
Michigan is a lovely state that attracts thousands of foreign students every year. You’ll enjoy living and studying in the cities in Michigan state.
Top colleges in Michigan best for international students
- University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
- Michigan State University
- Andrews University
- Calvin University
- Hillsdale College
- Hope College
- Kalamazoo College
- Lawrence Technological University
- Oakland University
- Western Michigan University
11. Pennsylvania
The State of Pennsylvania is known for its beautiful countryside, particularly in Lancaster County where the Amish population is concentrated.
Additionally, Pennsylvania is home to several world-renowned universities.
Best universities in Pennsylvania US for international students
- University of Pennsylvania
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Villanova University
- Lehigh University
- Bucknell University
- Pennsylvania State University-University Park
- Swarthmore College
- Haverford College
- Lafayette College
- Dickinson College
11. Best States in the US for International Students – Florida
Here is another beautiful state you can choose to study in the US as an international student.
Florida, a state located in the southeastern region of the United States, is known for its beautiful beaches, world-renowned theme parks, warm subtropical climate, and unique wildlife.
Best universities in Florida for international students
- University of Miami
- University of Florida
- Florida State University
- University of Central Florida
- Florida International University
- Rollins College
- Stetson University
- Nova Southeastern University
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
- University of South Florida
- Best States in the US for international students (2023 – 2024)
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Colorado
Located in the western region of the United States, Colorado is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.
The state is home to the Rocky Mountains, which offer world-class skiing, hiking, and mountain biking, as well as several national parks, including Rocky Mountain National Park and Mesa Verde National Park.
If you love these sports and love to study in some of the best universities in the US, Colorado is a good choice.
Best universities in Colorado for international students
- University of Colorado Boulder
- Colorado School of Mines
- University of Denver
- Colorado State University
- University of Colorado Denver
- Colorado College
- Regis University
- Metropolitan State University of Denver
- Western Colorado University
- Fort Lewis College
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Georgia
Georgia is another top choice state for any international student looking to study in the US.
Georgia has a rich history, diverse culture, and bustling metropolitan areas that you’ll fall in love with as a student.
The state is home to several major cities, including Atlanta, which is a hub for business, entertainment, and higher education.
Top Universities in Georgia for international students
- Emory University
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- University of Georgia
- Georgia State University
- Mercer University
- Kennesaw State University
- Augusta University
- Clark Atlanta University
- Savannah College of Art and Design
- Columbus State University
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Oregon
In the US, Oregon is located in the Pacific Northwest region. The state is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and rugged coastlines.
The state is also home to several iconic landmarks, such as Crater Lake National Park, Mount Hood, and the Columbia River Gorge.
Top universities in the US in Oregon State
- University of Oregon
- Oregon State University
- Portland State University
- Reed College
- Lewis & Clark College
- Willamette University
- University of Portland
- Pacific University
- George Fox University
- Western Oregon University
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Washington DC
You’ll love Washington!
Washington, D.C. is the capital city of the United States and is located on the East Coast.
The city is known for its iconic landmarks, such as the White House, the U.S. Capitol Building, the Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial. It is one of the best states you can study and live in the US as a foreign student.
Best universities in the US for international students
- Georgetown University
- George Washington University
- American University
- Howard University
- Catholic University of America
- University of the District of Columbia
- Gallaudet University
- Trinity Washington University
- Johns Hopkins University (SAIS)
- University of Maryland (Global Campus)
Here are a few other frequently asked questions answered below:
Which state in the USA has the most international students?
The state in the United States with the highest number of international students is California. As of the 2022-2023 academic year, California had over 160,000 international students, which is more than any other state in the US. Other states with high numbers of international students include New York, Texas, Massachusetts, and Illinois.
Which state is the cheapest for international students in the USA?
The top five states with the lowest overall cost of living for international students in the United States are: South Dakota, Mississippi, Kansas, Arkansas, and Alabama. Cost of living and tuition fees for international students in the United States varies significantly depending on the state and institution they choose to study at.
Where do most international students study in the USA?
The top 10 states for international students in the United States were: California, New York, Texas, Massachusetts, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Florida, Ohio, Michigan, Indiana. These 10 states accounted for more than two-thirds of all international students in the United States.
Bukola Owo-Bello is a spirited storyteller, content creator and YouTuber who loves sharing amazing opportunities, inspiration, and ideas with forward-thinking African youths.
Follow her on YouTube, TikTok and Instagram on @BukkiTalks
