Best Universities and Colleges in USA - Courses, Fees, Scholarships, Careers & Admission Requirements
Studying at leading universities in the USA is a preferred choice for innumerable Indian students. The US Embassy and Consulates in India issued a record number of 95,269 student visas between June and August, 2023, marking an increase of 18% compared to the same period in 2022.
If you also want to pursue your dream of studying here, then here is a closer look at the top universities in the USA and several other crucial aspects.
Top 10 Universities in USA
Here is a closer look at the top 10 universities in the USA.
S. No.
University
Location
QS World University Rankings 2024
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024
The main intakes at universities in the USA include the following:
Fall Intake (deadlines are usually between November and February)
Spring Intake (deadlines are usually between May and September)
Scholarship Opportunities at USA Universities
There are several scholarships available at universities in the USA. Here are some of the available scholarships worth considering.
Scholarship Name
Key Details
Harvard University Financial Aid
Up to 100% of demonstrated financial need (calculated by deducting total costs from parent contribution, other awards, employment, etc)
Fulbright Foreign Students Program
Student awards for pursuing master’s programs in the USA or attending universities in the country as visiting student researchers
Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program
50% grant and 50% loan which has to be repaid, covering tuition fees and living costs. Applicant should have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent training/professional experience
Stanford University Financial Aid
Need-based scholarships based on financial circumstances of applicants
There are several professional opportunities that students will find after graduating from universities in the USA. Here are some job positions and their average annual salaries.
Job Position
Average Annual Salary
Analyst
$60-99,000
Registered Nurse
$73-110,000
Attorney
$74-124,000
IT Director
$94-146,000
Engineer
$79-126,000
Marketing Coordinator
$44-67,000
Source: Glassdoor, April 2024
Why Choosing Right University Matters ?
Choosing the right university is immensely important, since it will have a direct bearing on your academic journey, acquiring knowledge, skill-development, and future professional prospects. A good university will help you specialize in your chosen field with exposure to the best learning modules.
At the same time, a globally-recognized institution’s degree will boost your resume. Well-known universities also have plenty of internship and other part-time job options that will help you gain experience alongside. They may also provide career and networking services that will help you land your dream job in the USA after graduating.
How to Choose Right University?
Here are some parameters that you should keep in mind while choosing a university in the USA.
Check the overall reputation of the institution and its global rankings and subject rankings (for your chosen discipline).
Go through the curriculum of your chosen program and see whether it aligns with your future goals.
Check whether the university offers dedicated career counseling and other services to help you find jobs.
Look for options for internships and other industry experience offered by the institution along with on-campus jobs and volunteering opportunities.
Compare tuition fees with other institutions offering similar courses along with living costs and whether they match your budget.
Look at admission and eligibility requirements along with housing options on/near campus.
View the facilities offered by the university for international students, including all-round support and assistance, guidance, sports and recreation, and so on.
Check whether the university is in a safe location and whether it has proper measures to maintain security on the campus.
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Illinois State University is an international American institution that draws academics and students from around the globe. Currently, 20,784 students are enrolled at the university. International students coming from 69 countries, including Germany, India, Brazil, and China, represent a significant portion of the student body. Mathematics, Information Systems, Business Administration, Technology, and Applied Economics are some of the most popular courses among international students. The university gives out ISU Access Grants worth close to $13 million a year to students from the lowest-income families.
The Latest About Illinois State University
Founded in 1857, Illinois State University is a public university. In fall 2022, there were 18,055 undergraduate students enrolled overall. The campus spans 1,180 acres and is located in an urban area. Illinois State University is ranked #209th among national universities in the 2024 edition of Best Colleges. $15,171 is the in-state tuition and fees, while $27,011 is the out-of-state tuition and fees.
Highlights of Illinois State University
Established
1857
Website
https://illinoisstate.edu/
Also known as
Redbirds
QS World University Rankings
#1401+ for 2024
U.S. News & World Report Ranking
#1807 in the Best Global Universities 2024
Times Higher Education (THE) Ranking
401-500th in the 2022 US College
Accepted Exams
SAT and ACT (optional), GPA score, TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo.
Total number of students
20,683 Students. 18,055 undergraduates and 2,628 graduates.
Scholarships
Redbird Academic Scholarship, Jesse W. Fell Scholarship, and Legacy Scholarship are some of the many scholarships at ISU.
Student-Teacher Ratio
19:1
Contact
Address: 100 N University St, Normal, IL 61761, United States
Phone: +1 309-438-2181
History of Illinois State University
Originally established as a "normal" university in 1857, Illinois State Normal University (ISNU) was created to train teachers to serve in Illinois schools. After that, the organisation changed into a teachers' college before becoming the liberal arts university that it is today. Forty-three students from around the state were registered by the university when lessons started on October 5.
In the 20th century, Illinois State remained at the forefront of the movement for increased access to higher education. Under the direction of President Raymond Fairchild (1933–1955), Illinois State University (ISNU) became the first college in Illinois to provide graduate-level study for teachers in 1944, despite strong resistance from the University of Illinois and minimal support from the other teaching institutions.
After that year, ISNU also started offering special education degrees, making it the first university in the state to do so. The university is well-known around the country for its achievements in this field. Illinois State is one of the country's major providers of educator preparation, with over 40,000 active alumni and 24,000 graduates teaching in classrooms around the country at the College of Education.
Illinois State University Courses
International students can choose from many courses. More than 165 undergraduate majors, 90 master's degree programs, 10 PhD programs, Pathway programs, and academic English preparation are available for you to select from. Mathematics, Information Systems, Business Administration, Technology, and Applied Economics are some of the most well-liked Illinois State University courses among international students. Here are some of Illinois State University’s top-ranked courses.
Subject Name
Subject Ranking 2024
Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
#209
Biology
#277
Computer Science
#265
Environmental Science
#244
Medicine
#272
Psychology
#224
Engineering
#291
Physics
#240
Mathematics
#230
Chemistry
#290
Business
#203
Economics
#192
Popular Courses
Liberal Arts and Social Sciences
Education
Computer and Information Sciences
Visual and Performing Arts
Social Sciences
Journalism
Business
Management
Finance
Illinois State University Placements
It is advised that you schedule a meeting with a career advisor to discuss employment and internship opportunities. Additionally, you may interact with businesses and seek job openings. Together, you can make sure that people take notice of your CV. They will instruct you on how to express your goals and highlight your talents. They can teach you to be confident and aware of what to expect during your interviews.
Illinois State University Campus Life
The residence halls and university flats are more than just somewhere to eat and sleep, as new residents quickly discover. Living on campus offers fantastic chances to socialise with professors and other students, participate in campus events, and develop leadership abilities. Living on campus improves academic experiences and fosters lifelong connections by producing special moments.
Illinois State University Alumni
The Illinois State University Alumni Association is a volunteer organisation that serves over 235,000 living alumni. Jane Lynch, Richard Roeper, Suzy Bogguss, Doug Collins, and Sean Hayes are some of the distinguished alumni at Illinois State University.
Illinois State University Faculty
The purpose of the Distinguished Professor title is to allow the university to recognise outstanding faculty members and to show the outside world that the university is built on quality. Cheri J. Simonds, Communication; Justin Vickers, Music; Jeffrey Kahn, Psychology; Anu Gokhale, Technology; and Krzysztof Ostaszewski, Mathematics, are the current notable alumni at Illinois State University.
Nova Southeastern Universityis generally a private non-profit research university including its main campus which is situated in Davie, Florida. This renowned university consists of a total number of 14 famous colleges, schools and centers offering more than 150 programs related to various study materials. Nova Southeastern University was founded in the year 1964 with the target of serving the best quality educational facility. George L. Hanbury II was the president as well as Chief Executive Officer of Nova Southeastern University in Florida.
Indiana State University is a public doctoral university located in Terre Haute, Indiana. Formerly it was known as Indiana State Normal School, Indiana State Teachers College and Indiana State College. The academic affiliation of this university is Space-grant with an endowment of over $70 million. The colours of the university were royal blue and white and the nickname is Sycamores. The sporting affiliations are NCAA Division I - MVC and the mascot is Sycamore Sam. The main campus of this university is located on the north side of Tere Haute's downtown business history. Indiana State University field campus is an outdoor teaching, learning and research are designed to shelter educational programs and services. The campus has various buildings including academic buildings, residential and administrative buildings. The mission statement of this university is " We transform the lives of ough a high-quality education infused with experiential learning, community engagement and career-readiness." This university offers various programmes and courses for the aspiring students. Since 1865 this university has stood up for hard work, for solid values, for sycamore trees and for the students.
Portland State University in Portland was founded as a post-secondary educational institution for World War II veterans. It is the only public university in the state of Oregon which is located in a large city and is classified among R2: Doctoral Universities - High Research activity. The former names of this university are Vanport Extension Centre and Portland State College. The motto of this university is to let knowledge serve the city and the type of this university is a public research university. The academic affiliation of this university is urban 13/GCU, CUMU and Space-grant. This university offers various courses in undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The colours of this university are green and white and the nickname is Vikings. The sporting affiliations of this university are NCAA Division I FCS-Big Sky and the mascot is Victor E. Viking. This university is composed of seven constituent colleges and has an athletic team. Schools of Portland State include the College of Education, Schools of Business administration, School of Social work, college of urban and public affairs, college of the arts, Maseeh college of engineering and computer science and the college of liberal arts and sciences.
The University of North Carolina is a private research university and it is located in Charlotte, North Carolina. It was founded in 1949 by the Chancellor of the university Sharon Gaber. The number of enrolled students in this university was 278 when the institution opened. The main campus of the city is located in North Carolina and the campus area of the university is 1000 acres. The campus of the university is huge and offers several cultural activities for the students. The University of North Carolina included postgraduate programs in 1992 and the name changed to its present name in 1969. When the university first opened, the area of the campus was 250 acres. The number of admitted students at the University of North Carolina increased to 492 in 1957. The founder of the University of North Carolina is Bonnie Ethel Cone. She was the president and chancellor of the university. A beautiful garden is near the campus of this university and more than 300000 students visit the campus of this university every year. The University of North Carolina is one of the best Universities in the United States of America. The University of North Carolina focuses on providing critical thinking knowledge to the students to enable innovative ideas.
The famous university of texas at El Paso (UTEP) actually is a general public research university which is located in el paso of texas. This is a popular member of the Texas university system. This is the second largest educational institution in the United States of America who have in general a majority of Mexican American students. According to their outstanding performances this educational institute sets a widely demanded and well accepted indicator of huge and appropriate excellence. This reputed and famous university in general has offered many different courses basically in electronics, technology, engineering and education field with strongly recommended programmes in music, arts, science and many more different aspects in educational field. This university became a more popular new college in the US because it has never been designed just like a normal liberal art or science school.
One of the eleven colleges that make up the Florida State University System is Florida Atlantic University. It is a four-year institution that grants bachelor's, master's, and doctorate degrees. The gorgeous Boca Raton where the university is situated is midway between Miami and Ft. Lauderdale to the south and West Palm Beach to the north. The Boca Raton campus is surrounded by lush, natural beauty, unmatched recreational opportunities, theatres, art galleries, and upscale shopping and is only three miles from the warm beaches of the Atlantic Ocean. One of Florida's fastest growing communities, Boca Raton is gaining recognition on a global scale as a thriving, affluent, and high-tech industrial hub.
It takes little time to discover why people adore the University of Memphis. This university exudes happiness. At every game, you can hear it in the roar of Tiger supporters. It is evident in the welcoming smiles you encounter on campus. When our students receive national recognition for their achievements, you can feel it. And you can see it when another University of Minnesota discovery occurs in their research labs.
The University of Memphis is a significant research university and is situated in a peaceful residential area of Memphis, Tennessee. The knowledge you get here cultivates an intellectual curiosity that will enable you to make a difference in both your personal and professional life. We were established in 1912, and more than 21,000 students visit their campus annually. One of our strengths is their diversity. International faculty and students attend the University of Minnesota to participate in its programs. The campus is home to five state-approved Centres of Excellence and 25 Chairs of Excellence.
The university admitted its first black students in 1959, five years after the Supreme Court of the United States ruled in Brown v. Board of Education that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. At the period, racial segregation was typical throughout the South. They were accepted into Memphis State University and became known as "The Memphis State Eight." They were the subject of harsh criticism from a sizable portion of the local public as well as intense media scrutiny due to their presence on campus. University administrators imposed some strict restrictions on where and when the black students could be on campus, ostensibly for their safety and to maintain calm on campus.
The university, which was once known as West Tennessee State Normal School, began operations on September 10, 1912, under the leadership of Dr. Seymour A. Mynders. Students decided on the school's colours of blue and grey as well as the tiger as its mascot. According to tradition, the colors—those of the opposing armies during the Civil War—were chosen to symbolise the nation's reconciliation following that bitter conflict. The DeSoto yearbook was founded, the first library opened in the Administration Building, the first dining hall was constructed, and the first men's dorm, Scates Hall, now houses the dean's offices for the College of Arts and Sciences, was built over the following ten years.
Frequently recognized as the California Polytechnic State institution, Cal Poly stands out as a prominent public establishment nestled in San Luis Obispo, California. Its inception was marked by a commitment to pragmatic education and immersive learning, a legacy that endures as it presently offers an extensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs spanning fields such as engineering, agriculture, business, and the sciences. Central to the university's ethos is the "Learn by Doing" principle, which places a profound emphasis on hands-on experiences, fostering ingenuity and analytical thinking among students. With its picturesque campus, robust industry connections, and vibrant communal backdrop, Cal Poly not only equips students for triumph in their chosen vocations but also empowers them to make meaningful contributions to society at large. You will find California Polytechnic StateUniversity address on its official website. Let's investigate the important factors distinguishing a remarkable selection for California Polytechnic State University Notable alumni seeking a transformative academic encounter.
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) is a prestigious public research institution that is situated in Greensboro, North Carolina. Since its founding in 1891, UNCG has promoted a lively and dynamic academic environment, providing a wide range of programs in several academic subjects. The school has won praise for its constant dedication to encouraging creative thinking, imaginative thinking, and critical thinking among its student body. UNCG plays a pivotal role in both the educational and cultural landscapes of the region, with a strong emphasis on active community engagement. It has a long tradition of academic distinction and is committed to helping students become successful professionals while encouraging civic engagement and leadership. You will find the University of North Carolina address on its official website. Let's investigate the important factors distinguishing a remarkable selection for University of North Carolina Notable alumni seeking a transformative academic encounter.
The University of Texas at Arlington, or UTA, is in the center of Arlington, Texas. This old university, founded in 1895, has aged beautifully, integrating its rich past with contemporary academic vigor. UTA has evolved throughout time into a melting pot of cultures, thoughts, and aspirations, attracting students from all over the world.
One can't help but sense the pulse of ambition as they stroll across the campus. Stunning trees among the institution's oldest stand tall and testify to innumerable dreams and successes. The university's architecture represents its respect for history while embracing the future through a seamless fusion of the old and the modern.
UTA is renowned for its diverse programs, from engineering and nursing to the arts and humanities. The faculty, a blend of seasoned academics and passionate young educators, are the backbone of the university, guiding students with a mix of wisdom and innovative teaching methods.
But academics aren't everything at UTA. Community is the focus. The campus is constantly bustling with events, whether they be cultural festivals, sporting competitions, or community outreach initiatives. The institution prioritizes holistic development, ensuring students have plenty of chances to develop within and outside the classroom. UTA's dedication to research is one of its most notable qualities. The institution constantly pushes the limits of knowledge, inspiring staff and students to inquire, investigate, and develop new ideas. This attitude of inquiry has produced ground-breaking discoveries, inventions, and practical solutions of enduring value. You will find the University of Texas address on its official website. Let's investigate the important factors distinguishing a remarkable selection for University of Texas Notable alumni seeking a transformative academic encounter.
University of Texas Highlights
In Texas, the University of Texas at Arlington, sometimes known as UTA, symbolizes intellectual success. Its capacity as a public research university has consistently shown that it is dedicated to offering top-notch instruction, stimulating innovation, and advancing inclusion. UTA is a microcosm of various cultures, beliefs, and goals, with a vast campus combining historic charm and cutting-edge amenities.
The fantastic student body at UTA is one of its distinguishing qualities. A sizable component of the university's dynamic student body comprises people from nations other than the United States. The campus's cultural diversity is enriched by this foreign presence, which also encourages a global viewpoint in academic partnerships and dialogues.
UTA's acceptance rate reflects its selective nature, ensuring that the student body comprises dedicated and passionate learners. The student-faculty ratio is commendable, allowing personalized attention and fostering close-knit academic relationships. This ratio ensures students have ample opportunities for one-on-one interactions, mentorship, and collaborative research with their professors.
The university's commitment to education is further highlighted by the number of scholarships it awards annually, making quality education accessible to many deserving students. With its official website as a comprehensive portal for all information, prospective students, researchers, and academics worldwide can easily connect with UTA.
East West University (EWU) is a well-known higher education institution in Dhaka, Bangladesh. It was founded in 1996 and has since become a regional beacon of academic excellence and innovation. EWU is committed to providing a world-class education, encouraging critical thinking, and encouraging intellectual growth in its diverse student body. EWU has a growing academic community that engages in innovative studies across various disciplines because of its commitment to research. The university is a center for learning and personal development because of its modern facilities, dynamic faculty, and vibrant campus life. EWU continues to shape future leaders and contribute to societal progress. You will find the East West University address on its website.
Let's investigate the important factors distinguishing a remarkable selection for East West University Notable alumni seeking a transformative academic encounter.
Rutgers University Camden, situated in Camden, New Jersey, is a prominent institution known for its academic excellence and community engagement. As part of the renowned Rutgers University system, it upholds a tradition of providing high-quality education. With a diverse student body and a wide range of programs, the university offers opportunities for personal and intellectual growth. Rutgers University Camden's commitment to research and innovation makes it a hub for aspiring scholars and researchers. Its strategic location near major cities like Philadelphia adds to the university's appeal, providing students access to valuable resources and networking opportunities. You will find the Rutgers University Camden address on its website.
Let's investigate the important factors distinguishing a remarkable selection for Rutgers University Camden Notable alumni seeking a transformative academic encounter.
San Francisco State University (SFSU) is a world-class public research university in San Francisco, California. SFSU, which has a diverse and inclusive community, offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in a variety of disciplines. The university is well-known for its commitment to social justice and civic engagement and for creating a stimulating environment for intellectual inquiry and community involvement. SFSU has an accomplished faculty of dedicated educators and scholars who strive to provide students with a transformative learning experience. The campus is located in a vibrant urban setting, providing students with opportunities to engage with San Francisco's rich cultural and professional resources.
Seattle University is a well-respected and lively institution situated in the center of Seattle, Washington. It has a long and storied history that spans more than 130 years, offering a transformative education to its students. The university is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and provides a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including business, humanities, sciences, and the arts. The campus is known for its diverse and inclusive community, where collaboration and involvement are encouraged. Students benefit from dedicated faculty members who prioritize teaching and mentorship, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to become leaders in their chosen fields. Seattle University also places a strong emphasis on social justice and community engagement, inspiring students to make a positive difference in the world.
Mississippi State University (MSU) is a well-known public research university in Starkville, Mississippi. MSU, which was founded in 1878, has emerged as a leading educational and research hub in the southeastern United States. Engineering, agriculture, business, education, and the sciences are among the undergraduate and graduate programs available at the university. MSU is well-known for its cutting-edge research facilities, strong industry partnerships, and lively campus community. A rigorous academic curriculum, dedicated faculty members, and numerous opportunities for experiential learning benefit students. MSU's dedication to innovation, excellence, and community engagement has earned it a stellar reputation in the region as a top-tier institution.
The University of San Diego (USD) is a well-known private Catholic university in San Diego, California. USD strongly emphasizes academic excellence and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, law, engineering, social sciences, and humanities. The university is well-known for its dedication to creating a welcoming and inclusive learning environment that encourages students to pursue their interests and develop critical thinking skills. USD is well-known for its accomplished faculty members who are committed to providing high-quality education and mentoring. The campus is nestled in a picturesque setting with cutting-edge facilities, providing an ideal intellectual and personal development environment.
The University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) is a renowned public university located in Edmond, Oklahoma. With a rich history dating back to 1890, UCO is dedicated to providing transformative education and empowering students for success in a global society. The college gives a huge variety of undergraduate and graduate applications across numerous disciplines, consisting of business, training, health, arts, and sciences. UCO makes a speciality of experiential getting to know, providing college students with palms-on possibilities, studies initiatives, internships, and network engagement. With a numerous and inclusive campus environment, modern day facilities, and a supportive school, UCO fosters non-public boom, vital thinking, and leadership talents, getting college students ready for profitable careers and lifelong mastering.
In Long Beach, California, there is a public institution called California State institution, Long Beach (CSULB). One of the biggest and most varied campuses in the California State University system, it was founded in 1949. Numerous undergraduate and graduate programmes are available at CSULB in a variety of fields, including the liberal arts, business, engineering, education, and health sciences. CSULB, which is renowned for its academic brilliance, offers its students a safe and welcoming learning environment. The institution places a strong emphasis on community participation, research opportunities, and hands-on learning. The mission of CSULB is to empower students and to educate them for successful professions and significant contributions to society through its dynamic campus, committed professors, and abundant resources.
A reputable online university with a broad selection of undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate programs is Walden University. Since its inception in 1970, Walden has been dedicated to giving adult learners everywhere flexible and accessible learning alternatives. Through its cutting-edge online platform, the institution focuses on encouraging social change and personal growth while enabling students to reconcile their education with their career and personal responsibilities. Walden University equips students to become successful leaders in their areas and make significant contributions to their communities and society at large by placing a heavy focus on practical skills and real-world application. You will find the Walden University address on its website. Let's investigate the important factors distinguishing a remarkable selection for Walden University Notable alumni seeking a transformative academic encounter.
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