Top Universities in Texas 2025: Courses, Rankings, Tuition Fees & Admission Guide
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When it comes to picking the perfect place to study in the U.S., Texas is quickly climbing to the top of every student’s list—and it’s easy to see why. With some of the best universities in the U.S.—like UT Austin, Texas A&M, and Rice University—Texas has become a go-to destination for both domestic and international students. The state is known for its strong academic programs, low cost of living, and endless career options in industries like tech, healthcare, engineering, business, and energy. This guide will walk you through the best universities in Texas, what courses they offer, how much they cost, and exactly how to apply in 2025. Let’s get started!
Why Study in Texas?
Thinking about studying in the US and wondering if Texas should be on your radar? The answer is a big yes! Texas isn’t just known for its cowboy boots and BBQ—it’s also one of the best places to study in the U.S. for both domestic and international students. With over 200 higher education institutions, a booming economy, and some of the friendliest cities in America, Texas offers a powerful mix of top-quality education and real-world opportunities. In fact, more than 80,000 international students choose Texas each year because of its affordability, cultural diversity, and strong university-industry connections. Following is some of the top reasons why some of the students love studying in Texas:
- Diverse & High-Quality Academic Programs: Texas is home to some of the top universities in the U.S., including the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, and Rice University. These schools offer a huge variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Engineering, Business, Computer Science, Health & Medicine and Arts and Humanities.
- A Welcoming, Multicultural Community: Texas is one of the most culturally diverse states in America. You’ll find students, professors, and communities from all corners of the globe. This makes it a welcoming place where international students can feel at home quickly.
- Affordable Tuition and Cost of Living: One of the best parts about studying in Texas is that it’s more affordable than many other major U.S. states. Public universities in Texas offer competitive tuition fees—often lower than what you’d pay in California or New York. On top of that, most cities in Texas (like Houston, Austin, and Dallas) have a lower cost of living compared to other U.S. cities.
- Career & Job Opportunities in a Thriving Economy: Texas has one of the strongest job markets in the U.S. It’s home to major employers like Dell, ExxonMobil, AT&T, Tesla, and NASA, which means there are tons of internship and job opportunities
List of Top Universities in Texas 2025
With so many great colleges and universities in Texas, narrowing down your choices can feel a little overwhelming—but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Whether you’re looking for strong engineering programs, top-tier business schools, or research opportunities in medicine or law, Texas has universities that match every academic goal and career path.
In 2025, Texas continues to shine with several institutions ranked among the top 100 universities in the U.S. and globally. These universities offer state-of-the-art campuses, respected faculty, and strong alumni networks that can really boost your future. Here’s a closer look at some of the best universities in Texas in 2025:
University | Location | Approx. Acceptance Rate | Notable Programs |
Rice University | Houston | 11% | Engineering, Business, Architecture, Natural Sciences |
University of Texas at Austin | Austin | 32% | Law, Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Education |
Texas A&M University | College Station | 58% | Agriculture, Mechanical Engineering, Business, Biomedical Sciences |
Southern Methodist University (SMU) | Dallas | 47% | Law, Arts, Business, Theology, Economics |
Baylor University | Waco | 45% | Health Sciences, Pre-Med, Business, Law, Religion |
Popular Courses Offered by Texas Universities in 2025
With over 200 colleges and universities, Texas has something for everyone—whether you’re a future tech innovator, healthcare hero, business leader, or creative artist. In 2025, Texas universities continue to rank highly for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs across a wide range of fields.
Many of these programs are backed by world-class research facilities, strong industry partnerships, and internship opportunities with top employers like Dell, ExxonMobil, NASA, and more. Here are some of the most popular and in-demand courses you can study at universities in Texas in 2025:
Course | What You’ll Learn | Top Universities Offering This Course |
Engineering | Core branches like Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Petroleum, and Aerospace Engineering with hands-on lab work, field projects, and research. | UT Austin, Texas A&M, Rice University |
Business Administration (BBA/MBA) | Leadership, finance, marketing, HR, and entrepreneurship. MBA specializations in international business, fintech, and analytics are trending. | UT Austin (McCombs), SMU (Cox), Rice (Jones) |
Computer Science | AI, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, Software Development, and Data Science with strong coding and practical skills. | UT Austin, Texas A&M, University of Houston |
Health Sciences & Nursing | Nursing, Public Health, Pharmacy, Biomedical Sciences, and Health Policy—geared toward real-world application in hospitals and research settings. | Baylor, UT Health Science Center, Texas Tech |
Arts & Humanities | Literature, Performing Arts, Creative Writing, History, and Philosophy with a focus on critical thinking and creativity. | University of Houston, SMU, UT Austin |
Tuition Fees at Top Texas Universities for 2025
Whether you’re a Texas resident or an international student, understanding tuition fees is one of the most important parts of planning your education journey. The good news? Texas offers a mix of affordable public universities and world-renowned private institutions—so there’s something for every budget.
In 2025, tuition costs in Texas vary widely depending on the type of university (public or private) and your residency status. Public universities offer lower rates for in-state students, while private universities generally have the same fees for all students regardless of where they’re from. Below is the key details of the estimated annual tuition fees for full-time undergraduate students at some of the top universities in Texas for the 2025–2026 academic year:
University | In-State Tuition (USD) | Out-of-State Tuition (USD) |
Rice University (Private) | ~$52,000 | ~$52,000 |
University of Texas at Austin | ~$11,000 | ~$40,000 |
Texas A&M University | ~$10,000 | ~$38,000 |
Southern Methodist University (SMU) (Private) | ~$58,000 | ~$58,000 |
Baylor University (Private) | ~$50,000 | ~$50,000 |
How to Apply to Texas Universities: Step-by-Step Guide 2025
If you’re planning to apply to universities in Texas for 2025, you’re already making a great choice! Texas is home to some of the most student-friendly, well-ranked, and opportunity-rich universities in the U.S. Whether you’re aiming for a public research university like the University of Texas at Austin or a private institution like Rice or Baylor. Following are the key steps of applying to top Texas Universities:
Research and Shortlist Universities: Before you start any application, take time to explore your options. Consider factors like the university’s location, acceptance rate, campus size, course offerings, and extracurricular opportunities. You can find this information easily on university websites and ranking platforms.
Understand Admission Requirements: These may include academic records, standardized test scores, or specific coursework completed during high school. Most universities expect a minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0, but competitive programs may ask for higher. If you’re an international student, English language proficiency tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo are usually required.
Prepare Your Application Materials: Once you know the requirements, begin gathering your documents. You’ll need official academic transcripts, one to three letters of recommendation and a personal statement or essay. If you’re applying for postgraduate study, a résumé or CV might also be required.
Apply Online Through the Right Platform: The next step is submitting your application. When filling out your application, take your time to enter accurate details and double-check before submitting. You’ll also need to pay a non-refundable application fee, which usually ranges from $50 to $90. Some universities may offer fee waivers if you meet certain criteria, so it’s worth checking that too.
Track Your Application Status and Follow Up: After you submit your application, it’s important to regularly check your university portals and email for updates. Some universities may request additional documents or clarification on your application, while others might invite you for an interview or ask you to submit test scores.
Explore Financial Aid and Scholarships: Tuition fees can be a major concern, especially for international or out-of-state students. Fortunately, many Texas universities offer generous scholarships, grants, and assistantships.
- There are two main types of funding to look for—merit-based scholarships (for academic excellence) and need-based financial aid. U.S. citizens and eligible residents should fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), while international students should explore scholarships listed on the university websites.
- Applying early can increase your chances of receiving aid, so don’t wait until the last minute.
Prepare for Interviews (If Required): Some competitive programs—especially in areas like business, law, or graduate studies—may require a virtual or in-person interview. If you’re selected for one, take time to review your application, understand the program in depth, and prepare answers to common questions
Accept Your Offer and Finalize Enrollment: Once admission decisions are released, you’ll likely receive acceptance offers from one or more universities. Take time to review each offer carefully—look at the tuition fees, financial aid packages, course structure, and location. When you’ve made your choice, follow the instructions to accept the offer by the deadline.
Conclusion
Choosing to study in Texas in 2025 means investing in a bright future filled with top-ranked degrees, unforgettable college experiences, and endless career possibilities. Whether you’re applying to Rice University for engineering, UT Austin for business, or Baylor for health sciences—Texas offers something for every kind of learner. So start exploring your options, get your documents ready, and take that first step toward becoming a Texas university student. Your dream college in the Lone Star State is just an application away!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best universities in Texas for international students in 2025?
Some of the top universities in Texas for international students include:
1. University of Texas at Austin
2. Texas A&M University
3. Rice University
4. Southern Methodist University (SMU)
5. Baylor University
These institutions are known for strong academics, diverse student populations, and global career opportunities.
Is Texas a good place to study for international students?
Yes! Texas is affordable, diverse, and filled with job opportunities. With more than 80,000 international students choosing Texas each year, it’s one of the most welcoming U.S. states for global learners. You’ll find a wide range of programs, multicultural communities, and vibrant student life.
What are the most popular courses at Texas universities in 2025?
Top courses in 2025 include:
1. Engineering (Mechanical, Petroleum, Aerospace)
2. Business Administration
3. Computer Science
4. Health Sciences & Nursing
5. Arts & Humanities
These programs are offered at leading universities like UT Austin, Texas A&M, and Rice University.
How much does it cost to study at a university in Texas?
Here’s a quick overview of estimated tuition fees for 2025:
1. Public Universities (In-State): ~$10,000–$11,000/year
2. Public Universities (Out-of-State): ~$38,000–$40,000/year
3. Private Universities: ~$50,000–$58,000/year
Keep in mind that scholarships and financial aid are widely available!
Are there scholarships available for international students in Texas?
Absolutely! Many Texas universities offer:
1. Merit-based scholarships
2. Departmental grants
3. Assistantships for graduate students
Check university websites or the admissions office for eligibility criteria and deadlines.