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20 Best Colleges & Universities in New York for International Students

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Sumeet Jain
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New York City attracts a student population from across borders. A melting pot of cultures, studying abroad in New York City offers many benefits, including access to world-class academic programs, cultural experiences, networking and job opportunities. If you’re dreaming about studying in NYC, keep reading this blog! For we will tell you all about the 10 top universities in New York City along with lots of other details! 

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Table Of Contents

Why Study in New York City? 

There are many reasons why students choose to study in New York City. Here are some of the most compelling reasons:

  • World-class universities: New York City is home to some of the best universities in the world, including Columbia, NYU, and Fordham. These universities offer a wide range of programs and are known for their academic rigor and intellectual diversity.

  • Vibrant cultural scene: New York City is a hub of art, music, theater, and literature. Students can take advantage of the city's numerous museums, galleries, and theaters to enrich their education and expand their cultural horizons.

  • Career opportunities: New York City is a major center of finance, media, and technology, offering students a wealth of internship and job opportunities. The city is home to many Fortune 500 companies, startups, and media outlets, providing students with the chance to gain real-world experience and make valuable professional connections.

  • Diversity: New York City is one of the most diverse cities in the world, with a population that includes people from all over the globe. This diversity is reflected in the city's universities, which attract students from all backgrounds and offer a rich cultural exchange.

  • Networking: New York City is a global center of networking, with countless events, conferences, and social gatherings that bring together professionals and students from a variety of fields. By studying in New York City, students have access to this vast network of professionals and can leverage it to advance their careers and achieve their goals.

List of Top Universities in New York City 

New York City is home to some of the most renowned universities in the world, attracting students from all corners of the globe.

Here are some of the top universities in NYC:

Let us now tell you about these best colleges in New York State in detail: 

  1. Columbia University

Columbia is an Ivy League institution located in Upper Manhattan. It is known for its strong programs in the arts, humanities, and sciences. Popular undergraduate degrees include economics, political science, and computer science, while popular graduate programs include business, law, and journalism. Columbia has a diverse student body, with international students making up over 30% of its total enrollment.

University

Private

Establishment

1754

Columbia University World Ranking 2025

34

Popular Programs

Masters, PhD

Intake

Fall, Spring, Summer

Annual Program Fees

  • Masters- USD 63,000 (INR 53L)
  • PhD- USD 53,461 (INR 44L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 99
  • IELTS- 7
  • GRE- 300
  1. New York University (NYU)

NYU is a private research university with campuses throughout the city. It is known for its strong programs in business, the arts, and social sciences. Popular undergraduate degrees include business, film and television, and psychology, while popular graduate programs include law, education, and social work. NYU has a large international student population, with students from over 150 countries.

University

Private

Establishment

1831

New York University World Ranking 2025

43

Popular Programs

Masters, PhD

Intake

Fall, Spring, Summer

Annual Program Fees

  • Masters- USD 63,000 (INR 53L)
  • PhD- USD 20,059 (INR 16L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 90
  • IELTS- 7
  • GRE- 300
  1. The City University of New York (CUNY)

CUNY is a public university system that serves over 275,000 students across 25 campuses in NYC. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs at an affordable price, including popular programs in education, business, and engineering. CUNY has a large international student population, with students from over 200 countries.

University

Public

Establishment

1847

City University of New York World Ranking 2025

661-670

Popular Programs

Masters

Intake

Fall, Spring, Summer

Annual Program Fees

Masters- USD 15,000 (INR 13L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 79
  • IELTS- 6.5
  • GRE- 290
  1. Fordham University

Fordham is a private Jesuit research university located in the Bronx. It is known for its strong programs in business, law, and the arts. Popular undergraduate degrees include business, communications, and psychology, while popular graduate programs include law, business, and education. Fordham has a diverse student body, with international students making up over 10% of its total enrollment.

University

Private

Establishment

1841

Fordham University World Ranking 2025

1001-1200

Popular Programs

Masters, PhD

Intake

Fall, Spring

Annual Program Fees

  • Masters- USD 25,000 (INR 21L)
  • PhD- USD 40,960 (INR 34L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 79
  • IELTS- 6.5
  • GRE- 290
  1. The New School

The New School is a private research university located in Greenwich Village. It is known for its strong programs in the arts, social sciences, and liberal arts. Popular undergraduate degrees include design, media studies, and psychology, while popular graduate programs include design, social research, and public and urban policy. The New School has a diverse student body, with international students making up over 30% of its total enrollment.

University

Private

Establishment

1919

New School World Ranking 2025

781-790

Popular Programs

MBA

Intake

Fall

Annual Program Fees

MBA- USD 30,000 (INR 25L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 99
  • IELTS- 7
  • GRE- 300
  1. Yeshiva University

Yeshiva is a private research university located in Upper Manhattan. It is known for its strong programs in Jewish studies, as well as programs in the arts, sciences, and business. Popular undergraduate degrees include biology, psychology, and finance, while popular graduate programs include law, education, and social work. Yeshiva has a small but significant international student population, with students from over 20 countries.

University

Private

Establishment

1886

Yeshiva University World Ranking 2025

413

Popular Programs

Masters

Intake

Fall, Spring

Annual Program Fees

Masters- USD 44,570 (INR 37L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 85
  • IELTS- 6.5
  1. Pace University

Pace is a private university with campuses in Lower Manhattan and Westchester County. It is known for its strong programs in business, law, and the arts. Popular undergraduate degrees include business, communications, and nursing, while popular graduate programs include business, law, and education. Pace has a diverse student body, with international students making up over 10% of its total enrollment.

University

Private

Establishment

1870

Pace University World Ranking 2025

NA

Popular Programs

Masters

Intake

Fall, Spring, Summer

Annual Program Fees

Masters- USD 41,000 (INR 34L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 78
  • IELTS- 6.5
  1. St. John's University

St. John's is a private Catholic university located in Queens. It is known for its strong programs in business, law, and education. Popular undergraduate degrees include business, communications, and criminal justice, while popular graduate programs include law, education, and accounting. St. John's has a diverse student body, with international students making up over 5% of its total enrollment.

University

Private

Establishment

1870

QS Ranking 2025

NA

Popular Programs

Masters, PhD

Intake

Fall, Spring

Annual Program Fees

  • Masters- USD 34,000 (INR 28L)
  • PhD- USD 47,830 (INR 39L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 80
  • IELTS- 6.5
  1. Pratt Institute

Pratt is a private art and design university located in Brooklyn. It is known for its strong programs in architecture, art, and design. Popular undergraduate degrees include architecture, graphic design, and fine arts, while popular graduate programs include architecture, interior design, and industrial design. Pratt has a diverse student body, with international students making up over 25% of its total enrollment.

University

Private

Establishment

1887

QS Ranking 2025

NA

Popular Programs

Masters

Intake

Fall

Annual Program Fees

Masters- USD 30,000 (INR 25L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 82
  • IELTS- 6.5
  1. Barnard College

Barnard College is a private women's liberal arts college located in the Morningside Heights neighborhood of Upper Manhattan, New York City. 

Barnard offers undergraduate programs in a variety of liberal arts fields, including social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences. It is known for its strong programs in women's studies, English, psychology, and economics. The college has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1 and an average class size of 14, allowing for personalized attention and a close-knit community.

University

Private

Establishment

1889

QS Ranking 2025

NA

Popular Programs

Bachelors

Intake

Fall

Annual Program Fees

Bachelors- USD 64,000 (INR 54L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 105
  • IELTS- 7.5
  1. Cornell University

Cornell University is a private Ivy League Research University in Ithaca, New York. Cornell offers elite Engineering, Business, Computer Science, Economics, Political Science etc. Cornell enrolls approximately a total of 26,000 students. Cornell University is highly competitive with an acceptance rate of 7%.

University

Private

Establishment

1865

Cornell University World Ranking 2025

16

Popular Programs

Masters, PhD

Intake

Fall, Spring

Annual Program Fees

  • Masters- USD 43,000 (INR 37L)
  • PhD- USD 29,500 (INR 24L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 100
  • IELTS- 7
  • GRE- 300
  1. University of Rochester

The University of Rochester is a private non-sectarian institution. It is one of the USA’s 60 leading research institutions and one of the top universities globally for entrepreneurs. The University of Rochester has an acceptance rate of 39%. Rochester houses over 3,600 international students. There are more than 12,000 students including 6,780 undergraduate and 5,030 full-time graduate students here.

University

Private

Establishment

1850

University of Rochester World Ranking 2025

236

Popular Programs

Masters

Intake

Fall

Annual Program Fees

Masters- USD 43,000 (INR 37L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 95
  • IELTS- 7
  1. Stony Brook University

Stony Brook University was founded in 1957 in Brookhaven, USA. Stony Brook's acceptance rate is 48%, making it a selective university in terms of admissions. Stony Brook University has become one of the country's most renowned centers of learning. This university is also a public sea-grant and space-grant Research University. 

University

Public

Establishment

1957

Stony Brook University World Ranking 2025

460

Popular Programs

Masters

Intake

Fall, Spring, Summer

Annual Program Fees

Masters- USD 23,000 (INR 19L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 80
  • IELTS- 6.5
  1. University at Buffalo

Established in 1846, University at Buffalo is the largest university under the umbrella of the State University of New York. It is a public university that stresses on research, academic, amd creative activity. It is a part of the renowned Association of American Universities.

University

Public

Establishment

1957

University at Buffalo SUNY World Ranking 2025

466

Popular Programs

Masters

Intake

Fall, Spring, Summer

Annual Program Fees

Masters- USD 18,000 (INR 15L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 79
  • IELTS- 6.5
  1. Syracuse University

Syracuse University is a private research university in Syracuse, New York, and was set up in 1870. With a rate of acceptance of 59%, the university is moderately competitive. Syracuse University offers more than 200+ majors, 100+ minors via its 13 academic schools.

University

Private

Establishment

1870

Syracuse University World Ranking 2025

801-850

Popular Programs

Masters, PhD

Intake

Fall, Spring, Summer

Annual Program Fees

  • Masters- USD 33,000 (INR 27L)
  • PhD- USD 59,703 (INR 49L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 80
  • IELTS- 7
  • GRE- 305
  1. University at Albany

Founded in 1844, the University at Albany is an open research university. Later, it became the first university in New York City to offer a bachelor's degree. In 1913, the university began offering master's degrees. Some of the prestigious research centers there are the Centre for Applied Historical Research, Biological Imaging Centre, Centre for Economic Research, Centre for Jewish Languages, Centre for Astronomical Observatory, Centre for X-Ray Optics, and the Centre for Neuroscience Research. 

University

Public

Establishment

1844

State University of New York (Albany) World Ranking 2025

851-900

Popular Programs

Masters, PhD

Intake

Fall, Spring

Annual Program Fees

  • Masters- USD 22,000 (INR 19L)
  • PhD- USD 12,485 (INR 10L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 79
  • IELTS- 6.5
  • GRE- 300
  1. Clarkson University

Established in 1896, Clarkson University is a private research university in Potsdam, New York. Currently, Clarkson University enrolls 4,000+ students from all over the world. Clarkson has elite programs in engineering, management, business, and multiple health sciences programs.

University

Private

Establishment

1896

Clarkson University World Ranking 2025

851-900

Popular Programs

Masters, PhD

Intake

Fall

Annual Program Fees

  • Masters- USD 29,000 (INR 23L)
  • PhD- USD 58,058 (INR 48L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 80
  • IELTS- 6.5
  1. Binghamton University

Binghamton University was initially established as Triple Cities College in 1946 to cater to the World War II veterans. It offers programs in Computer Sciences, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering. The university has welcomed numerous international students from over 100 countries in the world. It has an acceptance rate of around 43%.

University

Public

Establishment

1946

State University of New York at Binghamton World Ranking 2025

1001-1200

Popular Programs

Masters

Intake

Fall, Spring

Annual Program Fees

Masters- USD 21,000 (INR 18L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 80
  • IELTS- 6.5
  1. Hofstra University

Founded in 1935, Hofstra University is a private university in Long Island, NY which offers small classes, reputed faculty and a vibrant campus. It offers prestigious programs at its Law School and Business School. Hofstra University has currently enrolled over 900 international students from 86 nations around the world.

University

Private

Establishment

1935

QS Ranking 2025

NA

Popular Programs

Masters

Intake

Fall

Annual Program Fees

Masters- USD 45,000 (INR 38L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 80
  • IELTS- 6.5
  1. Rochester Institute of Technology

Established in 1829, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is a private research university in Rochester, USA. It offers a variety of reputed academic opportunities, including a leading research opportunity. Its schools have partnerships with several campuses in China, Croatia, Dubai, and Kosovo.

University

Private

Establishment

1829

Rochester Institute of Technology World Ranking 2025

1001-1200

Popular Programs

Masters

Intake

Fall

Annual Program Fees

Masters- USD 46,000 (INR 42L)

Admission Requirements

  • TOEFL- 79
  • IELTS- 6.5

There are a wide variety of programs offered in New York City, ranging from undergraduate to graduate programs, as well as professional and certificate programs. Some of the most popular programs include:

University Name

Popular Undergraduate Programs

Tuition Fees (per year)

Columbia University

Economics, Political Science, Computer Science

$61,850

New York University (NYU)

Business, Film and Television, Psychology

$54,880

The City University of New York (CUNY)

Education, Business, Engineering

$15,730 (out-of-state)

Fordham University

Business, Communications, Psychology

$56,390

The New School

Design, Media Studies, Psychology

$50,160

Yeshiva University

Biology, Psychology, Finance

$45,300

Pace University

Business, Communications, Nursing

$47,750

St. John's University

Business, Communications, Criminal Justice

$44,670

Pratt Institute

Architecture, Graphic Design, Fine Arts

$53,310

Barnard College

Women's Studies, English, Psychology

$57,479

Admission Requirements at Top Colleges in New York 

Admission requirements vary by college, but here are some general requirements for admission to top colleges in New York:

  • Bachelor’s transcript: Most colleges in New York require applicants to submit their bachelor’s transcripts. These transcripts should show a strong academic record, with a focus on challenging courses.

  • Standardized test scores: Many colleges in New York require applicants to submit standardized test scores, such as the GRE or GMAT. However, some colleges have become test-optional in recent years, meaning that standardized test scores are not required.

  • Letters of recommendation: Many colleges in New York require applicants to submit letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or other professionals who can attest to the applicant's academic ability and personal character.

  • Personal statement or essay: Most colleges in New York require applicants to submit a personal statement or essay that explains why they want to attend the college and what they hope to gain from the experience.

  • Extracurricular activities: Many colleges in New York consider applicants' extracurricular activities, such as volunteer work, sports, clubs, or other activities that demonstrate leadership or community involvement.

  • Application fee: Most colleges in New York require applicants to pay an application fee to cover the cost of processing their application.

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Application Process to Study at Top Universities in New York 

The application process to study at top universities in New York generally involves the following steps:

Step 1: Research

Begin by researching the universities in New York that offer programs in your field of interest. Look for information on the programs offered, admission requirements, application deadlines, and tuition fees.

Step 2: Prepare your Application Materials

Depending on the university, you may need to submit your high school transcripts, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, personal statement or essay, and other supporting documents.

Step 3: Apply Online

Most universities in New York allow applicants to apply online through their website. Follow the instructions provided on the university's website to complete the application process.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

Most universities require applicants to pay an application fee to submit their application. The fee can vary by university and program.

Step 5: Wait for a Decision

After you have submitted your application, the university will review your materials and make a decision about your admission. The time it takes to receive a decision can vary by university, but you can generally expect to receive a decision within a few weeks to a couple months.

Step 6: Accept the Offer

If you are accepted to a university, you will receive an acceptance letter outlining the terms of your admission. You will need to respond to the offer by a specific deadline and pay any required deposit to secure your spot.

Cost to Study at Top Colleges in New York

The cost to study at top colleges in New York can vary widely depending on the university and program of study. Here is an overview of the typical costs associated with studying at top colleges in New York:

  • Tuition and fees: Tuition and fees can vary widely by university and program. For example, tuition and fees at Columbia University can range from approximately $61,850 for undergraduate programs to over $79,000 for some graduate programs. At NYU, tuition and fees can range from approximately $54,880 for undergraduate programs to over $71,000 for some graduate programs.

  • Room and board: The cost of room and board can also vary by university and program. Some universities offer on-campus housing, while others require students to find their own accommodations. At Columbia University, the cost of on-campus housing can range from approximately $10,450 to $18,200 per academic year, depending on the type of housing. At NYU, the cost of on-campus housing can range from approximately $11,000 to $21,000 per academic year.

  • Books and supplies: The cost of books and supplies can also add up, with some programs requiring expensive textbooks and equipment. The cost of books and supplies can vary widely by program, but students should budget several hundred dollars per semester.

  • Other expenses: Other expenses can include transportation, health insurance, and personal expenses. These costs can vary widely depending on the student's individual circumstances and lifestyle.

Scholarships at Top Universities in New York 

Many top colleges in New York City offer financial aid to help students pay for tuition and other expenses. Here is an overview of financial aid options at some of these universities in New York with good scholarships:

University

Scholarship Name

Amount Offered

Eligibility Criteria

Columbia University

Columbia College Scholarships

Varies

Based on financial need and academic merit

John W. Kluge Scholars

Full tuition

For outstanding students from disadvantaged backgrounds

Global Scholars Program

Full tuition

For international students with financial need

New York University

Presidential Scholarship

Full tuition

Based on academic excellence and leadership potential

Martin Luther King Jr. Scholars

Full tuition

For students with demonstrated commitment to social justice

Tandon School of Engineering Scholarships

Varies

Based on academic merit and financial need

Cornell University

Cornell University Grants

Varies

Based on financial need

Meinig Family Cornell National Scholars

Full tuition

For students committed to research and community service

College of Arts & Sciences Scholarships

Varies

Based on academic merit and financial need

University of Rochester

Merit Scholarships

Up to $25,000/year

Based on academic achievement and leadership potential

Eastman Leadership Scholarships

Varies

For exceptional musicians with demonstrated leadership

Diversity Visitation Program

Varies

For underrepresented minority students interested in UR

Career Prospects in New York 

New York City offers a vast array of career opportunities in many different industries. Here are some of the top industries and career prospects in New York City:

Industry

Job Role

Average Salary

Finance

Investment Banker

$107,000 - $214,000

Hedge Fund Manager

$107,000 - $214,000

Financial Analyst

$65,000 - $95,000

Technology

Software Engineer

$95,000 - $140,000

Data Scientist

$90,000 - $140,000

Product Manager

$105,000 - $160,000

Media/Entertainment

Film/TV Producer

$71,000 - $139,000

Marketing Manager

$72,000 - $130,000

Public Relations Specialist

$63,000 - $97,000

Healthcare

Physician

$200,000 - $400,000

Nurse Practitioner

$100,000 - $140,000

Healthcare Administrator

$80,000 - $120,000

Education

Professor

$85,000 - $150,000

Education Policy Analyst

$55,000 - $100,000

From the Desk of Yocket

New York City is a hub for many industries, including finance, technology, media, healthcare, and education, offering a diverse range of career opportunities. It is at the forefront of sustainability and environmental initiatives, which has led to an increasing demand for professionals in the sustainability sector. So, if you are eyeing universities in New York with top rankings, this is your time! 

Reach out to our Yocket Experts for further clear your doubts and apply at the top universities in New York! Our experts will help you navigate through all your study abroad specifics and resolve all your doubts. Schedule a call today!

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