10 Best Colleges in Texas, USA for 2024
Texas is a land of boundless potential, where dreams take flight. Renowned institutions like Rice University and Southern Methodist University stand alongside premier public universities like the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, and Texas Tech University, forming a union of intellectual prowess. Whether seeking a foundational degree, specialized expertise, or advanced knowledge, Texas’s prestigious universities offer a gateway to limitless possibilities.
These university programs aren’t just about cramming facts into your head. They’re about opening your mind to new ideas, pushing the boundaries of knowledge, and making a real difference in the world. With top-notch professors, state-of-the-art facilities, and a buzzing campus life, these schools will challenge you to think for yourself like a genius, come up with creative solutions like a superhero, and step up as a leader in your field.
But with so many great options, how do you choose? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ve done the legwork and compiled all the essential information you need to make an informed decision about your academic future. So grab your cowboy boots and start your journey with us today!
Top 10 Colleges in Texas, USA
So, without wasting any more time, here’s the list of the top 10 colleges in Texas that you should definitely consider:
- University of Texas at Austin
- Texas A&M University
- Rice University
- University of Texas, Dallas
- University of Houston
- Texas Christian University
- Texas State University
- Trinity University
- Texas Tech University
- Southern Methodist University
Let’s learn about each of them in detail now.
1. University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Austin is the top public university in Texas and one of the best in the world. Ranked 58th in the world by the QS World University Rankings 2024, UT Austin offers a world-class education with over 170 undergraduate and 100 graduate programs to choose from. With over 52,000 students and a lively campus in the heart of Austin, UT Austin is a fantastic place to get your degree.
Beyond its academic excellence, UT Austin also offers students access to a vibrant city packed with museums, libraries, and cultural attractions. And the best part? In-state tuition is surprisingly affordable, with undergrads typically paying less than $13,000 per year in tuition. While tuition costs vary depending on your program and residency status, you can easily apply to UT Austin using the Common App or the ApplyTexas application.
2. Texas A&M University
Texas A&M University, a public university in College Station, Texas, has been around since 1876. Today, it’s known for its affordability, quality education, and sports teams that always bring home the win. With over 140 undergraduate majors and 270 graduate programs, you’re sure to find something that interests you. In-state tuition and fees are around $14,000 per year, and over 70% of students receive some form of financial aid. The main campus is a whopping 5,000 acres, making it plenty big enough for its nearly 75,000 students. In fact, it’s the biggest college in Texas by both enrollment and campus size. Texas A&M University even ranked 134th in the QS World University Rankings 2024.
3. Rice University
Rice University stands as one of Texas’ premier private research universities, bringing cutting-edge research to the state’s largest city. Renowned for its high-quality undergraduate education, Rice has earned its spot at number 145 in the QS World University Rankings 2024.
With a low student-to-faculty ratio and a distinctive residential college system, Rice fosters a close-knit community. Incoming undergraduates become part of one of 11 residential colleges, fostering strong bonds that last throughout their Rice experience.
Rice’s annual tuition is around $19,000, but the average first-year aid package exceeds tuition. Additionally, Rice offers online master’s programs in computer science, data science, engineering management, and business administration, allowing you to earn a graduate degree without setting foot on campus.
4. University of Texas, Dallas
Nestled in the vibrant suburb of Richardson, Texas, lies the University of Texas at Dallas, a sprawling 500-acre campus brimming with over 21,000 bright undergraduate minds. Renowned for its academic excellence, UT Dallas proudly holds the 115th spot among national universities according to U.S. News & World Report 2024 and is ranked 520th in the QS World University Rankings 2024, a testament to its commitment to fostering intellectual growth and innovation.
The university’s exceptional reputation extends to its engineering programs, which consistently rank among the nation’s best, currently holding the 73rd position. UT Dallas’s deep connection to the prestigious University of Texas System further solidifies its standing as a top-tier institution.
So, if you’re seeking a world-class education in a dynamic and engaging environment, the University of Texas at Dallas is an excellent choice. With its commitment to academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and strong ties to the University of Texas System, UT Dallas is poised to prepare you for a successful future.
5. University of Houston
The University of Houston is one of the largest and most diverse universities in the country. One in three students identify as Hispanic, and international students make up nearly 10% of the student body. UH offers over 275 degree programs, so you’re sure to find something that interests you. With over 1,250 online courses and more than 50 online graduate programs, you can attend this top-ranked Texas college even if you live in another state.
Tuition is affordable, with the university’s several colleges charging less than $6,000 per term. And if you’re worried about rankings, UH is ranked between 641 and 650 in the QS World University Rankings.
6. Texas Christian University
If you’re looking for a top-notch private college in Texas, Texas Christian University is an excellent option. Located in the vibrant city of Fort Worth, TCU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, all within a beautiful, tree-lined campus. And let’s not forget their unique mascot, the horned frog!
With a 93% employment or grad school placement rate within six months of graduation, you can be confident that a TCU degree will open doors to a successful future. Plus, the university’s test-optional admission process makes it easier than ever to apply.
While the tuition rate is around $43,000 per year, many students qualify for generous financial aid packages. So don’t let cost be a barrier to your dream of attending TCU.
7. Texas State University
With over 40,000 students, Texas Tech University (TTU) is a popular choice for those seeking a quality and affordable education. Its stunning Spanish Renaissance architecture sets it apart, and its 150 undergraduate and 100 master’s programs foster both intellectual and personal growth. Texas residents can expect to pay under $16,000 per year for undergrad tuition and around $9,500 for graduate tuition.
TTU is committed to supporting its students, especially those from underrepresented groups. First-generation students, students of color, and students from historically underserved communities can access a range of programs and services to help them succeed. Additionally, TTU is federally recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI).
8. Trinity University
Trinity University stands as one of the state’s top-notch liberal arts schools, welcoming around 2,500 students to its vibrant campus. With a focus on fostering an inclusive and intellectually stimulating environment, Trinity’s core curriculum revolves around interdisciplinary thinking and exploration.
Picture a campus adorned with oak trees, fountains, and charming red brick buildings—that’s where you’ll start on your academic journey, choosing from nearly 60 majors. While the tuition fees may seem steep at around $51,000 per year, Trinity is committed to making education accessible, offering scholarships and financial aid to help students cover their costs. In fact, over half of Trinity graduates walk away debt-free, ready to face the world with their newfound knowledge.
9. Texas Tech University
Texas Tech University is a public research university located in Lubbock, Texas. It has a total undergraduate enrollment of 33,213 students and is classified as an urban university by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. The university’s campus is spread out over 1,839 acres.
Texas Tech University is ranked 216 among national universities by U.S. News & World Report 2024. It is also ranked 104 in the Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs and 116 in the Top Public Schools. The university is also ranked between 801 and 840 according to the QS World University Rankings.
10. Southern Methodist University
This esteemed private university in Texas welcomes over 12,000 students from across the globe. Whether you choose to study abroad or stay on SMU’s beautiful 234-acre campus, you’ll gain valuable research experience, develop your leadership skills, and make a positive impact on your community—all while earning your degree.
With eight schools dedicated to a wide range of disciplines, from the humanities and sciences to business and engineering, SMU offers a diverse and enriching academic environment. While tuition and fees are around $42,000 per year, generous scholarships and financial aid are available to help you make your SMU dream a reality. In fact, around 75% of students receive financial assistance, and a similar percentage graduate debt-free.
List of All Top 25 Colleges in Texas, USA
For those of you who are seeking university experience in Texas, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of options.
This table provides an overview of various factors to consider when making your college choice, including student population, average net cost, and acceptance rate. This information was gathered from the College Board. To maintain focus on larger institutions, schools with fewer than 500 undergraduate students were not included in this list.
| Name | Student Population | Average Net Cost | Acceptance Rate |
| Abilene Christian University | 5,300+ | $30K | 66% |
| Baylor University | 20,000+ | $46K | 46% |
| Dallas Baptist University | 4,300+ | $28K | 91% |
| Hardin-Simmons University | 2,000+ | $23K | 87% |
| Howard Payne University | 900+ | $24K | 59% |
| Lamar University | 16,000+ | $11K | 84% |
| Our Lady of the Lake University of San Antonio | 2,500+ | $18K | 66% |
| Prairie View A&M University | 9,400+ | $15K | 76% |
| Rice University | 8,200+ | $19K | 9% |
| Schreiner University | 1,100+ | $23K | 85% |
| Southern Methodist University | 12,800+ | $42K | 52% |
| Southwestern University | 1,500+ | $28K | 45% |
| Stephen F. Austin State University | 12,000+ | $17K | 83% |
| Sul Ross State University | 2,100+ | $16K | 97% |
| Tarleton State University | 13,900+ | $14K | 58% |
| Texas A&M International University | 8,400+ | $5K | 59% |
| Texas A&M University-Commerce | 11,500+ | $14K | 42% |
| Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi | 10,700+ | $14K | 80% |
| Texas A&M University-Kingsville | 6,400+ | $12K | 97% |
| Texas Southern University | 7,520+ | $10K | 97% |
| Texas State University | 37,860+ | $16K | 88% |
| Texas Tech University | 40,500+ | $17K | 67% |
| Texas Wesleyan University | 2,530+ | $21K | 58% |
| Texas Woman’s University | 16,330+ | $12K | 94% |
| The University of Texas at Arlington | 45,950+ | $15K | 81% |
What Is the Cost of Attending a College in Texas, USA?
The cost of college in Texas varies depending on the type of school you choose. Public schools are generally much cheaper than private schools. For example, the average cost of tuition and fees for a two-year public program in Texas is around $2,828, while the average cost for a four-year private school is around $37,450.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the average tuition and fees for different school types in Texas, based on data from the National Center for Education Statistics.
| Type of College/University | Approx. Tuition Fees |
| Public 2-Year (In-State) | $3,000 |
| Public 2-Year (Out-of-State) | $8,000 |
| Public 4-Year (In-State) | $8,000 |
| Public 4-Year (Out-of-State) | $25,000 |
| Private 4-Year | $38,000 |
From the Desk of Yocket
Texas is home to a diverse array of higher education institutions, ranging from prestigious research universities to smaller liberal arts colleges. Determining the “best” colleges in Texas depends on various factors, including academic rigor, campus environment, student outcomes, and individual preferences. However, some institutions consistently stand out for their overall excellence and consistently rank among the top colleges in the state.
The state’s flagship public universities, the University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University, are both highly regarded and ranked among the top national universities. Texas also has a number of excellent private universities, such as Rice University, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor University.
When choosing a college in Texas, it is important to consider your academic interests, financial aid options, and desired campus environment. There are many great schools to choose from, so take your time to find the one that is the best fit for you. No matter what your academic interests or financial aid needs are, there is sure to be a college or university in Texas that is a good fit for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I apply to colleges in Texas, USA?
The application process for colleges in Texas varies depending on the school. However, most colleges require applicants to submit a completed application, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Some colleges also require applicants to take standardized tests, such as the SAT or ACT.
2. What are the best universities in Texas, USA?
There are a number of great universities in Texas, but some of the most highly ranked include the University of Texas at Austin, Rice University, Texas A&M University, Baylor University, and Southern Methodist University.
3. How can I get financial aid for college?
There are a variety of ways to get financial aid for college, including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs. Students can apply for financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).