Best international colleges in USA 2025
This content was developed and approved with active participation of Chris Skidmore.
In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources:
- https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_American_universities_and_colleges_outside_the_United_States
- https://citizenarticle.medium.com/26-great-affordable-colleges-for-international-students-e764526b160a.
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from 23064.00 $ / 2 years
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from 27450.00 $ / year
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from 7000.00 $ / year
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from 4500.00 $ / year
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from 2500.00 $ / semester
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from 2500.00 $ / semester
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from 19000.00 $ / year
If students are interested in entering universities abroad, including USA, it is recommended to consider national private boarding schools. It is a very good option in the case of already completing American secondary school. However, in the case of intending to move to America for studying after grade 9 or 11, pay attention to prestigious US colleges. In addition, by applying to colleges, foreign students can take effective preparation courses, allowing them to successfully enter the best universities in the USA.
TOP colleges in the USA, also known as Sixth form Colleges, were opened to provide effective preparation of local and foreign students for successful entering universities. The US schools are classified in terms of student’s age - primary, secondary and high schools. The US colleges invite students aged from 15 to 16 years old after completing studies in 9 or 11 grades.
Six-form Colleges programs emphasize on academic preparation, representing an alternative to paid courses and tutoring. Besides the general studying program, the students are provided with the opportunity to take a great number of profile classes in the chosen specialty, as well as individual lessons. The programs of international colleges are featured by their flexibility. Also, on a regular basis the updating of educational programs is conducted. This approach allows students to take courses faster and with better results.
For example, GCSE in business colleges of the British model can be passed for a year (instead of two), and A-level - for one and a half to two years. Moreover, the Tutorial Colleges provide intensive language courses. Upon completing the course, students significantly improve language skills, and gain valuable academic knowledge, contributing to easy admission to US universities.
Prestigious business colleges in America are considered more democratic compared to boarding schools. Teachers and students communicate more informally (subordination is respected), and the uniform is usually absent. However, the Tutorial Colleges organize strict control over academic performance and attendance, the complexity and intensity of the curriculum, Students are not allowed to taste alcohol and use drugs.
While studying in colleges, boys and girls are living in separate residences. The punishment may be stipulated in the case of sharing a room. This approach contributes to minimizing distraction of external factors, so students are fully engaged in the educational process.A good business college will help solve the problem of adaptation to new educational, cultural and behavioral standards.
Alternative destinations
How to get into Colleges in USA for international students?
To apply to US colleges, international students need to pass several stages. The application process as a whole can be considered complicated. First stage stipulates thorough selection of colleges according to your academic goals, budget limits, and preferences. Pay attention to enrollment requirements, which may concern test scores such as the SAT or ACT for undergraduate programs, or the GRE or GMAT for graduate programs. Also, English language proficiency tests such as the TOEFL or IELTS are typically necessary to provide. Each college may have its specific requirements, so apply for detailed information concerning specifics of the admission process in school.
When you have decided on preferred colleges, and their admission requirements have been scrutinized, the next stage stipulates submission of your applications. Foreign applicants are required to prepare a package of various documents, which includes transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose or personal essay, and possibly a portfolio or resume, depending on the direction of study. The Common Application is a platform, which is used by over 900 colleges and universities in the USA, providing students with the opportunity to apply to several educational institutions with a single application. Please note that some schools may have their own specific application procedures. Ensure you follow application deadlines, in case of missing you can be automatically disqualified.
When applying to US colleges, financial considerations play almost a core role. The cost of education significantly varies which is stipulated by the chosen educational institution and the studying course. Moreover, foreign applicants usually need to submit confirmation of sufficient financial resources for covering tuition, living expenses, and other costs incurred during the period of studying. Scholarships, financial aid, and work-study options are offered, however, their number is often limited for foreign students in comparison with American residents. So, it's recommended to learn all potential options for financial support, in particular scholarships issued by organizations of your native country.
When an acceptance letter from a college is obtained, the next stage concerns applying for a student visa. Generally, foreign students apply to the following types of visa - F-1 and J-1 visas. It is required to attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate, and provide the package of documents, including the college acceptance letter, financial confirmation, and a passport. The college, where you were admitted, will issue a form (either I-20 for F-1 visas or DS-2019 for J-1 visas), which is necessary to submit during the visa application process.
To sum up, if a foreign student wishes to enter an American college, he is required to take the following steps: selecting colleges, preparing and submitting applications, solving financial considerations, and obtaining the appropriate visa. Each stage requires careful planning, attention to detail, and meeting deadlines. You should be attentive, while passing the application process. As a result, you significantly increase the possibility of successful entering American college, which complies with your interests, future goals, and academic preferences.
Colleges in the USA. Cost and Fees for international students
The tuition fee in US colleges may be significant.. The cost of education ranges widely depending on the chosen educational institution and the level of study. On average, the tuition fee in private universities accounts for from $25,000 to $50,000 per academic year. Studying in public universities usually costs less for in-state students, however, charge higher rates for out-of-state and foreign students. In some cases foreign students pay for studying in public universities, where tuition fees vary from $15,000 to $35,000 per year. These amounts do not consider additional costs, among which are accommodation, educational materials, supplies, and other personal expenses, adding on average $10,000 to $20,000 per year.
In addition to tuition and living expenses, foreign students usually need to pay other fees which may not extend to local students. These additional expenses concern international student service fees, visa processing fees, and mandatory health insurance coverage. Also it's crucial to consider one-time costs such as travel to and from the United States, and any mandatory orientation programs designed for foreign students. Currency exchange rates and international bank transaction fees can also influence the total cost and should be considered when budgeting for college in the USA.
Financial aid programs usually are limited in number for foreign students in comparison with American residents. The students cannot participate in most federal financial aid programs, at the same time some American educational institutions offer their own scholarships, grants for international applicants. In addition to it, some countries offer scholarships for studying abroad, also foreign students can apply to international organizations, which may provide financial aid. Please note that it is required to learn all financial assistance options. It is recommended to apply to the financial aid office at the colleges which you have chosen for studying, for any scholarship options available for foreign students.
General requirement concerns confirmation of financial capability. Foreign students should have enough means to cover tuition and living expenses before the issuance of the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status (Form I-20), which is required for visa applications. Also it is necessary to submit bank statements, affidavits of support, or financial guarantee letters evidencing availability of their financial resources. In case of failure of confirming sufficient funds, admission in college and applying for a visa might be delayed or denied.
To sum up, studying in college in America for foreign students may cost much. At the same time, it is necessary to take into account expenses for living, special fees, and currency exchange rates. Foreign students have a limited chance to be awarded a scholarship, allowing them to partly compensate for the cost of studying . So the application process cannot be imaged without confirmation of funds availability. If a student has a full understanding of financial aid options available, he might make informed decisions concerning education in the USA.
What is college in the United States?
In the United States, the term "college" can be used to refer to a variety of educational institutions. In particular, it can be: Community College: An institution with two-year programs leading to an associate's degree. 4-Year College: A college that offers the opportunity to earn a bachelor's degree. Technical College: A specialized college that trains students in a specific field, such as engineering or medicine.
What types of colleges exist in the United States?
There are many types of colleges in the United States, and they can vary in type and specialization. For example: Public College/University: State-funded public educational institutions. Private College/University: Private educational institutions that may be non-profit or for-profit. Liberal Arts College: Colleges that focus on education in the arts and humanities.
What is the duration of the college?
The length of a college degree varies depending on the type of degree. Associate's Degree: 2 years. Bachelor's Degree: 4 years. Some programs may have modified deadlines, such as accelerated programs or programs with mandatory internships.
How much does it cost to attend college in the United States?
Tuition costs can vary greatly depending on many factors, including the type of college and its location. The average cost of tuition at private colleges is usually higher than at public colleges. Costs may also vary depending on the program selected.
How do I get financial aid for college?
To receive financial aid, students typically apply by completing the Free Application for Financial Aid (FAFSA). This allows colleges and the government to determine financial aid need. Financial aid may include grants, scholarships, and federal student loans.
Can I work while attending college?
Yes, many students work while studying. Colleges provide on-campus job opportunities, such as working in the library or dining hall, that make it easy to split time between work and school. Students can also look for jobs at nearby off-campus companies.
What programs of study are available at the colleges?
Colleges offer a variety of degree programs in a variety of fields including arts, science, business, health care, engineering, information technology, and more. Students can choose programs that match their interests and career goals.
Can I transfer from a college to a university?
Yes, many students begin their education at a college and then transfer to a university to complete their undergraduate program. This requires contacting the university and complying with their academic credit transfer requirements.
What opportunities for research activities are there in colleges?
Many colleges offer students the opportunity to participate in research projects and work in labs under the supervision of professors. This can be a valuable experience, especially for those planning a career in science or research.
What are the differences between college and university education?
The main difference lies in the variety of programs. Colleges tend to focus on narrower specializations, while universities provide a wider range of programs and often have research opportunities at a higher level.
General statistics on education in the USA - ratings, specialties, universities
Top 35 best schools in the USA - 2025 Smapse rankings
1 | North Broward Preparatory School |
2 | Phillips Academy Andover |
3 | The Storm King School New York |
4 | Red Bank Catholic High School |
5 | Windermere Preparatory School |
6 | Shattuck St Mary's School |
7 | Cheshire Academy |
8 | Cate School |
9 | Ross School |
10 | Deerfield Academy |
11 | The Village School |
12 | Amerigo Los Angeles – Bishop Montgomery High School |
13 | Webb Schools |
14 | Kent School USA |
15 | The Winchendon School |
16 | Darlington School |
17 | Marian Catholic High School Amerigo Education |
18 | Grier School |
19 | The MacDuffie School |
20 | CATS Academy Boston |
21 | The Cambridge School of Weston |
22 | Milton Academy |
23 | Amerigo Education Napa Valley |
24 | American Hebrew Academy |
25 | Northfield Mount Hermon School |
26 | Mater Dei Catholic High School San Diego Amerigo Education |
27 | American University Preparatory School Los Angeles |
28 | Webb Schools |
29 | Kent School USA |
30 | Groton School |
31 | Maine Central Institute |
32 | The Lawrenceville School |
33 | Grand River Academy Ohio |
34 | Saint John Paul II Academy |
35 | Chicago North Shore |
Top 10 best boarding schools in USA according to The Best Schools portal
1 | Phillips Exeter Academy |
2 | Phillips Academy Andover |
3 | The Putney School |
4 | Church Farm School |
5 | Episcopal High School |
6 | St. Paul's School |
7 | Asheville School |
8 | Shattuck-St. Mary's School |
9 | St. Andrew's School |
10 | The Thacher School |
Top 10 best private high schools in USA according to Best Colleges
1 | The Lawrenceville School |
2 | Phillips Exeter Academy |
3 | Lakeside School |
4 | The Latin School of Chicago |
5 | Albuquerque Academy |
6 | Detroit Country Day School |
7 | Harvard-Westlake School |
8 | The Harker School |
9 | The College Preparatory School |
10 | Polytechnic School |
Top 21 boarding colleges in England 2025
1 | Cardiff Sixth Form College |
2 | National Mathematics and Science College |
3 | Abbey College Cambridge |
4 | d'Overbroeck's College |
5 | MPW London |
6 | CATS Cambridge |
7 | Kensington Park |
8 | DLD London |
9 | King's College St Michael’s |
10 | Bellerbys Cambridge |
11 | Chelsea Independent College |
12 | MPW Cambridge |
13 | Bellerbys Brighton |
14 | CATS London |
15 | St Clare's Oxford |
16 | Bishopstrow College |
17 | CATS Canterbury |
18 | Bellerbys London |
19 | Ealing Independent College |
20 | Cambridge Tutors College |
21 | Abbey Manchester |
Cost of living in United States
Expenses - USD/Month. | Min. | Med. |
---|---|---|
Accommodation | 396 | 531 |
Food | 260 | 454 |
Transportation | 60 | 166 |
Communications and utilities | 99 | 113 |
Clothing | 19 | 71 |
Sports and leisure | 24 | 91 |
Total | 859 | 1,425 |
Accommodation in United States | USD/Month. | |
Shared room outside of centre | 400 | |
Shared room in city centre | 536 | |
1 bedroom apartment outside of centre | 730 | |
1 bedroom apartment in city centre | 973 |
Top 35 best universities and colleges in Canada 2025
1 | University of Toronto |
2 | McGill University |
3 | University of British Columbia |
4 | University of Alberta |
5 | Simon Fraser University |
6 | Montreal University |
7 | University of Windsor |
8 | York University |
9 | University of Guelph |
10 | McMaster University |
11 | University of Manitoba |
12 | University of Waterloo |
13 | Royal Roads University |
14 | Vancouver Film School |
15 | Kwantlen Polytechnic University |
16 | University of Calgary |
17 | Dalhousie University |
18 | Fanshawe College |
19 | University of Ottawa |
20 | Laval University |
21 | Sheridan College |
22 | University of Regina |
23 | Brock University |
24 | Thompson Rivers University |
25 | Humber College |
26 | Vancouver Island University |
27 | Mohawk College |
28 | Centennial College Toronto |
29 | Niagara College |
30 | Capilano University |
31 | Seneca College |
32 | Algoma University |
33 | Saint Clair College |
34 | Douglas College |
35 | LaSalle College |
Literature and references
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College and university rankings in the United States β Wiki
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List of American universities and colleges outside the United States β Wiki
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TOP Colleges in the USA β Forbes
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Colleges with Most International Students β US News
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Best Colleges With Study Abroad Programs
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26 Great Affordable Colleges for International Students