Image of international student with text saying; list of public universities in US

It’s better to study in public universities in the US if you’re an international student. Although, public universities are not free, but they are more affordable compared to private universities. These institutions receive partial funding from state governments, which allows them to offer lower tuition rates, especially for students who are citizens. For international students, costs will be higher, but still generally more economical than private alternatives.

20 Best Public Universities in the US

1. University of California, Berkeley

This is one of the top public universities in the US and best for student offering courses in Engineering, Computer Science, Public Policy. 

The average tution for international student is around: $56,300. Although the cost may vary base on the department.

Since this is a highly populated school, it’s recommended to apply early and explore department-specific funding or graduate assistant opportunity. 

2. University of Michigan – Ann Arbor

The average tuition for international students is approximately $55,200. This school is one of the best public universities in US for students that wants to offer courses in Business, Engineering, and Social Sciences. 

This school accepts lots of international students. But it’s advisable for students to apply early and explore research assistantships.

Also read: How to get fully funded scholarships to study abroad

3. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Los Angeles is well populated with immigrant from developing countries, and because of the opportunity, international students can easily find part-time job here. The average tuition is around $54,700. 

This school is well known for academic performance in Film, Medicine, and Environmental Science, the university attracts over 14,000 international students.  

4. University of Virginia

This school is located in Charlottesville, Virginia. This school has one lots of awards in liberal arts education. So this school is one of the best pulic universities in the US if you are study Law, Politics, or Business. The average international student tuition is about $53,500. 

5. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

This is the best public universities for medicine or healthcare feild. 

Student from this scholl are generally well recognised because of it’s historic performance and awards gotten. 

The average tuition for international students is around $52,300. With strong programs in Public Health, Journalism, and Global Studies, the university supports over 5,000 international students.

6. Georgia Institute of Technology

One of the uniques feature that makes this university among the best public universities in US because you will met a lot of cool people and make great connections with them.

Beyond the fact that this is one of the cheapest universities in US, GIT is also a global leader in engineering and technological innovation. Georgia Tech is ideal for students pursuing Computer Science, Robotics, and Aerospace Engineering. International students can expect an average tuition of $54,500. 

Also Read: How to study abroad: Complete Step-by-step Guide for You

 7. University of Wisconsin-Madison

This school has many graduates assistants opportunities and scholarship programs , because they are trying to encourage students to read agriculture. 

The school is well known for Agricultural and Environmental research. The average international student tuition is approximately $53,800. 

8. University of Washington

Located in tech-hub Seattle, UW is exceptional for Computer Science, Marine Biology, and Global Health research. International students can expect an average tuition of $55,600. With over 7,000 international students, the university offers extensive research opportunities and close connections to leading tech companies.

9. Ohio State University

This is a large research university with lots of programs available. This school is highly populated because most departments that are not in other public universities are available here. The average international student tuition is around $52,700. 

10. University of Florida

This school is quite popular, Peharps because of its location. This school is good with programs in Marine Sciences, Agriculture, and Veterinary Medicine, UF offers a unique academic experience. International students can expect an average tuition of $51,500.

Additional 10 Cheapest Public Universities 

1. Penn State University

2. Texas A&M University

3. Arizona State University

4. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

5. Purdue University

6. University of Minnesota

7. Colorado State University

8. University of Oregon

9. Michigan State University

10. University of Arizona

Admission Requirements for International Students

Most public universities in the US requires:

– TOEFL or IELTS English proficiency scores

– Translated academic transcripts

– Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT)

– Financial documentation

Statment of Purpose 

– Completed application forms

Which university will you be going for?