Why Study in Texas?

They say “everything’s bigger in Texas” — and the Lone Star State’s study-abroad experience is no exception! Texas is the largest state in the continental U.S., and it offers hundreds of educational options for international students. Here are some of the top choices in terms of academics, diversity, and experience.

As an international student entering the world of higher education, Texas offers a number of schools, colleges, and universities that are prepared to meet your unique needs. 

Featured Top Schools 

The schools in our 2022 edition of the Top Schools in Texas each bring something different to the table. Ultimately, the school you choose should be based on what you prioritize in your school search.

Rice University

Intensive English classes are held on the campus of Rice University, a small, private university known for its academic excellence, diversity, and the achievements of its faculty, graduates, and students. Rice is one of the most beautiful campuses in the U.S. and is located in the museum district, the cultural center of Houston. 

Fast Facts of Rice University: 

• Intensive English Program: The IEP at Rice offers a six-level core program that helps students build practical English skills for general, academic, or professional purposes. Levels 1–4 include practical vocabulary and basic language structures, while levels 5–6 focus on developing fluency and accuracy. They also offer an Online English Success certificate program. 

• Requirements: Students applying for admission to the IEP or the online certificate program must have graduated from secondary school. All prospective students must submit a completed application by the application deadline. 

• Location: With a metropolitan area population of more than 6 million, Houston is the fourth largest city in the United States. Houston boasts two international airports, museums, operas, festivals, theaters, sporting events, NASA’s Johnson Space Center, and more! 

• Activities: In each session, Intensive English students enjoy activities and events such as picnics, trips to the zoo and museums, the rodeo, and professional sports events.

University of Texas at Austin

University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) is one of the top public universities in the U.S. and is currently ranked as one of the top 30 universities in the world. UT Austin is one of only 61 members of the American Association of Universities, the premier organization of research universities, and is the flagship campus for the University of Texas System. 

Fast Facts of UT Austin: 

• Programs: UT Austin is known for having top 20 programs in business, education, engineering, law, and pharmacy. UT Austin is ranked #1 in accounting and Latin American history. 

• Location: Austin is the capital of Texas and is a safe, student-friendly, culturally diverse, and vibrant city with many recreational activities. Austin has a relatively low cost of living and is considered to be one of the best cities to live in, a great vacation destination, healthy and environmentally aware, a hi-tech hub, and a top place for businesses. 

• English programs: UT Austin offers a seven-level English Language Program for students from beginner to advanced; an Academic English Program designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree; and a four-week International Academy for university-level students to improve their English and experience at UT Austin. 

• Student services: UT Austin provides placement testing and orientation programs; a university ID card; and access to UT libraries, computer labs, health centers, and counseling centers. You will also have academic advising and workshops, immigration advising, weekly activity newsletters, and much more!

Texas A&M University-Texarkana 

Texas A&M University-Texarkana (A&M-Texarkana) is a comprehensive regional university committed to academic excellence, student success, and community leadership. The school is dedicated to educating the leaders of tomorrow with a high-quality, rewarding, and affordable educational experience. 

Fast Facts of Texas A&M University-Texarkana: 

• Programs: Texas A&M-Texarkana offers impressive degrees in business, engineering, and technology within the College of Arts, Sciences, and Education. 

• Great living spaces: A&M-Texarkana students enjoy a beautiful 375-acre campus near Bringle Lake Park. Students make lifelong friends and learn valuable life lessons by being active on campus. You can walk to class, sleep later, and not worry about utility bills and rent payments. 

• Admission requirements: The SAT is not required for students with at least a 2.75 GPA. Students not on A&M-Texarkana’s list of English-speaking countries must meet the university language proficiency requirement of a minimum TOEFL score of 71 (internet-based test) or a minimum of 105 on the Duolingo English Test.

• Scholarship opportunities: International students admitted with at least a 980 SAT or 2.5 GPA will be eligible to apply for the Global Heritage Scholarship. This scholarship and associated tuition waiver have a combined worth of almost $14,000. 

Conclusion

Schools and universities are constantly updating their academic offerings. Although we’ve selected these schools for our 2022 edition, that’s not to say that there aren’t other schools that may be a better fit for your academic goals. We wish you the best of luck in your school search and ask that you stay tuned for future entries into our “Top Schools” series as we explore the top schools in states across the country.