Public Universities in the USA

As you embark on your journey to find the perfect US institution, read on to make a well-informed decision that aligns with your aspirations.  

Choosing to study at a public university in the USA comes with many benefits, including expansive campuses, renowned faculty and attractive tuition fee range. If you're considering studying in the U.S., it’s essential to identify universities that not only have an excellent reputation but also align with your academic and career goals. 

Best public universities in the USA for international students

Here are some of the top public universities in the USA that attract international students from around the world: 

Affordable public universities in the USA for international students

Here’s a selection of U.S. universities that offer some of the most affordable degree programs at both bachelor’s and master's levels. These institutions provide high-quality education without a high price tag and often offer a close-knit campus environment, a strong student community and a lower cost of living. 

What is the difference between public and private universities in the USA 

In the U.S., universities are generally divided into public and private institutions, each offering distinct advantages. Here's a simple comparison: 

Public Universities: 

• Funded by state or federal governments, making tuition more affordable, especially for in-state students. 

• Larger campuses with a diverse student body and a wide range of programs. 

• Offer more extracurricular activities, though class sizes can be larger. 

Private Universities: 

• Funded primarily by tuition, donations and endowments, resulting in higher tuition fees. 

• Smaller and more selective, providing a more personalised learning experience. 

• Often offer specialised programs and more financial aid options. 

Public universities in the USA with a high acceptance rate

There are many public universities in the USA that have relatively high acceptance rates, making them accessible options for a wide range of international students. These universities often have more flexible admission requirements compared to other universities, but they still offer quality education. Here are the top 5 notable public universities in the USA with high acceptance rates:  

1. University of Kansas 

Acceptance Rate: Around 93%  

2. University of Mississippi 

Acceptance Rate: Around 88%  

3. University of Arizona 

Acceptance Rate: Approximately 85%  

4. University of Iowa 

Acceptance Rate: Approximately 84%  

5. University of Oregon  

Acceptance Rate: Around 83% 

Public universities in the USA for MS in computer science

Getting admission to the top public universities in the USA for MS programs is a goal for many students. Below, we have highlighted the 5 best public universities you can consider and their most popular MS programs, according to Yocket: 

Public universities in the USA with scholarships for international students 

Many public universities in the USA offer scholarships for international students, making education more affordable for those from outside the country. These scholarships can be merit-based, need-based, or program-specific. Here are some public universities in the USA that offer scholarships to international students:  

1. University of Southern California 

USC offers a variety of scholarships to international students, including merit-based awards, departmental scholarships, and need-based aid.  

2. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign 

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers several merit-based scholarships for international undergraduate and graduate students.  

3. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 

The university provides many scholarships for international students, especially through their International Center. The International Student Fellowship and departmental scholarships are available for both undergraduate and graduate students.  

4. University of Memphis 

Located in Memphis, Tennessee, the University of Memphis is a public research university. The university was established in 1912 and currently enrolls about 22,000 students.  

5. University of California System (UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC San Diego, etc.) 

The University of California system, which includes schools like UC Berkeley, UCLA, and UC San Diego, provides limited scholarships for international students, primarily through departmental awards.  

Studying in the USA opens doors to world-class education and global opportunities. With the help of IDP’s certified counsellors, you will be able to choose the right university for you, navigate the application process and secure your student visa. 

FAQs: 

• Are US public universities free? 

US public universities are not free. However, they are generally more affordable compared to private universities. Public universities receive funding from state and federal governments, which helps lower the cost of tuition for out of state students. 

• What is the #1 public university in the USA? 

UC Berkeley is the No. 1 public university in the U.S and the eighth-best university in the world, according to the Times Higher Education's 2025 World University Rankings. 

• Do public universities in the USA accept international students? 

Yes, international students can apply to public universities. They typically have specific admission requirements, including English proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS.