The United States is one of the most popular study-abroad destinations, with over a million international students pursuing their dreams at its many world-class universities and colleges. These American institutions are consistently ranked among the top 10 globally and recognised for their high-quality research and significant contributions to various industries. 

This focus on academic excellence paves the way for excellent career opportunities. The US boasts a thriving job market with high graduate employability rates. Despite a slight decrease in job openings to 7.6 million in December 2024, the US labour market remains dynamic and full of opportunities, with notable growth in sectors like arts, entertainment, and recreation, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This means that after graduation, you'll have a wide range of exciting career paths to explore. 

Beyond academics, the US offers a wealth of experiences to enrich your time abroad. From vibrant cities and historical landmarks to diverse communities and stunning natural landscapes, there's something for everyone to embrace the multiculturalism of American society and broaden their horizons in and outside the classroom.  

And while you're studying in the USA, don't miss the chance to travel and explore! With efficient transportation networks connecting different regions, you can easily embark on enriching adventures and experience the country's varied landscapes and cultures. 

Starting an academic journey in America 

Whether you're drawn to the iconic skyline of New York City, considering the fun opportunities to study in New York — perhaps in fashion design or engineering — or dreaming of the sunny beaches of California and the chance to study in Los Angeles, starting your academic journey at one of the best universities in the USA offers a unique blend of academic excellence and a welcoming, diverse atmosphere. 

Globally recognised ranking system 

For those looking to pursue a foundation, undergraduate, or postgraduate pathway in the USA, university rankings can give you an idea of whether the institution is right for you. 

Ranking providers such as the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings and Times Higher Education World (THE) University Rankings, and U.S. News & World Report are globally recognized and often used by students as part of their research before applying to study abroad. 

Each ranking system uses its own methodology to assess universities worldwide. These typically consider factors such as academic reputation, research output, faculty-student ratio, and internationalization to provide a comprehensive perspective on the quality of education and research at each institution. 

With that in mind, we've rounded up the top universities in the USA for 2025 below, from Ivy League colleges in Massachusetts to leading public institutions in Washington state and California, with data from the QS World University Rankings and THE World University Rankings. 

Use these rankings to your advantage—ask an education advisor who can guide you in your study abroad journey for free. 

QS top universities in the USA 2025 

 
The QS World University Rankings assess universities based on a variety of factors, including academic reputation, employer reputation, research impact, and the number of students per faculty member. They provide a global perspective on university performance and are considered one of the best resources for students researching their study options in the USA. 

QS top universities in the USA 2025 

Rank 

University  

Global rank 

1 

Massachusetts Institute of Technology 

1 

2 

Harvard University  

4 

3 

Stanford University  

6 

4 

California Institute of Technology 

10 

5 

University of Pennsylvania 

11 

6 

University of California, Berkeley 

12 

7 

Cornell University 

16 

8 

University of Chicago 

21 

9 

Princeton University 

22 

10 

Yale University 

23 

11 

Johns Hopkins University 

32 

12 

Columbia University 

34 

13 

University of California, Los Angeles 

42 

14 

New York University 

43 

15 

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor 

44 

16 

Northwestern University 

50 

17 

Carnegie Mellon University 

58 

18 

Duke University 

61 

19 

University of Texas at Austin 

66 

20 

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 

69 

THE top universities in the USA in 2025 

The Times Higher Education World University Rankings use a different methodology, focusing on teaching, research, international outlook, and industry income. They also consider factors like the impact of research publications and the ratio of faculty to students. These rankings offer a comprehensive view of university excellence and are widely used to identify the top universities in the USA and around the world. 

Rank 

University  

Global rank 

1 

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) 

2 

2 

Harvard University 

3 

3 

Princeton University 

4 

4 

Stanford University 

6 

5 

California Institute of Technology 

7 

6 

University of California, Berkeley 

8 

7 

Yale University 

10 

=8 

The University of Chicago 

=14 

=8 

University of Pennsylvania 

=14 

10 

Johns Hopkins University 

16 

=11 

Columbia University 

=18 

=11 

University of California, Los Angeles 

=18 

13 

Cornell University 

20 

14 

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor 

22 

15 

Carnegie Mellon University 

24 

16 

University of Washington 

25 

17 

Duke University 

27 

18 

Northwestern University 

31 

19 

New York University 

33 

20 

University of California, San Diego 

34 

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U.S. News & World Report Top universities in the USA in 2025 

Xếp hạng

Tên trường đại học

Xếp hạng toàn cầu

1

Princeton University

16

2

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

2

3

Harvard University

1

4

Stanford University

3

5

Yale University

12

6

University of Chicago

18

7

Johns Hopkins University

9

8

University of Pennsylvania

15

9

California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

10

10

Duke University

23

11

Northwestern University

31

12

Brown University

35

13

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

18

14

University of Michigan–Ann Arbor

22

15

University of California, Berkeley

8

16

University of Washington

25

17

Cornell University

19

18

University of California, San Diego (UCSD)

34

19

University of Notre Dame

36

20

University of California, Irvine

40

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1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Founded in 1861, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is one of the well-known universities in the United States that focuses on the study of modern fields of science and technology. The university also maintains its #1 position in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and #2 in the ranking of the best universities in the United States (according to US News & World Report).

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is well-known for its outstanding disciplines that revolve around engineering, computer science, humanities, arts, architecture, and planning. In particular, disciplines such as civil and structural engineering, biology and biochemistry, computer science, and mathematics all rank highly in the world, attracting thousands of outstanding students and researchers across the globe.

2. Harvard University - A prestigious American university

Founded in 1636, Harvard University is one of the oldest and most prestigious American universities in the world. The university is currently ranked #3 among the best national universities in the US (US News 2025) and #4 in the QS World University Rankings 2025. Besides, Harvard is also highly regarded in disciplines such as Law, Business and management, social sciences, life sciences, and medicine.

Not only is Harvard prominent in the academic field, but it is also the cradle of countless leaders, Nobel Prize-winning scholars, and global influencers such as Barack Obama, John F. Kennedy, Bill Gates, and Mark Zuckerberg. Harvard University has also made important contributions to scientific, academic, and humanitarian progress, such as the invention of the logic quantum processor and the implementation of the first kidney transplant - a turning point that opened a new era for organ transplantation, bringing hope to thousands of patients every year.

3. Stanford University - American University in California

With seven member schools gathered on a large campus, Stanford University is both a top university in the U.S. and a leading center of academic excellence in a wide range of fields such as business, education, Engineering, Humanities & Sciences, Law and Sustainable Development. The university is currently ranked #4 among the best national universities in the US (US News 2025) and 6th worldwide (QS Ranking 2025)

Not only teaching theory, Stanford is also a cradle of innovation, where ideas and inventions are realized, reaching out beyond the lab and classroom to make a mark around the world. One of the most prominent and successful alumni of this prestigious school is Steve Jobs – a name that has become a global icon. He is the co-founder, chairman, and CEO of Apple Inc., who is behind the technological revolutions that changed the world.

4. University of California, Berkeley (UCB) -Good Public University in the US

The University of California, Berkeley (UCB) was founded in 1868 in Berkeley, California. This is the leading prestigious public university in the United States, ranked #8 in the world prestigious ranking of Times Higher Education (THE). UCB is also proud of its rich history in social and political activities, especially associated with the iconic Free Speech Movement. The school always fosters a critical spirit, encourages students to think independently, ask big questions and proactively create positive changes for the world.

The University of California–Berkeley possesses a comprehensive and rich education system, spanning from undergraduate and graduate degrees to extensive training programs and intensive degrees. It offers a wide range of study options in fields such as Business, Chemistry, Education, Environmental Design, Journalism, Public Health and many other majors, meeting all academic orientations and passions of students.

5. The University of Chicago

The University of Chicago is one of the top universities in the United States, widely known for its outstanding strength in the field of research. The university stands out for its serious academic environment, where critical thinking is encouraged, becoming a strong foundation for discovery and innovation with global impact. The university currently holds the #11 position in U.S. News & World Report's 2025 Best Colleges rankings.

The University of Chicago offers a diverse academic environment with more than 52 disciplines of study, as well as unique dual and major programs that help students expand their thinking and explore their passions in their own way. Not only excelling in the arts and sciences, The University of Chicago also asserts its leading position with prestigious graduate schools such as the Pritzker School of Medicine, the Booth School of Business, and the Harris School of Public Policy.

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6. University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) is a private university founded by Benjamin Franklin in 1740 in Philadelphia, USA. UPenn is also famous with international students when it is in the Ivy League group - the oldest and most prestigious group of universities in the US. The university is currently ranked #10 among the best national universities in the US (US News 2025) and 11th worldwide (QS Ranking 2025).

The University of Pennsylvania stands out in areas such as Basic Sciences, Law, Medicine, Education, Engineering, and Business – key disciplines that have shaped the university's strong academic reputation around the globe. A plus to attending the school is that you have the opportunity to participate in joint degree programs between two of the four undergraduate schools: The College (School of Arts and Sciences), the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, the School of Nursing, and the Wharton School of Business. As a result, students can graduate with two Bachelor's degrees, significantly expanding their professional knowledge and career opportunities.

7. Cornell University

Cornell University - an elite member of the prestigious Ivy League team, is a private research university with a rich history of more than 150 years of excellence in education and research. Cornell's leading position is confirmed by its impressive ranking on prestigious rankings: #16 globally according to the QS World University Rankings 2025 and #11 among the best national universities in the US (US News 2025).

Cornell is well-known for its strength in training disciplines such as Agriculture and Life Sciences, Arts and Sciences, Computer and Information Science, Human Ecology, Business and Engineering...

8. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is a world-leading research and educational institute focused on science and engineering. In 2025, the university holds the #10 position globally according to the QS World University Rankings 2025. Caltech's education is renowned for its rigorous curriculum, which comes with close collaboration with faculty and small class sizes.

The California Institute of Technology is also notable for owning and operating a series of large-scale research facilities, such as the Seismological Laboratory and a global network of astronomical observatories, including the Palomar and W. M. Keck Observatory. In addition, the university is also a co-founder and co-operator of the LIGO project – a groundbreaking scientific work in the field of astrophysics.

9. Yale University

Yale University was founded in 1701 and is the 3rd oldest university in the United States. Yale University consists of 3 main divisions: Yale college (undergraduate training), College of Arts and Sciences and specialized training schools

Among universities in the United States, Yale University has more than 15,000 students, of which 28% are international students from countries around the world. Yale is known for its comprehensive strengths, particularly in the areas of Law, Arts and Humanities, Political Science, Economics and Drama/Performing Arts.

10. Princeton University

Founded in 1746, Princeton University is the fourth-oldest university in the United States. In addition, the university is also a major research center with many important contributions in the fields of science and society, always maintaining the #1 ranking among the best national universities in the US (US News 2025) and #4 globally according to THE World University Rankings 2025.

Princeton University is suitable for those who are oriented to study majors such as: Information Technology, Science and Technology, Social and Communication Sciences, Law, Creative Arts and Design. In addition, Princeton also has famous graduate programs such as: Physics, Mathematics, Astronomy, Economics, History, and Psychology.

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11. Columbia University

Columbia University is recognized as one of the world's leading research centers, and offers an excellent and unique academic environment for students at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Renowned as one of the best universities in the US in 2025, Columbia University is currently ranked #13 in the US News 2025 rankings and #18 worldwide (According to THE World University 2025).

The university offers a comprehensive and unique academic program system, including 3 underplaces, 15 graduate schools and intensive research. In addition, the university owns a globally renowned medical center and a network of 25 libraries and more than 100 research centers and institutes – creating a world-class learning and research environment. Columbia University has strengths in many fields, especially Journalism, Law, Business, International Relations, Arts and Humanities and Engineering...

12. Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University (JHU) was founded in 1876 and is a leading private research university in the United States. JHU is consistently ranked among the best universities globally with #32 in the world according to QS World University Rankings 2025 and #16 globally according to THE World University 2025.

Johns Hopkins is globally renowned for its strengths in Medicine, Public Health, Nursing, International Sciences and Biomedical Engineering. It is also home to one of the leading medical research centers – Johns Hopkins Hospital. Although the main campus is in Baltimore, the university also has campuses in Washington D.C. and other countries, giving students the opportunity to access academic programs globally.

13. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Located in the dynamic city of Los Angeles, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is one of the top public schools in the United States and the world. In 2025, the university holds the position of #18 globally according to THE World University 2025 and #15 among the best national universities in the US (US News 2025).

UCLA is well-known for its excellent training programs in almost every field. In particular, the university has outstanding strengths in disciplines such as Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, Life Sciences, Health, Engineering, and Business..

14. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (UMich) is a leading public university with a rich history and an excellent reputation in the fields of science, technology, and society. In 2025, UMich is ranked #44 in the world according to QS World University Rankings and 22nd globally according to THE World University 2025.

UMich offers more than 250 undergraduate and postgraduate training programs in a wide range of fields. In particular, the university has outstanding strengths in disciplines such as Engineering, Business through the Ross School of Business, Law, Medicine and Nursing, Social Sciences, and Art and Design.

15. New York University

When it comes to famous universities in the US, it is impossible to ignore New York University (NYU). Located right in the heart of vibrant New York City, NYU students have a wide range of internship and work opportunities in leading industries such as finance, media, fashion, arts, and technology.

New York University is an ideal destination for international students to pursue academic and career opportunities. You can choose from Bachelor's, Postgraduate, PhD and research programs to suit you. NYU is well-known for its top-notch programs in fields such as Arts, Business, Ancient World Studies, Nursing, Dentistry, and many other social sciences and humanities.

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