Why Texas Should Be Your Study Destination
Texas ranks third in the United States for the highest number of international students, hosting over 70,000 students each year. The Lone Star State boasts world-class universities, international research opportunities, affordable living costs, popularity for its diverse cultures, and a growing job market. All of these factors contribute to a Texas educational experience like no other.
Maybe you're interested in the research opportunities offered at UT Austin, the campus life at Texas A&M, or the flagship programmes at Texas Tech. Regardless of what you're interested in, studying in Texas requires some additional planning and understanding of the unique opportunities the state offers.
Why Consider Texas for Your Education
Leading Worldwide Academics
The University of Texas at Austin is ranked 183rd in the World University Rankings of 2026 and is in the top 1% of universities globally according to the Academic Ranking of World Universities for 2024. Texas has some of the finest universities in the country.
The state is home to over 150 universities and colleges, and the commitment to educational excellence is evident with the broad range of degrees available, exceeding 270, covering virtually every discipline.
Economics That Matter
Limited Personal Income Tax: Working part-time or interning whilst studying in Texas will yield increased earnings as the state has no personal income tax.
Cost of Living: Nearly 8% less than the national average, Texas has lower living expenses. As has observed, foreign students spend between $1,300 and $2,000 monthly depending on their lifestyle.
Employment Opportunities: Texas is home to some of the biggest companies such as Dell, AT&T, and ExxonMobil, creating plentiful internship and employment opportunities for students pursuing degrees there.
Top Texas Universities: Your Gateway To Success
University Of Texas At Austin
Global Recognition: Maintaining an acceptance rate of 26.11% illustrates UT Austin as one of the most selective universities in the nation, which values its rigorous admission processes guided by a holistic review approach.
Key Programmes: Engineering, Business, Computer Science, Liberal Arts, and Natural Sciences
Student Life: Students of the university relish the music, and cultural diversity in Texas, as well as the vibrant technology corridor located in the state's capital, Austin.
Texas A&M University
Distinguished Heritage: Texas A&M University is home to one of the largest student populations in Texas, boasting an enrolment of over 70,000 students in undergraduate, graduate, and professional programmes.
Automatic Admission: The school also boasts an accessible admission policy by granting automatic admission to students in the top 10% of their secondary school class.
Strong Traditions: The Texas A&M university is also known for the Corps of Cadets and Aggie Ring traditions, as well as their generous school spirit.
Texas State University
Accessibility: Students with diverse academic backgrounds are admitted at a rate of 89% which is classified as moderately selective, and the university itself is welcoming and accessible.
Affordable Excellence: Providing quality international education, the university charges a yearly fee of $20,000-$21,000 which is quite affordable in the context of other institutions.
Texas Tech University
Research Focus: Texas Tech is the sixth largest university in Texas by enrolment with more than 40,000 students in the autumn 2023 semester. The university has over 60 research centres and institutes.
Popular Programmes: Computer Science, Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Data Science.
Step-by-Step Application Process: Blueprint to Your Goals
Phase 1: Research and Planning (6-12 months prior)
Step 1: University Identification and Programme Research
- Focus on 5 to 8 universities that fit within your academic interests and financial capabilities
- Look into the specific requirements and prerequisites for each programme
- Evaluate the scholarship offers along with living costs and tuition
- Consider the campus culture and give preferences to the location
Step 2: Preparation
- Completing the required secondary school courses must be ensured
- Students must prep for applicable standardised tests (SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT)
- Perform strongly academically in your last year of schooling
Phase 2: Application Submission (8-10 months prior)
Step 3: Fill in Applications
Most Texas universities have a central application submission system:
- Common Application: Accepted by UT Austin and many private institutions
- ApplyTexas: State system portal for public universities
- University-specific portals: For specialised programmes
Required Documents:
- Academic transcripts must be official and accompanied with certified English translations
- Standardised test scores (when required)
- Letters of recommendation (2-3 letters)
- Personal statement or essay
- Curriculum vitae that showcases the most notable achievements and activities
Step 4: Meeting English Requirements
International students are required to meet the English requirements with tests. Programmes may have varying requirements, but generally TOEFL iBT scores of 79 or higher and IELTS of 6.5 and above are accepted.
Accepted Tests:
- TOEFL iBT: 70-80+ (varies by university)
- IELTS Academic: 6.0-6.5+
- PTE Academic: 50-58+
- Duolingo English Test: 105-120+
Phase 3: Financial Documentation and Visa Process
Step 5: Demonstrate Financial Capability
Students are required to show proof of funding for one full academic year, and documentation must be dated within the last twelve months of the first semester start date.
Required Financial Documentation:
- Bank account statements showing liquid balances
- Affidavit and supplemental documents from the sponsor
- Letters from the sponsoring scholarship
- Letters of approval from education loans
Step 6: Obtain Form I-20 and Apply for Student Visa
To study in the United States full-time, international students must obtain an F-1 student visa. This includes receiving Form I-20 from the university, paying SEVIS fees, and attending the U.S. consulate for visa interview.
Visa Requirements:
- Passport with at least 6 months validity
- University I-20 form
- Payment receipt for SEVIS fee ($350)
- DS-160 application form
- Visa Interview
- Financial Documents
- Academic Documents
Understanding Your Expenses
Tuition and Other Education Related Expenses
Undergraduate Studies:
- Public universities (in-state): $12,000 to $15,000 per year
- Public universities (out-of-state): $35,000 to $45,000 per year
- Private universities: $40,000 to $55,000 per year
Graduate Studies:
- Master's degrees: $25,000 to $50,000 per year
- Doctoral degrees: Usually receive funding through assistantships
- MBAs: $45,000 to $65,000 per year
Living Expenses per City
Austin
As the capital and a tech hub, Austin's cost of living, including housing, is 23% more than the national average.
- Monthly: $1,800 to $2,500
- Housing: $800 to $1,500
Houston
Houston has the second lowest overall cost of living amongst the country's 20 most populated metro areas, sitting 8.2% less than the national average.
- Monthly: $1,600 to $2,200
- Housing: $700 to $1,200
Dallas
Overall the average cost of living in Dallas for a student is $1,800 to $2,500 per month.
- Monthly expenses: $1,700-$2,400
- Housing: $750-$1,300/month
Other Necessary Costs
- Health Insurance: $2,000-$3,000 yearly (Required for F-1 students)
- Books and Supplies: $1,200-$1,500 yearly
- Transportation: $600-$1,200 yearly
- Personal Expenses: $2,000-$3,000 yearly
Merit-Based Opportunities
University-Specific Awards
- UT Austin: Offers a variety of merit awards, some covering full tuition
- Texas A&M: Offers Academic Excellence Awards and Regents' Scholarships
- Texas State: Offers International Student Scholarships
- Texas Tech: Offers Presidential Scholarships and Chancellor's Scholarships
Additional Funding Sources
Government Sponsored Awards:
- Fulbright Programme for graduate students
- Scholarships from governments of specific countries
- Educational exchange programmes
Private Sponsored Awards:
- Ford Foundation International Fellowships
- Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships
- Awards from field-related professional organisations
"No other state in the US combines academic prestige, low tuition, and extensive work options like Texas does for international students. Its diverse economy and open attitude make it a fantastic state for international students to engage in serious academics and exciting career options." - Dr. Sarah Rodriguez, International Education Consultant.
Conclusion
Studying in Texas offers access to world-class education, various cultural activities, and career options. With the right preparation, your Texas education journey can be a career-defining transformational experience.
Preparing for the education provides international students with many unique opportunities in the state. The tech ecosystem in Austin along with the energy sector in Houston provides ample opportunities for launching an international career.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students work whilst studying in Texas?
Yes, the work schedule for F-1 students includes 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during break periods. After an academic year, students may qualify for off-campus work through CPT and OPT post-completion work authorisation.
What are the English language requirements for Texas universities?
The majority of universities expect TOEFL iBT 70 to 80+ or IELTS 6.0-6.5+. A few of them accept pre-admissions for students who do not meet the initial requirements and offer English through alternative admission pathways.
In comparison with other states, what are the fees to study in Texas?
In comparison with states like California and New York, Texas is relatively cheaper. Annual expenses are in the range of $35,000-$55,000, which is 15-25% cheaper than the similar programmes offered in the other two states.
What is the student visa to study in Texas?
The majority of international students do need to apply for an F-1 student visa. Once you are accepted to the university, you will be sent Form I-20, which can be used to apply for the F-1 visa at the U.S. consulate in your country.
What are the options to stay in Texas after graduation?
Through Optional Practical Training, Yes, you can stay in Texas. You are permitted to work for 12 months after graduation, and for students with STEM degrees, the period extends to 36 months. This period is often used by students to secure a work visa.
