Public Universities in the USA

The USA has always been a dream destination for many students worldwide. A degree from the famed public universities of the USA increases the weightage of one’s resume, opening doors to lucrative career opportunities. Public universities in the USA focus on both academics and research, helping students develop their skills and reach their full potential.

This blog will guide you through the top public universities if you're considering studying in the USA.

What is a Public University in the USA?

A public university refers to a college or institution that is either owned by the state government or receives sufficient funding or public subsidies from the national or state government. This is the primary difference between public universities in the USA and private ones. In the US, most public colleges and universities are founded and owned/operated by state government bodies. In fact, among the total number of universities in the USA, there is at least one public university in each state.

Top 10 Public Universities in the USA

Several state universities in the USA offer both Bachelors and Masters study programs to students who aspire to study in the country. In order to assist you in making a well-informed decision, we have compiled a list of the top public universities in the USA according to the US News 2025.

*Source: https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/national-universities/top-public?_sort=rank&_sortDirection=asc

Eligibility Criteria for Top Public Universities in the USA

The eligibility criteria for top public universities in the USA vary depending on the institution. Here are the general requirements:

1. Academic Requirements

• High School Diploma: Must have completed high school (Grade 12) or an equivalent qualification.

• GPA Requirement: A minimum GPA of 3.0 - 3.5 on a 4.0 scale is typically required. Some universities may have higher GPA expectations for competitive programs.

• Standardised Tests: SAT or ACT (some universities have test-optional policies) | AP (Advanced Placement) or IB (International Baccalaureate) scores (if applicable)

2. English Language Proficiency (For International Students)

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): The minimum band score required is usually

  6.5 - 7.0

• Exemptions: Some students may be exempt from English tests if they have studied in an English-medium institution for a certain number of years.

3. Application Requirements

• Common Application or Coalition Application: Most universities use these platforms.

• Letters of Recommendation: Generally, 1-3 letters from teachers, counsellors, or professionals.

• Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Personal Essay: A well-written essay explaining your academic background, aspirations, and why you want to study at that university.

• Extracurricular Activities & Leadership Roles: Universities consider participation in clubs, sports, internships, community service, and leadership roles.

4. Additional Requirements for Specific Programs

• Engineering & Business Schools: May require additional coursework in mathematics, physics, or economics.

• Arts & Design Programs: Require a portfolio showcasing creative work.

• Medical & Health Sciences: Additional tests like MCAT (for medicine) or CASPer (for some health programs) may be needed.

5. Financial Proof (For International Students)

• Bank Statements or Sponsorship Letters: Many universities require proof that you can afford at least one year of tuition and living expenses.

• Scholarships & Financial Aid: Some universities offer merit-based or need-based scholarships, which have separate eligibility criteria.

Cost of Studying in Public Universities in the USA

Top Public Universities in the USA for MS

Several public universities in the US offer several MS specializations to international students who are interested in pursuing a Masters in the field of their choice. Here are 3 well-renowned public universities in the USA for MS that are worth considering:

• University of Michigan--Ann Arbor

• University of California--Irvine

• Texas A&M University

• University of Minnesota--Twin Cities

• North Carolina State University

• Michigan State University

• The Pennsylvania State University--University Park

• Indiana University--Bloomington

• Rutgers University--Newark

• New Jersey Institute of Technology

*Source: https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/national-universities/top-public?study=Science+Technologies%2FTechnicians&_sort=rank&_sortDirection=asc

Want more guidance on which public college or university to study at in the US this year? Get in touch with international education experts at IDP to assist you with a smooth study-abroad journey.

Frequently Answered Questions

1. Are public universities in the USA free?

Public universities in the US are generally more affordable than private universities. However, they are not free. Some universities offer free or low-cost courses through scholarships or online platforms, but fully free public universities are rare.

2. How many public universities are there in the USA?

• According to the National Centre for Education Statistics (NCES), there are approximately 4,000 degree-granting institutions in the US.

• Among these, about 1,600 are public colleges and universities, 1,700 are private non-profit institutions, and 900+ are private for-profit institutions.

3. What does a public university mean in the USA?

A public university is funded primarily by state or local governments and offers lower tuition fees, especially for in-state residents. While it follows state regulations, public universities still maintain academic independence in curriculum and governance.

4. What is the cheapest public university in the USA?

There are many public universities in the country offering courses for relatively cheap. Among them, the one that charges the lowest fee is CUNY or City College of New York. City University of New York (CUNY) is a system of multiple colleges.

• According to recent data, some of the most affordable public universities include California State University (CSU) campuses, Alcorn State University (Mississippi), and Minot State University (North Dakota).

• CUNY colleges are among the most affordable, with in-state tuition averaging around USD 7,000-$8,000 per year, not USD 2,385 as mentioned.

5. Is the USA expensive for international students?

The cost of living varies by city and state. However the average cost of living in the US for international students is estimated to be roughly USD 10,000 to USD 18,000 per annum, or USD 1,000-USD 1,500 per month.

6. Is a public university in the USA better than a private one?

It is difficult to state whether a public university is better than a private college in the US because each has its strengths and differences in various aspects. For instance, public universities are relatively less costly than private ones regarding course tuition fees. Similarly, private colleges are generally reputed for offering better academic research options than public colleges. It is, therefore, advisable to look into the differences between the two when choosing a university for your specific study abroad program in the US.

7. How much does studying in the USA cost?

• Bachelor’s Degree: USD 20,000 – USD 50,000 per year at public universities; higher at private universities.

• Master’s Degree: USD 10,000 – USD 60,000 per year, depending on the university and program.

• Community Colleges: USD 5,000 – USD 15,000 per year (for the first two years of undergraduate study).

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