Best Universities in New York

Check out the best of New York's universities, where top-notch academics and student satisfaction set the standard.

New York, the city that's always awake, calls out with its famous skyline, busy streets and diverse mix of cultures. But beyond its lively vibe, there's a wealth of educational opportunities waiting to be discovered. Let’s dig deeper into them.

New York State, particularly its bustling metropolis, New York City, offers many compelling reasons for international students to choose it as their study destination. Here are just a few:

• World-class education: New York is home to some of the most prestigious universities and colleges in the world. Whether it's Ivy League universities like Columbia University or renowned public universities, students can access top-notch education across various fields. 

• Cultural diversity: The city's diverse population creates a unique and vibrant cultural landscape. Students have the opportunity to interact with people from all walks of life, broadening their perspectives and enhancing their cultural understanding. 

• Career opportunities: Being the financial and cultural capital of the United States, New York offers unparalleled internship and job opportunities. Many major corporations, financial institutions, and media companies have their headquarters there, providing students with valuable hands-on experience.

For students seeking a top-tier education in the Empire State, here are some of the best universities that consistently shine in academics, research and student experience, and their rankings according to the QS World University Ranking 2025:

Cornell University

Located in Ithaca, New York, Cornell University is renowned for its exceptional programs in fields such as Engineering, Business, and Agriculture. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with notable ones including Engineering, Hotel Administration, and Veterinary Medicine.  

Tuition fees vary by program and residency status, with undergraduate tuition around $59,282 for the academic year. Deadlines for undergraduate applications are usually around January 2nd, and for graduate programs, they vary by department. 

Columbia University

Columbia University, situated in New York City, offers top-notch programs in fields like Law, Business, and Journalism. Notable colleges include the School of Engineering and Applied Science, Columbia Business School, and the Graduate School of Journalism.

Tuition fees vary by school and program, with undergraduate tuition approximately $64,380 for the academic year. Deadlines for undergraduate applications are typically around January, while graduate program deadlines vary.

New York University (NYU)

New York University, located in the heart of Manhattan, is known for its diverse programs across various disciplines such as Arts, Business, and Sciences. Popular programs include Film and Television and Computer Science.

Tuition fees vary depending on the school and program, with undergraduate tuition approximately $54,880 for the academic year. Deadlines for undergraduate applications are usually around January, and for graduate programs, they vary by department.

Yeshiva University

Yeshiva University, located in New York City, is recognised for its programs in Law and Business. Tuition fees vary by school and program, with undergraduate tuition around $46,860 for the academic year.

Deadlines for undergraduate applications are usually around February 15th.

Fordham University

Fordham University, located in the Bronx and Manhattan, offers diverse programs in fields such as Business, Law, and Communications. Popular colleges include the Gabelli School of Business, School of Law, and Graduate School of Education.

Tuition fees vary by school and program, with undergraduate tuition approximately around $57,546 for the academic year. Deadlines for undergraduate applications are usually around January.

Getting a scholarship can really help ease the money stress of studying in another country. For international students dreaming of studying in New York, these universities offer either full or partial scholarships to those who qualify:

Public universities in New York offer a diverse range of programs, often at more affordable tuition rates compared to private institutions. Here are some public universities that welcome international students seeking quality education:

• CUNY - Brooklyn College

• SUNY Stony Brook University

• SUNY University at Albany

• SUNY Oswego

• SUNY New Paltz

Admission requirements at universities in New York

Each university in New York may have slightly different admission requirements, but here is a general overview of what international students can expect when applying: 

• Academic transcripts 

• Standardised test scores such as the SAT or ACT for undergraduate programs, and the GRE or GMAT for graduate programs. International students may also need to demonstrate English proficiency through tests like the TOEFL or IELTS. 

• Letters of recommendation 

• Statement of purpose 

How many universities are there in New York?

There are over 100 universities in New York State. 

What is the main university in NYC?

The main university in New York City is New York University (NYU).

What is the number 1 public university in New York?

The number 1 public university in New York is Binghamton University according to U.S News & World Report. 

What is the hardest college to get into in New York?

Columbia University is often considered one of the hardest colleges to get into in New York. 

Whether you're captivated by the energy of the city or enticed by the world-class education it offers. Studying in New York could be a life-changing experience. If you're eager to explore your options, reach out to your IDP Education counsellor today to guide you through the entire process, from choosing the right university to navigating the application requirements.