Colleges in Texas

Texas — known for its vast landscapes, diverse culture, and economic power — is also one of America’s top states for higher education. From world-class research universities to affordable public colleges and specialized institutes, Texas offers students an exceptional mix of academic excellence and real-world opportunity.

Whether you dream of studying engineering in Austin, medicine in Houston, or business in Dallas, Texas has a college to match your ambitions. This guide explores the best colleges in Texas, their admission procedures, top courses, fee structures, and location highlights, helping you find your perfect academic home in the Lone Star State.

1. The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin)

Location: Austin, Texas
Average Annual Fees: $40,000 (out-of-state); $11,000 (in-state)
Popular Courses: Engineering, Business, Computer Science, Law, Liberal Arts

UT Austin is not only one of the largest universities in the United States but also one of the most respected. As the flagship campus of the University of Texas System, it combines world-class academics with a dynamic urban environment.

Admission Procedure

• Application Portal: ApplyTexas or Common App
• Application Fee: $75
• Requirements:
  • High school transcripts
  • SAT/ACT (optional for most programs)
  • Essay and short answers
  • Letters of recommendation (optional)
  • TOEFL/IELTS for international students

Highlights

The McCombs School of Business and Cockrell School of Engineering are among the top in the nation. UT Austin’s location in the tech-driven city of Austin gives students exposure to leading companies and startups, making it a hotspot for internships and job opportunities.

2. Texas A&M University – College Station

Location: College Station, Texas
Average Annual Fees: $39,000 (out-of-state); $13,000 (in-state)
Popular Courses: Engineering, Agriculture, Business, Veterinary Science, Computer Science

Founded in 1876, Texas A&M University (TAMU) is one of the oldest public universities in Texas and a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities.

Admission Procedure

• Application Portal: ApplyTexas or Coalition App
• Application Fee: $75
• Requirements:
  • High school record
  • SAT/ACT optional
  • Essay submission
  • Extracurricular resume (recommended)

Highlights

TAMU is known for its strong sense of community, leadership programs, and globally recognized engineering and agricultural programs. The Aggie Network (its alumni association) is one of the strongest in the country, providing lifelong career connections.

3. Rice University – Houston’s Ivy of the South

Location: Houston, Texas
Average Annual Fees: $57,000 (approx.)
Popular Courses: Engineering, Natural Sciences, Architecture, Economics, Humanities

Rice University is a private research powerhouse and often ranks among the top 20 universities in the U.S. Known for its small class sizes and personalized learning environment, Rice offers academic rigor with a close-knit campus culture.

Admission Procedure

• Application Portal: Common App or Coalition App
• Application Fee: $75
• Requirements:
  • Transcripts
  • SAT/ACT (optional)
  • Two teacher recommendations
  • Personal essay and short answers
  • English proficiency test (for international students)

Highlights

Rice’s George R. Brown School of Engineering and Shepherd School of Music are highly acclaimed. Located next to the Texas Medical Center, it also offers unique opportunities for research and collaboration in science and medicine.

4. Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Location: Dallas, Texas
Average Annual Fees: $63,000 (approx.)
Popular Courses: Business, Law, Engineering, Arts, Communication

SMU is a private research university known for academic flexibility and strong industry partnerships. Its Cox School of Business is among the nation’s top business schools, particularly for entrepreneurship and finance.

Admission Procedure

• Application Portal: Common App or ApplyTexas
• Application Fee: $60
• Requirements:
  • High school transcript
  • SAT/ACT (optional)
  • Essays and recommendations
  • TOEFL/IELTS for international students

Highlights

SMU offers a blend of rigorous academics, high employment outcomes, and vibrant student life. Its Dallas location connects students directly with top companies and professional networks.

5. Baylor University – Faith and Excellence

Location: Waco, Texas
Average Annual Fees: $55,000 (approx.)
Popular Courses: Business, Pre-Med, Nursing, Law, Theology

Founded in 1845, Baylor University is one of the oldest universities in Texas and is deeply rooted in Christian values. It’s known for blending strong academics with a focus on character development and community service.

Admission Procedure

• Application Portal: Common App
• Application Fee: $50
• Requirements:
  • Transcripts
  • SAT/ACT optional
  • Essay or personal statement
  • Recommendation letter

Highlights

Baylor’s Hankamer School of Business and Louise Herrington School of Nursing are highly regarded. The university also has a strong reputation in pre-medical studies and law education.

6. Texas Tech University

Location: Lubbock, Texas
Average Annual Fees: $27,000 (out-of-state); $12,000 (in-state)
Popular Courses: Engineering, Business, Agriculture, Architecture, Media Studies

Texas Tech offers the resources of a large research university with a friendly, student-centered environment. It’s particularly known for engineering and agriculture programs.

Admission Procedure

• Application Portal: ApplyTexas
• Application Fee: $75
• Requirements:
  • High school transcripts
  • SAT/ACT optional
  • Essay (optional but encouraged)

Highlights

The university’s Rawls College of Business and Whitacre College of Engineering produce graduates who are highly sought after in the job market. The Lubbock campus is modern, safe, and known for strong student support services.

7. University of Houston (UH)

Location: Houston, Texas
Average Annual Fees: $26,000 (out-of-state); $11,000 (in-state)
Popular Courses: Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, Law, Computer Information Systems

UH is a Tier One public research university with a diverse student population and strong academic reputation.

Admission Procedure

• Application Portal: ApplyTexas
• Application Fee: $75
• Requirements:
  • Official transcripts
  • SAT/ACT optional
  • Essay and resume (optional)
  • TOEFL/IELTS for international students

Highlights

UH’s C.T. Bauer College of Business and College of Engineering are major draws. Located in the heart of Houston — a global hub for energy, healthcare, and business — the university provides outstanding internship and career opportunities.

8. Texas Christian University (TCU)

Location: Fort Worth, Texas
Average Annual Fees: $58,000 (approx.)
Popular Courses: Business, Nursing, Performing Arts, Psychology, Communication

TCU offers a balance between liberal arts and professional studies. With a strong focus on leadership and ethics, it prepares students for meaningful global careers.

Admission Procedure

• Application Portal: Common App
• Application Fee: $50
• Requirements:
  • High school transcripts
  • Essay
  • SAT/ACT optional
  • Recommendation letter

Highlights

The Neeley School of Business and Harris College of Nursing are standout programs. The university’s strong community engagement and vibrant campus culture make it a great choice for holistic learning.

9. University of North Texas (UNT)

Location: Denton, Texas
Average Annual Fees: $23,000 (out-of-state); $12,000 (in-state)
Popular Courses: Music, Business, Journalism, Education, Computer Science

UNT is one of the largest universities in Texas and a leader in arts, music, and public service education.

Admission Procedure

• Application Portal: ApplyTexas
• Application Fee: $75
• Requirements:
  • High school GPA of 3.0+ (for automatic admission)
  • SAT/ACT optional
  • English proficiency for international students

Highlights

UNT’s College of Music is among the best in the nation. The campus in Denton offers an artistic, welcoming community that supports creative students.

10. Texas State University

Location: San Marcos, Texas
Average Annual Fees: $25,000 (out-of-state); $11,000 (in-state)
Popular Courses: Education, Business, Criminal Justice, Fine Arts, Health Professions

Texas State University offers a balance between affordability and academic diversity. Its programs focus on practical learning and community involvement.

Admission Procedure

• Application Portal: ApplyTexas
• Application Fee: $75
• Requirements:
  • High school record
  • SAT/ACT optional
  • Essay (recommended)

Highlights

The McCoy College of Business and College of Education have strong national reputations. San Marcos offers a beautiful campus experience with easy access to Austin.

11. University of Texas at Dallas (UTD)

Location: Richardson, Texas
Average Annual Fees: $40,000 (out-of-state); $14,000 (in-state)
Popular Courses: Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Business Analytics, Finance

UT Dallas is one of the fastest-growing universities in the U.S., known for its cutting-edge technology and research programs.

Admission Procedure

• Application Portal: ApplyTexas
• Application Fee: $50
• Requirements:
  • Academic transcripts
  • SAT/ACT optional
  • Personal statement
  • TOEFL/IELTS for international students

Highlights

Its Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science and Naveen Jindal School of Management are highly ranked. The university’s proximity to Dallas-Fort Worth boosts career prospects in tech and business sectors.

12. University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA)

Location: San Antonio, Texas
Average Annual Fees: $25,000 (out-of-state); $10,000 (in-state)
Popular Courses: Cybersecurity, Business, Engineering, Public Policy, Education

UTSA is an emerging research university with a strong focus on innovation and inclusivity.

Admission Procedure

• Application Portal: ApplyTexas
• Application Fee: $70
• Requirements:
  • GPA-based automatic admission for top students
  • SAT/ACT optional
  • English proficiency test (for international students)

Highlights

UTSA’s Cybersecurity program ranks among the best in the U.S., and its close connections with San Antonio’s tech and defense industries create valuable opportunities.

13. Texas Woman’s University (TWU)

Location: Denton, Texas
Average Annual Fees: $23,000 (out-of-state); $9,000 (in-state)
Popular Courses: Nursing, Education, Nutrition, Psychology, Health Sciences

TWU is the largest university primarily for women in the U.S., though it admits men in many programs. It focuses on leadership, service, and empowerment.

Admission Procedure

• Application Portal: ApplyTexas
• Application Fee: $50
• Requirements:
  • High school transcript
  • Essay (optional)
  • TOEFL/IELTS (for international students)

Highlights

TWU’s Nursing and Health Sciences programs are top-ranked. The campus promotes inclusivity and personal growth in a supportive learning environment.

14. Sam Houston State University

Location: Huntsville, Texas
Average Annual Fees: $22,000 (out-of-state); $9,000 (in-state)
Popular Courses: Criminal Justice, Education, Business, Forensic Science, Sociology

Sam Houston State University (SHSU) offers strong academics with an emphasis on public service and leadership.

Admission Procedure

• Application Portal: ApplyTexas
• Application Fee: $45
• Requirements:
  • Transcripts
  • GPA and test scores (optional)
  • Essay (optional)

Highlights

The College of Criminal Justice at SHSU is one of the most prestigious in the nation. Its affordable fees and hands-on learning environment make it an excellent choice for many students.

Conclusion

Texas stands as a beacon of opportunity for students worldwide. Whether you seek the prestige of Rice and UT Austin, the community of Texas A&M, or the affordability of public universities like UNT or Texas State, every college in Texas offers something unique.

The state’s booming industries — technology, energy, healthcare, and business — create unmatched career pathways for graduates. Combine that with southern hospitality, low living costs, and world-class education, and you get one of the best study destinations in the United States.

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