New York City, sometimes referred to as ‘The Big Apple’, stands as an iconic global hub for education, business and industry. The city is renowned for its ‘never sleeps’ attitude, and is home to a number of esteemed universities and colleges.
NYC’s diverse population are spread throughout the city, from the alleys of Brooklyn to the vibrant streets of Harlem, and are ready to welcome international students with familiarity and warmth. The city is a mecca for art, theatre and music enthusiasts, with landmarks like Broadway and the Metropolitan Museum of Art offering fascinating experiences.
Nestled between its towering skyscrapers are serene spots like Central Park, providing peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of such a big city. For international students, New York City is more than just a study destination; it’s a place of endless discovery, vast professional opportunities, and an introduction to a melting pot of cultures and ideas.
Columbia University, which is located in Morningside Heights, is an Ivy League college that boasts academic excellence and groundbreaking research. With its rich history and commitment to global outreach, Columbia offers great academic programs that attract students and leaders from all over the world. International students will benefit from its rigorous studies, vibrant campus culture, and immersion in the heart of the city.
New York University (NYU), located in the centre of Manhattan, epitomises urban academia. Offering a wide range of programs, NYU immerses students in a vibrant, global community that reflects NYC’s diversity. Its Greenwich Village campus serves as a meeting point for culture, art and intellect. International students are attracted to its global campuses, renowned faculty and the unparalleled opportunities of New York City.
The New School, mainly located close to Washington Square Park, is a beacon of creativity, innovation and progressive thought. Renowned for its avant-garde approach, it offers programs in design, social sciences and the arts that challenge traditional thinking. It is popular with international students due to its diverse community, commitment to social justice and sustainability. As well as this, The New School prides itself on offering programs that combine theory with real world application.
Below are the top-ranked New York City universities for international students, with their ranks in two of the world’s most well-respected international university rankings, the QS 2025 University World rankings and the Times Higher Education 2025 Rankings.
For more information about rankings systems and methodologies see our University rankings explained guide.
| University | QS World Ranking 2025 | Times Higher Education Ranking 2025 |
| Columbia University | =34 | =18 |
| New York University (NYU) | 43 | 33 |
| Yeshiva University | =413 | – |
| City University of New York | 661-670 | – |
| The New School | 781-790 | 1,000-1,200 |
| Fordham University | 1,001-1,200 | – |
| The City College of New York | 1,201-1,400 | – |
New York City, a global powerhouse, often commands high tuition and living costs. International students may encounter annual tuition fees ranging from $30,000 to $60,000, depending on the university and program. Living in NYC, with its higher housing, food, and transportation costs, can see monthly expenses quickly add up. They city’s unparalleled cultural and professional opportunities make it an attractive destination.
New York City immerses international students in diverse experiences, from world class museums, global cuisines and Broadway shows. With its varied cultural landscape, everyone can find a sense of belonging. The extensive subway system allows for exploration, while its academic and professional hubs provide many opportunities. Life in NYC is a vibrant blend of learning, cultural enrichment and urban adventure.
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