The 10 Best Universities in New York: Our Top Picks!

New York, the city that never sleeps, is more than just a global hub of culture and business – it’s home to some of the best universities and colleges. Every year, around 100,000 international students come to the city to pursue their higher education. With their diverse academic programs, top-ranked institutions, and networking opportunities, the best universities in New York stand out for their dynamic education. We’ll now take you through the 12 best universities in New York.  

Why Study in New York?

There are numerous reasons why one should study in New York. The city offers more than just academic excellence, it also offers cultural diversity and professional exposure to students studying here. The proximity to global organizations, such as Amazon, Deloitte, IBM, and Google provides students with exceptional internship and networking opportunities. In the state’s urban centers, one can engage in cutting-edge research, international conferences, and professional environments. Beyond academics, New York’s multicultural landscape offers students a global perspective, with 800+ languages spoken in the region. Plus, the best universities in NYC attract international students from 200+ countries. Students moving to the city will enjoy world-class cultural institutions, from the best New York museums and theaters to diverse culinary scenes and lively neighborhoods. You will also find the best student housing in New York with access to the best public transportation in the US. Adding to this cultural landmarks is the happening nightlife of New York which is sure to give you a life-changing experience.

10 Best Universities in New York

With more than 1.7 million students pursuing higher education in the state and nearly 300 degree-granting institutions, New York provides an unparalleled academic landscape that attracts students from all across the globe. From the hallowed halls of Columbia University to excellent public universities like CUNY, the best NYC universities offer world-class courses, research opportunities, and unique learning experiences. Let’s explore the top picks for the 12 best universities in New York.

1. Columbia University

Location: 116th and Broadway, New York, NY 10027, United States
QS Ranking: #34
Acceptance Rate: 4% 
Type: Private
Tuition Fees: $71,170/year
Cost of Attendance: $93,417/year
Scholarships Offered: George W. Ellis Fellowship, Helen Lansdowne Resor Scholarship, & Federal Grants
Admission Requirements: IELTS, TOEFL, ACT or SAT
Notable Alumni: Barack Obama & Warren Buffett

Review: “Columbia was the best decision I ever made. It is an elite institution at the top of the education system.”

One of the oldest and best universities in New York, Columbia University was founded in 1754. Situated in the heart of New York City’s Morningside Heights area, the university offers a distinctive and rigorous learning environment for students. This best university in New York has 17 schools and four affiliate schools spread over four campuses and is home to over 35,872 students from 162+ countries. 

Campus
Spread across a stunning 36-acre urban campus, Columbia University, one of the best NYC universities, blends Gothic and neoclassical architecture with state-of-the-art facilities. It features the iconic Low Memorial Library with neoclassical design and the contemporary Lerner Hall student center. Students can be part of groundbreaking research projects at facilities, including the world-renowned Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory and other laboratories on campus. The beautiful Butler Library houses over 4 million volumes, offering extensive research collections and digital archives. 

Programs & Other Activities
Columbia University, one of the best universities in NYC offers 100+ academic programs across 16 schools and colleges, including Columbia Business School and College of Physicians and Surgeons. Especially popular are fields like journalism, law, engineering, and social sciences. Plus, one can be part of the 500+ student organizations, ranging from cultural clubs to academic societies. Whether you like theater, dance, or sports, there’s something for everyone. Studying at Columbia, one of the top universities in New York also opens the doors to internship opportunities with global corporations and media houses.  

Achievements
Recognized as one of the best Ivy League research universities, Columbia has consistently been ranked among the top global universities. It has received 101 Nobel laureates, 25 National Medals of Science, and numerous Pulitzer winners among its faculty and alumni.

2. New York University

Location: New York, NY 10012, United States
QS Ranking: #43
Acceptance Rate: 12%
Type: Private
Tuition Fees: $62,796/year
Cost of Attendance: $93,184/year
Scholarships Offered: Helen and Martin Kimmel Scholarship & Federal Pell Grant 
Admission Requirements: IELTS, TOEFL, & Internationally-recognized equivalents like IB Diploma
Notable Alumni: Lady Gaga & Jack Dorsey

Review: “As an NYU student, the experience is both exciting and challenging, shaped by the university's urban environment and global presence.”

Established in 1831, New York University (NYU) is one of the top universities in New York that has transformed from a small downtown college to a global academic powerhouse. Home to over 61,000 students, 5,094 faculty members, and 650,000+ alumni, this best university in New York is recognized as one of the most influential universities globally. 

Campus
New York University, one of the best universities in NYC, has three campuses in New York, Abu Dhabi, and Shanghai. Also, it operates 13 academic centers and research programs in over 25 countries. Unlike traditional universities, New York University is beautifully integrated into the urban landscape of Greenwich Village, with historic and modern buildings dispersed throughout Lower Manhattan. The Bobst Library has eight floors of research resources, collaborative spaces, and digital archives. Featuring 230+ research centers and institutes, NYU offers students exceptional interdisciplinary research and innovation opportunities. There’s also the Tandon School of Engineering’s MakerSpace and the Tisch School of the Arts’ advanced media laboratories on campus.

Programs & Other Activities
This best university in New York offers 230+ areas of study across 17 schools and colleges. Popular courses at NYU include arts, business, law, social sciences, and global studies. The Stern School of Business and Tisch School of the Arts are internationally recognized for their world-class programs. Besides studies, one can choose from 300+ student organizations, including cultural groups, academic societies, and community service clubs. Studying at NYU, the best university in New York will help you grow in all aspects of your life.  

Achievements
Talking about NYU’s, one of the best universities in New York, achievements, there are many. The university has won 5 Nobel Prizes, 5 Pulitzer Prizes, 4 Abel Prizes, and 16 MacArthur ‘Genius’ Fellows. 46 of the faculty members of NYU have been elected to the National Academy of Sciences and National Academy of Engineering.

3. Baruch College

Location: 55 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10010, United States
QS Ranking: #451
Acceptance Rate: 51%
Type: Public
Tuition Fees: $19,131/year
Cost of Attendance: $21,788/year
Scholarships Offered: Harold Geneen MBA Scholarship & Outside Scholarships
Admission Requirements: TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, transcripts, & mark sheets
Notable Alumni: Sandy Weill & Steven Green

Review: “CUNY Baruch College offers a vibrant and welcoming environment that fosters both academic and personal growth.”

A premier institution within the City University of New York (CUNY) system, Baruch is one of the best colleges in New York. Established in 1919, Baruch is situated in the Gramercy Park area of Manhattan. It has been consistently ranked among the nation’s top colleges by US News & World Report, Forbes, and Princeton Review. Home to 19,700+ students from over 155 countries, there are nearly 109 languages spoken on campus. 

Campus
Baruch’s campus is renowned for its modern, urban design. There’s the impressive Newman Vertical Campus, which is a 17-story building representing innovative urban design and it integrates classrooms, conference spaces, and student activity areas. The William and Anita Newman Library houses a 400-seat student computing lab, Subotnick Financial Services Center, and a conference center, along with extensive digital and print resources, and research collections.  

Programs & Other Activities
Baruch, one of the good colleges in New York, has become a leader in business education. Its Zicklin School of Business has been ranked as the largest and most prestigious in the nation. The school offers top-ranked MBA courses alongside undergraduate degrees in finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship. Here, you can choose from over 100 academic programs across arts and sciences, business, and public affairs. As for the extracurricular activities, there are 150+ student organizations, including the famous Entrepreneurship Club, Investment Club, and other cultural and academic clubs.  

Achievements
Baruch College has won several recognitions and awards. It has been ranked #1 for value in the nation by Wall Street Journal. Forbes has ranked it among the 25 colleges nationwide with the highest payoff. It has also won the Presidential Excellence Award and Weissman Excellence Award. 

4. Cornell University

Location: Ithaca, NY 14850, United States
QS Ranking: #16
Acceptance Rate: 8%
Type: Private
Tuition Fees: $68,380/year
Cost of Attendance: $92,150/year
Scholarships Offered: Cornell Endowed Scholarships & Cornell Grants
Admission Requirements: TOEFL, IELTS, resume, and good GPA
Notable Alumni: Bill Nye & Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Review: “Whether it's through study groups, faculty office hours, or campus resources, there's a strong network to help students succeed at Cornell.”

Next on our list of the best universities in New York is Cornell University, established in 1865 by state senators Andrew Dickson White and Ezra Cornell. Nestled in the picturesque city of Ithaca, the university believes that knowledge should be advanced through both theoretical and practical application. Cornell, the best university in New York, is home to around 16,128 undergraduate students, 10,665 graduate and professional students, and 2,950 faculty members.

Campus
Set against the backdrop of New York’s Finger Lakes region, Cornell’s beautiful 2,300-acre campus blends beauty with architectural magnificence. It has one of the largest academic libraries, housing over 8 million volumes and extensive digital resources. Other notable landmarks on the campus include the McGraw Tower, Lincoln Hall, Cornell Botanic Gardens, and the Cornell Tech campus on Roosevelt Island. Additionally, one gets access to world-renowned laboratories in agriculture, engineering, and life sciences at this best university in New York.

Programs & Other Activities
At Cornell, choose from over 4,000 programs across 14 colleges and schools with distinguished programs in agriculture, engineering, hotel management, and liberal arts. With its interdisciplinary approach, the university allows students to explore diverse academic interests. In addition, there are 1,000+ student organizations, including the Cornell Daily Sun, research clubs, cultural associations, and community service groups.  

Achievements
Cornell, one of the best universities in New York, has won 52 Nobel Laureates. Other awards that the university has won include the World Food Prize and the Cottrell Scholar Award. One of the best universities in New York, it has also been ranked consistently among the top universities for its academic rigor and research contributions. 

5. University of Rochester

Location: Rochester, NY, United States
QS Ranking: #236
Acceptance Rate: 38.9%
Type: Private
Tuition Fees: $2,050 per credit hour
Cost of Attendance: $16,146/year
Scholarships Offered: Alan and Jane Handler Scholarship & Ahora Scholarship
Admission Requirements: Transcripts, letter of recommendation, & essays
Notable Alumni: Steven Chu & Marvin Minsky

Review: “I have loved my experience attending the University of Rochester. The vast expanse of culture that exists both on and beyond the Campus has broadened my perspective.”

Home to 12,000+ students, 1,000+ faculty, and 30,000+ staff members, the University of Rochester is a private research university known for its focus on research and personalized education. It is also one of the best New York universities. Established in 1850, the university has a reputation for its innovative interdisciplinary research and student-centered approach to education. 

Campus
Situated by the Genesee River, the University of Rochester’s 154-acre campus features beautiful Gothic-style buildings and modern facilities. With its neo-Gothic design and expansive collections, the Rush Rhees Library serves as the centerpiece of academic resources. The Memorial Art Gallery has a collection of 1,000+ works spanning 50 centuries of world art. Then there’s the Hajim School of Engineering and Applied Sciences and the medical center showcases Rochester’s commitment to cutting-edge research and innovation. At the Laboratory for Laser Energetics, students can work on unique research projects.

Programs & Other Activities
You can pursue over 250 programs across disciplines, including optics, music, computer science, and medical research at this best university in New York. The university’s Eastman School of Music has consistently been ranked as one of the top music conservatories in the world. For the fun part, Rochester has 250+ student organizations, 23 varsity teams, and 900+ concerts happening on campus every year. No matter what you’re interested in, be it sports, arts, or community services, there’s something for everyone here.

Achievements
The University of Rochester, one of the best New York universities, has won numerous Nobel Prizes in physics and medicine, Pulitzer Prizes in poetry and music, Guggenheim Fellows, and MacArthur Fellows.

6. Hunter College

Location: 695 Park Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States
QS Ranking: #1201
Acceptance Rate: 47.9%
Type: Public
Tuition Fees: $18,600/year
Cost of Attendance: $33,716/year
Scholarships Offered: Gutman Transfer Scholarships & International Student Scholarships
Admission Requirements: Transcripts, GPA, essay, letter of recommendation, TOEFL, IELTS, & PTE
Notable Alumni: Gloria Steinem & Jennifer Connelly

Review: “I graduated from Hunter College, and my experience was truly transformative!”

In the heart of the city sits one of the top colleges in New York, Hunter College, founded in 1870. Home to over 23,000 students from across the globe, the college has been offering high-quality education since its inception. 

Campus
With a modern urban design, this best university in New York features historic buildings like the Roosevelt House Public Institute. At Hunter, one of the good colleges in NYC, students get access to many state-of-the-art facilities like advanced science laboratories, art studios, and technology-enhanced classrooms. The Hunter College Library offers extensive digital and print resources. Plus, there’s the Aaron Davis Hall which conducts several performing arts, cultural events, and student performances throughout the year.

Programs & Other Activities
Renowned for its programs in sciences, education, liberal arts, and medicine, Hunter College provides 170+ undergraduate and graduate programs. It also has 100+ student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and sports clubs. Plus, Hunter College’s location provides students with good internship opportunities with leading companies, museums, and institutions.

Achievements
The college has been ranked #3 for social mobility among Regional universities North by US News & World Report. It has also been ranked #5 for financial aid by Princeton Review. It has also won prizes, including the Dorothy Belle Pollack Prize, the Ernst Reiss Prize, and the David Bliss Prize.    

7. Fordham University

Location: Bronx, NY 10458, United States
QS Ranking: #1001
Acceptance Rate: 54.1%
Type: Private
Tuition Fees: $62,990/year
Cost of Attendance: $85,290/year
Scholarships Offered: Restricted Scholarships, Athletic Awards, & Outside Aid Policy
Admission Requirements: SAT, ACT, transcripts, essays, letter of recommendation, TOEFL, & IELTS
Notable Alumni: Denzel Washington & Janet Yellen

Review: “Fordham is just the right place to be if you want to get the best out of your graduate experience.”

One of the best universities in New York for international students, Fordham is a private Jesuit research university established in 1841. It comprises more than 17,000 students from across the world, 200,000+ alumni, and 747 full-time instructors. Rooted in the Jesuit tradition, Fordham, one of the best NYC universities, focuses on comprehensive education and holistic student development.

Campus
Fordham has campuses in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Westchester, each offering its unique charm. The Rose Hill campus, with its Gothic Revival architecture and tree-lined walkways, provides a very serene environment. The iconic Hughes Hall and Keating Hall represent the university’s historical legacy. The Walsh and Quinn Library offer extensive research resources, digital collections, and collaborative study spaces.

Programs & Other Activities
At Fordham, choose from over 170 academic programs across fields, including arts and sciences, business, law, and professional studies. Particularly renowned are the Gabelli School of Business and the School of Law at this best university in New York. Fordham also features 200+ student clubs and organizations, including community service groups and performance ensembles, which you can be a part of outside the classroom.     

Achievements
Fordham, one of the top universities in New York, has been consistently ranked in the top 50 national universities by US News & World Report. It has even received research grants from the National Science Foundation and the US Department of Education. 

8. Pace University

Location: One Pace Plaza, New York, NY 10038, United States
QS Ranking: #161 
Acceptance Rate: 77%
Type: Private
Tuition Fees: $51,383/year
Cost of Attendance: $78,906/year
Scholarships Offered: Merit scholarships & Pace Incentive Award
Admission Requirements: Official transcripts, TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, letter of recommendation, & essays
Notable Alumni: David Letterman & James Gandolfini

Review: “Pace University in NYC offers a vibrant blend of academic rigor and urban excitement that truly enhances the college experience.”

Established in 1906, Pace is also one of the best universities in New York with campuses in NY and Westchester County. With a mission to offer a combination of knowledge, real-world experiences, and a rigorous liberal arts curriculum to students, the university provides education to 14,092+ students. 22% of them comprise international students representing 108 countries. 

Campus
Featuring modern facilities integrated into the urban landscape, Pace University offers a more traditional academic environment. The campus spans multiple buildings, including the One Place Plaza, Bianco Hall, and 41 Park Row Building. Access thousands of digital and print resources at the Pace Library. Get exceptional education with hands-on learning with tech-enhanced classrooms, advanced computer laboratories, and collaborative learning spaces. This best university in New York also features modern dining halls, recreational areas, and quiet study zones. Plus, Pace’s central location gives you access to attractions like the Brooklyn Bridge, City Hall Park, and Wall Street.

Programs & Other Activities
Pace offers 135 undergraduate degree programs and 89 graduate degree programs. You can choose from various subjects, including arts, science, business, education, and medicine. And, did you know that 99% of first-year students receive financial aid at Pace? As for employment, the university offers 90% of undergraduate post-graduation job placement. With 100+ student organizations, you will find something that interests you. Also, the university’s varsity teams comprise 6 men’s teams and 8 women’s teams. 

Achievements
This best university in New York has been honored by national rankings, including recognition in the US News & World Report’s top-tier lists for regional universities. The Lubin School of Business has received accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

9. Syracuse University

Location: 900 S Crouse Ave, Syracuse, NY 13244, United States
QS Ranking: #801 
Acceptance Rate: 51.8%
Type: Private
Tuition Fees: $63,710/year
Cost of Attendance: $91,067/year
Scholarships Offered: Academic Merit, AmeriCorps Scholarships, & Athletic Grants
Admission Requirements: TOEFL, IELTS, & PTE
Notable Alumni: Joe Biden & Shirley Chisholm

Review: “My experience at Syracuse University has been both enriching and transformative. The campus is vibrant, with a strong sense of community, and offers a diverse range of academic programs that are both rigorous and engaging.”

Next on our list of the best universities in New York is Syracuse University. Established in 1870, Syracuse is renowned for its comprehensive academic programs and strong research capabilities. The university houses more than 22,000 students from across the world, 2,100+ faculty members, and 5,300 staff members. 

Campus
Spanning 900 acres, Syracuse University features a mix of historic and modern architectural styles. The Maxwell Hall stands out with its unique Romanesque Revival style, while modern structures like the Peter Graham Scholarly Commons showcase the university’s commitment to creating innovative learning environments. Featuring multiple libraries, Syracuse offers extensive study materials and digital collections.

Programs & Other Activities
At Syracuse, one of the best New York universities, choose from 200+ majors, 100+ minors, and 200 advanced degree programs across 13 academic units, including communications, engineering, and performing arts. You also get to be part of over 300 student organizations at Syracuse, one of the good universities in New York.

10. University at Buffalo

Location: 190 Founders Prom, Getzville, NY 14068, United States
QS Ranking: #466
Acceptance Rate: 69%
Type: Public
Tuition Fees: $27,670/year
Cost of Attendance: $55,364/year
Scholarships Offered: Flagship Scholarships & Athletic Scholarships
Admission Requirements: GRE, GMAT, IELTS, TOEFL, letter of recommendation, & essays
Notable Alumni: Terry Gross & Wolf Blitzer
Review: “The University at Buffalo is a top-tier public institution that provides students with a high-quality education, extensive research opportunities, and a vibrant campus life.”

The University at Buffalo, founded in 1846, is also one of the best universities in New York. It is known for its interdisciplinary research and comprehensive academic courses. The University at Buffalo has over 20,359 undergraduate students and 11,544 graduate students from over 99 countries. 

Campus
Spanning 1,170 acres, the university houses modern research facilities, advanced laboratories, and comprehensive learning spaces. One gets access to 11 libraries featuring 4 million+ print volumes. This best university in New York also has 18 residence halls and apartment complexes housing around 7,200 students. You will also get access to state-of-the-art research centers in fields like artificial intelligence, medical sciences, and engineering. 

Programs & Other Activities
With its 13 schools and colleges, the university offers 700+ study abroad programs and 500+ degree programs, including education, engineering, dental medicine, law, management, and arts and sciences. As for the fun part, the University at Buffalo, one of the good universities in New York, has 450+ student clubs, 16 Division I athletic programs, 5 fitness centers, and 9 theaters/performance venues. There’s also 1 fully equipped eSports arena, 3 art galleries, and 20 bikeshare hubs.

Achievements
The University at Buffalo, one of the best universities in New York for international students, has achieved many good rankings. It has been ranked #36 among public universities in the US by US News & World Report. It has gotten the #1 position in the US for good health and well-being by Times Higher Ed Impact. 

How to Apply to the Best Universities in New York?

Applying to the top universities in New York requires more than just good grades, it also requires a holistic approach that showcases your unique potential, intellectual curiosity, and capacity for innovation. The admission requirements vary depending on the university you’re applying to. However, there are certain generic admission requirements that you must fulfil to apply to the best universities in New York. These include:

1. Valid ID/passport
2. Valid US student visa
3. Academic transcripts
4. High school diploma/Bachelor’s degree
5. Standardized tests like SAT, ACT, or GRE
6. English proficiency tests
7. Letter of recommendation
8. Personal essay
9. Proof of financial need
10. Proof of paid application fee or a fee waiver

The best universities in New York are committed to academic excellence, innovation, and diversity. From the historic halls of Columbia University to the research expertise of Cornell University, these best universities in NYC nurture future leaders, innovators, and changemakers. As the educational landscape evolves, these best New York universities keep preparing students to have great careers and make meaningful contributions to society. And while you’re in the city, don’t forget to explore the things to do in New York.