Top 10 Universities In New York

Did you know that New York has over 200 universities, from Ivy League institutions to affordable public colleges? Every year, thousands of students from around the world study in New York for its academic reputation, career opportunities, and global connections.

Some of the best universities in New York include New York University, and Cornell. Many students look for public universities in New York for international students or cheap universities in New York to manage costs. The cost of living in New York can be high, but scholarships and part-time jobs help.

Highlights:

• Ivy League and top-ranked universities
• Affordable public universities with good acceptance rates
• Strong job market and internship opportunities
• Diverse student community

New York has options for every student. Let’s go through the list of universities in New York, their rankings, and admission details!

Why Study in New York?

New York stands out as a top destination for students. Whether you're aiming for a prestigious Ivy League degree or an affordable public education, universities in New York for international students provide strong academic programs and real-world experience.

1. Top Universities, Strong Academics

New York has some of the best universities in the world. Columbia University in New York City, NYU, and Cornell lead in research, innovation, and academic excellence. Public universities in New York for international students like SUNY and CUNY offer quality education at a lower cost. Many programs focus on hands-on learning, helping students gain real-world experience before they graduate.

2. Diverse and Welcoming Community

New York is home to students from over 100 countries. Walk into any university, and you’ll hear different languages and meet people from all backgrounds. This diversity helps students build global networks, adapt to new cultures, and grow both personally and professionally.

3. Career and Internship Advantages

New York is a business hub. Wall Street, Silicon Alley, major media houses—every industry has a presence here. Universities connect students with top employers through internships and networking events. Part-time job opportunities also help with the cost of living in New York.

Top 10 Universities in New York

If you want a career in finance, engineering, or the arts, the top universities in New York provide strong academics and direct access to industry leaders.

1. Cornell University

Cornell University leads in research and hands-on learning. Founded in 1865, it combines classical education with real-world applications. The university dominates in engineering, business, agriculture, and technology, drawing students from around the world.

The SC Johnson College of Business ranks among the best in USA. The Cornell Tech campus in New York City connects students to startups and top technology firms. The Veterinary Medicine program ranks among the best globally. As one of the top universities in New York, Cornell continues to push innovation across multiple fields.

Campus Location:

• Main Campus: Ithaca, New York
• Cornell Tech: Roosevelt Island, New York City

Acceptance Rate & QS Ranking:

Category	Statistic
Acceptance Rate	8%
QS World Ranking 2025	#16

2. Columbia University

Columbia University dominates in business, law, journalism, and medical programs. Founded in 1754, it holds the title of the oldest university in New York and ranks among the hardest to enter.

Located in Manhattan, Columbia places students in the middle of finance, media, and research industries. The Columbia Business School ranks among the top MBA programs worldwide. The university has produced Nobel Prize winners, Pulitzer Prize recipients, and USA Presidents. As one of the top universities in New York, Columbia connects students to some of the world’s most competitive fields.

Campus Location:

• Main Campus: Morningside Heights, Manhattan, New York City

Acceptance Rate & QS Ranking:

Category	Statistic
Acceptance Rate	4%
QS World Ranking 2025	#34

3. New York University (NYU)

NYU stands as one of the largest private universities in New York, excelling in business, arts, and technology. Founded in 1831, it builds strong industry connections and maintains a global presence.

The Stern School of Business ranks among the best for finance and management. The Tisch School of the Arts attracts top talent in film, theater, and music. With global campuses in Abu Dhabi, Shanghai, and 11+ other locations, NYU offers one of the most international education experiences in USA. As one of the top universities in New York, NYU provides students with direct access to finance, media, and tech industries.

Campus Location:

• Main Campus: Greenwich Village, Manhattan, New York City

Acceptance Rate & QS Ranking:

Category	Statistic
Acceptance Rate	9%
QS World Ranking 2025	#43

4. University of Rochester

University of Rochester focuses on research, flexibility, and hands-on learning. Founded in 1850, it encourages students to customize their education with its open curriculum. Engineering, business, music, and healthcare programs attract students from all over.

The Eastman School of Music is one of the best in the world. The Hajim School of Engineering offers top-tier research opportunities. Rochester is one of the top universities in New York for students looking for innovation and interdisciplinary learning.

Campus Location:

• Main Campus: Rochester, New York

Acceptance Rate & QS Ranking:

Category	Statistic
Acceptance Rate	36%
QS World Ranking 2025	#236

5. Fordham University

Fordham University blends liberal arts, business, and law with a Jesuit education. Founded in 1841, it focuses on leadership, ethics, and real-world experience.

The Gabelli School of Business ranks among the best for finance and marketing. The Fordham Law School has strong ties to New York’s legal community. Located in the heart of New York City, Fordham is one of the top universities in New York for students looking for a mix of academic excellence and professional connections.

Campus Location:

• Lincoln Center Campus: Manhattan, New York City
• Rose Hill Campus: Bronx, New York City

Acceptance Rate & QS Ranking:

Category	Statistic
Acceptance Rate	59%
QS World Ranking 2025	#1001-1200

6. Yeshiva University

Yeshiva University combines secular and Jewish studies with strong professional programs. Founded in 1886, it is known for law, business, and health sciences.

The Cardozo School of Law ranks among the best law schools in New York, especially in dispute resolution and intellectual property law. The Sy Syms School of Business offers competitive finance and management degrees. As one of the top universities in New York, Yeshiva provides a strong academic foundation with an emphasis on leadership and ethics.

Campus Location:

• Main Campus: Manhattan, New York City

Acceptance Rate & QS Ranking:

Category	Statistic
Acceptance Rate	64%
QS World Ranking 2025	#=413

7. CUNY The City College of New York

CUNY The City College is one of the top universities in New York for affordable, high-quality education. Founded in 1847, it is the oldest of the City University of New York (CUNY) system and has produced several Nobel Prize winners.

Strong programs in engineering, architecture, education, and liberal arts attract students from diverse backgrounds. The Grove School of Engineering is among the best public engineering schools in USA. Located in Harlem, Manhattan, the campus offers direct access to internships and job opportunities in finance, media, and technology.

Campus Location:

• Main Campus: Harlem, Manhattan, New York City

Acceptance Rate & QS Ranking:

Category	Statistic
Acceptance Rate	61%
QS World Ranking 2025	#661-670

8. Stony Brook University

Stony Brook University is a leading public research institution and one of the top universities in New York for STEM programs. Established in 1957, it is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system and is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group of top-tier research institutions.

Stony Brook is best known for engineering, computer science, healthcare, and business. It partners with Brookhaven National Laboratory, providing students with cutting-edge research opportunities. The university also has one of the strongest pre-med and healthcare programs in New York. This makes it a great choice for students looking to enter the medical field.

Campus Location:

• Main Campus: Stony Brook, New York

Acceptance Rate & QS Ranking:

Category	Statistic
Acceptance Rate	49%
QS World Ranking 2025	#460

9. University at Buffalo

University at Buffalo, also part of the SUNY system, is one of the top universities in New York for research and professional programs. Founded in 1846, it is the largest public university in the state.

The university is well known for business, engineering, pharmacy, and law. Its School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences ranks among the best in USA. Buffalo is also a hub for research in artificial intelligence, data science, and robotics.

Campus Location:

• Main Campus: Buffalo, New York

Acceptance Rate & QS Ranking:

Category	Statistic
Acceptance Rate	69%
QS World Ranking 2025	#=466

10. Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT)

Rochester Institute of Technology is a technology-focused private university that excels in engineering, computing, business, and design. Established in 1829, it is one of the top universities in New York for students seeking a hands-on education with strong industry connections.

RIT is known for its co-op and internship programs, which give students real-world work experience before graduation. The Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences is a leader in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence research. The university also offers top programs in graphic design, photography, and industrial design, which makes it a great choice for students in creative fields.

Campus Location:

• Main Campus: Rochester, New York

Acceptance Rate & QS Ranking:

Category	Statistic
Acceptance Rate	71%
QS World Ranking 2025	#1001-1200

Admission Requirements and Application Process

Universities in New York look at your overall profile—GPA, test scores, extracurriculars, and essays. Some universities are highly selective, while others have more flexible acceptance rates. Knowing the admission requirements in New York universities early makes the process smoother.

What Do New York Universities Look For?

Every university has different standards, but here’s what most expect:

Requirement	Undergraduate Admissions	Postgraduate Admissions
GPA	3.0+ (higher for top schools)	3.2+ for competitive programs
Standardized Tests	SAT (1200+), ACT optional in many schools	GRE/GMAT (Varies by program)
English Proficiency	TOEFL (80+), IELTS (6.5+)	TOEFL (90+), IELTS (7.0+)
Letters of Rec	1-2 from teachers	2-3 from professors/employers
Personal Statement	Common App Essay or university-specific prompts	SOP explaining goals and experience
Extracurriculars	Recommended, especially for competitive schools	Research/work experience preferred
Application Fee	$50 - $100 (₹4,100 - ₹8,200)	$75 - $150 (₹6,200 - ₹12,400)

New York universities acceptance rates vary. Ivy League schools like Columbia University in New York City accept fewer than 7% of applicants, while public universities in New York for international students have a higher acceptance rate, often 40% or more.

Application Process

For Undergraduate Programs

• Pick Your Universities – Do your research. The best universities in New York are competitive, but there are plenty of good universities in New York with great programs.
• Check Requirements – Make sure your GPA, SAT/ACT scores, and language tests meet the minimum criteria.
• Prepare Your Documents – Academic transcripts, essays, and recommendation letters are key.
• Apply Online – Use the Common App or apply through university websites. Some cheap universities in New York and public colleges have lower fees.
• Track Deadlines – Applications usually open in August and close between December and January. Rolling admissions schools accept applications later.
• Wait for Decisions – Offers start rolling out by March or April. Some schools may request interviews.

For Postgraduate Programs

• Find the Right Program – Choose based on faculty, research opportunities, and career prospects.
• Check Deadlines – Fall intake deadlines usually range from December to March, while spring intake closes by October.
• Take Required Tests – GRE/GMAT may be required. TOEFL/IELTS is a must for non-native English speakers.
• Prepare SOP & LORs – A strong Statement of Purpose and 2-3 recommendation letters improve your chances.
• Submit Your Application – Upload all documents, pay fees, and check for interview requirements.
• Wait for Results – Admission decisions are usually out between March and May.

Getting into top universities in New York takes effort, but the right preparation makes a big difference. Start early, meet deadlines, and put your best application forward!

Documents Required for Admission

Applying to universities in New York? Get your documents right. 

Universities want to see who you are beyond academics. A missing or poorly prepared document can hurt your chances, even if your scores are good. 

Irrespective of whether you’re aiming for top universities in New York or looking for public universities in New York for international students, these are the must-have documents:

Document	Why It’s Important
Academic Transcripts	Proof of your grades. Universities need official, sealed copies from your school or college.
Letters of Recommendation	Usually 1-2 for undergrad, 2-3 for postgrad. Get them from teachers, professors, or employers who know you well.
Statement of Purpose (SOP)/Essay	This is your chance to explain why you want to study in New York and what makes you a good fit. A strong essay can make a big difference.
Resume/CV	Resume/CV is needed for most postgraduate programs. List your education, internships, research, and work experience. Keep it clear and to the point.
Proof of Extracurriculars/Work Experience	Universities like students who do more than just study. Sports, clubs, volunteer work, or internships can help.
English Proficiency Test Scores	TOEFL/IELTS required for non-native speakers. A must for universities in New York for international students.
Standardized Test Scores	SAT/ACT for undergrad, GRE/GMAT for postgrad. Higher scores improve your chances, especially at competitive schools like NYU in New York City.

Why Do These Matter?

• Strong transcripts and recommendations help. Universities get thousands of applications. A glowing recommendation or a solid GPA can make you stand out.
• A great SOP can be a game-changer. Admissions teams want students with clear goals. Why do you want to study in New York? What are your career plans? Write a compelling story, not just a generic essay.
• Work experience and extracurriculars add value. Schools want students who are active and engaged. If you’ve led a project, volunteered, or worked in your field, highlight it.

Planning to apply to good universities in New York or looking for a cheap university in New York? Get your documents sorted early. 

Standardized Tests Required

When applying to universities in New York, you might need to take standardized tests. Some schools require them, while others have test-optional policies. Understanding what’s expected helps you prepare better.

Tests for Undergraduate Admissions

Many universities still consider SAT or ACT scores, though some now make them optional. But if your GPA is average, a high SAT/ACT score can strengthen your application.

Top schools like Columbia University in New York City and NYU often expect strong scores, while some public universities in New York for international students may not require them.

Test	Score Range (Competitive Schools)	Score Range (Moderate Schools)
SAT	1400 – 1550	1100 – 1300
ACT	31 – 35	22 – 28

For example,

University	SAT Range	ACT Range	Test-Optional?
Columbia University in New York City	1480 – 1560	33 – 35	No
New York University (NYU)	1370 – 1540	31 – 34	No (but flexible)
Cornell University	1400 – 1540	32 – 35	Some programs
SUNY Stony Brook	1230 – 1440	26 – 31	Yes
City University of New York (CUNY) Schools	1050 – 1250	20 – 26	Yes

Tests for Postgraduate Admissions

Graduate programs often require GRE or GMAT, especially for business, engineering, and STEM fields. Some programs waive the requirement if you have work experience or a strong academic record.

Test	Required For	Competitive Scores
GRE	MS, Engineering, Social Sciences	315 – 330
GMAT	MBA, Business Programs	650 – 720

Always check specific admission requirements in New York universities before applying.

For example,

University	GRE Range (MS/Engineering)	GMAT Range (MBA)	Test Waivers?
Columbia University (MS, PhD)	320 – 335	700 – 750	No
NYU Stern School of Business (MBA)	310 – 330	680 – 730	No
Cornell University (Engineering, MBA)	315 – 330	650 – 720	Yes (case-by-case)
SUNY Buffalo (MS, MBA)	300 – 320	600 – 680	Yes
CUNY Baruch College (Business)	295 – 315	580 – 650	Yes

English Language Proficiency (ELP) Requirements

If English isn’t your first language, universities will ask for proof of proficiency. Most schools accept TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic scores. Some may waive the requirement if you studied in an English-speaking country or have strong academic records in English.

Each university sets its own minimum scores. Here’s what top schools expect:

University	TOEFL iBT	IELTS	PTE Academic
Columbia University in New York City	100+	7.5+	70+
New York University (NYU)	90 – 100	7.0+	65+
Cornell University	100+	7.0+	68+
SUNY Stony Brook	80 – 90	6.5+	58+
CUNY Schools	70 – 85	6.0 – 6.5	50 – 58

Some public universities in New York for international students have lower score requirements, while Ivy League schools expect higher scores.

How to Choose the Right University?

The process of picking a university in New York circles around finding the right fit for your academic goals, career plans, and budget. 

With so many universities in New York for international students, the right choice requires research and a clear understanding of what matters.

1. Look at Rankings, but Don’t Rely on Them

Some of the best universities in New York have a global reputation. Schools like Columbia University in New York City, NYU, and Cornell consistently rank among the top. But rankings only tell part of the story. Research faculty, job placement rates, and industry connections before deciding.

2. Check Acceptance Rates

Some universities are highly competitive, while others offer more flexible admission policies. A lower New York universities acceptance rate means stronger competition.

If your grades or test scores aren’t strong enough for Ivy League schools, public universities in New York for international students offer great alternatives.

3. Compare Tuition and Scholarships

New York may not be cheap for most people, but it has options for every budget. Cheap universities in New York, such as CUNY and SUNY schools, offer lower tuition than private institutions.

Many universities provide scholarships and financial aid to manage the cost of studying in New York. Scholarships can be merit-based, need-based, or program-specific. Before applying, check what funding options are available.

Scholarship Name	Offered By	Eligibility	Coverage
Tata Scholarship	Cornell University	Indian students admitted to Cornell for undergrad	Full tuition
NYU Wagner Merit Scholarship	New York University	High-achieving international students	Full/partial tuition
Columbia University International Student Scholarship	Columbia University	Merit-based for top academic performers	Partial tuition
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship	Inlaks Foundation	Indian students pursuing master's in select fields	Tuition + living costs

4. Look at Career and Internship Opportunities

New York is home to global businesses, media houses, and tech startups. Universities with strong career services and industry partnerships help students secure internships and jobs.

University	Strong Career Focus In
Columbia University & NYU	Finance, Business, Media
Cornell University	Engineering, Research, Agriculture
SUNY & CUNY Schools	Public Sector, Healthcare, Education

If landing a job after graduation is a priority, pick a university with a high employment rate and strong alumni network.

5. Consider Location and Lifestyle

New York City offers endless opportunities but comes with a higher cost of living. If you prefer a traditional campus experience, universities outside the city provide a quieter setting with lower expenses.

City	Estimated Monthly Expenses (USD)	Equivalent in INR
New York City	$2,500 – $3,500	₹2 – ₹3 lakh
Buffalo	$1,200 – $1,800	₹1 – ₹1.5 lakh
Albany	$1,000 – $1,500	₹80,000 – ₹1.2 lakh

Finding the right university depends on what you value most. 

• Want affordability? SUNY and CUNY schools are great options. 
• Looking for strong industry connections? NYU and Columbia have direct links to top employers. 
• Prefer a research-focused university? Cornell and Stony Brook offer strong programs.

Cost of Studying at Universities in New York

Thinking about studying in New York? Tuition fees vary based on whether you choose a public or private university. Living in New York City adds extra expenses, but some locations and universities in New York for international students offer more affordable options.

Understanding the cost of studying in New York helps in planning better.

1. Tuition Fees in New York

Public universities like SUNY and CUNY cost significantly less than private institutions like Columbia University in New York City or NYU. Here’s a breakdown of tuition fees:

University Type	Annual Tuition (USD)	Equivalent in INR
Private (Columbia, NYU, Cornell)	$40,000 – $60,000	₹33 – ₹50 lakh
Public (SUNY, CUNY)	$15,000 – $25,000	₹12 – ₹20 lakh
Community Colleges	$5,000 – $10,000	₹4 – ₹8 lakh

Tuition varies by course and university, but public universities in New York for international students remain a more affordable choice.

2. Cost of Living in New York

The cost of living in New York depends on where you stay. Living in New York City costs more than studying in places like Buffalo or Albany.

Expense	Average Cost Per Year (USD)	Equivalent in INR
Housing (On-Campus/Off-Campus)	$12,000 – $20,000	₹10 – ₹16 lakh
Food & Groceries	$3,000 – $6,000	₹2.5 – ₹5 lakh
Books & Supplies	$1,000 – $2,000	₹80,000 – ₹1.6 lakh
Health Insurance	$1,500 – $2,500	₹1.2 – ₹2 lakh

For students concerned about the living cost in New York for international students, choosing a public university outside NYC or sharing accommodation helps lower expenses.

3. What Affects the Cost?

• Where You Study: New York City has high rent and daily costs. Studying in Buffalo or Albany is cheaper.
• University Type: Public universities in New York for international students charge lower tuition than private universities.
• Scholarships & Financial Aid: Many universities offer funding that can significantly reduce the cost of studying in New York.

New York offers top education but at a price. If budget is a concern, look at cheap universities in New York, apply for scholarships, and consider part-time work to help with expenses.

Public Universities in New York

Want quality education without spending a fortune? Public universities in New York for international students offer strong programs at lower costs. Schools like SUNY and CUNY provide top courses in engineering, business, and healthcare while keeping tuition affordable. Acceptance rates are higher than private schools, giving more students a chance.

Tuition is significantly lower compared to private universities. Here’s what it looks like:

University	Annual Tuition (USD)	Equivalent in INR
SUNY Buffalo	$17,500 – $23,000	₹14.5 – ₹19 lakh
CUNY City College	$10,000 – $18,000	₹8 – ₹15 lakh

Public universities also offer internships, research opportunities, and networking events. If budget is a concern, they provide great education while keeping costs manageable.

Private Universities in New York

Private universities offer prestige, smaller class sizes, and direct industry connections. Schools like Columbia University in New York City and NYU rank among the best, attracting students from around the world. Getting in is tough—these schools have lower New York universities acceptance rates, so strong academics and test scores matter.

Tuition is higher, but many students get scholarships or financial aid. Here’s the cost breakdown:

University	Annual Tuition (USD)	Equivalent in INR
Columbia University	$60,000 – $65,000	₹50 – ₹54 lakh
NYU	$50,000 – $58,000	₹41 – ₹48 lakh

Private universities suit students aiming for top careers in finance, tech, or media. Graduates from these schools often land jobs at major global companies. If career growth and networking matter most, they’re worth considering.