Best 10 States in the U.S. for Studying a Bachelor's Degree in 2025

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Find an undergraduate degree that fits your interests in one of the numerous colleges in the U.S., and embark on an exciting life-changing journey. Studying in the United States is, by all means, fascinating, but some states are more popular than others in terms of higher education.

Considering academic offerings, cultural activities and job opportunities after graduation, here is a list of the most popular and famous states in America where you can pursue a Bachelor's degree, according to QS World University Rankings on students cities. 

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If you continue reading below, you will find details about each popular state and additional information about pursuing your college degree in each state. Read up on each state and find out whether it is a suitable location to pursue your Bachelor's degree.

1. Undergraduate studies in Massachusetts

Massachusetts is one of the most important states in the U.S. in terms of historical legacy, but also when it comes to education. Massachusetts's state capital, Boston, is known as the “Cradle of Liberty” - referring to the American Revolution and the independence of the United States.

Massachusetts has also been playing an important role in the American higher education, especially due to the fact that it is home to one of the most renowned universities in the States – Harvard University. In Massachusetts, you can apply to one of the 121 higher educational institutions.

Places that are worth seeing while in Massachusetts are: Cape Cod Beaches, Mayflower, Martha’s Vineyard, Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, Freedom Trail, John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum.

Top colleges in Massachusetts according to QS Rankings:

Here are a few recommendations of other great colleges in Massachusetts that you can apply to:

2. Undergraduate studies in New York

The state of New York, one of the most popular states for getting a higher education degree in the USA, is welcoming over 75,000 international students each year and over 25,000 Americans from different U.S. states.

In the state of New York, you can find more than one of the multiple Ivy League schools that you can enrol in. Apply for undergraduate or graduate degrees in: law, engineering, biomedicine, journalism, choreography, architecture, computer science and more.

With New York City as the heart of the state, you can enjoy a vibrant cultural scene and a thriving nightlife. Some of the notable attractions in New York include: the famous Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, the Rockefeller Centre, Times Square, Central Park, and the Radio City Music Hall in Manhattan.

Top colleges in New York according to QS Rankings (out of 60 colleges and universities in the state):

Here are a few recommendations of other great colleges in New York that you can apply to:

2. Undergraduate studies in California

California, nicknamed “The Golden State,” is the largest and most populous state in the U.S., with a rich economy, enough to be compared to the economies of the largest countries worldwide.

In terms of higher education, colleges and universities in California offer undergraduate degrees in almost any field you can imagine, such as agriculture, technology information, manufacturing, aerospace industry and more. Colleges in California offer diverse majors in these subjects.

Home to the famous Silicon Valley as well as Los Angeles, California is the ideal place for students who want to specialise in computer science and computer technology.

California is one of the most multicultural states in the United States, with a highly diverse and inclusive population, so as an international student, you will hardly feel a stranger. In California, you can visit numerous interesting places, such as: Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park, the Mojave Desert, Lake Tahoe or the Golden Gate Bridge.

Top colleges in California according to QS Rankings:

Here are a few recommendations of other great colleges in California that you can apply to:

harvard university campus.jpg

4. Undergraduate studies in Florida

Florida, also called the "Sunshine State", is one of the most popular states for international students in the United States. A big part of the popularity of this state may be the fact that universities in Florida charge some of the lowest tuitions of all the states in the U.S.

The state of Florida gathers over 120 universities and colleges that provide a wide range of study programs and degrees. For your undergraduate and graduate major, you can choose fields like: law, business, fine arts, hospitality, agriculture and more.

In Florida, you can enjoy an active nightlife, walk along the beaches of Miami, visit the Everglades National Park, or taste delicious meals in Fort Lauderdale, known to have some of the best restaurants in the state.

Top colleges in Florida according to QS Rankings:

Here are a few recommendations of other great colleges in Florida that you can apply to:

5. Undergraduate studies in Illinois

Illinois is the 5th most populous state in the U.S. and welcomes around 25,000 foreign students from over forty countries each year. In Illinois, you will experience a multicultural diversity, both on the college grounds and throughout the cities as well.

Universities from Illinois offer a wide range of fields, so you can choose from popular majors like: engineering, finance, communications, liberal arts, political science, nursing, and much more.

Even if you don’t choose Chicago as your study abroad destination, while in Illinois, you should definitely organise a trip to this city. Chicago is probably the most famous city in the U.S. due to its extensive entertaining scene, but a lot of sports events take place here also (baseball, basketball matches etc.).

Check out remarkable sites, like: Chicago History Museum, Lincoln Park, Ulysses S Grant Home State Historic Site, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.

Top colleges in Illinois according to QS Rankings:

Here are a few recommendations of other great colleges in Illinois that you can apply to:

6. Undergraduate studies in Texas

Texas covers over 100 universities that you can apply to, and as the state is a leader in energy, petrochemicals, computers, electronics, biomedical, aerospace, and agriculture industries, most universities include degree programs that are related to these fields.

Texans are known for their hospitality and friendliness so you can be sure that you will feel very welcomed here.

In terms of places worth visiting, Texas offers a lot more than desert landscapes. During your stay in Texas, you can check out Dinosaur Valley State Park, Fossil Rim Wildlife Refuge, Six Flags (world famous amusement park), Buffalo Gap Historic Village (an authentic pioneer village) and much more.

Top colleges in Texas according to QS Rankings:

Here are a few recommendations of other great colleges in Texas that you can apply to:

7. Undergraduate studies in Georgia

The state of Georgia encompasses over 100 higher educational institutions (public colleges, universities, technical colleges and private institutions of higher learning). The University of Georgia is the oldest university in the United States, with a vast research portfolio and important initiatives and accomplishments in the medical field.

Offerings of universities throughout the state of Georgia include majors in: accounting, marketing, computer information systems, psychology, film studies and more.

One of the greatest advantages of studying in Georgia is the low cost of living, compared to other U.S. states. If you’re looking for a more vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere, you would fit better in Atlanta city. Instead, if you want rather a quiet environment, choose Columbus or Augusta cities.

Have fun at the Georgia Aquarium, one of the world's largest aquariums, plan a visit at Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site or Booth Western Art Museum and wander around Forsyth Park, Jekyll Island or Callaway Gardens.

Top colleges in Georgia according to QS Rankings:

Here are a few recommendations of other great colleges in Georgia that you can apply to:

8. Undergraduate studies in Washington D.C.

Washington is an exciting place to study, both in terms of the academic offerings and the numerous internship possibilities while studying and also the job opportunities after graduation.

Washington covers for about forty public and private universities, four-year colleges and two-year community colleges and is one of the best places in the world for students who are interested in acquiring knowledge in fields like: aircraft manufacturing, computer software development, telecommunications, biotechnology and political science.

In Washington, you get the chance to see the iconic Washington State Capitol Building, and other interesting places: John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts, the Smithsonian Institution, National Gallery of Art.

If you are a sports fan, you will be pleased to stay in Washington state. Whether you are a fan of football, basketball, soccer, rugby, baseball, or ice hockey, in Washington, you can enjoy plenty of sports events. You can also enjoy the nearby mountains and engage in hiking, camping, skiing or even horseback riding.

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Top colleges in Washington D.C. according to QS Rankings:

Here is another recommendation of a great university in Washington D.C. that you can apply to:

9. Undergraduate studies in Oregon

Foreign students from countries like Germany, UK, Ireland, Norway, Italy, come to study in Oregon, and their number has been continually increasing over the last years.

In Oregon, you can choose from public universities, public community colleges, private and independent colleges and universities and specialise in subject areas, like: agricultural sciences, business, earth sciences, engineering, forestry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine.

Have lovely walks, hikes at Crater Lake National Park, Cannon Beach, Oregon Caves National Monument, or visit Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, among many other places.

Top colleges in Oregon according to QS Rankings:

10. Undergraduate studies in Colorado

Colorado welcomes over 7,000 international students each year and everywhere you choose to stay in this state, you can perfectly combine a friendly and multicultural atmosphere with excellent academic study programs.

If you plan to study business or engineering, the University of Denver stands apart for its undergraduate degree programs and in all other universities from Colorado, you can specialize in numerous field options, from international affairs, environmental studies to veterinary medicine or construction management.

Visit emblematic sites, like: Rocky Mountain National Park, Pike National Forest, Black Canyon, Denver Art Museum, Garden of the Gods.

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Top colleges in Colorado according to QS Rankings:

Want to study in the U.S.? Don't forget about the American student visa!

If you are an international student you will need a visa to study in the U.S. Visa requirements depend on your nationality so be sure to check them. Some of the most common requirements include:

  • completing the online application form
  • paying the application fee
  • personal passport and photo(s)
  • academic transcript

If you want to enjoy the benefits of American education from the comfort of your home, check out some of the universities offering online Bachelors:

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