8 Best Universities In Portland For International Students 2025

Portland is surely one of the places you should be considering if you’re looking to study in United States. This location has a lot to offer for international students, including world-class universities and exciting student experiences.

Out of 8 universities in Portland, Oregon Health and Science University and Portland State University are the top-performing schools in Portland. This list covers both public and private institutions in Portland.

In this article, we’ve compiled the best universities in Portland, Oregon. We based our rankings on academic reputations from reputable sources and the number of international students. By doing this, you’ll have an efficient way of comparing your target universities and choose your host university in Portland, Oregon.

Rank University Country Type
1 Oregon Health and Science University United States Public
2 Portland State University United States Public
3 Reed College United States Private
4 Lewis and Clark College United States Private
5 University of Portland United States Private
6 University of Western States United States Private
7 Warner Pacific University United States Private
8 Pacific Northwest College of Art United States Private

How do I get admission to the best universities in Portland?

Applying to the universities in Portland involves submitting requirements and following specific admissions procedures set by your chosen university. The requirements often include a student visa, application packages, and language scores. Check out our guide for international students who want to study in Portland to learn more about applying for admission in this country’s universities!

How much are the tuition fees at the best universities in Portland?

Tuition fees at Portland’s universities can vary depending on which university, degree, and program you will be enrolling in. Generally, tuition fees for the bachelor’s level range from 18,400 USD to 64,500 USD , while tuition fees for the master’s level range from 6,750 USD to 65,600 USD. If you are interested, check out the affordable universities in Portland!

As we cover the best universities in Portland for international students, feel free to check out the university’s information on Admission, Tuition, Courses, and Language Requirements by looking at the individual university pages.

Top Universities in Portland for International Students

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#81 in United States
#93 in North America
#262 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 4,726

Oregon Health and Science University offers comprehensive training in the health sciences field. It is the only public academic health center in Oregon, which is why the competitiveness in admission is very high. The university does not only offer academic programs but also hosts outreach services to contribute to society and optimize the students’ research findings.

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#206 in United States
#234 in North America
#738 in World
Percentage of International Students
6%
Total Number of students - 23,177
International Number of students - 1,391

Portland State University is one of the most innovative universities in the country. The university is best known for its science and technology courses due to its advanced equipment and training centers. Portland State University also has a vast international connection, enabling students to participate in exchange programs and research collaborations.

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#335 in United States
#376 in North America
#1143 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 1,400

Reed College is a leading private college in the country and is best known for its mandatory first-year humanities program. It has gained international recognition due to its high percentage of graduates who proceed to earn doctorate degrees. This milestone signifies that the institution offers a one-of-a-kind and lifelong academic discipline and training.

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#381 in United States
#428 in North America
#1278 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 3,509

Lewis and Clark College aims to produce world-class graduates who will become future leaders of society. Students at Lewis and Clark experience academic learning with an interdisciplinary approach and are constantly exposed to different community engagement activities. The institution is also strongly committed to sustainable practices on-campus.

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#515 in United States
#577 in North America
#1727 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 4,205

The University of Portland is a popular institution for international students with a scenic view that overlooks the Willamette River. Beyond its pleasing environment, it also provides a competitive educational curriculum that will truly challenge the skills and abilities of the students. The university seeks to continue its legacy as one of the top schools in Oregon.

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#1362 in United States
#1485 in North America
#4494 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 915

The University of Western States delivers a world-class, integrated healthcare education and provides an evidence-based strategy for health and fitness. Its graduates offer high-quality health care based on science, the professional’s skill and knowledge, and the patient’s or client’s selections and experiences.UWS’s mission is to advance the science and art of integrated health care through excellence in education and patient respect.

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#1389 in United States
#1514 in North America
#4616 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 863

Warner Pacific University is a Private Christian liberal arts college first founded as the Pacific Bible College in 1937. It is located in Portland, Oregon in the United States where it houses about 870 students in a recent data report. There are over 50 undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs offered by the school. Career services are available to students who want knowledge on employment opportunities, and social clubs, as well as events, exist to liven up student life. With a diverse, inclusive, and equitable student community, Warner Pacific University has laid its groundwork for having one of the most welcoming learning environments.

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#1462 in United States
#1602 in North America
#5210 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 647

Pacific Northwest College of Art (PNCA) has been educating creative students since 1909. Over the years, this private institution has become one of Oregon’s leading art and design schools. In 2021, it officially merged with Willamette University and will offer programs on its PNCA and Willamette campuses. This amalgamation of two schools will provide students with more comprehensive educational programs and high standards of teaching and research.

We know that choosing your dream school in Portland not an easy task. After all, you need to consider other factors like the cost of your education, school background, and population, as it can be overwhelming on your part.

So, to help you out further in weighing your school options for studying in Portland, make sure to visit our list of the best public and private universities in Portland! These articles will surely help you in deciding your next study destination!