5 Best Universities In Providence For International Students 2025

Providence 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 5 universities in Providence, Brown University and Providence College are the top-performing schools in Providence.

In this article, we’ve compiled the best universities in Providence, Rhode Island. 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 Providence, Rhode Island.

Rank University Country Type
1 Brown University United States Private
2 Providence College United States Private
3 Johnson and Wales University United States Private
4 Rhode Island College United States Public
5 Rhode Island School of Design United States Private

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

Applying to the universities in Providence 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 Providence to learn more about applying for admission in this country’s universities!

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

Tuition fees at Providence’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 25,100 USD to 62,700 USD , while tuition fees for the master’s level range from 7,500 USD to 75,500 USD. If you are interested, check out the affordable universities in Providence!

As we cover the best universities in Providence 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 Providence for International Students

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#36 in United States
#42 in North America
#83 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 10,257

Brown University is one of the renowned private institutions in the US. As an ivy league member, this elite university has a legacy of transforming competent students into experts and distinguished professionals. In fact, it is the home of several prominent figures and celebrated personalities. The university champions in all academic aspects, including academic excellence, innovative and top-rated multidisciplinary programs, and high employability rate, to name a few. With its rich history and continuing prominence, the university will remain one of the leading institutions that strive for excellence.

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#270 in United States
#302 in North America
#928 in World
Percentage of International Students
2%
Total Number of students - 4,824
International Number of students - 100

Located in the capital city of Rhode Island, Providence College offers over 80 undergraduate and graduate programs in its four schools. Since this is a Catholic university, it has different religious degrees, like Theology or Biblical Studies, and its spiritual character is reflected in the program’s curriculum. This is done through a set of mandatory courses that must be taken during the first two years of all bachelor’s programs and involve topics such as philosophy, social science, and theology. It also has a very active student body with more than 100 student groups and dozens of sports teams.

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#324 in United States
#364 in North America
#1109 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 7,357

Johnson and Wales University was originally a business school when it was established in 1914 in Providence, Rhode Island. Over the years, the university added more degree programs in different fields such as communication, engineering, education, and hospitality. Programs at the university are designed to expose students to real-life experiences and industry simulations to make them ready for their future careers.

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#500 in United States
#561 in North America
#1683 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 7,771

Founded in 1854 in the city of Providence, Rhode Island College is the second-oldest college in the state. It currently offers over 100 study programs in different areas of arts and sciences, education, nursing, social work, and business. Students at the university enjoy its close proximity to the city and several beautiful beaches.

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#541 in United States
#609 in North America
#1835 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 2,576

The Rhode Island School of Design is the leading school for arts and design in the United States. It is affiliated with Brown University and grants degrees to undergraduates and graduates. RISD is also known for its campus museum, one of the largest museums in the country, which houses the work of students along with ancient and contemporary art pieces.

We know that choosing your dream school in Providence 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 Providence, make sure to visit our list of the best private universities in Providence! These articles will surely help you in deciding your next study destination!