10 Best Universities In Rhode Island For International Students 2025

Rhode Island 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. With more than 10 universities and colleges in Rhode Island, you’ll surely have a wide range of choices.

Out of 10 universities in Rhode Island, Brown University and University of Rhode Island are the top-performing schools in Rhode Island. This list covers both public and private institutions in Rhode Island.

To help you narrow down your school options, we’ve compiled the best universities in 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 Rhode Island.

How do I get admission to the best universities in Rhode Island?

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

How much are the tuition fees at the best universities in Rhode Island?

Tuition fees at Rhode Island’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 Rhode Island!

As we cover the best universities in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island for International Students

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.

The University of Rhode Island, a flagship university of Rhode Island, is a research-intensive institution. It has campuses in Kingston, Downtown Providence, Jewelry District, Narragansett, and West Greenwich. Many opportunities await tertiary students of all levels as the university offers hundreds of majors, graduate programs, international degrees, and minor courses.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Previously known as Bryant College, Bryant University stands tall and proud among the leading universities in the northeastern region of the United States. It offers one of the best business programs in the country. Bryant University produces competent graduates, with 99% landing full-time roles right after graduation.

Roger Williams University was initially established as a Junior College that was eventually awarded university status in 1992. Over the years, the university has grown to offer a complete tertiary education, including a College of Law and other University College programs. Its students are given the opportunity to experience the real-world processes of life through internships and apprenticeships, completing over a hundred service hours before graduation.

Salve Regina University is a private Catholic liberal arts university, founded in 1934 by a religious institution named Sister of Mercy. The university offers over 60 undergraduate and graduate programs and provides its students with a quality of life, and education through great infrastructure that exploits the sea-side view available in Rhode Island. Different scholarships and grants for both international and local students are available for both undergraduate and graduate programs. While bound by its religious foundations, Salve Regina University remains an educational institution that gives freedom of thinking and quality learning to its constituents.

New England Institute of Technology is a private university in East Greenwich, Rhode Island. Plumbing and heating ventilation, architectural design, occupational therapy, veterinary technology, and software engineering are among the technical programs available. Students at New England Tech will receive hands-on education and professional skill development to help them advance in their careers.