Explore Texas Colleges
Explore 137 colleges and universities in Texas, including 60 public institutions and 77 private schools. Compare tuition costs, acceptance rates, and find your perfect fit.
137
Colleges
60
Public
77
Private
Avg Acceptance Rate
Average acceptance rate for Texas colleges
Avg Net Price
After financial aid
Avg In-State Tuition
For public universities
Texas has several major public university systems that serve students across the state. Understanding these systems can help you find the right fit.
The Texas A&M System includes 11 universities known for engineering, agriculture, and military tradition, with a strong alumni network.
Texas is a diverse state with distinct college regions. Explore schools by area to find the campus environment that fits your lifestyle.
See how Texas colleges compare head-to-head on acceptance rates, costs, and outcomes.
Browse 137 colleges in Texas, sorted by ranking and selectivity.
#3 in Best Value
College Station, TX
Acceptance
57%
Total Cost
$21,823
SAT
1150–1400
Gig'em Aggies: A colossal Texas powerhouse where unbreakable traditions and the world's largest student-run military corps forge engineers, leaders, and lifelong networkers.
#4 in Communications
Austin, TX
Acceptance
27%
Total Cost
$26,526
SAT
1250–1510
Burnt-orange behemoth fueling ambitious minds amid Austin's live music throb and tech surge.
#6 in Biology
Houston, TX
Acceptance
8%
Total Cost
$72,200
SAT
1510–1570
Rice delivers intimate residential college life like Yale's, but sets you loose in Houston's explosive energy hub.
#9 in Communications
Dallas, TX
Acceptance
63%
Total Cost
$74,076
SAT
1340–1490
Polish your Dallas dreams at SMU, where Southern charm fuels ambitious careers amid live oaks and skyline views.
#11 in Nursing
Waco, TX
Acceptance
51%
Total Cost
$67,052
SAT
1200–1400
Baylor wraps you in unapologetic Southern Baptist warmth, where faith fuels football frenzies and future leaders in a quirky Texas river town.
#15 in Communications
Fort Worth, TX
Acceptance
44%
Total Cost
$70,590
SAT
1140–1350
TCU turns Fort Worth's cowboy grit and Big 12 energy into a spirited launchpad where faith-curious Horned Frogs chase big dreams with Southern swagger.
#32 in Political Science
Houston, TX
Acceptance
74%
Total Cost
$19,971
SAT
1160–1340
Houston's sprawling public research engine, channeling urban energy into engineering, business, and pharmacy prowess.
#36 in Nursing
Houston, TX
Acceptance
90%
Total Cost
$42,564
SAT
980–1210
Houston's Catholic university blending Thomistic philosophy with urban energy in artsy Montrose.
#42 in Computer Science
Richardson, TX
Acceptance
65%
Total Cost
$28,994
SAT
1160–1410
Youthful UT System newcomer founded by Dallas tech pioneers, powering engineering and business innovation in the suburban Telecom Corridor.
#44 in Liberal Arts
San Antonio, TX
Acceptance
26%
Total Cost
$63,398
SAT
1340–1500
Hilltop liberal arts haven in San Antonio where small classes meet city skyline views and undergrad research thrives.
Rice University is the highest-ranked university in Texas, ranked #18 nationally. The state is home to several prestigious institutions offering world-class education across various fields.
The average tuition at Texas colleges varies by institution type. For public universities, the average in-state tuition is $15,361 per year. Out-of-state students pay an average of $19,743. After financial aid, the average net price is $16,678.
The average acceptance rate for colleges in Texas is 82%. However, acceptance rates vary significantly by institution, with some highly selective universities accepting less than 10% of applicants while others maintain open enrollment policies.
Texas has several major public university systems: University of Texas System (UT), Texas A&M University System (TAMU). Together, these systems include 19 campuses serving hundreds of thousands of students. The UT System includes 8 universities and 6 health institutions, anchored by the flagship UT Austin, one of the nation's top public research universities.
The University of Texas System (UT) has 8 campuses and the ut system includes 8 universities and 6 health institutions, anchored by the flagship ut austin, one of the nation's top public research universities. The Texas A&M University System (TAMU) has 11 campuses and the texas a&m system includes 11 universities known for engineering, agriculture, and military tradition, with a strong alumni network.
To qualify for in-state tuition at Texas public universities, you typically need to establish residency for at least 12 months before enrolling. Requirements usually include living in the state, having a Texas driver's license, registering to vote in the state, and demonstrating intent to remain. Specific requirements vary by institution, so check with your chosen school's admissions office.
Texas is located in the Southwest region of the United States. The Southwest features rapidly growing universities, diverse student populations, and strong programs in engineering, energy, and healthcare.
Texas offers a range of affordable college options. The average net price after financial aid is $16,678. Public universities in Texas provide particularly strong value for in-state residents, with lower tuition rates and access to state financial aid programs.