I’m an incoming international student and trying to decide where to study. Cost of living, job opportunities, and visa support are important factors for me. Some people say Texas is great for affordability, while others recommend California for job prospects. What has been your experience? Which states provide the best overall experience for international students?
I’d mention California, Texas, and New York
Some other factors to consider might be racial diversity in the area and access to communities that come from the same region as you. These may not seem as important as the other factors you mentioned, but it will greatly affect your quality of life and the support you receive, all of which will impact how well you do academically and in your career path. Considering these factors, I’d say urban areas of California and New York are more friendly towards international students compared to most areas in Texas, but these places also generally have a higher cost-of-living. These are the states I have more knowledge of, maybe someone here will know a state that balances all these factors better. Excited for you!
I’m from Sao Paulo, Brazil. Most of brazilians goes to Florida and Boston.
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Maybe start by clarifying your priorities.
If cost is your main concern, Texas is a great choice. If job opportunities and immigration support matter more, California is hard to beat.
It also heavily depends on your field of work—states like New York (finance, media), Washington (tech, with lower taxes than California), and Illinois (strong job market in Chicago) offer a well-rounded balance.
I love Cali!!! but the living cost somehow is a bit high
wdym “best” state lol it’s super subjective