Los Angeles, also commonly referred to as LA, is a city located in Southern California, and is renowned for its cultural diversity and historic entertainment industry. It is also an educational hub, and is home to several prestigious universities and colleges that can provide a top-tier academic experience.
The city’s rich cultural heritage means that students from all over the world will be able to find a slice of home in the various vibrant neighbourhoods and international cuisines. As well as this, LA’s position as the epicentre of the entertainment world offers unparalleled opportunities for arts enthusiasts.
From the iconic Hollywood district to the sun-drenched beaches of Santa Monica, the city is a blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. For international students, Los Angeles promises not only a great higher education environment, but also fantastic networking opportunities and a lively urban experience.
The University of California, Los Angeles, which is more commonly known as UCLA, is a global leader in research, arts, and athletics. Its main campus is located in the Westwood neighbourhood, and offers a wide range of highly regarded programs across various disciplines. International students can benefit from UCLA’s interdisciplinary approach, world renowned faculty and vast employment opportunities in the city.
The University of Southern California (USC) is located in the heart of Los Angeles, and is a hub for innovation and interdisciplinary learning. Renowned for its programs in arts, engineering, and business, USC fosters a vibrant and diverse community. International students are captivated by by its global alumni networks, industry connections, and the cultural richness of its setting. Offering both academic rigour and experiential opportunities, USC serves as a launching point for for students who are eager to make contributions in their fields on a global scale.
California State University – Los Angeles (Cal State LA) offers a comprehensive education with a focus on inclusivity and community engagement. Located close to downtown LA, it provides students with a blend of academic challenges and practical experiences. International students are drawn to its diverse programs, impressive faculty members and opportunities for research and internships in the local metropolitan area.
Below are the top-ranked Los Angeles universities for international students, with their ranks in two of the world’s most well-respected international university rankings, the QS 2024 University World rankings and the Times Higher Education 2024 Rankings.
For more information about rankings systems and methodologies see our University rankings explained guide.
| University | QS World Ranking 2024 | Times Higher Education Ranking 2024 |
| University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) | 29 | 18 |
| University of Southern California | 116 | 74 |
| California State University – Los Angeles | 1,401+ | – |
LA, with its glamorous allure, is home to several universities and colleges, all of which charge varied tuition fees for international students. These typically range from $25,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on the university and program. Living expenses in the city can vary widely, depending on where you choose to live. While LA offers a unique blend of academic and entertainment opportunities, international students should account for its moderately high cost of living when making plans.
For international students, Los Angeles offers a vibrant mix of experiences. You can delve into a diverse cultural scene, with neighbourhoods like Koreatown and Little Tokyo, and enjoy world-class entertainment from Hollywood films to beach festivals. The warm climate ensures sunny days, perfect for beach days and hiking in the nearby hills.
Study in the USABrowse our list of higher education providers in the USA.
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