Top Universities in St. Louis, USA for International Students

St. Louis is an outstanding destination for international students, renowned for its educational excellence and exciting cultural scene. 
 

With a rich academic tradition and home to some of the country's top universities, St. Louis provides a high-quality education in a city known for its diverse community and dynamic student life. 
 

The graduation rate for undergraduate students at Universities in St. Louis is approximately 90%.
 

Here’s something you must know: Saint Louis University has over 2,000 international students representing more than 80 countries.

 

The Olin Library at Washington University in St. Louis houses over 3 million volumes, providing extensive research resources for students and faculty.
 

Key Highlight Table

 

FeatureDetails
No. of Universities in St. Louis14
Approximate Annual Study Cost in St. Louis$30,000 - $65,000 (INR 24,90,000 - INR 53,95,000)
Approximate Monthly Cost of Living in St. Louis$1,570 - $3,900 (INR 1,30,710 - INR 3,24,870)
Approximate IELTS Score6.5 - 7.0
Approximate TOEFL Score80 - 100
Top 3 Universities
  • Washington University in St. Louis 
  • Saint Louis University 
  • University of Missouri-St. Louis
Top 3 Study Fields
  • Medicine
  • Business Administration
  • Biomedical Engineering
Salary Range$55,000 - $80,000 (INR 45,65,000 - INR 66,40,000)

Why Study in St. Louis?

 

St. Louis stands out as an ideal study destination due to its prestigious academic institutions, diverse cultural experiences, and strong career prospects for graduates. 

 

The city's blend of top-ranked universities, affordable living, and robust job market makes it an excellent choice for students seeking a well-rounded educational experience.

 

Here are 5 Reasons to Study in St. Louis: 

 

Academic Excellence: 

  • St. Louis is home to Washington University in St. Louis (WashU), ranked #15 in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report in 2024. 
  • WashU is renowned for its programs in medicine, business, and engineering, with the university receiving over $850 million in research funding annually.

 

Affordable Living: 

  • St. Louis boasts a cost of living that is 8% below the national average, making it one of the most affordable major cities in the U.S. 
  • For students, this means lower housing costs and more affordable daily expenses compared to cities like New York or San Francisco.

 

Cultural Richness: 

  • St. Louis offers a vibrant cultural scene, with attractions like the St. Louis Art Museum, which houses over 34,000 works of art, and the Gateway Arch, the tallest monument in the U.S. 
  • The city is also famous for its musical heritage, particularly in jazz and blues.

 

Career Opportunities: 

  • St. Louis is a leading hub for biotechnology and healthcare, with over 1,000 bioscience companies in the region. 
  • The city is also home to major corporations like Centene Corporation and Emerson Electric, offering numerous internship and job opportunities for students in these fields.

 

Community and Diversity: 

  • St. Louis is known for its welcoming community and diverse population. The city hosts several cultural festivals, including the Festival of Nations, which celebrates over 40 ethnic groups. 
  • Additionally, international students make up about 15% of the student body at WashU, reflecting the city’s global outlook.

 

This structure not only highlights the strengths of St. Louis but also provides concrete examples and statistics to support each point.

Which are the Top Universities in St. Louis?

 

St. Louis boasts a dynamic educational landscape featuring globally ranked universities recognised for their academic excellence and significant research contributions. 

 

These institutions offer world-class education and attract students from around the globe.

 

Let's take a look at the top universities: 
 

Name of UniversityQS World Ranking 2025Approximate Annual Tuition Fee
Washington University in St. Louis#171$60,590 (INR 50,30,000)
Saint Louis University#951 - #1000$50,700 (INR 42,10,000)
University of Missouri-St. Louis#1201 - #1400$29,000 (INR 24,05,000)

Note: The costs provided above are approximate and can fluctuate based on changing currency exchange rates.

Which are the Top Courses in St. Louis?

 

St. Louis offers a variety of highly sought-after courses that align with the city's academic strengths and the demands of its thriving industries, particularly in fields like healthcare, business, and engineering.

 

Here are the top courses:

 

Name of CourseRelated UniversityDuration
Mechanical Engineering Washington University in St. Louis2 years 
Business Administration (MBA)Washington University in St. Louis2 years
Biomedical EngineeringSaint Louis University4 years 
Law (JD)Washington University in St. Louis3 years
NursingUniversity of Missouri-St. Louis4 years 

 

These courses are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in competitive industries.

What are the admission requirements in St. Louis?

 

Applying to universities in St. Louis involves a thorough understanding of the application process, which includes meeting specific academic and language requirements, submitting essential documents, and fulfilling visa and work permit procedures. 

 

Here’s a comprehensive overview of what’s typically required:

 

General Requirements

 

  • Academic Transcripts: Applicants must provide official transcripts from all previously attended institutions, showcasing strong academic performance. High school transcripts are needed for undergraduate programs, while bachelor's degree transcripts are required for graduate studies.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Most universities require two to three letters of recommendation from teachers, professors, or employers who can attest to the applicant's academic abilities, character, and potential for success.
  • Statement of Purpose: A well-written statement of purpose is essential, where applicants outline their academic and career goals, reasons for choosing the specific program, and how they plan to contribute to the university community.
  • Language Proficiency Scores: Non-native English speakers must submit language proficiency test scores. The IELTS or TOEFL are commonly accepted, with minimum score requirements typically around 6.5-7.0 for IELTS and 80-100 for TOEFL, depending on the program.

 

Documents Requirements

 

  • Standardised Test Scores: Some programs, particularly in business, engineering, and law, may require standardised test scores such as the GRE or GMAT. Scores should meet or exceed the university's minimum requirements.
    • GMAT: 650+
    • GRE: 307+
  • Portfolio (if applicable): For creative programs like architecture, design, or fine arts, a portfolio showcasing previous work is often required.
  • Passport Copy: A valid passport is necessary to confirm identity and nationality.
  • Resume or CV: Outlining academic and professional experience

 

Visa Requirements

 

  • Necessary Documentation: An acceptance letter, proof of financial resources, and a completed visa application form are required.
  • F-1 Student Visa: Required for international students.
  • I-20 Form: Issued by the university, necessary for visa application.
  • Proof of Financial Support: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses.
  • Application Timeline: Apply for the visa at least three months before the program starts.
  • Visa Interview Process: Some students may need to attend a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.

 

Work Permit (if applicable)

 

  • Eligibility Criteria: International students may be eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT) in the U.S. after completing their studies. OPT allows for up to 12 months of work in the student’s field of study, with an additional 24 months for STEM graduates.
  • Application Process: Students must apply for OPT or CPT through their university’s international student office, followed by approval from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
  • Duration and Limitations: Work permits under OPT are typically valid for one year, with extensions available for STEM fields. CPT is usually integrated with the curriculum and must be completed before graduation.

What is the Cost of Studying in St. Louis?

 

Studying in St. Louis involves various expenses, including tuition fees and living costs. 

 

Here’s an overview of the approximate annual tuition fees: 
 

Program LevelRange of Annual Tuition Fees (USD)Range of Annual Tuition Fees (INR)
Undergraduate Programs$30,000 - $60,000INR 24,90,000 - INR 49,80,000
Postgraduate Programs$35,000 - $65,000INR 29,05,000 - INR 53,95,000
Doctoral Programs$20,000 - $55,000INR 16,60,000 - INR 45,65,000

Note: The costs provided above are approximate and can fluctuate based on changing currency exchange rates.

 

What is the Cost of Living in St. Louis?

 

Living in St. Louis is relatively affordable compared to other major U.S. cities. 

 

Below is a breakdown of typical living expenses for international students: 

 

Expense TypeApproximate Monthly Cost (USD)Approximate Monthly Cost (INR)
Food$300 - $500INR 24,900 - INR 41,500
Rent

$800 - $1,500 (Shared apartment)

$1,200 - $2,500 (Single apartment)

INR 66,400 - INR 1,24,500 (Shared apartment)

INR 99,600 - INR 2,07,500 (Single apartment)

Transport

$70 - $100 (Public transport pass)

$200 - $400 (Car expenses)

INR 5,800 - INR 8,300 (Public transport pass)

INR 16,600 - INR 33,200 (Car expenses)

Other Expenses$200 - $400 (Utilities, entertainment, etc.)INR 16,600 - INR 33,200
Total Cost$1,570 - $3,900 per monthINR 1,30,710 - INR 3,24,870 per month

Note: The costs provided above are approximate and can fluctuate based on changing currency exchange rates.

What are the Top Jobs in St. Louis?

 

St. Louis offers a robust job market for international graduates, with key industries such as healthcare, finance, biotechnology, and information technology driving employment opportunities. 

 

The city’s supportive work visa policies and vibrant job search resources make it an attractive destination for career growth.
 

Here are the top job sectors with their salaries:

 

Sector Approximate Graduate Salary (USD)Approximate Graduate Salary (INR)
Healthcare$60,000 - $75,000INR 49,80,000 - INR 62,25,000
Finance$55,000 - $70,000INR 45,65,000 - INR 57,80,000
Biotechnology$65,000 - $80,000INR 53,95,000 - INR 66,40,000
Information Technology$60,000 - $80,000INR 49,80,000 - INR 66,40,000
Manufacturing$55,000 - $70,000INR 45,65,000 - INR 57,80,000

Note: The costs provided above are approximate and can fluctuate based on changing currency exchange rates.

 

Which are the Top Recruiters in St. Louis?
 

  • Boeing: Aerospace leader offering roles in engineering, manufacturing, and IT.
  • Washington University in St. Louis: Major employer in education, research, and healthcare.
  • BJC HealthCare: Leading healthcare provider with diverse roles in medical and administrative fields.
  • Centene Corporation: A healthcare services company focusing on managed care and insurance.
  • Edward Jones: A financial services firm known for wealth management and advisory roles.
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Top Universities in St. Louis, USA for International Students

Q. What makes St. Louis a notable destination for international students?

Ans. St. Louis stands out due to its renowned educational institutions, including Washington University in St. Louis, and a vibrant cultural scene. The city is known for its high-quality academic programs, diverse community, and affordable living. With a graduation rate of about 90% and over 2,000 international students at Saint Louis University, it's an excellent place for higher education. The approximate annual study cost ranges from INR 24,90,000 to INR 53,95,000.

Q. What are some top universities in St. Louis?

Ans. Some of the top universities in St. Louis include Washington University in St. Louis, ranked #171 globally, Saint Louis University (#951-1000), and the University of Missouri-St. Louis (#1201-1400). These institutions are celebrated for their academic excellence and extensive research facilities, making them ideal for students seeking quality education. Tuition fees range from INR 24,05,000 to INR 50,30,000 annually.

Q. Which are the best public universities in St. Louis?

Ans. Among the best public universities in St. Louis are the University of Missouri-St. Louis, known for its research programs, and the well-regarded Saint Louis University, which, while private, offers substantial public resources and opportunities. These institutions provide high-quality education and access to diverse academic and professional resources. The annual tuition at these universities ranges from INR 24,05,000 to INR 42,10,000.

Q. What are some popular courses offered in St. Louis?

Ans. St. Louis offers a range of popular courses, including Medicine at Washington University in St. Louis (4 years), Business Administration (MBA) at Olin Business School, WashU (2 years), and Biomedical Engineering at Saint Louis University (4 years). These courses align with the city’s strengths in healthcare, business, and engineering. Tuition for these programs can range from INR 24,05,000 to INR 50,30,000 annually.

Q. What are the general admission requirements for universities in St. Louis?

Ans. To apply to universities in St. Louis, students typically need academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Non-native English speakers must submit language proficiency scores like IELTS (6.5-7.0) or TOEFL (80-100). Some programs may require standardized test scores (GRE/GMAT) and a portfolio for creative fields. The minimum IELTS score is approximately 6.5 to 7.0, and the TOEFL score ranges from 80 to 100.

Q. What are the approximate tuition fees for studying in St. Louis?

Ans. The approximate annual tuition fees in St. Louis range from $29,000 to $60,590. For example, Washington University in St. Louis charges around $60,590 (INR 50,30,000), while Saint Louis University costs approximately $50,700 (INR 42,10,000), and the University of Missouri-St. Louis is about $29,000 (INR 24,05,000). Conversion rates may affect these figures.

Q. What is the cost of living like in St. Louis?

Ans. The cost of living in St. Louis is relatively affordable compared to other major U.S. cities. Monthly expenses include $300-$500 (INR 24,900 - INR 41,500) for food, $800-$2,500 (INR 66,400 - INR 2,07,500) for rent, $70-$400 (INR 5,800 - INR 33,200) for transport, and $200-$400 (INR 16,600 - INR 33,200) for other expenses. The total monthly cost ranges from $1,570 to $3,900 (INR 1,30,710 - INR 3,24,870).

Q. What job opportunities are available for graduates in St. Louis?

Ans. St. Louis offers strong job opportunities in sectors like healthcare, finance, biotechnology, and information technology. Key employers include Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Edward Jones. Graduates can expect salaries between $55,000 and $80,000 (INR 45,65,000 - INR 66,40,000), depending on the industry. The city also supports job search through portals like Indeed and LinkedIn.

Q. What is the post-study work visa process in St. Louis?

Ans. International graduates in St. Louis can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows up to 12 months of work, with a 24-month extension for STEM graduates. The process involves obtaining an acceptance letter, proof of finances, and attending a visa interview if required. Graduates can use OPT to gain practical experience in their field of study.

Q. How diverse is the student population at universities in St. Louis?

Ans. The student population at universities in St. Louis is highly diverse. For instance, Saint Louis University has over 2,000 international students from more than 80 countries. This diversity enriches the academic environment and provides a global perspective to students. About 15% of the student body at Washington University in St. Louis is international.

Q. What unique features do universities in St. Louis offer?

Ans. Universities in St. Louis offer unique features, such as the extensive research resources at Washington University’s Olin Library, which houses over 3 million volumes. Additionally, the city’s rich cultural scene and dynamic student life complement the high-quality education provided by these institutions. The blend of academic and cultural experiences makes studying in St. Louis distinctive.