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
Feature | Details |
No. of Universities in St. Louis | 14 |
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 Score | 6.5 - 7.0 |
Approximate TOEFL Score | 80 - 100 |
Top 3 Universities |
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Top 3 Study Fields |
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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 University | QS World Ranking 2025 | Approximate 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 Course | Related University | Duration |
Mechanical Engineering | Washington University in St. Louis | 2 years |
Business Administration (MBA) | Washington University in St. Louis | 2 years |
Biomedical Engineering | Saint Louis University | 4 years |
Law (JD) | Washington University in St. Louis | 3 years |
Nursing | University of Missouri-St. Louis | 4 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 Level | Range of Annual Tuition Fees (USD) | Range of Annual Tuition Fees (INR) |
Undergraduate Programs | $30,000 - $60,000 | INR 24,90,000 - INR 49,80,000 |
Postgraduate Programs | $35,000 - $65,000 | INR 29,05,000 - INR 53,95,000 |
Doctoral Programs | $20,000 - $55,000 | INR 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 Type | Approximate Monthly Cost (USD) | Approximate Monthly Cost (INR) |
Food | $300 - $500 | INR 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 month | INR 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 - $75,000 | INR 49,80,000 - INR 62,25,000 |
Finance | $55,000 - $70,000 | INR 45,65,000 - INR 57,80,000 |
Biotechnology | $65,000 - $80,000 | INR 53,95,000 - INR 66,40,000 |
Information Technology | $60,000 - $80,000 | INR 49,80,000 - INR 66,40,000 |
Manufacturing | $55,000 - $70,000 | INR 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.