Best universities in Austin: find options near you

UT Austin isn’t just a top-tier school — it’s a machine. World-class academics, booming innovation, top-ranked programs across engineering, business, and liberal arts, and all located in one of the most vibrant, opportunity-rich cities in the country. You come here to build empires, not just take notes.

Compare that to UC Davis — the UC system’s most overhyped compost pile.

At UT, you’re encouraged to think boldly, speak freely, and lead. At Davis, you better memorize the groupthink script or risk being socially exiled by people who confuse activism with intellectual depth. Independent thought? Questioning norms? At Davis, that’s how you get flagged as “problematic” by students who can’t handle a basic debate without clutching their pearls.

Let’s talk numbers:
UT Austin grads are walking into six-figure careers, startups, and grad schools that matter.
UC Davis grads? ~$54K median income 10 years after enrolling. That’s not success — that’s a participation trophy with a student loan attached.

UT Austin builds leaders. UC Davis builds compliant mid-level staffers with LinkedIn bios full of buzzwords and zero real impact.

So yeah — Hook ’em. We’re not the same…..

Oh my beloved University in my beloved hometown! Just one thing: you guys have a lot of buildings that need major renovations and I know the university is not lacking in funds

Won’t take my transcripts to help me finish my application. Been two years and no ones helped me to finish my application. The admission treat me terribly here.

Scenic, walkable campus oozes charm, history and fierce school spirit.

Highlights include the tower, or “main building,” the Darrell K Royal football stadium, Guadalupe Street’s hip-ish Drag and, not least of all, one of America’s most naturally attractive student bodies.

Now, if they could just Hook’em-those academics. (^^)

Texas girls’ soccer camp was terrible. Never send your kid to this camp. They had no hot water for the 400+ girls and the elevators didn’t work. What a terrible experience for kids.

Actually my wife and I ,we went to check her eyes, they are very profesional THANKS!!

Fantastic university. Likely now our daughter’s first choice. Great campus environment, proximity to downtown and capital, extensive facilities and world renowned education and faculty. Oh yeah. And the longhorns!

Solo fui a limpiar una sección de cuartos para estudiantes y se ve un área agradable

If there is sincerity in what you are doing it will show. If there is integrity in what you are doing it will also show. I want to preface what I will say by saying that our school is a liberal arts university and a Holy Cross university. If you are a student who likes to study and values original thought, then St. Edward’s was the proper place for you. During our orientation last year it was promised that we would be supported as students by our school President, Faculty, and staff. They wanted us to succeed.

There are very many ways to study here and the had supported this. However, when the school said that I would have to pay $2060 for a meal plan that I would never use, I asked questions. The school said that there was nothing that they could do, because it was the school iD card office who attends to this matter. Even though I mentioned that I cook my own food, don’t eat meat, or eat on campus, they insisted that I pay for that meal plan. I prayed about it, and talked with my Pastor.

You see, the impression that the iD card office gave is that they do not see beyond this view they have. It is this view and no other. The staunch, immovable, myopic type of view. Students like me who are budgeting and working through school with two to three jobs, using good critical thinking, wisdom to graduate on time. They can’t see even that. I think about my relatives, here and abroad who don’t even spend $1 on food a day. I know that I don’t spend $2060 on meals in one semester. I have always cooked my own food. I am a very quiet student, who will sit down and study, but they picked on me because I think for myself. The value I place on my education, and education that will help me help myself, and my relatives, is more than this meal plan cost. As an upperclassmen in our school, I have a responsibility to tell the truth in hope that the school will take these views seriously. I see you supporting our educational efforts but what about the ones who don’t?

Instead to trying to veer away from the culture of misinformation and racism that economically affected us since last year, they, the few, still hold to that view. The few people in our school who refuse to even see what Holy Cross means are applying pressure and their views in ways that affects students. They are in the iD card office, the safety office, and maintenance and have given me that impression at times. You are here but you don’t really understand what Jesus Christ did on the cross. Attend one maybe two church services or mass, sit down and talk with the Priest, or the Pastor or even some of the staff at our school to fully understand what Holy Cross means. You know it is that there is something about the school that made students come here.

This is my way of rebuking. The few people who are here that picked on students like me did so because they are part of racism and misinformation culture. The world is tiny in their eyes, but no it is a much bigger place. Stop pretending and put away your racism and prejudice, because the values that drew students like me to study here for the fews years we are here, THOSE VALUES WILL ENDURE BEYOND ANY RACISM.

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I want to continue to share my review of my school because it is my responsibility as a student. Since the last “review” I made, I have more to say. This is a “review.” As a student, you want to study in a place where original thought and freedom is respected. Of course, these are necessary for education; ingenuity. However, our school became a focus point for some apparently narrow-minded/myopic people who saw opportunity to reveal their views (to make everyone stupid) in a hostile political climate. A Liberal Arts university, unlike others, gives students ample opportunity to think, learn, and ask questions due to the variety, and nature of courses offered. Everyone cannot be stupid. It is not a crime or a sin to “pay your way through school,” either if that is what you can afford. Wealth cannot buy wisdom.

Fantastic theatre program! And their events coordinators are always very good at their job. I’ve attended plays, set up events, and met plenty of graduates from St Ed’s and I can tell it’s a great school. (From a Longhorn <3)

Beautiful architecture, grounds grotto, and amazing tree canopies where you can sit on a bench and read for hours. Great view of the Austin skyline!

Arguable the best Uni ever! If you like culture, nature, and all round loving community. This is a place to visit and/or attend! The Austin and Texas history runs deep here, you should check it out.

Beautiful views of downtown Austin, but seriously overpriced. Lacks diversity unless you are Caucasian or Caucasian/Hispsnic.

I love you SEU! I miss the campus and city views every day!

Security Does A Great Job At Keeping The Campus Safe, Always Patrolling And Checking New Arrivals. Great Staff And Teachers.

I enjoyed the campus. I feel well informed and that majority of the staff were happy to assist me. I think the campus could use a couple of marketers to help promote how great the school is to more students. Campus feels cozy inside the Austin city skyline. Looks like more improvements to class rooms are on the way. Adult Degree Program is informative and flexible, with a few bumps.

Just wanted to thank Mrs. Teresa Lewis and Mrs. Daisy Phillips for embracing a soul such as mine. As a Non-Traditional student,I was apprehensive in my failure ,with regard to furthering my education.What I learned was far more practical than that, derived from a degree A personal,genuine love for each soul passing thier way,continues to light my way in life.Years later after leaving H.T.,I seen Mrs. Lewis in Bartlett Texas,she knew who I was and I could never forget her.I thanked her for caring so much,and again,she said the world needs people like me. I wear that with honor. Thanks Mrs. Lewis and Mrs. Phillips. I love all the strong Mothers that believe all kids are thiers

I have been going to this school for 2 years. So far, the only problem I have encountered is the office staff, Strickland, who is in charge of completing paperwork to get your chapter 35/ military financial aid, has a slow process and needs frequent reminders in order to do so. However, the students, campus organizations, and professors are beyond amazing.

I would advise NOONE to attend this “institution”. I did one semester here, Spring 19′ and it was the worst experience ever. I thought, hey, let me give my people at chance, its a HBCU. PFHHHH, never again. For starters, I had seen on their website that if you worked for certain govt agencies you could get a discount on your tuition with the criminal justice program. I inquired about this on registration day and another day during the semester. The staff acted like they had no idea what I was talking about and even took my info and never got back to me. I was never told about the adult program. Luckily my employer tweeked my hours and I was able to attend class and return back to work with no issues. My professors were the only positive thing. Secondly, my current online school sent a request in April for my transcript to be sent once grades were posted after the semester ended…nothing was sent. I called HT and spoke to whomever is in that dept and she stated they would send it even though they didn’t see a request. Then, I asked my current school had they received anything in early June, still nothing. I called AGAIN and left a vm, no return call. I called two days later snd spoke with the, I’m assuming assistant to the transcript lady because by that time I had gone on HTU website and PAID for my transcript and EMAILED my confirmation of payment and the completed request form to the email address listed on the school’s website and on the bottom of the request form. Guess what she says? She didn’t see a request but she “promises” the transcript was going out that day (fri, June 14) with the other transcripts. I called HT again the following Friday and left a message. I still havent received a phone call, email, nothing. They cost so much money and do the LEAST to meet your needs. I had a 1,000% better experience at Austin Community College and I didnt have to pay for a transcript, no matter how many I needed. I am HIGHLY disappointed in HT and am so glad I don’t attended classes there anymore.

When I started in August 2018, I was told that my financial aide will post to my account by Jan 2019 and I will be notified about a possible refund. It is now almost June, and I have yet to hear anything! I keep getting the runaround from the ADP Accounting department as well as another individual “M.M” and they take forever to respond via email, and when they do, they shift the blame on each other, still leaving me without answers. I can’t speak to anyone via phone and no one else seems to be able to help. This school is very unprofessional and I hate that I wasted my time going to this school. They have already had one law suit because of this, and they’re about to have another one! Do NOT go to this school! This is the worst HBCU!

My hope is to be fair and truthful in my review of HTU. It is a work in progress. Being in the Adult Degree Program, things could run better. I truly feel as an adult learner, that has been in workplace for many years, the flexibility and cohort learning teams are super. The administrators are on the right track. Communication between the university and students must improve. When marketing to other, follow up is most important. Information must be delivered in a timely manner. For the programs to grow and succeed I would like to have more answers and less excuses. To educate and groom students to be leaders, the university must demonstrate a higher level of professionalism.

Ja’Bria has been an incredible support throughout my entire admission process. She is always so kind, patient, and willing to answer any questions I have. Her guidance made the process smooth and stress-free, and I truly appreciate all the time and effort she put into helping me. I’m very grateful for her support!

Ja’Bria is an amazing advisor! Whenever I had any questions or concerns, she was there to help in anyway she could, whether it was directly or finding someone to put me in contact with. I would not have been able to do the onboarding process for school without her! She is the best!

Ja’Bria has been a tremendously helpful advisor since the beginning of my application process to USA. I appreciate how effective and efficient she works at seeing what is needed to make the application process go smoothly, as well as the on boarding process once accepted. She answered all my questions in a timely manner and with as much information as possible. I enjoyed working with her and can’t recommend her enough! Thank you Ja’Bria!!!

Ja’Bria was an amazing advisor for my entire admissions process with USAHS. She was very helpful, responsive, timely, kind, and resourceful throughout my whole process. She assisted me throughout a stressful time while applying to school and helped me get to the finish line. I greatly appreciate all her help.

Ja’Bria has been a wonderful advisor! She is a huge help when it comes to staying on track with the many tasks we have to complete. She is always available to help in a timely manner and is very easy to talk to.

Ja’Bria was amazing. Always helpful, directed me where I needed to go, answered any and every question and was always available. I was a late acceptance, and only had a week and a half to get everything done for enrollment. Despite this, Ja’Bria created a step by step plan to help me and constantly checked up on me. She has definitely made the enrollment process smooth and possible even despite my limited time! Another helpful and fast replier was Tyler Morgan-Rhea!

Ja’Bria has been so great these past months getting closer to the program start date. Making sure that all my questions are answered and checking in to make sure I have everything done before the start date.

If there’s any decency left, I trust you will either promptly return my books—redirecting them to the institution I named in my last email—or, if you intend to keep them, issue a public statement affirming that you will retain them in perpetuity and under proper rare-book conservation standards. This is something we have already agreed upon, and you know it.

Because you have refused to communicate even a single word about any misunderstanding, I am left to speculate what might have gone wrong. One possibility is that, being new to this process, I did not anticipate that an import charge could arise—even though the parcel was sent as a gift.

The shipment came from China at considerable personal expense, and, anticipating possible duties, I paid a substantial deposit in advance to cover them. Even in the worst-case scenario, those costs should already be covered, leaving nothing for either of us to fret over. Yet—granting you the benefit of the doubt—if some balance did remain and you found it onerous, common courtesy would dictate that you tell me so we could settle it properly. Instead, you chose to ghost me, nurtured unfounded suspicions, and continued to assume the worst even after I repeatedly and patiently explained the misunderstanding. An astonishing strategy, to say the least.

If the university was unwilling or unable to advance any charges, the proper course would have been to notify me so we could decide together how to proceed. Apart from this matter and one other isolated misunderstanding, I have never asked you for a single cent—yet your continued silence implies you believe I am trying to extract money. To this day I have no idea where things stand, and your refusal to respond is frankly bewildering.

The other misunderstanding—if you, Ben, are reading this—I have already repeatedly explained: I was simply sharing what might excite you about items I could also donate in the coming months. You think these things sit on a shelf, ready for anyone to grab? I don’t blame you for not knowing, but basic humility, please. Again, this would come from my own pocket, not a cent from you, yet you still interpret this naive kindness as an attempt to solicit money. Speechless, really. You’re business people—I get it, everything is an exchange, and I’ve been there. But for someone with only a few months left, it’s possible to think differently; words can come out oddly in your eyes.

Good luck with the “money-can-buy-everything” attitude. Just a small tip: not all serious material shows up on the public market, even at auctions—mostly junk, frankly. See another point I make below, and do your own homework.

Yet after I donated items of great personal significance—saving you paperwork, waiving a formal contract, and extending you the benefit of the doubt—you ignored me, broke your promises, and disappeared without a word. Such behavior is unbecoming of any institution that claims scholarly values.

Most, if not all, special collections in universities and colleges are built on what were once private collections. If this is how you treat the very people who make that possible, so be it: let this serve as a cautionary tale to others who might consider contributing here.

No other private collector would donate books to a fledgling university that does not even have a proper library; I overlooked this fact to help you, and this is how you repay the favor. My bad for being kind and, seriously, overly considerate of concerns that are already rather ridiculous.

After covering the private details about me inside the exchange records, I will soon upload our entire email correspondence so you may review the exchange yourself. I remain astonished that a simple misunderstanding could be handled with such dismissiveness and unprofessionalism.

Where’s the basic decency? Your integrity is seriously concerning.

These people are purely transactional; don’t take their words at face value—get everything in writing.

Best of this kind of university that I’ve been to. The service is quick, the staff is amazing, their offerings are always on point, and the specials are definitely something you need to try out. But more than that, the whole atmosphere is truly wonderful to experience, they have a very cozy, very friendly environment and even the customers are kind, and love to smile. It’s also not too expensive, I often take my whole family. Very affordable.

I attended UATX live, and recently got admitted. All teachers, staff, and people holding talks were all intelligent, thoughtful, and open in their discussions. My fellow students and potential students were extremely friendly while also handing tougher topics when we got into our own mini debates/discussions. Overall, really looking forward to attending and quite presently surprised about basically every aspect of it.

The clear walls in the classrooms will take a lot to get used to though, as I get distracted by people walking by. Minor things in the grand scheme of it all

No you’re not allowed to question the 6 million I already checked don’t waste your time guys lol

Would give zero stars if at all possible!

I’m reserving one star until after the first semester. But I give 4 stars for the foundational goals and unique constitution we feel will provide and nurture true intellectual growth.

My daughter is an Ivy League graduate who attended the UATX inaugural summer program and it was the most incredible learning experience of her life. She said it’s the way she always wished college would be. Incredible professors and students, of all stripes, who came together to stretch their minds and to engage in true critical thinking and free inquiry. The UATX founders are exceeding their goals and actualizing their mission! It is brilliant to behold. Given today’s climate of suppression of debate on college campuses, coupled with the intimidation towards people with non-conformative perspectives, I would be hard-pressed send my kid to college anywhere other than UATX or a religious school. Regular campuses have devolved so low, and even elite students are so ignorant today…. Thank God for the leaders of UATX who are making moves to advance society and education again.

Forty acres. That was a difficult campus to tour. My mom and I struggled (I’m in my fifties and my mom is in her seventies.) It’s in Austin so it’s super liberal and surrounded by super liberal themed businesses. If that’s your thing, this is your school. If you lean towards the middle or right, go visit A&M. My best friend from my childhood went here and Cockrell college of engineering is here. However, we didn’t feel as welcome at UT as we did at the other schools we visited. It’s kind of sterile and the students ran cold and odd. They do compost their paper towels and the trash recepticals are labeled “recycling” and “land fill” I thought that was a pretty neat idea. But there was also an “inclusive” bathroom for all students, that I really didn’t see the point of. You go in and each stall has a deadbolt. If it’s that sketchy to share toilets, why do it? However, visiting UT, even to just take in the variety of campuses available at south Texas universities, is worth it. In the end my kids both crossed this one off the list.

This was my favorite building on campus as a student. The life sciences library is a quiet oasis of peace for your study time. Unlike some other libraries on campus, this one was never crowded, especially the stunning reading room which has beautifully painted beams featuring great inspiring quotes.
Some people look at the tower and only can think of the tragic shooting of the 60s, but to students, we love seeing the tower lit up to celebrate commencements, academic and athletic victories. It’s a really special spot on campus.

Awesome tower with a great view, loads of tradition, and a whole lot of history

This campus has a great energetic feel. A great place to walk around and people watch.

The best place I’ve seen this year! Awesome university of Texas.

Not good at all

I had a Saturday class and when I went to check my classroom, the website was under construction, so I was a little nervous about finding where to go. Thankfully, there was a kind greeter sitting at a table making sure everyone knew where to go. I told her my class, and she immediately pointed me in the right direction. She even had snacks she was handing out, which was such a thoughtful touch.

Going back to college can feel intimidating, but so far, so good. I really appreciated the welcoming atmosphere at the South Austin campus!

This ACC is the worst. The staff’s attitude is horrible. They don’t care about you, they just care about making you feel less of a person. ACC needs to get better people, as this is unacceptable. They love to tell you that you’re not college ready. They’re the rudest people to ever meet in your life.

Location is pretty small. Staff is very friendly and rooms are clearly labeled and easy to find. Was here for the testing center, which did provide locked lockers for personal belongings while testing, which is great.

This campus is weirdly laid out. Too small to be a college campus really. The worst thing about it is the parking garage though. It ruins your mood before you ever get to class. Then when you leave, it ruins your mood before you ever even get into traffic. It’s the absolute worst. I love Austin Community College but hate this campus. Will be driving to Highland for the semesters I have after this.

Won’t allow anyone to continue applying until I supply an old – out dated transcript that they won’t accept the classes from anyways. I’d have to pay more to get my transcript and waste time. This should be my option not their regulation.

I saw a lot of bad reviews, but I still wanted to give it a try… There is something wrong with some of these employees. They have an attitude like if you were bothering them. This is an academic institution, they are supposed to show spirit so students can feel at home. If they are unhappy then look for a different job, is really simple.

I Was so exited to finally complete my application and I had to turn in a form and no one in the front offices , that they have all in a circle when you enter the building to the right and all of them where not helpful at all they told me go there and go hear and I just left because no one knew where I can turn in a form to retrieve my TSI and they where all very unhappy to help others as I noticed. So sad to see this ACC has no good assistance. To start or help a new ‍ student.

Dr Cao and staff are absolutely amazing! Dr Cao is a true healer and and so in tune with the needs of her patients! She has helped my body get through a back injury, surgery, and is now helping with my weight loss journey. Her help has been invaluable and has significantly shortened my recovery! I feel so grateful to have found such an amazing place to receive treatment.

Dr. Yu and Dr. Cao are amazing acupuncture teachers. It’s a shame that acupuncturists aren’t considered physicians because the truth to medicine lies here.

I highly recommend anyone/everyone to consider getting acupuncture for their body as well as maintaining their energy levels and physical well-being.

Love the staff here, the student interns really know what they’re doing, and it’s a magical place to shift your mindset when you first come in, to after you are done receiving acupuncture and you feel refreshed.

I have left the clinic with no cramps, neck pains, and other bodily pains. It’s truly amazing how acupuncture makes one feel after they try it.

I got a excellent treatment in my lower back! Branda is so nice and friendly to make a good appointment for my acupuncture treatment. Teachers in the clinic are so professional to help me pain free after acupuncture treatment!

Won’t go back! rude young receptionist talked to me like I was stupid then got rude when I asked her to repeat the price. Left without services. Wouldn’t recommend back to pine mountain!

Few months after I got my Master Degree from Texas Health and Science University, I got my acupuncture license. Now I have been doing Acupuncture for few months. Great school to attend. I learned a lot from the Professors and made a lot of lifetime friends from this school. I would definite recommend this school for everyone who would like to seriously study acupuncture & Chinese medicine, and become acupuncturist who helps people with their health problems. :- )

I have had a wonderful experience at the Texas Health and Science University. They provide affordable education in traditional Chinese medicine and business sciences to students from Central Texas and overseas. The Texas Health and Science University hires the very best faculty from top-ranking Chinese medical universities and business administration programs. Students travel to work and study at the Texas Health and Science University from many different states and foreign nations. The Student Government hosts super fun events. The students, faculty and staff are all very friendly, welcoming and down-to-earth. The faculty and student interns provide outstanding healthcare at the Austin Acupuncture Clinic. Come to Texas for a great education.

I have had minimum exposure to acupuncture, and my friend introduced this school to me. I have had two treatments and have noticed a difference each time!

“As a high school student from Crockett High School in Austin, I went on 4/23/2025 a field trip with my school and I loved Concordia. It was so beautiful and clean, and they offer amazing opportunities.” I will be there soon in Sha Allah once I graduate from high school ❤️

I love it here at Concordia! I am currently in a summer class here and will be attending my second year at Concordia in the fall. The campus is beautiful and the professors are understanding and very helpful. I love the smaller class sizes they make me feel like I am actually getting what I’m paying for. Tuition for a private school isn’t all that bad. I got into 5 other private colleges and 3 state colleges and this was the best rate. With a scholarship paying school off in full isn’t all that difficult. I love it here at Concordia and I’m very proud to be a part of the tornado family. I’m glad I chose Concordia over my other options.

I’m attending here in Concordia (Austin) and my first year was a wonderful experience. A very beautiful and clean place. The faculty and professors are excellent. If you want to have a good scholar experience, just join Concordia University. You won’t regret it.

Love Concordia! Most people are very nice here and the majority of teachers are very kind and understanding if you have any problems. Most also give you a handout at the start of class that shows all your homework for the semester, which is very useful! Even though it is a small school, there are a lot of things for students to get involved in.

After the pandemic the university has been in dire straits financially due to decreased enrollment, and that has noticably trickled down to the quality of employees and education. They have been trying to separate themselves from the church so maybe things will improve.

This school constantly has changing staff. Their values on paper look good but truthfully, they only care about money and making students take classes they shouldn’t have to take. They refuse petitions even with condemning evidence. I regret enrolling here. I’m a Christian and I really thought I was enrolling in an honest & fair school. They don’t even reward for high GPAs and sometimes don’t even send an email notification of making the Dean’s List. The lady in charge of that will ignore your emails and requests too.
I have a degree from a community college that was 10x better than this private school.

I attended the Dallas/Fort Worth campus of Concordia University for a Masters in Education and overall my experience was horrific. My e-mails were ignored for days to weeks from the administration in both Dallas and Austin on important matters ranging from financial aid to course requirements. The campuses appeared to not be able to communicate with one another on even the most basic of tasks which made it incredibly annoying. It has been a frustrating period with this University. I do not recommend this school for a Masters program and if you dare to brave it make sure you steer clear of their Dallas/Fort Worth campus.