Study in Portland, international student city guide

Portland, also known sometimes as the ‘City of Roses’, is a vibrant city in the Pacific Northwest. It is known for its eclectic and environmentally friendly attitude, and is home to several well regarded universities and colleges.

The city’s cultural landscape is diverse, with indie music, unique art galleries and festivals being part of the foundation of Portland. The city is known for its food offerings, from farm-to-table restaurants, popular food trucks, and renowned coffee shops.

Surrounded by natural beauty, from the Forest Park to Mount Hood, there are plenty of opportunities to take advantage of the beautiful outdoors. For international students, Portland offers international students an interesting and cultural experience.

All universities in Portland

• American College of Healthcare Sciences
• East West College of the Healing Arts
• Lewis & Clark College
• Linfield University
• Maitripa College
• Multnomah University
• National University of Natural Medicine
• OCOM – Oregon College of Oriental Medicine
• Oregon Health & Science University
• Pacific Northwest College of Art
• Portland Bible College
• Portland Community College
• Portland State University
• Reed College
• Sumner College
• University of Portland
• University of Western States
• Warner Pacific University

Top universities in Portland

Portland State University

Portland State University (PSU), which is located in the heart of the city, is the meeting point of innovation and community engagement. The university offers a wide range of courses, emphasising sustainability and real-world application. International students will be welcomed by the community, which is known as one of the most unique and progressive cities in the USA. The university’s commitment to inclusivity and forward thinking makes it a great choice for international students.

University of Portland

The University of Portland is a private Catholic university, and is located on the banks of the Willamette River. The university has its roots in faith and service, and focuses on community engagement and leadership. It has a beautiful campus, which provides a calming backdrop to your studies. International students will benefit from smaller class sizes, a tight knit community, and close proximity to the centre of Portland. The university offers a well-rounded education to all of its students.

Portland universities world ranking 2025

Below are the top-ranked Portland universities for international students, with their ranks in two of the world’s most well-respected international university rankings, the QS 2026 University World rankings and the Times Higher Education 2025 Rankings.

For more information about rankings systems and methodologies see our University rankings explained guide.

Tuition and living costs in Portland

Portland offers a nice blend of quality education and a more affordable cost of living, when compared to other major US cities. International students can expect to pay between $20,000 and $45,000 per year for tuition fees, depending on what kind of course you are choosing. Despite living expenses being more reasonable, you will still need to be careful when budgeting, as Portland is becoming more popular over time, meaning that costs are slowly increasing.

Life in Portland for international students

Portland has a lot to offer to international students, with a unique blend of Pacific Northwest charm and urban quirkiness. Students can embrace nature by exploring the walking trails and riverside parks, with the option to participate in winter sports over the colder months. The welcoming atmosphere, bike friendly streets and sustainability make it a wonderful option for any student.