100 Best Engineering Schools in the U.S. in 2024

Where can you go to study engineering? What are your options? Here you can find a list of the best engineering schools in the U.S. to help you make the best choice.

Top 10 Engineering Schools in the U.S. 2024

Here is a list of the top 10 best engineering schools in the U.S. Remember choosing a school might not be enough. They still need to approve your admission. So start early with your application processes and apply to more than one school.

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Location: Cambridge, MA
Total Students: 11,376
Estimated Annual Tuition (including living expenses): $85,960

Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, commonly referred to as MIT, is a global hub for technological innovation and research. Its engineering school is consistently ranked among the world’s best, offering a wide spectrum of undergraduate and graduate programs in various engineering disciplines.

As of 2024, the annual cost of attendance is $85,960, covering tuition, fees, and living expenses. MIT’s student community, though smaller than many public institutions with around 11,500 students, is diverse and incredibly dynamic.

Renowned for its emphasis on hands-on learning, entrepreneurship, and collaboration, MIT has given the world numerous breakthroughs and industry leaders.

2. Stanford University

Location: Stanford, CA
Total Students: 16,914
Estimated Annual Tuition (including living expenses): $92,892

Nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, Stanford University in California is synonymous with innovation, particularly in its engineering school. Stanford Engineering is known for pioneering research and for its close ties with the tech industry.

The estimated annual cost of attendance for undergraduates in 2024 is about $92,892, which encompassed tuition, fees, and room and board. With a total student population nearing 17,000, Stanford fosters a collaborative environment that bridges disciplines.

The university’s emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and its entrepreneurial spirit makes it a powerhouse in the global academic landscape.

3. University of California – Berkeley

Location: Berkeley, CA
Total Students: 45,057
Estimated Annual Tuition (including living expenses): $46,008 (in-state), $78,582 (out-of-state)

The University of California, Berkeley, often just referred to as Cal, boasts one of the top engineering schools in the country. Situated near San Francisco, Berkeley Engineering offers a diverse range of programs and has been at the forefront of numerous technological advances.

For in-state undergraduates in 2024, the annual cost of attendance was approximately $46,008, while non-resident students faced costs closer to $78,582. With a total student body exceeding 40,000,

Berkeley is renowned for its vibrant campus life, cutting-edge research, and commitment to public service.

4. Purdue University–West Lafayette

Location: Lafayette, IN
Total Students: 41,573
Estimated Annual Tuition (including living expenses): $26,172 (in-state), $45,184 (out-of-state)

Located in Indiana, Purdue University’s West Lafayette campus is home to its renowned College of Engineering. Recognized globally for its research output and academic rigor, Purdue Engineering offers a plethora of undergraduate and graduate programs.

As of 2024, in-state undergraduates had an annual cost of attendance of around $26,172, while out-of-state students faced costs of approximately $45,184.

With a robust student community and a legacy of achievements, Purdue stands out as a leader in engineering education and innovation.

5. Carnegie Mellon University

Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Total Students: 13,961
Estimated Annual Tuition (including living expenses): $86,812

Situated in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon University is a research-intensive institution with a sterling reputation in engineering. CMU’s College of Engineering is known for its focus on real-world applications and interdisciplinary collaboration.

The annual cost of attendance for undergraduates in 2024 was estimated at about $86,812, covering tuition, fees, and living expenses.

With a rich tradition in technology and the arts, CMU’s holistic approach prepares its students, numbering around 14,500 in total, for multifaceted challenges.

6. Georgia Institute of Technology

Location: Atlanta, GA
Total Students: 40,000
Estimated Annual Tuition (including living expenses): $29,438 (in-state), $52,120 (out-of-state)

Commonly referred to as Georgia Tech, this institution, based in Atlanta, Georgia, is celebrated for its engineering programs. Emphasizing innovation and research, Georgia Tech’s College of Engineering draws students globally.

The annual cost of attendance for in-state undergraduates in 2024 was about $29,438, while out-of-state students faced costs nearing $52,120.

With a lively campus atmosphere and a student body of over 40,000, Georgia Tech remains a cornerstone in engineering education.

7. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

Location: Pasadena, CA
Total Students: 2,200
Estimated Annual Tuition (including living expenses): $90,822

Located in Pasadena, California, Caltech is a powerhouse in the realms of science and engineering. Despite its smaller size, with a student population of around 2,200, Caltech’s impact on research and technology is profound.

The estimated annual cost of attendance in 2024 was about $90,822, covering tuition, fees, and room and board.

Renowned for its rigorous curriculum and close-knit community, Caltech stands as a beacon of excellence in the engineering domain.

8. University of Michigan–Ann Arbor

Location: Ann Arbor, MI
Total Students: 48,000
Estimated Annual Tuition (including living expenses): $35,450 (in-state), $76,294 (out-of-state)

The University of Michigan, situated in Ann Arbor, is a sprawling public research university with a stellar engineering school. The College of Engineering offers a wide array of programs and is known for its research initiatives.

In 2024, in-state undergraduates will pay an annual cost of attendance of approximately $35,450, while costs for out-of-state students will be around $76,294.

With a diverse student population exceeding 48,000, the University of Michigan combines tradition with modern academic pursuits, making it a leader in higher education.

9. University of Texas–Austin (Cockrell)

Location: Austin, TX
Total Students: 52,000
Estimated Annual Tuition (including living expenses): $34,470 (in-state), $67,392 (out-of-state)

The Cockrell School of Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin stands as one of the most prestigious engineering schools in the nation. Nestled in the vibrant city of Austin, this institution has been at the forefront of engineering education and research since its foundation. The school offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs spanning various fields of engineering, fostering an environment of innovation and academic rigor.

As of January 2024, the estimated annual cost of attendance for in-state undergraduates within the Cockrell School will be roughly $34,470, taking into account tuition, fees, and average living expenses.

The Cockrell School is home to a diverse student population and is renowned for its commitment to research and collaboration. Students here are not only equipped with technical proficiency but also with leadership skills, ensuring they’re ready to face the ever-evolving challenges of the engineering world.

10. Texas A&M University–College Station

Location: College Station, TX
Total Students: 75,000
Estimated Annual Tuition (including living expenses): $31,058 (in-state), $59,336 (out-of-state)

Texas A&M University’s College of Engineering, based in College Station, is a beacon of academic excellence and research prowess. Established as an original cornerstone of the university given its agricultural and mechanical roots, the College of Engineering has significantly expanded its horizons to include a vast array of engineering disciplines.

In 2024, the annual cost of attendance for in-state undergraduates studying within the College of Engineering is estimated to be around $31,058, which covers tuition, fees, and typical living expenses. Non-resident students encountered costs nearing $59,336.

The college prides itself on a rich blend of tradition and cutting-edge innovation, hosting over 75,000 engineering students. Beyond the classrooms and labs, the College of Engineering emphasizes the importance of leadership, ethics, and real-world application, preparing its students to become leading problem-solvers in the global engineering community.

The above is a list of the top 10 best engineering schools. But perhaps you haven’t found what you want yet. Here is the list of the ranked top 100 best engineering schools which you can also consider.

Top 100 Ranking U.S. Engineering Schools

5 Best Lenders for Personal Loans

Engineering school is a rigorous academic journey, sculpting future innovators and problem solvers. As you embark on this transformative educational path, one of the immediate challenges is managing the financial aspect of your engineering degree. The tuition and additional expenses can indeed be daunting, but the right student loan lender can make all the difference. Whether your credit history is impeccable, has some rough patches, or is just taking off, there is a lender tailored to your financial landscape. In this guide, we explore the top loan lenders for engineering schools, catering to various credit profiles. Here’s a closer look at your potential financial partners:

AmOne (Best for Okay to Good Credit)

AmOne offers an optimal platform for budding engineers with okay to good credit scores, aiming to navigate the financial aspects of their education. Acting as a nexus between potential borrowers and a diverse pool of lenders, AmOne provides a rich array of loan options tailored to various credit profiles. Engineering students who’ve maintained a moderate credit history can confidently explore financing alternatives on this platform, ensuring they secure the funds necessary for their rigorous academic pursuits.

Check rate on website

on website

AmOne Personal Loans

4.5

Stilt’s lender ratings reflect the findings and opinions of our editorial staff. Our scoring methodologies consider a wide array of factors and data points for every lender, offering, and financial solution.

Min. credit score

600

Fixed APR

3.99%-35.99%

Variable APR

N/A

View details

Overview

• Minimum credit score: 600.
• Fixed APR: 3.99%-35.99%.
• Loan amounts: $1,000 to $50,000.
• Repayment: 1 to 7 years.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• While there’s no specific income requirement, a consistent source of income is essential for the applicant.

Pros

• Suitable for individuals with lower credit scores.
• No cost for the matching service.
• Attractive loan rates.

Cons

• Acts as an intermediary, not a direct lender.
• Risk of multiple contacts from prospective lenders.
• Lack of clarity on lender details.

Spring Loans (Best for Bad and No Credit)

As engineering students with limited or challenged credit histories seek financial avenues, Spring Loans comes to the fore as a beacon of hope. Recognizing the transformative potential of an engineering degree, Spring Loans goes beyond traditional credit evaluations, focusing on a more holistic financial assessment. This approach ensures that a student’s dream of joining the ranks of engineers isn’t thwarted by past financial missteps or a lack of credit history. With Spring Loans, the future innovators in the engineering realm have a credible path to funding their education.

Check rate on website

on website

Spring Loans Personal Loans

4.2

Stilt’s lender ratings reflect the findings and opinions of our editorial staff. Our scoring methodologies consider a wide array of factors and data points for every lender, offering, and financial solution.

Min. credit score

None

Fixed APR

27.00%

Variable APR

N/A

View details

Overview

• Minimum credit score: None.
• Fixed APR: 27.00%
• Loan amounts: $3,000.
• Repayment: 48 months.

Qualifications

• Demonstrate a recurrent income.
• Minimum age prerequisite: 18 years.
• Validate U.S. citizenship status with an SSN.
• Provide a legitimate U.S. driver’s license or a state identity card.
• Establish a functional bank account for incoming deposits.
• Adhere to any specific demands by the loan provider.

Pros

• Open to applicants with any credit background.
• Four-year loan period aids in structured financial management.
• The $3,000 offer addresses several short-term financial challenges.
• Wide-reaching eligibility criteria invite a broad spectrum of applicants.
• The focus on dependable income over job title benefits varied income sources.

Cons

• The set 27% APR is higher than many alternatives.
• Restriction to a $3,000 loan might not cover all financial outlays.
• Possessing specific IDs is mandatory, sidelining some applicants.
• A prerequisite for an ongoing bank account may limit certain users.

First Premier Lending (Best for Bad Credit)

First Premier Lending champions the cause of engineering students who’ve had previous credit challenges. This lender understands that credit history is just one piece of a person’s financial story. By offering a comprehensive evaluation process that examines more than mere credit scores, First Premier Lending provides a viable pathway for students with past credit issues to fund their engineering studies. Their tailored loan solutions ensure that engineering aspirations remain on track, regardless of credit hurdles.

Check rate on website

on website

First Premier Lending Personal Loans

4.2

Stilt’s lender ratings reflect the findings and opinions of our editorial staff. Our scoring methodologies consider a wide array of factors and data points for every lender, offering, and financial solution.

Min. credit score

None

Fixed APR

27.00%

Variable APR

N/A

View details

Overview

• Minimum credit score: None.
• Fixed APR: 27.00%.
• Loan amounts: $3,000.
• Repayment: 48 months.

Qualifications

• Maintain a consistent source of income.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Possess valid U.S. citizenship and a legitimate social security number.
• Hold a current U.S. driver’s license or state-issued ID.
• Keep an active bank account for direct deposit.
• Satisfy any lender-specific criteria, such as credit rating, borrowing history, or place of residence.

Pros

• No minimum credit score requirement allows accessibility for those with varied credit histories.
• 48-month term provides clarity and allows for long-term financial planning.
• Specific loan amount of $3,000 can meet many short-term financial needs.
• Broad set of qualifications make the loan accessible to a wide range of people.
• Emphasis on consistent income, not necessarily employment type, allows flexibility for borrowers.

Cons

• A fixed APR of 27% is relatively high.
• Loan amount is capped at $3,000, which might not cater to larger financial requirements.
• Requirement of a U.S. driver’s license or state-issued ID could exclude some individuals.
• Mandatory active bank account could be limiting for those who are unbanked.

Best Lenders for Student Loans

College Ave (Best for Good Credit)

For engineering students who have consistently demonstrated financial responsibility, College Ave emerges as a premier choice. With its sterling reputation in the student loan sector, College Ave offers a harmonious blend of flexible terms, competitive rates, and transparent loan structures. Engineering students with good credit can leverage the advantages offered by College Ave, ensuring that their rigorous academic journey is supported by sound financial backing.

Check rate on website

on website

College Ave Undergraduate Private Student Loans

4.8

Stilt’s lender ratings reflect the findings and opinions of our editorial staff. Our scoring methodologies consider a wide array of factors and data points for every lender, offering, and financial solution.

Min. credit score

600 or better

Fixed APR

4.07% - 15.48%

Variable APR

5.59% - 16.69%

View details

Overview

• Minimum credit score: 600 or better.
• Fixed APR: 4.07% – 15.48%.
• Loan amounts: $1,000 – $150,000.
• Repayment: 5, 8, 10, 15, and 20 years.

Qualifications

• U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• For undergraduate loans: Part-time enrollment at an accredited college/university.
• International students: Need a Social Security number and a co-signer.
• For refinance loans: Must be 18 years or older.
• For refinance loans: Graduation from an eligible school is required.

Pros

• Prequalify with a soft credit check
• Flexible repayment options
• Offers co-signer release for private loans

Cons

• Charges late fees
• Must have graduated to be eligible to refinance
• Half of repayment term must have passed to release co-signer

Sallie Mae (Best for Great Credit)

Sallie Mae, with its longstanding legacy in the student loan arena, stands out as an exceptional option for engineering students with very good credit. Recognizing the specialized needs of engineering education, Sallie Mae tailors its loan offerings to meet the unique financial dynamics faced by these students. With competitive rates, flexible repayment terms, and a commitment to academic success, Sallie Mae ensures that engineering students with an excellent credit history receive the financial support they rightly deserve.

Check rate on website

on website

Sallie Mae Undergraduate Private Student Loans

4.5

Stilt’s lender ratings reflect the findings and opinions of our editorial staff. Our scoring methodologies consider a wide array of factors and data points for every lender, offering, and financial solution.

Min. credit score

Mid-600's

Fixed APR

4.50-15.49%

Variable APR

6.37-16.70%

View details

Overview

• Minimum credit score: Mid-600’s.
• Fixed APR: 4.50-15.49%
• Variable APR: 6.37-16.70%
• Loan amounts: Minimum of $1,000 per year.
• Repayment: 10 to 15 years.

Qualifications

• Typical credit score of approved borrowers or co-signers: Does not disclose.
• Minimum income: Did not disclose.
• Loan amounts: $1,000 up to 100% of the school-certified expenses.

Pros

• One of the few lenders to provide loans to part-time students.
• Non-U.S. citizens, including DACA students, can apply with a U.S. co-signer.

Cons

• You can’t see if you’ll qualify and what rate you’ll get without a hard credit check.

8 Considerations When Choosing an Engineering School

Embarking on an engineering journey is a significant decision, and choosing the right school can make all the difference. Given the plethora of institutions offering engineering programs, making an informed choice can feel daunting. Here are some insights to help you navigate the selection process.

1. Accreditation

First and foremost, ensure that the engineering program is accredited by a recognized body, such as ABET in the United States. Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain educational standards and prepares students for the professional world.

2. Specializations

While most schools offer core engineering disciplines, if you have a particular area of interest, like biomedical engineering or aerospace, it’s essential to choose a school that offers a strong program in that specialization.

3. Research Opportunities

Engineering is a hands-on field, and the best way to learn is by doing. Schools that provide ample research opportunities, labs, and state-of-the-art facilities can give you an edge. Look for schools where undergraduates also have opportunities to participate in research projects.

4. Location and Campus Culture

While academic aspects are crucial, your well-being is equally important. Think about where you’d feel most comfortable – a bustling urban campus or a tranquil rural setting? Remember, this will be your home for the next several years, so consider the campus culture, climate, and opportunities for recreation and extracurricular activities.

5. Internships and Job Placements

A good engineering school often has strong ties with the industry, facilitating internships, co-ops, and job placements. Check the school’s placement rate and the kind of companies that recruit from there.

6. Class Size and Faculty

A smaller class size can lead to more personalized attention and better interaction with professors. Research the faculty’s credentials, their involvement in current industry projects, and their availability outside of class.

7. Financial Aspects

While it’s tempting to go to the most renowned institutions, it’s also essential to consider the financial implications. Look into tuition, living expenses, and potential financial aid or scholarship opportunities. Sometimes, a less-known school might offer a stellar engineering program without the hefty price tag.

8. Alumni Network

A strong network can open doors to job opportunities and mentorship. Schools with a robust alumni base in the engineering sector can be advantageous in the long run.

While rankings and reputation play a role, the best engineering school for you is one that aligns with your personal and professional goals. Visit campuses, talk to current students and faculty, and trust your instincts. Your engineering journey is a blend of academics, personal growth, and professional development, so choose a place where you see yourself thriving in all these aspects.

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Final Thoughts

The U.S. has some great engineering schools for you to choose from. Some of the best engineering schools in the world are found here. People from all across the globe come to the U.S. to further their studies in engineering related fields. Choose the schools you like and apply as soon as possible to increase your chances of success.

Best Engineering Schools FAQ

Below, you will find some commonly asked questions about the best engineering schools and their respective answes:

How important are national or global rankings when choosing an engineering school?

Rankings can provide an overview of a school’s reputation, research output, and perceived quality. However, they shouldn’t be the sole determinant in your decision-making process. It’s essential to consider other factors like location, faculty, campus culture, research facilities, and specializations that align with your interests and goals.

Are small class sizes crucial for a quality engineering education?

Smaller class sizes can offer more personalized attention, facilitating better interactions between students and professors. However, some top-tier engineering schools with larger class sizes also provide excellent education due to their resources, industry connections, and research opportunities. It’s about finding a balance that suits your learning style.

Do I need to choose a school with a specific specialization in my area of interest?

While it’s beneficial to attend a school strong in your area of interest, many foundational engineering principles are universal. You can often specialize later, during graduate studies or through job experiences. However, if you’re certain about a niche field, attending a school renowned for that specialization can offer advantages.

How crucial are extracurriculars, like engineering clubs or competitions, in an engineering program?

Extracurriculars can significantly enrich your engineering education. They offer hands-on experiences, team collaboration, and opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in real-world scenarios. While they might not be essential for everyone, being involved can bolster your resume and provide practical insights into the engineering field.

Can I get a quality engineering education without breaking the bank at a top-tier institution?

Absolutely! Many lesser-known or state institutions offer robust engineering programs at a fraction of the cost of top-tier schools. It’s essential to evaluate the program’s accreditation, faculty credentials, research opportunities, and facilities. Remember, the effort and dedication you put into your studies and internships often matter more than the name of the institution on your diploma.

Frank Gogol

I’m a firm believer that information is the key to financial freedom. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics — like finance, immigration, and technology — to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more.

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