Top Universities for International Students Going Into 2026

Why HMS Partner Universities Are Leading the Way

As we step into 2026, international students are more strategic than ever about where they study in the United States. Beyond rankings and reputation, students are prioritizing career outcomes, affordability, flexibility, and practical training opportunities that align with today’s global job market.

At Howell Management Services (HMS), we work exclusively with universities that meet these expectations—and exceed them. Our partner institutions are carefully selected for their international student support, career-focused graduate programs, and compliance-driven practical training options such as CPT (Curricular Practical Training).

Below are the top universities for international students going into 2026, featuring HMS partner universities and the programs that make them stand out.

Why HMS Partner Universities Stand Out in 2026

International students choosing an HMS partner university benefit from:

• SEVP-approved institutions with strong compliance records

• Career-aligned graduate programs designed for today’s workforce

• Flexible delivery models (executive, hybrid weekend formats)

• Competitive tuition compared to traditional U.S. universities

• Programs that support practical training opportunities where academically appropriate

  
  

These factors make HMS partner universities some of the best options for international students in 2026.

Harrisburg University of Science and Technology

Location: Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Focus: STEM, Technology, Analytics, Healthcare

Harrisburg University continues to be a top destination for international students pursuing cutting-edge STEM programs. Known for its industry-aligned curriculum and strong employer connections, HU prepares students for high-growth technology roles.

Top Programs for International Students

• MS in Computer Science

• MS in Analytics

• MS in Information Systems Engineering and Management

• MS in Cybersecurity Operations and Control Management

• MS in Project Management

Why Harrisburg University Stands Out

• Strong emphasis on applied learning and real-world projects

• Ideal for students seeking technology and data-driven careers

• High-demand skill sets aligned with U.S. labor market needs

• A flexible executive format ideal for international students residing in the Northeast.

National Louis University (NLU)

Locations: Chicago, Illinois & Tampa, Florida

Focus: Business, Leadership, Analytics

National Louis University has built a reputation as a career-focused institution with flexible graduate programs designed for working professionals and international students.

Top Programs for International Students

• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) – Tampa

• MS in Organizational Leadership - Tampa

• MS in Business Data Analytics

Why National Louis University Stands Out

• Hybrid format with limited on-campus requirements

• Strong leadership and business curriculum

• Ideal for professionals advancing into management or executive roles

• Two popular campus locations

• Affordable programs

Ottawa University

Locations: Overland Park, Kansas, Surprise, Arizona, Brookfield, Wisconsin

Focus: Business, Computer Science, Healthcare, Technology, Nursing

Ottawa University has emerged as a top choice for international students, particularly those in the healthcare, nursing, and technology fields. They have expanded their competitive reach by providing more programs at all three campus locations.

Top Programs for International Students

• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

• MS in Computer Science (AI & Machine Learning (ML)

• Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA)

• Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA)

Why Ottawa University Stands Out

• Highly sought-after MSN program for international nurses

• Strong healthcare and technology pathways

• Programs aligned with leadership and workforce advancement

• Made their DBA program more accessible by offering it at two campus locations: Arizona and Kansas.

Humphreys University

Location: Stockton, California

Focus: Business, Technology

Humphreys University offers affordable, practical graduate education in California—an increasingly rare combination for international students.

Top Programs for International Students

• MBA-IT

• MBA-Organizational Leadership

• MBA-Project Management

Why Humphreys University Stands Out

• Competitive tuition in a high-cost state

• Hybrid format with on-campus classes just 1 weekend per quarter(3 times per year)

• Ideal for students seeking value without sacrificing quality

Texas Wesleyan University

Location: Fort Worth, Texas

Focus: Business, Analytics, Healthcare Administration

Texas Wesleyan University is gaining momentum as a top destination for applied business education with flexible graduate delivery. Texas has become a popular destination for international students.

Top Programs for International Students

• Applied MBA (multiple concentrations)

  • Data Analytics

  • Supply Chain Management

  • Digital Marketing

  • Healthcare Administration

Why Texas Wesleyan University Stands Out

• Career-ready, applied curriculum

• Hybrid format with on-campus classes 1 weekend per semester

• 1-year accelerated track available

Benedictine University

Location: Lisle, Illinois, Mesa, Arizona

Focus: Data, Analytics, Technology, Healthcare

Benedictine University is quickly gaining a strong reputation for its exceptional STEM programs. Benedictine currently offers MS degrees in Data Analytics and Health Informatics at both campus locations.

Top Programs for International Students

• MS in Data Analytics

• MS in Health Informatics

Why Benedictine University Stands Out

• Affordable graduate programs

• Excellent outcomes for STEM-oriented students

• Programs designed to meet evolving market demand

• Hybrid format with on-campus classes just 1 weekend per semester

• Two top campus locations in Arizona and Illinois

Choosing the Right University in 2026

As international education continues to evolve, the most successful students in 2026 will choose universities that offer:

• Career relevance

• Academic flexibility

• Affordability

• Strong international student infrastructure

HMS partner universities consistently meet these criteria—making them some of the best universities for international students in the U.S. going into 2026.

Start Your 2026 Journey with HMS

At Howell Management Services, we help international students identify the right program, navigate admissions, and plan for long-term success in the U.S.

If you’re exploring graduate study in 2026, our accredited partner universities offer top-tier programs designed with international students in mind.

👉 Explore programs, universities, and start your journey with www.howellmgmt.com