The third largest city in Texas, with its lively cultural scene and famously modern vibe, Dallas offers a fabulously diverse and exciting way of life.
Home to several universities, if you dream of studying the USA, Dallas is a great, and affordable option to consider.
What is Dallas like?
Location and demographics
Dallas is the main urban center of northern Texas, in the USA’s Deep South. It’s a pleasantly flat city making it a great place to get around. With its famous summer heat and picturesque spring wildflowers, it’s an attractive place to live year-round.
Dallas has a population of 1.3 million and is the fourth most diverse city in the USA. As such, you’ll find the city to be a melting pot of cultures and home to one of the largest LGBT communities in the country.
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Culture and history
With the largest urban arts district in the USA, studying in Dallas is a great choice if arts and culture interest you. Head to some of the city’s museums and art galleries to get started exploring, some even have free admission, perfect for that student budget.
For more of a public art experience, head to Deep Ellum to take in the murals – it’s also a great spot for food, drink and nightlife, so why not make a day of it?
Dallas also excels at performing arts. Visit AT&T Performing Arts Center where you’ll find some of the top venues in the USA. Whether you want to watch theatre, dance or live music, you’ll have your choice of the very best performances.
Famous people from Dallas include Grant Hill, Demi Lovato and Selena Gomez, so this is a city that clearly inspires success.
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What universities are in Dallas?
There are several universities in Dallas and the surrounding area. Below we list a few of the most popular, but it’s definitely worth researching the area to find your perfect fit.
The University of Texas, Dallas is a public university ranked 151 in the US News & World Report 2022 (ISNWR). It offers a variety of degrees, the most popular of which are its computer and information science majors. Notable alumni include Nobel Prize winner Aziz Sancar, Mike Judge and Naveen Jindal.
Other universities of note in Dallas include:
- Southern Methodist University – a private university ranked 72 in the USNWR 2022
- Texas Christian University – a private university ranked 89 in the USNWR 2022
- University of North Texas – a public university ranked 285 in the USNWR 2022
If you’re prepared to travel, consider Baylor University – a private university based in Waco, Texas, ranked 77 in the USNWR 2022
If you want to apply to a community college to obtain an associate degree, consider Dallas College.
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What does Dallas offer students?
What is transport like?
As a flat city, Dallas is easy to navigate on foot or bicycle if you choose. But this may not always be the quickest or simplest option. So you’ll probably find you want to make use of public transport from time to time.
Dallas has the longest light rail system in the USA as well as an efficient fleet of buses, running regularly from 5am until midnight. For quick journeys between downtown and the Bishop Arts District, you might prefer to use the streetcar.
You can purchase tickets at fareboxes around the city or on board buses. Passes are available for regular travel or frequent journeys within a specific time period. Many Dallas residents, however, prefer to use the GoPass app or tap-card, allowing you to top up your account in advance and simply tap yourself in to transport.
If your university participates in the scheme, you may also be eligible for student discounts on Dallas transport by using the Higher Education Pass Programme.
Dallas is well-connected to the rest of Texas and the USA by rail. It is also served by two airports allowing easy domestic and international travel.
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What about entertainment and food?
Dallas has a great food scene. Whether you want to pop into a traditional Texan barbecue place, enjoy some famous Tex-Mex eats or celebrate an occasion with a high-end restaurant, you’ll find plenty of options here. From ice cream parlours to steak houses, there’s something for everyone. Head to Deep Ellum for its edgy, independent food scene or Downtown for some top fine-dining spots.
Nightlife in Dallas has plenty to offer too. Sip sophisticated cocktails in fancy lounges or have a go at karaoke in a dive bar. Dance the hours away in a nightclub or simply enjoy one of the city’s fantastic live music or comedy venues. Both local and international acts perform regularly in Dallas, so there’s always something new to enjoy. Some venues are even free to enter – ideal for that student budget.
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Are there public services for students?
Living in Dallas, you’ll have access to resources at government, state and university level to help you understand the American education system while you study.
The US government provides international students with a good deal of free information online. Access student resources via the US Department of State website. Or explore financial aid options across Texas with Education USA’s helpful tool.
Your university’s international office will be able to assist you with any queries or concerns you have, from visa issues to settling into the Dallas lifestyle.
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How much does it cost to live in Dallas?
The general cost of Dallas
If you’re hoping to live in the USA on a budget, you’re in luck. Dallas is one of the cheaper big cities, giving you the opportunity to make the most of your student experience.
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Student budget
Of course, international students in the USA do have to pay a number of upfront costs when they arrive, such as health insurance and of course tuition fees. But once those are settled, the University of Northern Texas suggests an annual budget in the region of USD 14,500 to live in Dallas.
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What about accommodation in Dallas?
Most undergraduates choose to live on-campus to make the most from their time as a student. You’ll find that costs vary widely between institutions and more prestigious universities often charge more. But of course, living on-campus means your bills will be included in your rent.
For an approximation of accommodation costs in Dallas, the University of Northern Texas suggests that on-campus room and board costs in the region of USD 10,000 per year.
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What are Dallas’ main attractions?
If you’re wondering what there is for students to do in Dallas, the answer is a great deal.
In this vibrant, diverse city there’s rarely a week without some form of event or festivity happening.
Famed for its fabulous Pride celebrations, Cinco de Mayo festivities and of course its lively St Patrick’s Day parade, Dallas is a city that knows how to throw a party. For a real feel of local history, be sure to drop in on the annual State Fair of Texas which has been hosted by Dallas for well over 100 years.
Sports fans: Dallas has five major league teams in American football, baseball, basketball, ice hockey and soccer. So buy yourself a ticket and go and watch a game. If you prefer to participate in sport yourself, why not head to one of Dallas’ beautiful green spaces or lakes and explore the trails.
Spend a day shopping in Dallas and experience its stores filled with luxury goods as well as locally-favoured boutique shops. Or if you’re after a more touristic experience, take a stroll through Dealey Plaza (where JFK was assassinated in 1963) or even visit the acclaimed Dallas Zoo.
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