10 Best Colleges in San Antonio (2025)

San Antonio, Texas is a city with a rich history, a vibrant culture, and several highly respected universities.

Students can find colleges near San Antonio, TX, and enjoy the city's natural beauty while they earn a college degree.

San Antonio offers several major public universities as well as reputable private and faith-based institutions.

Featured Colleges in San Antonio, TX

Here are some great colleges near San Antonio, TX.

1. University of Texas San Antonio

The University of Texas San Antonio (UTSA) is the biggest university in the city and one of the main public universities in the state.

UTSA has a proven record of increasing the accessibility of college degrees. 43% of students are first-generation students.

70% of students completing bachelor's degrees receive financial aid and 10% continue to graduate programs.

UTSA has one of the highest populations of Hispanic students of any university in the country and offers a diverse and inclusive atmosphere.

2. Trinity University

Trinity University is a four-year college located in the heart of San Antonio.

The University has an emphasis on developing strong leaders in every field of study.

80% of students participate in an internship to gain practical experience and prepare for career success.

Over 110 programs are offered and students can customize their degrees by selecting a minor.

3. St. Mary's University

Students looking for a high-quality degree in San Antonio should consider St. Mary's University (SMU).

SMU emphasizes personalized education and keeps class sizes small to facilitate relationships.

The university also has a community focus across all of its programs. Students can participate in local internship programs.

Students will benefit from the connections and recreation available in over 90 student clubs and organizations.

4. Texas A&M University-San Antonio

Texas A&M University-San Antonio has the distinction of being the fastest-growing university in the city.

The four-year public university offers a collaborative learning environment and a wide range of high-quality programs.

A helpful financial aid team works with each student personally. Over 98% of students receive financial aid.

Military discounts are available and one out of six students has military connections.

5. University of the Incarnate Word

The University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) is the largest Catholic university in the state of Texas.

UIW is also ranked as the best university in the country for military veterans.

The financial aid team gives out over $233 million in aid each year to ensure that college degrees are accessible to all students.

UIW has won awards for its contribution to social mobility. The university also has one of the most diverse student bodies of any Catholic university.

6. Baptist University of the Americas

The Baptist University of the Americas (BUA) is an excellent choice for a faith-based degree in San Antonio.

The four-year university has a cross-cultural emphasis and is training students to have a positive impact around the globe.

BUA welcomes students from all around the world and offers a highly respected ESL program.

7. Our Lady of the Lake University

Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) is a fully accredited private Catholic university with a main campus in San Antonio.

The campus is located on a beautiful lake and is only three miles from downtown San Antonio.

OLLU offers 75 degrees across bachelor's master's and doctoral levels of study. An efficient learning format enables students to earn a double major in four years.

Students will benefit from the close community and small classes that foster deep learning and personal connections.

8. Texas Lutheran University

Texas Lutheran University (TLU) is one of the most exciting colleges near San Antonio, TX.

The private faith-based institution is located on a beautiful campus just slightly outside the city.

TLU has a goal of making private education just as affordable as public programs.

High-achieving students are guaranteed at least $20,000 a year in financial aid.

9. Hallmark University

Hallmark University's degrees are designed to propel students to career success.

All programs emphasize hands-on learning and the practical skills needed in job environments.

Students can earn high-tech certifications to gain professional qualifications in their industries.

Many programs are offered at an accelerated rate that can save students both time and money as they earn a valuable degree.

10. University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio

The University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio is a major hub for medical and health-related fields of study.

Over 65 specialties are offered across six schools making the program one of the country's hotspots for healthcare education.

The university has contributed to key breakthroughs through its innovative research programs.

Students looking to study occupational therapy, nursing, physiotherapy, or medicine can benefit from award-winning programs.

What Is the Biggest School Near San Antonio, TX?

The University of Texas San Antonio is a large public university that holds the prize for the biggest college in San Antonio.

Total enrollment across graduate and undergraduate programs exceeds 34,000 students.

How To Choose the Right College Near San Antonio, TX

Each student has specific needs and goals that impact their optimal choice for a college degree.

Students who live in the state of Texas should be aware that they will receive significantly reduced tuition at public universities but private universities can also be affordable.

Factors such as students' educational goals, career interests, and faith affiliation may also influence the fit between a student and a program.

Paying for Your Degree Near San Antonio, TX

Make sure you reach out to each university's financial aid team to discuss all possible sources of funding.

Financial aid options can be broken down into several categories. Need-based funding is determined by a student's financial situation and family income.

Merit-based programs reward students for academic or other achievements.

Many institutions also offer scholarships for incoming freshman or transfer students as well as departmental scholarships.

Start Your Degree Near San Antonio, TX Today

Finding colleges near San Antonio, TX is the first step toward a life-changing education. Pick a program that matches your specific needs and start learning today.