UCF vs TAMU [computer] Engineering [international student]

fissh
Mon, 27 Jan 2025 15:55:25 +0000

Hi everyone! I’ve been accepted to both UCF and TAMU for engineering and am having a hard time picking between them. I need to pick asap because they both have limited on-campus housing that will fill up soon. I’m an international student and will require on-campus housing.

In terms of rankings, TAMU is much better- #51 overall and #16 for engineering. UCF is much lower at #121 overall and #80 for engineering.
UCF’s tuition is 20k. TAMU’s tuition will be around 22k for my first year, and then rise to 40k for the other 3. (I’ve been admitted to TEAB)
TAMU has a massive alumni network and reputation that will help in finding opportunities, but UCF has great industry connections and Orlando provides good networking opportunities as well.
At TAMU, I will have to go through the ETAM process and risk not getting the major of my choice (Computer Engineering), but at UCF I will get direct admission to CompE.
I have a relative living around 2 hours away from UCF, so my parents will feel more comfortable with the location.
I’ve grown up in a big city and really like Orlando. But I don’t think I’ll have too much of a problem with College Station as well.

My main problem right now is the cost. I don’t know if TAMU is worth the extra 60k overall. If I go to UCF, my parents will pay tuition for all 4 years. If I go to TAMU, we might have to take a loan.

I’ve been going back and forth constantly and I’d appreciate any advice anyone has.