Cheapest Universities in the USA for International Students
The United States attracts students from all over the world, as it offers the highest standard of education across the globe. However, good education costs money, but the US also offers education that is affordable.
Here are the top US universities for international students.
University of the People (Online)
- Tuition: Tuition-free (only minimal fees for course assessments)
- Location: Online (Global)
The University of the People is a unique online institution that offers a fully accredited education with no tuition fees. While many universities charge hefty tuition rates, University of the People allows international students to take courses for free, charging only minimal fees for course assessments. This makes it an excellent option for students looking for a cost-effective way to earn a degree.
Since it's an online university, students from anywhere in the world can take advantage of this affordable education model. The University of the People offers programs in various fields, including computer science, business administration, and health science.
South Texas College
- Tuition: $4,200 per year
- Location: McAllen, Texas
Located in McAllen, Texas, South Texas College is a community-based institution that offers low-cost tuition for both in-state and international students. With a tuition fee of just $4,200 per year, South Texas College is one of the most affordable options for students looking to study in the U.S. From nursing and healthcare to business and computer science, it offers associate and bachelor's degree programs in a range of fields,
South Texas College’s small class sizes and supportive academic environment make it an attractive option for international students who want to keep costs down while receiving a quality education.
Alcorn State University
- Tuition: $6,888 per year
- Location: Lorman, Mississippi
Alcorn State University in Mississippi is another affordable option for international students. With an annual tuition fee of $6,888, it ranks among the cheapest public universities in the U.S. The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including agriculture, business, education, and engineering.
Alcorn State University is known for its diverse student body and strong sense of community. It’s an excellent option for students who are looking for an affordable education while experiencing life in a historic and vibrant university setting.
Minot State University
- Tuition: $6,809 per year
- Location: Minot, North Dakota
Minot State University in North Dakota offers one of the most affordable tuition rates in the region, with an annual fee of $6,809 for international students. Minot State is known for its strong academic programs in fields such as business, education, and health sciences. It also has a number of student organizations, including international student groups, which help students connect with one another and get involved in campus life.
Minot State is a great choice for international students seeking an affordable education in a peaceful, welcoming environment.
Delta State University
- Tuition: $8,000 per year
- Location: Cleveland, Mississippi
Located in Cleveland, Mississippi, Delta State University is another budget-friendly option for international students. With a tuition fee of $8,000 per year, it offers affordable degrees in fields like business, arts, education, and nursing.
Delta State University is well-regarded for its close-knit community and emphasis on student success. The university offers a range of financial aid opportunities, including scholarships for international students, making it an even more affordable option.
California State University (CSU) System
- Tuition: $8,151 per year (varies slightly by campus)
- Location: Various campuses across California
The California State University (CSU) system is one of the largest public university systems in the U.S., and it offers several affordable options for international students. With a tuition fee of around $8,151 per year, CSU provides a quality education at a reasonable price. There are multiple CSU campuses across California, each offering a variety of programs in disciplines such as business, engineering, and the arts.
While living in California can be expensive, attending a CSU campus is a cost-effective way to earn a degree from a prestigious institution without paying sky-high tuition rates.
Wayne State College
- Tuition: $7,116 per year
- Location: Wayne, Nebraska
Wayne State College in Nebraska offers a wide range of affordable academic programs for international students. The tuition fee is just $7,116 per year, making it one of the most affordable options for students looking to study in the U.S. Wayne State College is known for its friendly atmosphere and excellent student support services.
The college offers programs in fields like business, education, and health sciences, and provides a strong foundation for students who want to build a successful career after graduation.
University of North Carolina at Pembroke
- Tuition: $7,000 per year
- Location: Pembroke, North Carolina
Located in Pembroke, North Carolina, the University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP) offers an affordable education at a tuition rate of $7,000 per year for international students. UNCP is a public university with a commitment to providing high-quality education in a wide range of disciplines, including business, education, and health sciences.
UNCP offers a welcoming environment for international students and provides a variety of support services to help them succeed academically and socially.
Sonoma State University
- Tuition: $9,504 per year
- Location: Rohnert Park, California
Sonoma State University in California is an affordable option for students seeking a quality education in a beautiful location. With a tuition fee of $9,504 per year, Sonoma State is one of the more affordable options in the state of California. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields like business, environmental studies, and psychology.
Sonoma State’s small class sizes and close-knit campus community make it an excellent choice for international students looking for personalized attention and a great academic experience.
City University of New York (CUNY) System
- Tuition: $17,400 per year
- Location: New York City, New York
The City University of New York (CUNY) system is one of the most affordable public university systems in the country, with tuition fees starting at around $17,400 per year for international students. CUNY offers a range of programs in fields such as business, engineering, and the arts, and its schools are located in one of the most exciting cities in the world—New York City.
While the cost of living in New York City can be high, CUNY offers a low-cost education in a vibrant, diverse, and dynamic environment.
Cheapest Domestic Universities in the U.S. for 2025
The US is a huge country when it comes to land covered. Even US residents have a wide range of affordable options for higher education. Many states offer in-state tuition rates that make college more accessible. Here are some of the most budget-friendly universities for domestic students in 2025.
University of Wyoming
- In-state Tuition: $5,500 per year
- Out-of-state Tuition: $16,000 per year
Located in Laramie, Wyoming, the University of Wyoming offers a solid education at an affordable price. With an in-state tuition fee of just $5,500, it’s one of the cheapest options for domestic students. The university is known for its diverse programs in engineering, business, and environmental sciences.
With various scholarships and financial aid options available, students can further reduce their costs. The University of Wyoming also offers a scenic campus surrounded by natural beauty.
California State University, Long Beach (CSULB)
- In-state Tuition: $6,800 per year
- Out-of-state Tuition: $18,700 per year
California State University, Long Beach is a public university known for its affordable tuition and academic excellence. With in-state tuition at $6,800 per year, it provides a cost-effective education in Southern California. CSULB offers strong programs in fields like business, engineering, and healthcare.
Students also have access to a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help reduce the cost of living in the area.
Florida State University (FSU)
- In-state Tuition: $5,600 per year
- Out-of-state Tuition: $18,700 per year
Located in Tallahassee, Florida, Florida State University offers a great value for students with its affordable tuition fees and strong academic programs. In-state students pay just $5,600 annually for tuition, making it one of the best value universities in Florida. FSU has a wide range of programs, especially in business, law, and the arts.
The university also provides many scholarships and financial aid opportunities for students.
Brigham Young University (BYU)
- Tuition (LDS Students): $6,000 per year
- Tuition (Non-LDS Students): $12,000 per year
Brigham Young University, located in Provo, Utah, is known for its religious affiliation with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. For LDS students, the tuition is just $6,000 annually. Non-LDS students pay $12,000 per year. BYU is renowned for its rigorous academic programs, especially in business, engineering, and humanities.
The university offers a supportive community and various scholarships to help students with financial needs.
South Dakota State University
- In-state Tuition: $9,000 per year
- Out-of-state Tuition: 12,809 per year
Located in Brookings, South Dakota, South Dakota State University offers a low-cost education for in-state students at $9,000 per year. Known for its strong programs in agricultural sciences, health professions, and engineering, SDSU is a solid choice for students seeking a high-quality education at an affordable price.
Additionally, the university provides various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to help students with tuition and living expenses.
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV)
- In-state Tuition: $7,200 per year
- Out-of-state Tuition: $17,000 per year
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley offers one of the lowest in-state tuition rates in Texas at $7,200 per year. UTRGV provides affordable education with programs in fields such as business, healthcare, and engineering. The university also offers a range of financial aid options for both in-state and out-of-state students, helping to make education even more accessible.
Minot State University
- In-state Tuition: $8,633 per year
- Out-of-state Tuition: $8,700 per year
Located in Minot, North Dakota, Minot State University is a small, affordable public university. With tuition for out-of-state students at just over $7,000 per year, it is one of the most affordable options in the region. Known for its personalized education experience with small class sizes, Minot State offers programs in business, education, and healthcare.
The university also provides various scholarships to help reduce costs further.
Alcorn State University
- In-state Tuition: $7,600 per year
- Out-of-state Tuition: $7,800 per year
Alcorn State University, located in Lorman, Mississippi, is an excellent choice for students seeking an affordable education. The tuition is just $7,600 for in-state students and $7,800 for out-of-state students. Known for its historically Black College and University (HBCU) status, Alcorn State provides a supportive community and strong academic programs, especially in agriculture, business, and education.
It also offers various scholarships for both in-state and out-of-state students.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC)
- In-state Tuition: $9,000 per year
- Out-of-state Tuition: $39,000 per year
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers affordable in-state tuition rates at $9,000 per year, making it a great option for North Carolina residents. For out-of-state students, tuition increases to $36,000 annually. Known for its prestigious programs in business, law, and public health, UNC also offers generous financial aid packages and scholarships to help students reduce costs.
The university’s reputation and strong alumni network make it an attractive option.
Eastern New Mexico University
- In-state Tuition: $6,000 per year
- Out-of-state Tuition: $8,000 per year
Eastern New Mexico University, located in Portales, New Mexico, offers an affordable tuition rate of $6,000 per year for in-state students. For out-of-state students, tuition is approximately $8,000 annually. ENMU is known for its programs in education, business, and healthcare, and offers a range of financial aid opportunities to help students manage costs.
The university’s small class sizes and close-knit community make it a great choice for those seeking an affordable education.
Note: The domestic universities above are not given in any particular order.
Tips to Consider When Looking for Cheap Higher Education in the U.S.
Finding affordable higher education in the U.S. can be tricky, but with the right approach, it’s definitely possible. Here are some practical tips to help you save money on your college education:
- Consider Public Universities
Public universities usually offer lower tuition rates for in-state residents, so check if there are affordable options in your home state. - Look for Scholarships and Financial Aid
Many universities offer scholarships, grants, or work-study opportunities that can significantly reduce your tuition costs. Always apply for financial aid. - Explore Community Colleges
If you're open to starting your education at a community college, they offer lower tuition and can transfer credits to a four-year university later on. - Choose Schools with Low Tuition Fees
Research universities with the lowest tuition rates. Some schools, especially in rural areas, may offer affordable rates without compromising on the quality of education. - Consider Online Programs
Online degrees can sometimes cost less than traditional on-campus programs. Look into accredited online universities that offer affordable tuition. - Check Out State-Based Programs
Some states have special programs that provide low-cost education for residents, or offer tuition discounts for certain degree programs. - Research Financial Aid Packages
Don’t just look at tuition fees. Evaluate the whole financial aid package, including loans, grants, and work-study opportunities, to get a better picture of the total cost.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can find a quality, affordable education that fits your budget.
The bottom line,
Choosing an affordable university doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. These institutions offer excellent academic programs, vibrant campus communities, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. By considering these universities, you can achieve your educational goals without breaking the bank.
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