Studying abroad involves a lot of meticulous research and decision-making. Choosing a university is among the most important choices an international student can make. Students often consider tuition fees the primary factor in choosing their ideal institution.
Table of Contents
- The affordable universities in the USA
- Delta State University
- Nicholls State University
- Dakota State University
- Brigham Young University
- California State University
- Mississippi University for Women (MUW)
- Bridgewater State University
- Eastern New Mexico University
- The University of Nevada at Reno
- Minnesota State University Moorhead
- North Carolina State University
- Henderson State University
- Bemidji State University
- Arkansas State University
- Southeast Missouri State University
- How can you study in the US with minimal expenses?
- Frequently asked questions
- What are the cheapest universities in the USA for Indian students?
- Which university in the USA has the lowest tuition fees?
- Which university in the USA is the cheapest?
- What is the average cost of living in the USA?
- Which US state is the cheapest for international students?
- How can I study cheaply in the USA?
- Is studying in the USA costly?
- What is the cheapest bachelor's degree in the USA?
- How can I reduce the overall cost of pursuing academics in the US?
The average tuition fees for an international student studying in the USA ranges between USD $5,000 to $50,000.
However, one should remember that it’s not just about picking a university with low tuition fees; one has to ensure the school offers quality education and facilities. The United States is home to some of the finest universities in the world, with affordable fees.
Students who want to obtain quality education but don't want to break the bank should consider studying at an affordable university in the USA. These institutions offer excellent academic opportunities at low costs.
This guide will list the top low-fee universities in the USA. So whether you are a freshman or a senior, there is sure to be an institution that meets your needs and budget.
Want to explore and analyse your options to study in the US? Connect with us today!
The affordable universities in the USA
The USA has several universities with relatively low tuition fees, making higher education more accessible for domestic and international students. These universities strive to provide quality education without burdening students with excessive costs. Below is a list of the most affordable universities in the USA.
Top cheapest universities in the USA
| University | Average annual tuition fee (in USD) |
|---|---|
| Delta State University | $4,717 |
| Nicholls State University | $5,275 |
| Dakota State University | $5,968 |
| Brigham Young University | $6,496 |
| California State University | $7,520 |
| Mississippi University for Women | $7,866 |
| Bridgewater State University | $8,045 |
| Eastern New Mexico University | $8,688 |
| University of Nevada at Reno | $8,797 |
| Minnesota State University Moorhead | $8,838 |
| North Carolina State University | $9,128 |
| Henderson State University | $9,632 |
| Bemidji State University | $10,130 |
| Arkansas State University | $13,430 |
| Southeast Missouri State University | $14,520 |
Data updated as of December 2023
Delta State University
Average annual tuition fees: $4,717
Delta State University is a public university in Cleveland, Mississippi. Known for its comprehensive curriculum and 100% acceptance rate, it is the cheapest university in the USA for international students.
Delta State University is also the only institution to offer a 4-year program in commercial aviation. In addition, international students can choose from the 40+ programs the institution offers and excel in their field of study.
Delta State University: Key highlights
| Acceptance rate | 100% |
| Average tuition fees (per year) | $4,717 |
| Accommodation (per semester) | $2,375 |
| Food | $1,901 |
| Official website | https://www.deltastate.edu/ |
Data updated as of December 2023
Nicholls State University
Average annual tuition fees: $5,275
Nicholls State University is located in Thibodaux, Louisiana, and is one of the cheapest universities in the USA. With an enrollment of approximately 5,900 traditional and non-traditional students, the institution offers a range of affordable programs.
One of its unique points is the emphasis on experiential learning, providing students with practical, hands-on experiences. It boasts 60 degree programs, 100+ student organisations and 15 Division I athletic teams.
Nicholls State University: Key highlights
| Acceptance rate | 97% |
| Average tuition fees (per year) | $5,275 |
| Accommodation (per semester) | $2,246 |
| Food | $2,012 |
| Official website | https://www.nicholls.edu/ |
Data updated as of December 2023
Also read: Student Accommodation in the US
Dakota State University
Average annual tuition fees: $5,968
Situated in Madison, South Dakota, Dakota State University is renowned for its affordable computer science and cybersecurity programs. The university has around 3,000 undergraduate and graduate students and strongly focuses on technology-related fields.
Students at Dakota State have access to cutting-edge resources and opportunities to explore emerging technologies, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordable education in the tech industry.
Dakota State University: Key highlights
| Acceptance rate | 86% |
| Average tuition fees (per year) | $5,968 |
| Accommodation (per semester) | $2,260 |
| Food | $2,054 |
| Official website | https://dsu.edu/ |
Data updated as of December 2023
Brigham Young University
Average annual tuition fees: $6,496
Brigham Young University (BYU) is one of the cheapest universities in the USA. Located in Provo, Utah, Brigham Young University was founded in 1875 as Brigham Young Academy by Brigham Young, a leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees through its colleges, including Education and Human Development, Engineering & Technology, Fine Arts & Communications, Life Sciences, Management, Nursing & Health Sciences, and Physical & Mathematical Sciences. BYU also has an extensive online program with over 500 available courses.
Brigham Young University: Key highlights
| Acceptance rate | 59% |
| Average tuition fees (per year) | $6,496 |
| Accommodation | $3,435 |
| Food (entire study period) | $5,000 |
| Official website | https://www.byu.edu/ |
Data updated as of December 2023
Also read: UK vs US Universities
California State University
Average annual tuition fees: $7,520
California State University is one of the leading low-tuition fee universities in the USA. It provides an economical, high-quality education to California residents and non-residents alike.
The university system has 23 campuses throughout California, ranging from Humboldt State in northern California to San Diego State in Southern California.
It has been ranked among the top universities in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges list since 2000. Many of its campuses have been recognised for their innovative approaches to teaching and research.
California State University: Key highlights
| Acceptance rate | 59% |
| Average tuition fees (per year) | $7,520 |
| Accommodation | $3,435 |
| Food (entire study period) | $5,000 |
| Official website | https://www.calstate.edu/ |
Data updated as of December 2023
Mississippi University for Women (MUW)
Average annual tuition fees: $7,866
Located in Columbus, Mississippi, the Mississippi University for Women (MUW) is a distinctive institution known for its dedication to empowering women through education.
The institution enrols around 2,500 students to pursue affordable programs in various disciplines. MUW is committed to advancing opportunities for women, making it a welcoming and inclusive environment for female students.
Mississippi University for Women: Key highlights
| Acceptance rate | 99% |
| Average tuition fees (per year) | $7,866 |
| Accommodation | $2,165 |
| Food (per week) | $275 |
| Official website | https://www.muw.edu/ |
Data updated as of December 2023
Also read: How much does it cost to study in the USA?
Bridgewater State University
Average annual tuition fees: $8,045
Bridgewater State University, located in Bridgewater, Massachusetts, is a well-renowned, affordable university in the US. The institution offers world-class education, remarkable research opportunities, and career options.
Founded in 1840, Bridgewater State is the 10th largest university in Massachusetts. It is home to over 9,600 native and international students pursuing various undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
Bridgewater State University: Key highlights
| Acceptance rate | 86% |
| Average tuition fees (per year) | $8,045 |
| Accommodation | $4,150 |
| Food | $2,274 |
| Official website | https://www.bridgew.edu/ |
Data updated as of December 2023
Eastern New Mexico University
Average annual tuition fees: $8,688
Situated in Portales, New Mexico, Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU) is one of the most affordable universities in the USA for international students.
With an enrollment of approximately 5,000 students (3,833 undergraduate and 1,273 graduate students), ENMU provides a friendly and supportive environment for students.
The university offers affordable programs in various fields, including education, agriculture, and business, catering to the diverse interests of its student body.
Eastern New Mexico University: Key highlights
| Acceptance rate | 32% |
| Average tuition fees (per year) | $8,688 |
| Accommodation | $1,987 |
| Food | $2,236 |
| Official website | https://www.enmu.edu/ |
Data updated as of December 2023
Also read: 5 things you should know about applying to study in the USA
The University of Nevada at Reno
Average annual tuition fees: $8,797
The University of Nevada at Reno (UNR) is located in Reno, Nevada, and enrols around 20,000 undergraduate and graduate students.
The university is known for its affordability and offers a wide range of programs, particularly in engineering, science, and business. The campus's proximity to the Sierra Nevada Mountains allows students to engage in outdoor activities while pursuing their education.
University of Nevada at Reno: Key highlights
| Acceptance rate | 88% |
| Average tuition fees (per year) | $8,797 |
| Accommodation (per semester) | $5,000 |
| Food (per year) | $4,200 |
| Official website | https://www.unr.edu/ |
Data updated as of December 2023
Minnesota State University Moorhead
Average annual tuition fees: $8,838
Minnesota State University Moorhead is a public university in Moorhead, Minnesota. It was founded in 1887 and has since grown to become one of the leading and cheapest universities in the USA.
Minnesota State University Moorhead offers various undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple disciplines, including arts, sciences, business, education, and health professions.
The university is known for its commitment to providing a student-centered learning environment, promoting hands-on experiences, and encouraging research and creative activities among its students.
Minnesota State University Moorhead: Key highlights
| Acceptance rate | 72% |
| Average tuition fees (per year) | $8,838 |
| Accommodation (per semester) | $2,998 |
| Food (per year) | $1,963 |
| Official website | https://www.mnstate.edu/ |
Data updated as of December 2023
North Carolina State University
Average annual tuition fees: $9,128
North Carolina State University is among the low tuition universities in the USA in Raleigh, North Carolina. It is one of the members of the prestigious Research Triangle, along with Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
The North Carolina State University campus is spread across a substantial 2,100 acres and includes modern facilities such as libraries, laboratories, art centres, and recreational centres. It is known for its strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and agriculture.
North Carolina State University: Key highlights
| Acceptance rate | 47.5% |
| Average tuition fees (per year) | $9,128 |
| Accommodation (per semester) | $3,500 |
| Food (per year) | $1,495 |
| Official website | https://www.ncsu.edu/ |
Data updated as of December 2023
Also read: Most affordable cities in USA for Indian students
Henderson State University
Average annual tuition fees: $9,632
Henderson State University is a public university in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. Its campus, nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, provides a picturesque setting.
Established in 1890, the institution is a member of the Arkansas State University System and offers programs in business, education, arts and humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. It places a strong emphasis on teaching and provides personalised attention for students.
Henderson State University: Key highlights
| Acceptance rate | 75% |
| Average tuition fees (per year) | $9,632 |
| Accommodation (per semester) | $2,350 |
| Food (per week) | $675 |
| Official website | https://www.hsu.edu/ |
Data updated as of December 2023
Bemidji State University
Average annual tuition fees: $10,130
Bemidji State University in Minnesota offers a fine academic experience with remarkable facilities and research opportunities for students. Founded in 1919, the university now boasts an acceptance rate of 75%.
Bemidji State is also known for providing a platform for international students to begin their careers after graduation. The university graduates are hired by top employers like Target, Essentia Health, and Stanford Health Home Medical Equipment.
Bemidji State University: Key highlights
| Acceptance rate | 75% |
| Average tuition fees (per year) | $10,130 |
| Accommodation (per semester) | $3,042 |
| Food (per semester) | $1,978 |
| Official website | https://www.bemidjistate.edu/ |
Data updated as of December 2023
Also read: The different types of universities in the USA
Arkansas State University
Average annual tuition fees: $13,430
Located in Jonesboro, Arkansas, Arkansas State University is a public research institution with more than 8,000 students studying different courses. Ranked #361 in the US National Universities Ranking 2024, the institution is praised for its remarkable education system and diverse culture.
Arkansas State has a student-teacher ratio of 15:1; faculties here show extra care and attention to students, elevating their study experience. Some popular courses include psychology, business administration and management, registered nursing, and biological sciences.
Arkansas State University: Key highlights
| Acceptance rate | 70% |
| Average tuition fees (per year) | $13,430 |
| Accommodation (per semester) | $2,550 |
| Food (per semester) | $2,350 |
| Official website | https://www.astate.edu/ |
Data updated as of December 2023
Also read: Best MBA Universities in the USA
Southeast Missouri State University
Average annual tuition fees: $14,520
Southeast Missouri State University is a popular university in Missouri, located in Cape Girardeau. Known for its excellence in academics, research, and student support, the university has an extraordinary educational experience for international students.
The university has over 170 programs, 129 undergraduate, 33 postgraduate, and 11 certificate courses, in cybersecurity, healthcare, computer science, biochemistry, and others.
Southeast Missouri State University: Key highlights
| Acceptance rate | 79% |
| Average tuition fees (per year) | $14,520 |
| Accommodation (per semester) | $2,950 |
| Food (per semester) | $3,150 |
| Official website | https://semo.edu/ |
Data updated as of December 2023
How can you study in the US with minimal expenses?
The US is considered an expensive study destination for international students. But with the right financial plan and effective spending, you can live and study in the county with minimal expenses. Here’s how you can plan your expenses to study at affordable prices in the US.
- Look for universities with low tuition fees. Reducing education expenses saves you more money while pursuing higher education abroad.
- Some states in the US have relatively low living costs, so you can choose a state that suits your budget.
International students can apply for scholarships that suit their qualifications. Scholarships are financial aid that ease your financial burden while studying abroad.
Discover and explore the endless possibilities in the US! Click to apply for the upcoming intake!
Frequently asked questions
What are the cheapest universities in the USA for Indian students?
Here are some of the top affordable universities in the USA for Indian students.
- Delta State University
- Nicholls State University
- Dakota State University
- Brigham Young University
- California State University
- Mississippi University for Women
- Bridgewater State University
- Eastern New Mexico University
- University of Nevada at Reno
- Minnesota State University Moorhead
- North Carolina State University
- Henderson State University
Which university in the USA has the lowest tuition fees?
Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi, has some of the lowest educational expenses. The average tuition fee for an international student is USD $4,717.
Which university in the USA is the cheapest?
Here are the top cheapest universities in the USA.
| University | Average annual tuition fee (in USD) |
|---|---|
| Delta State University | $4,717 |
| Nicholls State University | $5,275 |
| Dakota State University | $5,968 |
| Brigham Young University | $6,496 |
| California State University | $7,520 |
| Mississippi University for Women | $7,866 |
| Bridgewater State University | $8,045 |
| Eastern New Mexico University | $8,688 |
| University of Nevada at Reno | $8,797 |
| Minnesota State University Moorhead | $8,838 |
| North Carolina State University | $9,128 |
| Henderson State University | $9,632 |
What is the average cost of living in the USA?
The average cost of living in the USA for an international student ranges between USD $5,000 and $50,000.
Which US state is the cheapest for international students?
Here are some of the most affordable states in the US for international students to pursue higher education.
- South Dakota
- Montana
- Wyoming
- Arkansas
- Utah
- Texas
- Florida
- Illinois
How can I study cheaply in the USA?
- To study in the USA with a low cost of living, consider applying to universities with low tuition fees in the USA.
- Look for scholarships and financial aid opportunities
- Apply for assistantships or part-time jobs on campus.
- Explore community colleges that offer cost-effective pathways to transfer to four-year institutions.
Is studying in the USA costly?
Studying in the USA can be expensive, especially at private universities, but there are also many low-tuition fee universities in the USA offering quality education.
What is the cheapest bachelor's degree in the USA?
The cost of a bachelor's degree in the USA can vary widely depending on the university and program of study.
How can I reduce the overall cost of pursuing academics in the US?
To reduce the overall cost of pursuing academics in the US, consider applying for scholarships and financial aid, comparing tuition fees at different universities, exploring work-study opportunities on campus, living off-campus to save on housing costs, and managing expenses wisely throughout your academic journey.
The US awaits you with exciting opportunities!
The US is one of the most popular study destinations among international students! Edvoy offers a remarkable study abroad experience, from choosing your desired course and study destination to submitting your application. Reach out to an Edvoy Counsellor, and begin your journey today!
