Studying in the USA is a dream for many international students, but the cost of tuition and living expenses can be overwhelming. Luckily, some universities offer a high-quality education at much lower prices. For 2025, we’re focusing on the cheapest universities in USA, where students can get a great education without spending a fortune. These schools make it easier for students from around the world to study in the U.S. without breaking the bank.
Universities like Brigham Young University and Minot State University offer some of the lowest tuition fees, starting around $5,600 per semester for undergraduate students. California State University and Arkansas Tech University also have affordable tuition and provide helpful services like scholarships and work-study opportunities. The University of Wisconsin and Brooklyn College are other great options with low tuition rates and strong academic programs. Choosing one of these affordable universities can help international students achieve their educational goals while keeping costs under control.
Also check, Fully Funded Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships in Switzerland.
List of Cheapest Universities in USA for International Students
1. Brigham Young University
Brigham Young University (BYU) is a private university in Utah, USA, founded in 1875 and owned by the LDS Church. It has campuses in Salt Lake City and Jerusalem, offering 188 undergraduate, 87 graduate, and 32 doctorate programs.
- Fees for Bachelors: $13,376
- Fees for Masters: $16,832
2. California State University
California State University Los Angeles, located in Los Angeles, USA, offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and online programs across various fields, including Business. The university provides scholarships, work-study options, and career services to support students in job placement and career development.
- Fees for Bachelors: $22,168 per semester
- Fees for Masters: 20,410 per semester
3. The University of Wisconsin
Founded in 1848, this public land-grant university is a major research institution dedicated to world-class education and real-world problem-solving. Guided by the Wisconsin Idea, which emphasizes public service, students, staff, and faculty work together to create a better future for all.
- Fees for Bachelors: $31,515 per semester
- Fees for Masters: $24,346 per semester
4. Minot State University
Founded in 1913, Minot State University is one of the cheapest universities in USA offering over 100 degree programs on a scenic 100-acre campus. With students from across the U.S. and over 55 countries, Minot State blends a rich history with a forward-looking approach to education.
- Fees for Bachelors: $5,609.74 per semester
- Fees for Masters: $5,341.18 per semester
5. Brooklyn College
Brooklyn College, nestled in the vibrant cultural landscape of New York, is among the cheapest universities in USA leveraging the city as a dynamic classroom for its students. With over 90 years of tradition, the college offers 175 programs across diverse fields, including business, education, and the arts. Its beautiful campus, renowned faculty, and affordable tuition attract around 14,000 students from 136 nations.
- Fees for Bachelors: $7,740 per semester
- Fees for Masters: $855 per credit unit
6. Arkansas Tech University
Arkansas Tech University in Russellville, USA, offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and online programs. The university provides scholarships, work-study opportunities, and career services, helping students with CV building and job placements.
- Fees for Bachelors: $22,052.12 per semester
- Fees for Masters: $15,389.96 per semester
7. The University of Louisiana at Monroe
The University of Louisiana at Monroe in Monroe, USA, offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and certificate programs across various fields, including Business. The university provides scholarships, work-study options, and career planning services to support students in job placement and career development.
- Fees for Bachelors: $10,839.49 per semester
- Fees for Masters: $11,003.91 per semester
8. South Dakota State University
South Dakota State University, the largest public university in Brookings, South Dakota, offers nearly 200 programs, including 82 majors, 36 master’s degrees, and 15 Ph.D. programs. Known for its research opportunities, the university provides degrees in fields like nursing, engineering, liberal arts, and business. Scholarships, grants, and job opportunities support international students, and the university also offers some online programs.
- Fees for Bachelors: $25,324 per year
- Fees for Masters: $26,526 per year
9. Northwest Missouri State University
Northwest Missouri State University, located in Maryville, Missouri, spans 370 acres and is renowned for its successful athletic teams, having won 47 national championships. It provides over 850 study abroad programs across 60 countries and supports students with various sports and organizations. Popular fields of study include marketing, agriculture, and psychology. The university offers scholarships to 87% of new students and has a strong track record of campus placements.
- Fees for Bachelors: $31,816.92 per year
- Fees for Masters: $16,966.20 per year
Also check, Fully Funded ADB Japan Scholarship, Asian Development Bank.
10. Southeast Missouri State University
Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, offers over 200 programs, including 75 graduate and 145 undergraduate majors. Known for its focus on technology and innovation, the university collaborates with Apple and has a strong cybersecurity program. It provides internships, experiential learning, and study abroad opportunities, with a variety of NCAA Division I sports for students to participate in and has notable alumni like NASA astronaut Linda Godwin and AGT winner Neal E. Boyd.
- Fees for Bachelors: $31,165.84 per year
- Fees for Masters: $8,549.32 per year
11. Southwest Minnesota State University
Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) is a top-ranked public university preparing students for success, producing future leaders, thinkers, and entrepreneurs.
- Fees for Bachelors: $5,180.54 per semester
- Fees for Masters: $ 5,181.93 per semester
12. Henderson State University
Henderson State University, part of the Arkansas State University System, prepares students for high-demand careers with comprehensive programs in aviation, science, nursing, business, performing arts, and education.
- Fees for Bachelors: $10,980 per semester
- Fees for Masters: $8,478 per semester
Also check, The University of Wisconsin Tuition Waiver Program.
Pursuing higher education in the USA doesn’t have to be prohibitively expensive. By exploring affordable universities like those listed, international students can achieve their academic dreams without compromising on quality. These institutions provide a range of programs and opportunities, making it possible to obtain a top-notch education in the U.S. at a fraction of the typical cost.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can international students apply to cheapest universities in USA?
Yes, all the universities listed accept international students and offer various support services, including scholarships, to help reduce costs.
2. Are there scholarships available for international students at the cheapest universities in USA?
Yes, many of these universities offer scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities specifically for international students to help manage tuition and living expenses.
3. Do the USA universities offer online programs?
Some of these universities, like California State University and Arkansas Tech University, offer online programs in addition to traditional on-campus programs, allowing flexibility for students.
4. How can I apply to the cheapest universities in USA?
You can apply directly through the universities’ official websites or through common application platforms like the Common App. Ensure you meet the application deadlines and submit all required documents.
5. What are the living costs associated with studying at the most affordable universities in USA?
Living costs vary by location, with cities like Los Angeles and New York being more expensive. However, many universities offer affordable housing options, both on and off-campus.
6. Is the quality of education compromised at the affordable universities in USA?
No, these universities are known for offering high-quality education despite their lower tuition fees. Many have specialized programs, accreditations, and strong support systems for students.
