Pursuing a higher education program in the United States can be a daunting prospect, especially for international students. American institutions are known worldwide for the quality of education they offer and also for their hefty tuition fees.
However, for international students on a budget, there are affordable options available across the country. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore 10 universities in the USA that offer quality education without needing you to break the bank.
List of 12 Budget-Friendly Universities in the USA for International Students
1. California State University
CSU is part of the California State University system and is known for its affordable tuition rates. It is a public university that offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs including disciplines such as
- Asian studies
- criminal justice
- biology
- Arabic
- art history
- aerospace engineering
- agriculture
- education
- medicine
- STEM
- and filmmaking.
It is no surprise it remains an attractive option for international students seeking cost-effective education.
Despite the affordable education on offer, CSU is recognized as one the best institutions in the world and ranked among the top universities in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges list.
For graduate students, the annual tuition is below the 10,000 USD mark and varies depending on your targeted course of study. Study here
2. Nicholls State University
Nicholls State University is a public university situated in Thibodaux, Louisiana. The institution offers a variety of programs ranging from culinary arts to nursing. In the Regional Universities South 2022-2023 rankings by U.S. News & World Report, Nicholls State University holds the 83rd position. If you decide to live on campus, you’ll join 1,255 undergraduate students in a secure environment, as emphasized on the university’s official website.
Notably, Nicholls State University stands out for its affordable tuition fees, with rates of $7,946 for in-state students and $9,039 for international students. Study here
3. Mississippi University for Women
Mississippi University for Women, located in Columbus, Mississippi, is recognized as the first public college for women in the United States. It distinguishes itself by providing a unique educational experience while prioritizing affordability.
With tuition fees at around $7,866 for the 2022-2023 academic year, the university helps students graduate with lower debt compared to other regional Southern universities. Ranked 26 among Regional Universities in the South by U.S. News, it boasts a student-faculty ratio of 11:1 and 82.2% of classes with fewer than 20 students.
The diverse program offerings include fields such as
- Registered Nursing
- Business Administration
- Public Health Education
- Elementary Education
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Sports
- Biology
- Culinary Arts
- Legal Assistant/Paralegal
- and Liberal Arts and Sciences.
4. Oklahoma State University
Oklahoma Panhandle State University stands as a good choice for international students looking for affordable education. The OSU is a prestigious public research institution with five campuses, providing a comprehensive academic portfolio of over 200 undergraduate degrees. It is recognized for its STEM focus, and OSU offers over 30 online master’s degrees, eliminating most on-campus requirements.
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, OSU is one of six sun-grant universities nationally, actively contributing to bioenergy research and sustainable initiatives. With an average annual tuition cost of $14,878, you should consider this institution as an affordable option. Apply here
5. Delta State Univeristy
Nestled in Cleveland, Mississippi, Delta State University is a well-regarded institution in the South, ranking 63 among Regional Universities. In addition to its status, it offers an attractive living experience, affordable living, a vibrant student community, a lively music scene, and diverse food options.
Delta State University is a magnet for international students and its most popular majors include Physical Education,
- Elementary Education
- Nursing
- Biology
- Psychology, and
- Business Administration.
With a tuition fee of $8,605 for both in-state and international students, Delta State is notably affordable, especially given its location in one of the best Southern small towns. See graduate programs.
6. Indiana University Bloomington
Established in 1820, Indiana University Bloomington is the flagship institution of the Hoosier State. With a robust academic offering spanning over 550 programs, IU serves a diverse student body of 48,000. Affirming its commitment to affordability, IU collaborates with students to manage costs, and approximately 64% of undergraduates receive grants or scholarships.
With a tuition fee of USD 10,014 per year, IU is not only cost-effective but also holds regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring a dedication to academic excellence.
7. University of Buffalo
Established in 1846, the University at Buffalo (UB) ranks among the oldest public research universities in the United States. UB offers an extensive range of academic programs, with 135 undergraduate and over 170 graduate and professional degrees across its campuses, UB provides a broad spectrum of educational opportunities.
The university stands out with numerous research centers and institutes, allowing students to explore specialized areas of interest. Tuition fees at UB vary, ranging from $5,655 to over $25,000 annually for undergraduate students, depending on the course of study. To support eligible students, UB offers a range of scholarships, including merit-based awards, need-based grants, student employment opportunities, and specialized scholarships.
With campuses in Buffalo, Amherst, and New York, UB provides a rich educational experience, making it an appealing choice for both domestic and international students seeking quality education at an affordable cost.
8. Northern State University
Northern State University, situated in Aberdeen, South Dakota, is a public university that caters to a total of 2,867 undergraduates, including 37 international students. Boasting a 6-year graduation rate of 56% for international students, the university holds a respectable U.S. News rank of 85 in the Regional Universities category.
Offering a diverse range of degrees, from certificates to associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s programs, Northern State covers areas like
- accounting
- banking
- justice, science
- education
- digital media.
The university maintains a reasonable tuition of $10,717, with available scholarships to support students financially. Apply here
With programs spread across four schools, Northern State University has gained global recognition for the research efforts of its students and faculty. The institution prioritizes personalized attention and an engaging learning environment, evident in its student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1 and 55% of classes having fewer than 20 students. This emphasis on a close-knit community contributes to Northern State’s reputation for fostering impactful academic experiences.
9. Dakota State University
Dakota State University (DSU), located in Madison, South Dakota, USA, has been a hub of education since its founding in 1881. The university stands out for its diverse academic offerings, encompassing undergraduate and graduate programs in business administration, computer science, information systems management, nursing, and more. To accommodate a range of learners, DSU provides flexible learning options, including online courses and hybrid classes, catering to the needs of working professionals and homemakers seeking educational advancement.
Committed to accessibility, the university ensures affordable tuition fees, supported by various financial aid programs. Need-based grants, work-study opportunities, federal loans, and scholarships. Tuition fees at Dakota State University is around $5,642 based on 15 credits per semester. See Graduate admission courses
10. Brigham Young University (BYU)
Brigham Young University (BYU), established in 1875 by Brigham Young, is recognized as one of the most affordable universities in the USA. it is located in Provo, Utah, with additional campuses in Laie, Hawaii, and Rexburg, Idaho.
BYU is renowned for its language education, offering courses in 62 languages, and ranked #89 in the National Universities category by U.S. News & World Report, BYU boasts a strong academic reputation.
Programs offered in the university’s colleges span diverse fields, including Education and Human Development, Engineering and Technology, Fine Arts and communications, Life Sciences, Management, Nursing, and Health Sciences, and Physical and mathematical Sciences. In addition to its on-campus offerings, BYU provides an extensive online program with over 500 courses.
A standout feature of BYU is its commitment to affordability, with tuition fees set at $6,304 per semester for Bachelor’s and $14,636 per semester for Master’s students in Utah. There are also grants and scholarship support for students. Apply here
11. Eastern New Mexico University
Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU), positioned in Portales, New Mexico, stands out as one of the most affordable 4-year universities in the whole Southwestern part of the US. Renowned for its economical tuition, ENMU offers both on-site and distance learning options and a personalized education structure. The university boasts small class sizes, which fosters an intimate learning environment where students can easily connect with their lecturers.
ENMU’s annual tuition fees contribute to its reputation as one of the cheapest universities in the USA for international students, with a cost of $8,568 per year for Bachelor’s programs and $7,110 per year for Master’s programs. The university’s affordable programs span various fields such as education, agriculture, and business, catering to the diverse interests and academic goals of its student population. Apply here
12. Henderson State University
Henderson State University, situated in the scenic town of Arkadelphia, Arkansas, is committed to making education accessible for international students through its scholarship programs. The university offers merit-based scholarships with lower tuition fees, determined by students’ GPAs. Additionally, the University provides additional financial aid opportunities based on family income, ensuring a comprehensive approach to supporting students financially.
The programs available in the institution span various fields such as
- business
- education
- arts and humanities
- social sciences
- and natural sciences.
Henderson State places a strong emphasis on teaching and is known for providing personalized attention to students, fostering an engaging and supportive learning experience.
With an affordable tuition fee of $7,480 based on 15 hours per semester, Henderson State University stands as an accessible choice for students seeking a quality education in a beautiful setting. Apply here
Conclusion
International students need not compromise quality for affordability when pursuing higher education in the United States. The 12 universities mentioned above exemplify institutions that offer cost-effective programs while maintaining academic excellence. By exploring these options, you can embark on a rewarding educational journey without the burden of exorbitant tuition fees.