Affordable and Cheap Universities in USA
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Every international student at one point thinks about earning his higher education degree from the USA. However, the high cost of college and other expenses discourage students from living their dreams and many times persuade them to change their plans. There are many scholarships available for studying in the USA; students who are hesitant to take loans, to pursue their education, can opt for them. For those students, in this article, we will apprise you of the cheapest universities in the USA for international students.
Earlier, we discussed the 12 Most Affordable MS Colleges in the US and the 10 Most Affordable MBA Colleges in the US. In this article, we will inform you about the affordable universities in the USA, where international students can pursue their higher education at an affordable cost part from the scholarships available in USA for students.
Why Study at Cheapest US Universities?
There are numerous reasons why international applicants should choose to study across cheap universities in USA. These reasons are as follows:
- USA is an expensive country, hence looking at cheap universities for study can reduce the load of high expenses.
- The applicants can choose cheap universities for all types of courses, the degrees will still be recognised across the globe.
- There can be smaller class sizes, apart from lower tuition costs at cheap universities in USA, but the study outline, syllabus and pattern will be the same.
- There will also be scholarships available at affordable US universities, which can further reduce the costs of studying in USA.
- Applicants can also consider studying at community colleges in USA, which are cheap and affordable.
- Finally, applicants should not worry about the educational standards at cheap universities in USA, the standard is maintained across institutions in USA.
Based on the above given reasons, applicants can consider applying to affordable universities in USA.
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List of Affordable Universities in the USA for International Students
The USA has always been considered one of the most expensive countries to pursue higher education for international students. Students can also find colleges that offer high-quality education at affordable prices. Here is a list of some of the cheap universities in the USA:
- California State University
- Southeast Missouri State University
- Arkansas State University
- Brigham Young University
- Brooklyn College
- The University of Louisiana at Monroe
- Southwest Minnesota State University
- Northwest Missouri State University
- Dakota State University
Top 10 Cheapest Universities in USA for International Students
Some of the cheapest colleges in the USA for international students along with their tuition fees for various levels of study have been discussed in the section below.
California State University, San Bernardino
California State University is a public university based in California, USA. San Bernardino, where the university's main campus is located, is one of the largest cities in California. The university offers numerous undergraduate, graduate, and online programs. Asian studies, Criminal Justice, Biology, Arabic, and Art History are some of the streams offered by the university. The table given below provides an overview of expenditures for the 2024-25 Academic Year:
| Particulars |
Undergraduate |
Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees |
USD 18,173 (INR 15.1 L) |
USD 14,657 (INR 12.2 L) |
| Additional Expenses |
USD 26,164 (INR 21.8 L) | USD 26,164 (INR 21.8 L) |
| TOTAL |
USD 44,337 (INR 37 L) | USD 40,821 (INR 34.1 L) |
Conversion Rate: 1 USD = INR 83.61
Southeast Missouri State University
Southeast Missouri State University is a public university based in Missouri, USA. It offers more than 200 programs including 100 minors, 145 undergraduate majors, and more than 75 graduate programs. The university focuses on imparting quality education with new ways of teaching. The table given below provides an overview of expenditures for the 2024-25 Academic Year:
| Particulars | Undergraduate | Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition and General Fees (Fall and Spring) | USD 17,147 (INR 14.3 L) | USD 13,237 (INR 11 L) |
| Estimated Books and Supplies | USD 364 (INR 30 K) | USD 850 (INR 71 K) |
| Housing | USD 7,850 (INR 6.5 L) | USD 4,500 (INR 3.7 L) |
| Meals | USD 3,300 (INR 2.7 L) | USD 2,100 (INR 1.7 L) |
| Estimated Personal Expenses (toiletries, local transportation, recreation) | USD 1,000 (INR 83 K) | USD 1,000 (INR 83 K) |
| Health Insurance (mandatory; 12 months) | USD 1,503 (INR 1.2 L) | USD 1,503 (INR 1.2 L) |
| TOTAL | USD 31,165 (INR 26 L) | USD 23,190 (INR 19.3 L) |
Conversion Rate: 1 USD = INR 83.61
Arkansas State University
Arkansas State University is the cheapest university in the USA. It is a public research university based in Arkansas, USA. It is the second-largest university in Arkansas. The school offers more than 160 degree programs. It also offers various bachelor's, and master's programs online. For students' benefit, the university offers a Structured Learning Assistance Program that provides additional academic support for difficult topics. The table given below provides an overview of expenditures per semester for the year 2024-25:
| Particulars | Undergraduate | Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | USD 9,680 (INR 8 L) | USD 6,980 (INR 5.8 L) |
| Books | USD 1,250 (INR 1 L) | USD 1,250 (INR 1 L) |
| Room & Board | USD 11,100 (INR 9.2 L) | USD 12,400 (INR 10.3 L) |
| Personal | USD 2,790 (INR 2.3 L) | USD 2,790 (INR 2.3 L) |
| Transportation | USD 3,332 (INR 2.7 L) | USD 3,332 (INR 2.7 L) |
| TOTAL | USD 28,152 (INR 23.5 L) | USD 26,752 (INR 22.3 L) |
Conversion Rate: 1 USD = INR 83.61
Brigham Young University
Brigham Young University is a private research university based in Utah, USA. Established in 1875, it is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Brigham follows a semester-based academic calendar. The campus spreads across 557 acres. The university is known for offering language education and offer courses in 62 languages. The table given below provides an overview of expenditures per semester for the year 2024-25:
| Particulars | Undergraduate | Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | USD 13,376 (INR 11.1 L) | USD 16,832 (INR 14 L) |
| Food and Housing | USD 10,396 (INR 8.7 L) | USD 13,260 (INR 11 L) |
| Books and Supplies | USD 392 (INR 32.7 K) | USD 392 (INR 32.7 K) |
| Personal Expenses | USD 1,984 (INR 1.6 L) | USD 2,816 (INR 2.3 L) |
| Transportation | USD 2,480 (INR 2 L) | USD 3,528 (INR 29.4 L) |
| Loan Fees | USD 64 (INR 5.3 K) | USD 228 (INR 19 K) |
| TOTAL | USD 28,692 (INR 24 L) |
USD 37,056 (INR 31 L) |
Conversion Rate: 1 USD = INR 83.61
University of Louisiana–Monroe
The University of Louisiana at Monroe is a public university that offers high-quality education. The state-funded institution offers a variety of fields of study with the help of the latest technologies. It aims to meet the academic, cultural, social, and personal needs of undergraduate and graduate students. The table given below provides an overview of expenditures for the 2024-25 Academic Year:
| Particulars | Undergraduate | Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | USD 9,199 (INR 7.6 L) | USD 9,400 (INR 7.8 L) |
| Housing and meals | USD 10,182 (INR 8.5 L) | USD 10,182 (INR 8.5 L) |
| Books and supplies | USD 1,300 (INR 1 L) | USD 1,300 (INR 1 L) |
| Personal | USD 2,500 (INR 2 L) | USD 2,500 (INR 2 L) |
| Travel | USD 3,424 (INR 2.8 L) | USD 3,424 (INR 2.8 L) |
| Loan Fees | USD 52 (INR 4.3 K) | USD 52 (INR 4.3 K) |
| TOTAL | USD 26,657 (INR 22.2 L) | USD 26,858 (22.4 L) |
Conversion Rate: 1 USD = INR 83.61
Southwest Minnesota State University
Southwest Minnesota State University is a public university based in Minnesota, USA. Business, Psychology, Exercise Science, and Kinesiology are some of the popular majors offered by the university. Also, it is counted amongst the top four-year public universities offering a high-quality degree in liberal arts. The table given below provides an overview of expenditures for the 2024-25 Academic Year:
| Particulars | Undergraduate | Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | USD 10,304 (INR 8.6 L) | USD 10,350 (INR 8.6 L) |
| Housing and Food | USD 10,666 (INR 8.9 L) | USD 9,000 (INR 7.5 L) |
| Books, Materials, Supplies, Equipment | USD 1,200 (INR 1 L) | USD 1,200 (INR 1 L) |
| Transportation, Personal Expenses, Loan fees | USD 3,542 (INR 2.9 L) | USD 1,790 (INR 1.5 L) |
| TOTAL | USD 25,712 (INR 21.5 L) | USD 22,340 (INR 18.6 L) |
Conversion Rate: 1 USD = INR 83.61
Northwest Missouri State University
Northwest Missouri State University is a public university based in Missouri, USA. It follows a semester-based academic calendar. It offers undergraduate, graduate, and international programmes in different areas of study. Founded in 1905, the university is known for its highly qualified professors; with almost 95% of the faculty members carrying the highest degree in their respective fields. The table given below provides an overview of expenditures for the 2024-25 Academic Year:
| Particulars | Undergraduate | Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | USD 21,654 (INR 18.1 L) | USD 9,036 - USD 10,080 (INR 7.5 L - 8.4 L) |
| Housing and Food | USD 13,062 (INR 11 L) | USD 13,062 (INR 11 L) |
| TOTAL | USD 34,716 (INR 29 L) | USD 22,098 - USD 23,142 (INR 18.4 L - 19.3 L) |
Conversion Rate: 1 USD = INR 83.61
Dakota State University
Dakota State University is a public university based in South Dakota, USA. Founded in 1881, it is amongst the most prestigious educational institutes in the US. DSU offers online courses for working professionals and homemakers. Apart from this, the university offers a number of programs in diverse fields from management to web development. The table is given below provides and overview of expenditures for pursuing an undergraduate program:
15 credit hour enrollment
| Particulars | Cost of Living (Per Semester) |
|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | USD 5,968 (INR 5 L) |
| Housing & Food Service | USD 4,130 (INR 3.4 L) |
| Wireless Computing Fee | USD 409 (INR 34 K) |
| TOTAL | USD 10,298 (INR 8.6 L) |
Conversion Rate: 1 USD = INR 83.61
Other Affordable Universities in the USA for Undergraduate Students
Besides the above-given US universities, there are also low-fee charging schools in the USA for undergraduates hailing from abroad, Check them out below:
- California State University, Long Beach: California State University has the third-largest campus in the California State University System with 23 branches in California
- Minot State University, North Dakota: Minot, North Dakota offers more than 60 undergraduate programs ranging from criminal justice, and social work to finance and information systems
- South Texas College: Founded in 1993, South Texas College has a student-teacher ratio of 22:1. It offers undergraduate degree and certificate programs
- Alcorn State University, Mississippi: Established in 1871, it offers more than 50 degree programs in diverse fields
- The City University of New York: The City University of New York is a public university system based in New York comprising 26 individual institutions
Often students go to popular states like New York and California while not looking for opportunities in less traditional destinations. Apart from the above-mentioned educational institutions, there are various low fees universities in the US:
| Other Affordable and Cheap Universities in the USA | ||
|---|---|---|
| Metropolitan College of New York |
||
| University of Central Oklahoma |
Jacksonville State University |
|
| Texas State University |
||
| San Francisco State University |
Montana State University |
|
| University of North Texas |
||
| Roosevelt University |
Western Kentucky University |
|
| University of Nebraska |
- |
|
Also Read: Top 10 Toughest Engineering Courses in the World
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Affordable Universities in USA FAQs
Q. What is the average cost of living in USA?
A. Cost of living in USA depends on multiple factors that include your accommodation, books and study material, travel, food, utilities, medical expenses, etc. On an average, you can expect to spend somewhere in between USD 2,000 to USD 4,000 on a monthly basis depending on your location. The costs of living in USA are also dependent on personal expenses that are incurred on the basis of personal choice as well.
Q. How can I reduce the overall cost of pursuing academics in the US?
A. In order to reduce your overall cost of pursuing academics in the US, you can choose to apply for a scholarship in USA and/ or also choose to work on a part-time basis in the US. Students must note that they cannot work for more than 20 hours per week when their classes are in session. Thus, applicants should take up lucrative job roles if possible which would both serve the purpose of gaining experience and getting the applicants some income in hand.
Q. Can you give me an estimate of tuition fee if I wish to pursue an undergraduate course in the US?
A. We have listed below the estimated cost of pursuing an undergraduate degree in US:
| College-type in the US (2022-23) |
Tuition and Fees in the US |
Room and Board Charges in US |
|---|---|---|
| Public two-year colleges |
USD 3,860 |
USD 9,330 |
| Public four-year colleges (in-state fees) |
USD 10,950 |
USD 11,950 |
| Public four-year colleges (out-of-state fees) |
USD 28,240 |
USD 11,950 |
| Private non-profit four-year colleges |
USD 39,400 |
USD 13,620 |
Q. I wish to pursue MBA in the US. Can you give me an estimate of the expenses involved?
A. If you wish to pursue MBA in the US, the following points will give you an estimate of the expenses:
- Average tuition fee is nearly INR 35 lakh per year
- Average living expenses are nearly INR 8.14 lakh per year
However, there may be additional costs, which an applicant would have to bear. Thus, applicants should look for affordable options to study in the USA. With this, they will be able to get costs cut at all the very initial level.
Q. I wish to pursue MS in the US. Can you give me an estimate of the expenses involved?
A. If a student wants to pursue MS in the US, he/ she can consider the points given below:
- Average tuition fee is nearly INR 25 lakh per year
- Average living expenses are nearly INR 8.14 lakh per year
MS in USA cost varies between USD 21,000 to USD 51,000 per annum. Each US university has a different tuition fee which also varies at the specialisation level. Thus, applicants should check best possible options and then choose to take up the course.
Q: Â What GPA is required for the University of South Dakota?
The University of South Dakota expects a GPA score of 2.5 from undergraduates and 3 from postgraduates on the 4-pointer scale. Along with the GPA scores, undergraduates must meet the basic eligibility and submit an ACT score of 21 or higher and an SAT score of 1070 or higher. In addition, they must submit the required documents, such as academic history, transcripts, letters of recommendation, English language scores, and more.
Q: Â What GPA is needed to go to Ohio State?
There is no minimum GPA score for UG admission at Ohio State. However, International students must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale or equivalent) for graduate admission. Applicants may submit a standardized test score (GRE or GMAT) if their cumulative GPA is below 3.0 for the last degree.
Q: Â Is it hard to get into the UTSA in San Antonio Texas?
According to various sources, University of Texas San Antonio has an overall acceptance rate of around 87% which makes it somewhat selective for international student admissions. Some of the general requirements to be considered for admission are given as follows:
- SAT/ACT scores
- Overall Student's GPA
- Letters of Recommendation
- High School Class Rank
- Additional Academic Records
Q: Â Is University of North Dakota good for Indian students?
The University of North Dakota is one of the top choices for international students to pursue their higher education. The UND warmly welcomes its international students as they have contributed a lot to the success of the university. Moreover, the university offers a top-notch environment, the best academic opportunities, technical & career training, etc. The university boasts over 1000 international students who represent more than 95 countries. Additionally, international students highly enjoy the facilities provided by the University of North Dakota. The UND is one of the largest research universities in the United States for international students.
Q: Â Is MIT costly for Indians?
MIT is not costly for Indian students. Applicants can study BTech program at affordable tuition fees as compared to other BTech colleges in the USA. The MIT BTech fees is around INR 50 L to INR 52 L.
Q: Â What is the decent score required on the ACT test to get a good university in the USA?
The definition of a good ACT score varies from university to country. However, to get into the top 100 universities, you must aim for a score higher than 31 on the ACT.
Q: Â What GPA do you need to get into Iowa State?
International students who wish to study at Iowa State must have at least GPA of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 for UG and PG admission. International transfer applicants must have a minimum equivalent GPA of C+ on a scale of A to F or 2.25 on a 4.0 scale for all transferable courses.
Q: Â Is Texas Wesleyan hard to get into?
As per the US News and World Report, Texas Wesleyan University acceptance rate is 58%. This shows that the university's admission process is relatively selective. Therefore, some students may find it harder to get into the university. Also, international students are advised to check the minimum eligibility for their courses before applying. Please note that the data on the acceptance rate given above is taken from an unofficial source, therefore, it is subject to vary.
Aishwarya is a professional Writer currently working as a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. She has over 5 years of experience and is skilled at creating Online Content with leveraged knowledge i... Read Full Bio
With 6 years of sound experience in abroad education industry, Nidhi has helped more than 250+ students to get the admission in their dream universities in USA, Canada and Australia. Before moving to the full time c... Read Full Bio
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Hello Thomas, you can read the article above and check out the possibly cheap universities. Another way to check is to check the course fee and ensure you are eligible for a scholarship. If you have queries, you can get in touch with our counsellors at - https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/apply.
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