Choosing the right institution for your tertiary education is probably one of the most important decisions you can make as a student. The United States boasts of over 3,500 high-ranking universities. These universities have become the preferred choice of millions of applicants both within and outside the country. However, the tuition fee of a significant number of universities in the United States is considerably high for some students and this can be quite discouraging. For students that want affordable education, choosing from the cheapest universities in the United States is the best place to start.
Criteria for Choosing Most Affordable States and Universities to Stdy in USA
Searching for an affordable university in America that offers an endless list of opportunities, is not only difficult but can also be confusing. There are certain criteria to be noted when choosing an affordable university.
Cost of Tuition
The tuition fee for most of the cheapest universities in the United States falls within the range of $2,500 to $20,000. These figures are the net price. It is calculated by subtracting the average amount of state grants, or international grants or scholarship aids from the published tuition and other supplies.
Accreditation
All higher education institutions undergo accreditation in order to be certified. This is to prove that the university curriculum is up to the regional, national, or international standards. You can find out if your preferred university is accredited by checking the official website.
Cost of living
The cost of living is an important factor to be considered if you are from another state or an international student. Some affordable universities are located in communities with a high cost of living. This can be quite discouraging to prospective students. When searching for a low-cost place to live, location is everything. As the nation’s economic engine revs up and job opportunities open up throughout the country, many people are looking at their options. To help you determine which states are currently the most affordable — based on the cost of living, housing affordability, the price of housing, energy, food prices and other prices of goods and services we have drawn up a list of 25 states with low cost of living and standard universities.
Scholarships, Grants and Bursaries
In addition to low tuition, financial aids like scholarships, grants, and bursaries help a lot in relieving the financial burden. Check if you are eligible for the financial aid available at your preferred university.
AFFORDABLE STATES TO STUDY IN USA, UNIVERSITIES AND TUITION FEES PER YEAR IN USA
1. Indiana
Indiana officially adopted the motto “The Crossroads of America” way back in 1937, originally referring to the intersection of U.S. highways 40 and 41 in Terre Haute. Also, they were probably already tired of trying to explain what “Hoosier,” the nickname for inhabitants of Indiana, means. Today, Indianapolis is the crossroads of no fewer than four Interstate highways (65, 69, 70, and 74). And the gasoline you’ll buy to drive those roads is a bargain — about 40 percent less than you would pay in Los Angeles. In recent years the state has landed thousands of new tech jobs luring job seekers nationwide. This is the first most Affordable State to Study in USA on our list.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Indiana
Indiana University Northwest: Tuition fee –$7,563/yrIndiana University East: Tuition fee –$7,975/yrIU (Indiana University) Kokomo: Tuition fee –$8,633/yrIndiana University South Bend: Tuition fee –$9,889/yrPurdue University Calumet: Tuition fee – $10,908/yr
2. Georgia
Peaches were not always as abundant in Georgia as they are today. Farmers began substituting them for cotton after the boll weevil attacked their crops during reconstruction. And did you know that the peach is a member of the rose family? It’s true. If you choose to give your sweetheart a pound of peaches instead of a dozen roses, you must have an interesting relationship. But you will be glad to know that the pound of peaches will cost you just $1.40 in Savannah. In New York City, you’d pay $2.66. And that is not fuzzy math.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Georgia
Georgia Regents University: Tuition fee – $7,667/yr Middle Georgia State College: Tuition fee – $9,206/yr University of North Georgia: Tuition fee – $10,262/yr Columbus State University: Tuition fee – $10,612/yr Albany State University: Tuition fee – $12,203/yr
3. Alabama
Alabama is another well known most affordable state to study in USA for international students. It has a well-known reputation in the United States; ask a resident of any part of the country and they are likely to tell you that Alabamians are religious, friendly, and full of history and Southern charm. Alabama’s colleges and universities reflect these values well, and you’ll find numerous Christian schools and popular Historically Black Colleges and Universities in our ranking below. Of course, don’t forget the University of Alabama, which stands proudly as the flagship campus of a growing public school system.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Georgia
Alabama State University: Tuition fee – $10,905/yr Troy University: Tuition fee – $10,112/yr University of North Alabama: Tuition fee – $10,118/yr University of South Alabama: Tuition fee – $12,066/yr The University of Alabama in Huntsville: Tuition fee – $13,270/yr
4. Kansas
Even a cursory glance at the colleges and universities in Kansas will convince any researcher that schools in this state pretty closely reflect the values and interests of local students – as they should! As a squarely Midwestern state, Kansas is friendly, low-key, religious, and largely suburban/rural. In keeping with this tune, many of the universities available in-state are private religious colleges, affordable state schools, and career-focused institutions (including universities with degrees in agriculture and farming technology). That being said, students with an urban pulse can find their beat in larger cities like Wichita. And in support of its original residents, Kansas proudly hosts the Haskell Indian Nations University, a favorite of local American Indian tribes.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Kansas
Haskell Indian Nations University: Tuition fee – $4,647/yr Wichita State University: Tuition fee- $9,843/yr Fort Hays State University: Tuition fee – $11,698/yr Emporia State University: Tuition fee- $12,034/yr Pittsburg State University: Tuition fee – $12,046/yr
5. Missouri
Legend has it that Missouri’s nickname, The Show-Me State, was coined in 1899 by Congressman Duncan Vandiver. Speaking at a naval banquet, he reportedly said, “I come from a state that raises corn and cotton and cockleburs and Democrats.” Today, a pound of frozen Missouri corn will cost you around $1.25 in Columbia. A man’s cotton shirt in Joplin goes for just $16.09.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Missouri
Grantham University: Tuition fee – $6,360/yrNorthwest Missouri State University: Tuition fee – $9,391/yrHarris Stowe State University: Tuition fee – $9,409/yrUniversity of Phoenix Springfield Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480Missouri Southern State University: Tuition fee – $10,002
6. Tennessee
If you’re looking for an affordable university in Tennessee but aren’t a state resident, these are the least expensive out of state colleges to consider. Additionally, if you are a foreign citizen and cannot qualify for in-state tuition, these are the cheapest universities in Tennessee for international students.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Tennesee
University of Phoenix Nashville Campus: Tuition fee – $9,462/yrUniversity of Phoenix Knoxville: Tuition fee – $9,480/yrVictory University: Tuition fee – $8,640/yrUniversity of Phoenix Memphis Campus: Tuition fee – $10,080/yrUniversity of Phoenix Chattanooga Campus: Tuition fee – $10,080/yr
7. Oklahoma
Oklahoma is another most affordable state to study in USA for international students. If you’re looking for an affordable university in Oklahoma but aren’t a state resident, these are the least expensive out of state colleges to consider. Additionally, if you are a foreign citizen and cannot qualify for in-state tuition, these are the cheapest universities in Oklahoma for international students.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Oklahoma
Oklahoma Panhandle State University: Tuition fee – $5,559/yrOklahoma State University Oklahoma City: Tuition fee – $9,141/yrUniversity of Phoenix Oklahoma City Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yrUniversity of Phoenix Tulsa Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yrOklahoma State University Institute of Technology Okmulgee: Tuition fee – $9,510/yr
8. Arkansas
The Sooner State’s nickname comes from the Oklahoma Land Rush of 1889 when the territory was opened to settlers with the firing of a starting gun. But some settlers jumped the gun, earning the Sooner moniker, and also helping popularize the expression “jumped the gun.” Today, Oklahoma property changes hands more conventionally, but the price is worth the wait. The average home price in Tulsa last year was about $219,000. That’s more than 50 percent below the national average. If you’re looking for an affordable university in Arkansas but aren’t a state resident, these are the least expensive out of state colleges to consider. Additionally, if you are a foreign citizen and cannot qualify for in-state tuition, these are the cheapest universities in Arkansas for international students.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Arkansas
University of Phoenix Northwest Arkansas Campus: Tuition fee – $9,453/yrUniversity of Phoenix Little Rock Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yrSouthern Arkansas University-Main Campus: Tuition fee – $10,350/yrUniversity of Arkansas Fort Smith: Tuition fee – $10,488/yrThe University of Arkansas at Monticello: Tuition fee – $10,500/yr
9. Mississippi
The Magnolia State’s contributions to American business are many. A store owner in Vicksburg came up with the idea of selling the fountain treat Coca-Cola in bottles. Mississippi also brought us Pine-Sol, Borden’s Condensed Milk, and the padded toilet seat. Today, beset by budget woes, anemic economic growth, and a failing education system, Mississippi is not particularly competitive. That is, except when it comes to the cost of living. You can rent a two-bedroom apartment in Gulfport for just $778 per month. A comparable unit in San Francisco would set you back more than $4,000. So far, that cost advantage has done little to attract business — there are just too many other problems here. But maybe it’s a start. If you’re looking for an affordable university in Mississippi but aren’t a state resident, these are the least expensive out of state colleges to consider. Additionally, if you are a foreign citizen and cannot qualify for in-state tuition, these are the cheapest universities in Mississippi for international students.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Mississippi
Alcorn State University: Tuition fee – $5,269/yrMississippi Valley State University: Tuition fee – $6,096/yrDelta State University: Tuition fee – $6,298/yrJackson State University: Tuition fee – $7,141/yrUniversity of Phoenix Jackson Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yr
10. Iowa
If you’re looking for an affordable university in Iowa but aren’t a state resident, these are the least expensive out of state colleges to consider. Additionally, if you are a foreign citizen and cannot qualify for in-state tuition, these are the cheapest universities in Iowa for international students.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Iowa
University of Phoenix Des Moines Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yrPurdue Global Davenport Campus: Tuition fee – $13,356/yrHamilton Technical College: Tuition fee – $14,250/yrAIB College of Business: Tuition fee – $15,300/yrPurdue Global Mason City Campus: Tuition fee – 15,327/yr
11. Nebraska
If you’re looking for an affordable university in Nebraska but aren’t a state resident, these are the least expensive out of state colleges to consider. Additionally, if you are a foreign citizen and cannot qualify for in-state tuition, these are the cheapest universities in Nebraska for international students.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Nebraska
Bellevue University; Tuition fee – $6,840/yrUniversity of Phoenix Omaha Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yrThe University of Nebraska at Kearney: Tuition fee – $10,862/yrNebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health: Tuition fee – $13,632/yrBryanLGH College of Health Sciences: Tuition fee – $13,856/yr
12. Kentucky
If you’re looking for an affordable university in Kentucky but aren’t a state resident, these are the least expensive out of state colleges to consider. Additionally, if you are a foreign citizen and cannot qualify for in-state tuition, these are the cheapest universities in Kentucky for international students.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Kentucky
Mid Continent University: Tuition fee – $8,190/yrUniversity of Phoenix Louisville Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yrBrown Mackie College Northern Kentucky: Tuition fee – $11,304/yrBrown Mackie College Louisville: Tuition fee – $11,772/yrMorehead State University: Tuition fee – $12,744/yr
13. Texas
If you’re looking for an affordable university in Texas but aren’t a state resident, these are the least expensive out of state colleges to consider. Additionally, if you are a foreign citizen and cannot qualify for in-state tuition, these are the cheapest universities in Texas for international students.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Texas
The University of Texas at Brownsville: Tuition fee – $3,600/yrThe University of Texas of the Permian Basin: Tuition fee – $5,496/yrBaptist University of the Americas: Tuition fee – $5,520/yrWest Texas A & M University: Tuition fee – $6,490/yrMidwestern State University: Tuition fee – $7,266/yr
14. Idaho
Idaho ranks sixth on our list of cheapest and most affordable state with low cost of living in the USA, and it also acts as our most western state to study in. With many categories falling over 10% lower than the national average, it seems you’ll have no trouble adapting to life in Idaho. But adapt quickly. Home prices have risen dramatically in recent years, and they are expected to continue by 3.6% in 2017. If you’re looking for an affordable university in Idaho but aren’t a state resident, these are the least expensive out of state colleges to consider. Additionally, if you are a foreign citizen and cannot qualify for in-state tuition, these are the cheapest universities in Idaho for international students.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Idaho
Brigham Young University: Tuition fee – $7,968/yrUniversity of Idaho: Tuition fee – $14,445/yrBoise State University: Tuition fee – $15,847/yrThe College of Idaho: Tuition fee – $18,978/yrNorthwest Nazarene University: Tuition fee – $20,857/yr
15. Louisiana
When people think of Louisiana, they probably think of either Mardi Gras or Hurricane Katrina before anything else. One represents an extravagant celebration and display of culture, while the other identifies one of the worst natural disasters the United States has ever seen. And yet both encapsulate the spirit of this resilient state – a state that is fun-loving and prosperous but also close-knit and determined in the face of hardship. Louisiana colleges and universities, from the University of Louisiana to Louisiana State to Xavier, have embodied the same attitude, and students who attend any one of them are likely to make fast friends with interesting classmates who will be quick to lend a helping hand in a time of need. If you’re looking for an affordable university in Louisiana but aren’t a state resident, these are the least expensive out of state colleges to consider. Additionally, if you are a foreign citizen and cannot qualify for in-state tuition, these are the cheapest universities in Louisiana for international students. Top 5 cheapest Universities in Louisiana
Louisiana State University Alexandria: Tuition fee – $4,894/yrGrambling State University: Tuition fee – $5,140/yrLouisiana State University Shreveport: Tuition fee – $5,656/yrLouisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College: Tuition fee – $8,038/yrUniversity of Phoenix Louisiana Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yr
16. Virginia
As one of the 13 original colonies, Virginia is home to some of the oldest universities in the entire country – and many of them maintain close ties with their historic roots. From Emory & Henry College, which draws its commitment to civic engagement from the eponymous Patrick Henry (the first governor of Virginia), to the College of William & Mary, which sits just down the road from Colonial Williamsburg, universities in this state wear their age well. Virginia is also home to some of the biggest names in public education, including top-rated UVA, the engineering hub Virginia Tech, and George Mason University – an up-and-coming state school with a growing reputation (and easy access to D.C.).
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Virginia
Virginia University of Lynchburg: Tuition fee – $7,200/yrUniversity of Management and Technology (The): Tuition fee – $9,360/yrUniversity of Phoenix Richmond Campus: Tuition fee – $9,462/yrAverett University Non-Traditional Programs: Tuition fee – $10,200/yrUniversity of Phoenix Northern Virginia Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yr
17. Utah
Utah is well known for its stunning national parks and breathtaking natural views (where else will you find towering mountains, expansive deserts, and lush forests all in one place?), but what about higher education? While college students in Utah can certainly take advantage of the outdoor adventures that undoubtedly await, they’ll also find plenty of reasons to stay on campus. Although Utah might not rank high in the total populace, it more than makes up for its low density with top schools like Westminster College and the University of Utah – both of which attract students from many other parts of the country. And then of course there is Brigham Young, a top Utah university that caters to the state’s large Mormon majority (and which is hard to beat when it comes to affordability!).
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Utah
Brigham Young University Provo: Tuition fee – $5,300/yrUniversity of Phoenix Utah Campus: Tuition fee – $9,840/yrBroadview Entertainment Arts University: Tuition fee – $13,500/yrBroadview University Orem: Tuition fee – $13,500/yrAnd Broadview University Layton: Tuition fee – $13,500/yr
18. North Dakota
From the rigorous academic environment at Minot State to the massive campus of the University at North Dakota, this state’s colleges are working hard to bring you the best – at a fraction of the cost. It is another most affordable state to study in the USA. North Dakota also has a robust job market, thanks to its plentiful natural resources, an affordable cost of living, and some of the country’s friendliest citizens.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in North Dakota
Dickinson State University: Tuition fee – $10,074/yr Minot State University: Tuition fee – $11,047/yr North Dakota State University: Tuition fee – $14,249/yr University of North Dakota: Tuition fee – $16,238/yr University of Jamestown: Tuition fee – $16,992/yr
19. Wyoming
If you’re looking for an affordable university in Wyoming but aren’t a state resident, these are the least expensive out of state colleges to consider. Additionally, if you are a foreign citizen and cannot qualify for in-state tuition, these are the cheapest universities in Wyoming for international students. There are just three Universities
3 cheapest Universities in Wyoming
University of Phoenix Cheyenne Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yrUniversity of Wyoming: Tuition fee – $14,880/yrCollege America Cheyenne: Tuition fee – $16,968/yr
20. South Dakota
This state had some rather middling scores in income, food, and utilities, but nothing too unreasonable. However, the low-priced homes and impressive second-lowest unemployment rate really set this place ahead. This makes it one of the most affordable states to study in USA. If you’re looking for an affordable university in South Dakota but aren’t a state resident, these are the least expensive out of state colleges to consider. Additionally, if you are a foreign citizen and cannot qualify for in-state tuition, these are the cheapest universities in South Dakota for international students. Top 5 cheapest Universities in South Dakota
Sinte Gleska University: Tuition fee – $2,640/yrNational American University Ellsworth AFB Extension: Tuition fee – $6,000/yrBlack Hills State University: Tuition fee – $9,900/yrDakota State University: Tuition fee – $9,900/yrNorthern State University: Tuition fee – $9,900/yr
21. Ohio
Ohio had a few ups and downs. The unemployment was a little high, as was the cost of utilities. However, the median income was the 14th highest and the median home price was the 15th lowest, and even the cost of food was reasonably affordable.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Ohio
Central State University: Tuition fee – $5,776/yrOhio University Eastern Campus: Tuition fee – $6,718/yrYoungstown State University: Tuition fee – $8,087/yrOhio University Chillicothe Campus: Tuition fee – $9,596/yrUniversity of Northwestern Ohio: Tuition fee – $9,750/yr
22. Illinois
Though the unemployment rate here is high, Illinois offers reasonably priced food and miscellaneous costs of living.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Illinois
Pacific College of Oriental Medicine Chicago: Tuition fee – $9,116/yrUniversity of Phoenix Chicago Campus: Tuition fee – $9,840/yrNational Louis University: Tuition fee – $9,990/yrAmerican InterContinental University Online: Tuition fee – $10,591/yrEastern Illinois University: Tuition fee – $10,830/yr
23. Colorado
This state did have a perk or two. The utilities were ranked 11th most affordable in the U.S.A, and the income was pretty middle of the pack. However, the home prices here were awfully high, at well over making this state a little less affordable.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Colorado
American Sentinel University: Tuition fee – $9,000/yrUniversity of Phoenix Southern Colorado Campus: Tuition fee – $9,342/yrUniversity of Phoenix Colorado Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yrColorado Technical University-Colorado Springs: Tuition fee – $10,240/yrColorado Technical University Online: Tuition fee – $11,281/yr
24. Wisconsin
The food here is reasonably affordable and the unemployment rate is at a decent low.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Wisconsin
Madison Area Technical College: Tuition fee – $5,866/yrCollege of Menominee Nation: Tuition fee – $6,000/yrUniversity of Phoenix Madison Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yrUniversity of Phoenix Milwaukee Campus: Tuition fee – $10,399/yrNorthland International University: Tuition fee – $12,290/yr
25. Nevada
The last most affordable state to study in USA. Here the utilities and cost of food are one of the lowest in the nation. The income is reasonably high as well.
Top 5 cheapest Universities in Nevada
Morrison University: Tuition fee – $6,324/yrCollege of Southern Nevada: Tuition fee – $9,390/yrUniversity of Phoenix Las Vegas Campus: Tuition fee – $10,531/yrUniversity of Phoenix Northern Nevada Campus: Tuition fee – $10,560/yrDeVry University Nevada: Tuition fee – $15,835/yr
Conclusion
This article has listed the 25 most affordable states to study in the USA. Do well to consder them when searching for cheap states to stduy in USA.
