Cheapest Universities in USA for International & Domestic Students (2026)

Studying in the United States is a big goal for many students, but the high cost of tuition can make it feel out of reach. With some universities charging over $30,000 a year, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or discouraged, even before classes begin.

These high costs don’t just cause financial stress. They can limit your choices, delay your goals, and leave you with large student loans for years to come.

But there’s good news. Many universities in the U.S. offer quality education at much lower prices. 

Below is a list of the cheapest universities in the USA that can help you earn your degree without breaking the bank.

These universities prefer students who are not only eligible but also stand out. Since your admission essay is the first impression you make, try using an essay writer tool to craft an authentic, well-structured essay that reflects your unique story.

University of the People (UoPeople)

UoPeople is a tuition-free, accredited online university offering degrees in Business Administration, Computer Science, Health Science, and Education. 

Students pay minimal assessment fees per course, making it an excellent choice for those seeking flexible and affordable education.

Scholarships Offered:

• Rabinovich & Roye Scholarship: Covers up to 10 assessment fees for bachelor's degree students.
• Simone Biles Legacy Scholarship Fund: Assists students, especially those from foster care backgrounds, with assessment fees.
  
• Fondation Hoffmann Scholarship: Provides funding for up to 10 assessment fees for associate degree students.

South Texas College

South Texas College offers affordable associate and bachelor's degree programs with a focus on workforce development. 

Its commitment to accessibility makes it ideal for students in the Rio Grande Valley and beyond.

Scholarships Offered:

• Valley Promise Program: A last-dollar scholarship covering tuition and fees for eligible students after other financial aid is applied. 
  
• MEDA Scholarship: Provides financial assistance to students from Mission, Texas, who meet specific criteria. 
  
• College Success for Healthcare Scholarship: Supports students pursuing healthcare-related programs. 

Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville State University (FSU) is part of the University of North Carolina system. It provides affordable education with a focus on liberal arts and professional programs.

The university is committed to providing access to higher education for a diverse student population.

Scholarships Offered:

• Merit-Based Scholarships: FSU offers scholarships based on academic performance, leadership, and community service.
  
• Bronco Opportunity Scholarship: Designed for first-time freshmen demonstrating financial need and academic promise.
  
• External Scholarships: FSU provides resources to help students find and apply for scholarships offered by external organizations.

Alcorn State University

Alcorn State University is one of the nation's oldest historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). It offers undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on agriculture, education, and nursing.

Scholarships Offered:

• Presidential and Provost Scholarships: Awarded to incoming freshmen with exceptional academic records.
  
• Alcorn Foundation Scholarships: Funded by alumni and donors to support students across various disciplines.
  
• Departmental Scholarships: Offered by specific academic departments based on major and academic achievement.

Delta State University

Delta State University provides a comprehensive education with a focus on teaching, research, and service. The university is known for its programs in education, business, and the arts.

Scholarships Offered:

• Delta State Scholarships: Various scholarships based on academic merit, leadership, and financial need.
  
• State and Federal Grants: Assistance through programs like the Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant (MTAG) and Pell Grants.
  
• Private Scholarships: Opportunities provided by external organizations and foundations.

Minot State University

Minot State University offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on education, business, and health sciences. The university emphasizes affordability and personalized education.

Scholarships Offered:

• Academic Scholarships: Awards based on GPA and standardized test scores.
  
• Departmental Scholarships: Specific to academic majors and departments.
  
• International Student Scholarships: Financial assistance for eligible international students.

University of Central Arkansas

The University of Central Arkansas offers a variety of programs with strengths in education, health sciences, and the arts. The university is committed to providing affordable education with numerous scholarship opportunities.

Scholarships Offered:

• UCA Academic Scholarships: Based on high school GPA and ACT/SAT scores.
  
• Transfer Scholarships: For students transferring from other institutions with strong academic records.
  
• Foundation Scholarships: Funded by donors to support students across various disciplines.

Texas A&M International University

Texas A&M International University offers programs with a global perspective, emphasizing business, education, and public affairs. The university provides a supportive environment for both domestic and international students.

Scholarships Offered:

• Freshman Merit Scholarships: Based on academic achievement and standardized test scores.
  
• Transfer Scholarships: For students transferring from other colleges or universities.
  
• Graduate Assistantships: Opportunities for graduate students to receive financial support while gaining work experience.

Arkansas State University

Arkansas State University (A-State) offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing research and community engagement. The university is known for its commitment to affordability and student success.

Scholarships Offered:

• A-State Scholar: Up to $14,000 annually for students with a minimum ACT score of 31 or SAT score of 1400 and a 3.5 GPA.
  
• A-State Inspire: $5,500 per year for students with a minimum ACT score of 25 or SAT score of 1210 and a 3.5 GPA.
  
• A-State Enrichment: $4,000 per year for students with ACT scores between 21-24 or SAT scores between 1060-1209 and a 3.0 GPA.
  
• Out-of-State Scholarship: Available for non-resident students to offset the cost difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition.

University of North Carolina at Pembroke

The University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP) is a public institution that offers a personalized education experience with a focus on student engagement and success. 

As part of the NC Promise Tuition Plan, UNCP provides significantly reduced tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state students.

Scholarships Offered:

• Brave Scholars Program: Designed for high-achieving students, offering substantial financial support based on academic merit.
  
• Maynor Honors College Scholarships: Available to students admitted to the Honors College, providing additional funding opportunities.
  
• Endowed Scholarships: Various scholarships funded by donors, each with specific eligibility criteria.

Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University (WCU) is a public university located in the Appalachian Mountains. 

As part of the NC Promise Tuition Plan, WCU offers significantly reduced tuition rates, making it one of the most affordable universities in the USA. 

The university offers a variety of academic programs in fields such as education, nursing, and forensic science.

Scholarships Offered:

• WCU Academic Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships for incoming freshmen based on academic achievement.
  
• Foundation Scholarships: Various scholarships funded by donors, each with specific eligibility criteria.
  
• External Scholarships: WCU provides resources to help students find and apply for scholarships offered by external organizations.

University of South Dakota

The University of South Dakota (USD) is a public research university and the state's flagship institution. 

USD offers a liberal arts education at an affordable price, with popular majors including nursing, elementary education, and sports management. 

The university also houses South Dakota's only law and medical schools.

Scholarships Offered:

• Coyote Commitment: A scholarship program for incoming freshmen based on GPA and standardized test scores.
  
• USD Foundation Scholarships: Various scholarships funded by donors, each with specific eligibility criteria.
  
• Departmental Scholarships: Offered by specific academic departments based on major and academic achievement.

California State University, Long Beach

California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) is a public research university within the California State University system. 

SULB is known for its affordability and strong academic programs in areas such as agriculture, life sciences, and media. 

The university's location provides students with access to numerous professional opportunities in the greater Los Angeles area.

Scholarships Offered:

• CSULB Scholarships: Various merit-based and need-based scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students.
  
• President's Scholars Program: A prestigious scholarship for high-achieving California high school seniors.
  
• External Scholarships: CSULB provides resources to help students find and apply for scholarships offered by external organizations.

San Jose State University

San Jose State University (SJSU) is a public university located in the heart of Silicon Valley. 

San Jose State University (SJSU) is the founding campus of the California State University system. It offers strong programs in engineering and computer science, making it a great choice for students aiming for careers in technology.

Many alumni go on to work for Fortune 500 companies in the Silicon Valley area.

Scholarships Offered:

• SJSU Scholarships: Various merit-based and need-based scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students.
  
• President's Scholars Program: A prestigious scholarship for high-achieving California high school seniors.
  
• External Scholarships: SJSU provides resources to help students find and apply for scholarships offered by external organizations.

Florida State University

Florida State University (FSU) is a public research university known for its strong athletic and research programs. 

FSU offers a variety of academic pathways, including highly regarded programs in criminal justice, information technology, and public health. 

The university also awards tuition waivers to some international students, which can further reduce tuition costs.

Scholarships Offered:

• FSU Scholarships: Various merit-based and need-based scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students.
  
• Out-of-State Tuition Waivers: Available for high-achieving non-resident students to offset the cost difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition.
  
• External Scholarships: FSU provides resources to help students find and apply for scholarships offered by external organizations.
  

Cheapest Universities in the USA for International Students

Many universities offer affordable tuition rates, strong academic programs, and scholarships to help international students. 

These institutions are great options for those seeking quality education at a lower cost. Below is a list of the cheapest universities in the USA for international students, showcasing top choices that combine affordability with academic excellence.

Cheapest Universities in the USA for International Students Without IELTS

Some universities in the U.S. offer admissions without requiring IELTS scores, making it easier for international students to gain entry while keeping costs low. These universities typically offer alternative methods for proving English proficiency.

• University of California, Berkeley
• University of Michigan
• New York Institute of Technology

Cheapest Universities in the USA for International Students for Master's

For graduate students, tuition costs can vary greatly. However, many universities offer affordable graduate programs for international students. These universities combine quality education with relatively low tuition fees.

Here are the top cheapest universities in the USA for international students for master's:

• University of Southern Mississippi
• University of North Texas
• Georgia State University

Cheapest Universities in the USA for Master's

International students pursuing a master’s degree can find numerous affordable options in the U.S. Many public universities offer graduate programs at a lower cost, particularly for those coming from in-state or specific regions.

• University of Florida
• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Indiana University Bloomington

Cheapest Universities in the USA for International Graduate Students

Graduate students looking for a more affordable path to a U.S. degree will find plenty of budget-friendly universities. These universities offer competitive programs at lower tuition rates, making them ideal for international students pursuing advanced studies.

• University of Texas at Austin
• University of Arizona
• University of Iowa

Cheapest Universities in the USA for International Students Undergraduate

Undergraduate students from abroad can find several cost-effective options across the U.S. These universities offer great programs and affordable tuition for international students at the undergraduate level.

• University of Central Arkansas
• University of Louisiana at Lafayette
• Northwest Missouri State University

That wraps it up!

Affordable universities across the U.S. show that students can earn a respected degree without piling on debt. 

Still, getting into these schools takes more than good grades. A strong admission essay can set you apart in a competitive pool. If writing isn't your strong suit or you're feeling stuck, PerfectEssayWriter.ai’s writing tools are here to help.

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