25 Most Affordable States to Study in USA for International Students

Are you looking for the Cheapest Universities in the United States? We bet you’d rather search for the most affordable states to study in USA because asides tuition, cost of living is another important factor to consider when choosing an institution.

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 Study 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/yr
• Indiana University East: Tuition fee –$7,975/yr
• IU (Indiana University) Kokomo: Tuition fee –$8,633/yr
• Indiana University South Bend: Tuition fee –$9,889/yr
• Purdue University Calumet: Tuition fee – $10,908/yr

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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

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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

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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 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 to support 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

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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/yr
• Northwest Missouri State University: Tuition fee – $9,391/yr
• Harris Stowe State University: Tuition fee – $9,409/yr
• University of Phoenix Springfield Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480
• Missouri Southern State University: Tuition fee – $10,002

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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/yr
• University of Phoenix Knoxville: Tuition fee – $9,480/yr
• Victory University: Tuition fee – $8,640/yr
• University of Phoenix Memphis Campus: Tuition fee – $10,080/yr
• University of Phoenix Chattanooga Campus: Tuition fee – $10,080/yr

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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/yr
• Oklahoma State University Oklahoma City: Tuition fee – $9,141/yr
• University of Phoenix Oklahoma City Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yr
• University of Phoenix Tulsa Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yr
• Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology Okmulgee: Tuition fee – $9,510/yr

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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 over 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/yr
• University of Phoenix Little Rock Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yr
• Southern Arkansas University-Main Campus: Tuition fee – $10,350/yr
• University of Arkansas Fort Smith: Tuition fee – $10,488/yr
• The University of Arkansas at Monticello: Tuition fee – $10,500/yr

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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/yr
• Mississippi Valley State University: Tuition fee – $6,096/yr
• Delta State University: Tuition fee – $6,298/yr
• Jackson State University: Tuition fee – $7,141/yr
• University of Phoenix Jackson Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yr

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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/yr
• Purdue Global Davenport Campus: Tuition fee – $13,356/yr
• Hamilton Technical College: Tuition fee – $14,250/yr
• AIB College of Business: Tuition fee – $15,300/yr
• Purdue Global Mason City Campus: Tuition fee – 15,327/yr

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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/yr
• University of Phoenix Omaha Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yr
• The University of Nebraska at Kearney: Tuition fee – $10,862/yr
• Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health: Tuition fee – $13,632/yr
• BryanLGH College of Health Sciences: Tuition fee – $13,856/yr

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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/yr
• University of Phoenix Louisville Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yr
• Brown Mackie College Northern Kentucky: Tuition fee – $11,304/yr
• Brown Mackie College Louisville: Tuition fee – $11,772/yr
• Morehead State University: Tuition fee – $12,744/yr

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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/yr
• The University of Texas of the Permian Basin: Tuition fee – $5,496/yr
• Baptist University of the Americas: Tuition fee – $5,520/yr
• West Texas A & M University: Tuition fee – $6,490/yr
• Midwestern State University: Tuition fee – $7,266/yr

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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/yr
• University of Idaho: Tuition fee – $14,445/yr
• Boise State University: Tuition fee – $15,847/yr
• The College of Idaho: Tuition fee – $18,978/yr
• Northwest Nazarene University: Tuition fee – $20,857/yr

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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 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/yr
• Grambling State University: Tuition fee – $5,140/yr
• Louisiana State University Shreveport: Tuition fee – $5,656/yr
• Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College: Tuition fee – $8,038/yr
• University of Phoenix Louisiana Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yr

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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/yr
• University of Management and Technology (The): Tuition fee – $9,360/yr
• University of Phoenix Richmond Campus: Tuition fee – $9,462/yr
• Averett University Non-Traditional Programs: Tuition fee – $10,200/yr
• University of Phoenix Northern Virginia Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yr

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 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 for affordability!).

Top 5 cheapest Universities in Utah

• Brigham Young University Provo: Tuition fee – $5,300/yr
• University of Phoenix Utah Campus: Tuition fee – $9,840/yr
• Broadview Entertainment Arts University: Tuition fee – $13,500/yr
• Broadview University Orem: Tuition fee – $13,500/yr
• And Broadview University Layton: Tuition fee – $13,500/yr

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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

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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/yr
• University of Wyoming: Tuition fee – $14,880/yr
• College America Cheyenne: Tuition fee – $16,968/yr

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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/yr
• National American University Ellsworth AFB Extension: Tuition fee – $6,000/yr
• Black Hills State University: Tuition fee – $9,900/yr
• Dakota State University: Tuition fee – $9,900/yr
• Northern State University: Tuition fee – $9,900/yr

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 21. Ohio

Ohio had a few difficulties. 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/yr
• Ohio University Eastern Campus: Tuition fee – $6,718/yr
• Youngstown State University: Tuition fee – $8,087/yr
• Ohio University Chillicothe Campus: Tuition fee – $9,596/yr
• University of Northwestern Ohio: Tuition fee – $9,750/yr

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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/yr
• University of Phoenix Chicago Campus: Tuition fee – $9,840/yr
• National Louis University: Tuition fee – $9,990/yr
• American InterContinental University Online: Tuition fee – $10,591/yr
• Eastern Illinois University: Tuition fee – $10,830/yr

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23.  Colorado

This state had 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/yr
• University of Phoenix Southern Colorado Campus: Tuition fee – $9,342/yr
• University of Phoenix Colorado Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yr
• Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs: Tuition fee – $10,240/yr
• Colorado Technical University Online: Tuition fee – $11,281/yr

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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/yr
• College of Menominee Nation: Tuition fee – $6,000/yr
• University of Phoenix Madison Campus: Tuition fee – $9,480/yr
• University of Phoenix Milwaukee Campus: Tuition fee – $10,399/yr
• Northland International University: Tuition fee – $12,290/yr

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 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/yr
• College of Southern Nevada: Tuition fee – $9,390/yr
• University of Phoenix Las Vegas Campus: Tuition fee – $10,531/yr
• University of Phoenix Northern Nevada Campus: Tuition fee – $10,560/yr
• DeVry 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 consider them when searching for cheap states to study in USA.