The United States remains one of the most popular destinations for higher education, attracting students from around the globe with its world-class universities, research opportunities, and cultural diversity. However, the biggest concern for many international students is the high cost of tuition. While some American universities charge $40,000 or more per year, there are also many affordable options that provide quality education at a fraction of the price.
For students who dream of studying in the USA without breaking the bank, knowing the cheapest universities is a game-changer. Below is a comprehensive guide to some of the most affordable universities in the United States for international students in 2025, along with tips on saving even more.
Why Choose Affordable Universities in the USA?
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Lower Tuition Costs: Affordable universities make U.S. education accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.
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High-Quality Education: Many low-cost universities are accredited and ranked regionally, ensuring quality degrees.
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Opportunities for Scholarships: Even affordable schools often offer financial aid, merit-based scholarships, or assistantships.
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Gateway to Careers: A U.S. degree opens doors to job opportunities globally, regardless of the tuition paid.
Top Cheapest Universities in the USA for International Students
1. California State University, Long Beach (CSULB)
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Tuition Fees: Around $8,300 per year (for undergraduates)
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Why It’s Affordable: Part of the California State University system, CSULB offers low tuition rates compared to private institutions.
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Highlights: Known for its engineering, business, and liberal arts programs, CSULB has a strong international community and access to Los Angeles career opportunities.
2. Minot State University (North Dakota)
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Tuition Fees: Around $8,700 per year
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Why It’s Affordable: Located in the Midwest, Minot State offers one of the lowest tuition rates for international students in the country.
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Highlights: Offers a wide range of programs in business, education, and health sciences, along with a supportive environment for global students.
3. Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU)
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Tuition Fees: Around $9,000 per year
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Why It’s Affordable: SMSU keeps costs low while offering quality education in fields such as business administration, computer science, and education.
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Highlights: Small class sizes and a welcoming campus make it ideal for international students adjusting to life in the USA.
4. Brigham Young University (BYU), Utah
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Tuition Fees: Around $6,300 per year (for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) and around $12,300 for non-members
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Why It’s Affordable: BYU is heavily subsidized, making it one of the cheapest options in the U.S., even for non-members.
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Highlights: Known for its business, law, and engineering programs, BYU has a global reputation and excellent student support.
5. University of the People (UoPeople)
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Tuition Fees: Tuition-free, but students pay small assessment fees (around $120 per exam)
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Why It’s Affordable: UoPeople is a fully online university, accredited and recognized globally.
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Highlights: Offers degrees in business administration, computer science, health science, and education, making it an accessible option for international students unable to relocate.
6. Alcorn State University (Mississippi)
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Tuition Fees: Around $8,550 per year
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Why It’s Affordable: As a historically black university (HBCU), Alcorn State provides affordable education and scholarships for international students.
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Highlights: Offers strong programs in agriculture, education, and business.
7. Fayetteville State University (North Carolina)
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Tuition Fees: Around $8,800 per year
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Why It’s Affordable: As part of the University of North Carolina system, Fayetteville provides accessible education at affordable rates.
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Highlights: Known for its business and education programs, with strong student support services for international learners.
8. University of North Dakota (UND)
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Tuition Fees: Around $11,000 per year
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Why It’s Affordable: Although slightly higher than others on the list, UND offers excellent value for money with its strong research opportunities.
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Highlights: Known for its aerospace and aviation programs, engineering, and energy studies.
9. Delta State University (Mississippi)
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Tuition Fees: Around $8,900 per year
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Why It’s Affordable: Located in a low-cost region, Delta State combines affordable tuition with inexpensive living costs.
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Highlights: Offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in business, education, and the arts.
10. Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU)
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Tuition Fees: Around $8,500 per year
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Why It’s Affordable: ENMU is one of the cheapest options in the southwestern U.S., with affordable tuition and low cost of living.
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Highlights: Provides strong academic support for international students, with programs in liberal arts, sciences, and business.
Tips for Reducing Costs Further
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Apply for Scholarships and Grants – Many universities offer scholarships specifically for international students.
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Work Part-Time – With an F-1 visa, students can work up to 20 hours per week on campus.
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Choose Affordable Cities – Tuition is only part of the expense; living in smaller cities or towns can drastically reduce housing and food costs.
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Consider Community Colleges – Starting at a community college before transferring to a four-year university can save thousands of dollars.
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Use Online and Hybrid Options – Blended learning can reduce living costs while still earning a U.S.-accredited degree.
Conclusion
Studying in the USA doesn’t have to mean overwhelming student debt. By carefully selecting universities with affordable tuition fees, international students can access quality education and achieve their academic goals without financial strain. Options like Minot State University, BYU, University of the People, and California State University campuses prove that world-class education can also be budget-friendly.
For students dreaming of studying in the United States, these universities represent the perfect balance of affordability, quality, and opportunity—turning the dream of an American education into reality.