10 Cheapest and Most Affordable Colleges in North Dakota

If you’re looking for affordable tuition paired with strong career opportunities, North Dakota is worth a closer look. The Peace Garden State offers some of the best value in higher education, with colleges charging well below national averages and programs closely tied to industries like energy, agriculture, aerospace, and healthcare.

Affordability goes beyond tuition. Housing, food, and transportation costs are typically 20–30% lower than the U.S. average, and generous scholarships and state-specific aid help reduce expenses even further. That means you can earn a degree without taking on heavy debt.

North Dakota’s colleges also provide small, supportive campuses, close faculty connections, and alumni networks that open career doors across the Midwest. Studying here is affordable and rewarding with strong job pipelines, open landscapes, four distinct seasons, and a mix of urban centers like Fargo and Bismarck alongside rural communities.

In this guide, you’ll find the 10 cheapest and most affordable colleges in North Dakota, with details on their standout programs and how they can set you up for long-term success.

Key Takeaways

• North Dakota colleges offer tuition rates 15–25% below the national average, with in-state students paying about $8,800–$9,800 per year.
• Affordable living costs and extensive financial aid make higher education in North Dakota even more accessible.
• Programs closely align with the state’s economy, including energy, agriculture, aerospace, healthcare, and technology.
• Small, supportive academic communities provide strong faculty-student connections and high employment outcomes.
• Choosing the right North Dakota college can save you thousands while still offering respected degrees and career opportunities.

10 Most Affordable Colleges in North Dakota

North Dakota’s higher education system stands out for its combination of low tuition and strong academic programs. Here are the first five of the state’s most affordable colleges, ranked by in-state tuition.

Bismarck State College

Bismarck State College is a public two-year institution located in the state’s capital. Known as “North Dakota’s Polytechnic Institution,” it combines technical training with strong transfer pathways for students planning to continue their education at a four-year school.

Main courses

Energy technology, healthcare, business, cybersecurity, and liberal arts transfer programs.

Pros

• Consistently the lowest tuition in the state
• Recognized leader in energy programs linked to North Dakota’s oil and power sectors
• Convenient capital city location with access to internships and jobs
• Strong transfer partnerships with regional universities

Cons

• Primarily a two-year college with limited bachelor’s programs
• Smaller campus compared to larger state universities
• Fewer opportunities for advanced research

Average annual in-state tuition

$5,200

North Dakota State College of Science

Located in Wahpeton, NDSCS is a two-year public college offering career-focused training as well as transfer options. It has built a strong reputation for preparing students for immediate employment in technical fields.

Main courses

Health sciences, information technology, agriculture, construction, and skilled trades.

Pros

• Excellent technical facilities for hands-on training
• Very strong job placement rates in high-demand fields
• Affordable tuition with many transfer pathways
• Small campus community with personalized support

Cons

• Only offers two-year programs, so some students must transfer for a bachelor’s degree
• Rural location may feel limited socially or culturally
• Liberal arts offerings are not as developed

Average annual in-state tuition

$5,900

Valley City State University

Valley City State University is a four-year public university in southeastern North Dakota. It’s especially well regarded for teacher education, but also stands out for weaving technology into nearly all areas of study.

Main courses

Education, business, computer information systems, liberal arts, and technology-focused programs.

Pros

• Affordable tuition with strong return on investment
• Highly respected teacher education program
• Innovative integration of laptops and digital learning for all students
• Small class sizes with close faculty mentorship

Cons

• Limited graduate and research opportunities
• Small enrollment compared to larger universities
• Rural setting may feel less connected for some students

Average annual in-state tuition

$7,400

Minot State University

Minot State is a comprehensive public university serving the north-central region of the state. With over 60 majors, it balances affordability with a wide range of programs, making it a strong choice for students who want variety.

Main courses

Business, nursing, special education, communication disorders, liberal arts, and sciences.

Pros

• Affordable tuition with diverse degree offerings
• Known for health-related programs and strong community engagement
• Supportive environment for first-generation and nontraditional students
• Active student life with athletics, clubs, and organizations

Cons

• Harsh winters and the remote location may be challenging for some students
• Smaller research profile compared to flagship universities
• Limited graduate-level opportunities

Average annual in-state tuition

$8,600

Dickinson State University

Located in the Bakken oil region, Dickinson State is a small public university with programs closely aligned to the area’s economic drivers in energy and agriculture. It provides a strong regional education with a practical focus.

Main courses

Business, education, agriculture, nursing, and liberal arts.

Pros

• Strategic location with strong ties to the energy and agriculture industries
• Very affordable tuition for a four-year program
• Supportive campus community with growing enrollment
• Regional connections that help with internships and job placement

Cons

• Smaller university with fewer specialized majors
• Limited research opportunities
• Enrollment trends closely tied to the energy sector’s stability

Average annual in-state tuition

$9,200

North Dakota State University

North Dakota State University in Fargo is the state’s major public research university. It’s nationally recognized for agriculture and engineering, but also offers more than 100 undergraduate majors across many fields.

Main courses

Engineering, agriculture, pharmacy, health sciences, business, and social sciences.

Pros

• Nationally respected research university with a strong STEM focus
• Vibrant campus life and NCAA Division I athletics
• Strong job outcomes for engineering and agriculture graduates
• Access to Fargo’s growing job market and cultural opportunities

Cons

• Higher tuition compared to regional state colleges
• Competitive admission for certain majors like pharmacy and engineering
• The harsh winter climate may be difficult for some students

Average annual in-state tuition

$9,300

University of Mary

The University of Mary is a private Catholic university located in Bismarck. It’s especially strong in nursing, health sciences, and business, while maintaining a liberal arts foundation rooted in its Catholic identity.

Main courses

Nursing, business, education, physical therapy, and liberal arts.

Pros

• Nationally recognized nursing and health sciences programs
• Strong Catholic values and faith-based community
• Small class sizes with personalized attention
• Comprehensive student support services

Cons

• Tuition is higher than public options
• Religious environment may not appeal to all students
• Limited research opportunities compared to public research universities

Average annual in-state tuition

$9,500

University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota in Grand Forks is the state’s flagship public research university. It’s especially renowned for its aerospace, medicine, and engineering programs, drawing students from across the U.S. and abroad.

Main courses

Aerospace sciences, medicine, engineering, business, law, and education.

Pros

• Top-ranked programs in aviation and aerospace
• Strong medical school and engineering research opportunities
• Comprehensive academic offerings with more than 200 fields of study
• Historic traditions and strong alumni network

Cons

• The highest tuition of all North Dakota public institutions
• Harsh winter conditions in Grand Forks
• The larger campus may feel overwhelming for some students

Average annual in-state tuition

$10,900

Rasmussen University

Rasmussen University is a private, career-focused institution with campuses in Fargo and Bismarck. It emphasizes professional degrees designed to quickly prepare students for the workforce.

Main courses

Healthcare, nursing, business, technology, and criminal justice.

Pros

• Flexible scheduling, including online and accelerated programs
• Strong career focus with industry-aligned curricula
• High job placement rates in healthcare and technical fields
• Practical, hands-on training opportunities

Cons

• The highest tuition among the colleges listed
• Narrower academic scope with limited liberal arts options
• The for-profit structure may not appeal to all students

Average annual in-state tuition

$11,700

Mayville State University

Mayville State University is a small public university in southeastern North Dakota. Known as one of the original teacher training institutions in the state, it continues to excel inthe education and technology fields.

Main courses

Education, business, computer science, and liberal arts.

Pros

• Very small class sizes with personalized instruction
• Strong teacher education programs
• Modern technology resources, including laptop initiatives for students
• Tight-knit campus community with strong faculty-student relationships

Cons

• The highest tuition among public institutions in the state
• Small enrollment means limited specialized majors
• The rural setting may not appeal to all students

Average annual in-state tuition

$14,200

Tuition and mandatory fee amounts change regularly and can vary by program, course load, credit amount, and delivery format. The figures listed here reflect the latest numbers available and are intended for comparison only. Always confirm the current annual in-state tuition and required fees on the university’s official website before applying.

Key Requirements For Enrolling In The Most Affordable North Dakota Colleges

If you’re planning to study in North Dakota, there are a few important steps to take before you can secure your place at one of the state’s affordable colleges. From filling out applications to confirming your residency, these requirements can also impact the scholarships and tuition rates you qualify for.

Complete Application Form Submission

You can apply to most North Dakota public colleges through the North Dakota University System portal, while some schools have their own applications. Complete every section carefully, including personal statements and extracurricular activities, since these details may influence scholarship opportunities.

Official High School Transcripts

Colleges require official high school transcripts or GED documentation sent directly from your school. These records prove you meet admission standards and also play a role in scholarship eligibility.

North Dakota Residency Status

Documenting your residency is key to unlocking in-state tuition, typically 65–70% lower than non-resident costs. You can prove residency through a North Dakota driver’s license, voter registration, or tax returns.

ACT Or SAT Score Submission

Most colleges in North Dakota still ask for ACT or SAT scores. While some schools are test-optional, submitting good scores can boost your chances for both admission and scholarships.

FAFSA Financial Aid Application

Don’t forget the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Completing it by North Dakota’s priority deadlines gives you access not only to federal aid but also to state-specific programs and institutional scholarships.

How Do North Dakota College Costs Compare To National Averages

One of North Dakota’s biggest advantages is affordability. On average, public universities in the state charge in-state students around $8,800–$9,800 per year. That’s about 15–25% below the national average of roughly $10,700. Even private colleges in North Dakota often come in lower than their national counterparts.

The savings don’t stop at tuition. Housing costs are 20–35% below the U.S. average, and food, transportation, and everyday expenses are also cheaper. Many schools also work to reduce textbook costs through rental programs or digital materials. Combined with generous financial aid and scholarships, this makes a North Dakota degree an especially strong value.

What Are The Tuition Fees For International Students At Affordable North Dakota Colleges

If you’re an international student, tuition rates are higher than what residents pay. At public institutions, non-resident tuition typically ranges between $19,000 and $28,000 per year, compared to $8,800–$10,800 for North Dakota residents. Even so, international students often save 20–30% compared to studying in higher-cost states.

Keep in mind, you’ll also need to budget for health insurance (about $1,800–$2,400 annually), visa and SEVIS fees, and student service charges. The good news is that North Dakota’s lower cost of living helps balance these expenses. Housing and meals are more affordable than in many U.S. states, and you may also find opportunities for part-time work, especially in the state’s energy, agriculture, and technology sectors.

How Does University Of The People Compare With Most Affordable Colleges In North Dakota

University of the People (UoPeople) takes a different approach than North Dakota’s affordable colleges. As a non-profit, tuition-free, fully online university, it charges only a $60 application fee and assessment fees per course: $160 for undergraduate programs, $450 for MBA and MSIT, $400 for M.Ed., $250 for certificates, and $150 for ESL. A bachelor’s degree typically totals around $6,400, making it far less expensive than most traditional colleges in the state.

UoPeople is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), approved by the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE), and a candidate for regional accreditation with the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). While UoPeople offers flexible, fully online learning, North Dakota’s colleges provide in-person experiences, close faculty support, and strong ties to local industries like energy, agriculture, and healthcare.

Ready To Choose The Most Affordable College?

Choosing the right affordable college in North Dakota comes down to more than just tuition. You’ll want to compare total costs of attendance, including housing, food, and textbooks, alongside available scholarships and financial aid. Just as important are program quality, career outcomes, and whether the school’s strengths align with your goals in areas like energy, healthcare, teaching, or technology.

It’s a good idea to visit campuses, talk with financial aid advisors, and connect with current students to get a feel for both the costs and the community. North Dakota offers a unique balance of affordability, strong academic programs, and excellent employment opportunities, making it one of the best states to pursue higher education at a reasonable cost.

FAQs

What Is The Average Tuition At North Dakota’s Most Affordable Colleges?

Most in-state students pay between $8,800 and $9,800 per year, which is lower than the national average of about $10,700.

Which North Dakota College Has The Lowest In-State Tuition Rates?

Bismarck State College typically has the lowest rates, averaging around $5,200 annually for in-state students.

Do North Dakota Colleges Offer Payment Plans For Tuition?

Yes. Most institutions provide payment plans that let you spread tuition costs across the semester.

What Are The Hidden Costs At North Dakota’s Affordable Colleges?

Students should budget for textbooks, housing, transportation, and activity fees. Some schools offset costs with textbook rental programs and lower housing expenses.

Do North Dakota Colleges Offer Online Degree Programs?

Yes. While many schools emphasize on-campus learning, institutions like North Dakota State University and the University of North Dakota also provide flexible online options.

What Housing Costs Should Students Expect At North Dakota Colleges?

Housing is typically 20–35% below national averages. On-campus housing ranges from $3,000 to $5,500 per academic year, with off-campus options often even more affordable.