10 Cheapest and Most Affordable Colleges in Minnesota

College affordability is a growing concern across the country. With tuition costs rising faster than inflation in many states, finding an affordable path to a degree can feel increasingly out of reach. But in Minnesota, you’ll still find a range of budget-friendly options that make higher education more accessible, without sacrificing quality.

Despite national trends, Minnesota offers several affordable colleges that maintain strong academic standards and meaningful student outcomes. These schools are part of a system that values education as a public good, striving to keep costs down while offering support through scholarships, grants, and on-campus resources.

This list ranks the cheapest and most affordable colleges in Minnesota based on published in-state tuition, program offerings, and student value. While tuition is a key factor, it’s not the only one to consider. Things like financial aid, job placement rates, class size, and campus environment can make a big difference in your total cost and overall college experience.

Before you commit, look beyond the sticker price. Understand what’s included, what aid you qualify for, and how each school supports your goals both during and after your time there.

Why You Should Get a Degree in Minnesota

Minnesota offers more than just affordability. It gives you access to some of the best academic institutions in the country. Schools like the University of Minnesota system, Carleton College, and Macalester College are nationally recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and graduate outcomes.

You’ll also benefit from Minnesota’s strong job market. Major companies like Target, 3M, Best Buy, and the Mayo Clinic are headquartered here, offering valuable internships and career opportunities, especially for students interested in business, healthcare, tech, and research.

Outside the classroom, Minnesota is known for its high quality of life. The state features vibrant urban centers like Minneapolis and St. Paul, stunning natural landscapes with over 10,000 lakes, and a deep commitment to arts, culture, and education. It’s a place where you can study, grow, and thrive in a supportive environment that values community and innovation.

Whether you’re a local resident or coming from out of state, Minnesota combines strong academics, career opportunities, and quality of life, making it an excellent place to pursue a college degree that won’t break the bank.

10 Most Affordable Colleges in Minnesota

Minnesota’s public colleges offer a wide range of academic programs at different price points. While the state’s tuition tends to be slightly above the national average, these ten institutions stand out for combining affordability with academic quality, support services, and strong career outcomes.

Minnesota State University, Mankato

Minnesota State University, Mankato is the state’s most affordable comprehensive university, with in-state tuition of $7,450 per year. Just 75 miles from Minneapolis, it serves over 14,000 students and offers a wide variety of programs and research opportunities.

Main Courses:

MSU Mankato is known for standout programs in business, engineering, education, nursing, and a nationally recognized aviation program.

Pros:

• Large and diverse campus community
• Division I athletics and active student life
• Excellent career placement services and industry partnerships

Cons:

• Large class sizes in intro-level courses
• Smaller city environment may feel limited to some students

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $7,450

Offers extensive program options and university resources at a great value.

Saint Cloud State University

Located along the Mississippi River, St. Cloud State University provides a mid-sized university experience for $7,505 per year, with strong academic programs and close proximity to the Twin Cities.

Main Courses:

Top programs include business, education, engineering, film studies, and mass communications.

Pros:

• Scenic riverside campus
• Diverse student body and inclusive environment
• Just an hour from Minneapolis for jobs and internships
  

Cons:

• Recent enrollment declines have reduced some programs and services
• Campus facilities are aging in some areas

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $7,505

An affordable option with strong professional programs near the metro area.

Minnesota State University Moorhead

MSU Moorhad offers a more personalized college experience at $7,632 per year, with small class sizes and strong support systems in a close-knit academic environment.

Main Courses:

MSUM excels in education, business, film production, nursing, and social work.

Pros:

• Close collaboration with faculty and advisors
• Strong partnerships in the Fargo-Moorhead area
• Opportunities for hands-on learning and community engagement

Cons:

• Remote location may not appeal to all students
• Harsh winters can be a factor for out-of-state students

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $7,632

A great value for students who prefer a smaller, more personalized university.

Winona State University

Winona State University combines natural beauty with academic strength for $7,712 per year, located in Minnesota’s scenic southeastern river valley.

Main Courses:

Known for nursing, education, business administration, and composite materials engineering.

Pros:

• Gorgeous campus setting between river bluffs and the Mississippi
• Strong tech support, including a robust laptop program
• Strong ties to the local community and employers

Cons:

• Fewer cultural and internship opportunities in the immediate area
• Smaller city feel may not appeal to everyone

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $7,712

Ideal if you’re looking for strong academics in a peaceful, scenic location.

Southwest Minnesota State University

SMSU in Marshall offers accessible education and individual attention for $7,837 per year, serving students across Minnesota’s rural southwest region.

Main Courses:

Specialties include agriculture, business, education, culinary management, and hospitality administration.

Pros:

• Inclusive and welcoming campus
• Strong student support and wheelchair accessibility
• Affordable cost of living in the region

Cons:

• Limited social and cultural amenities in the surrounding area
• Distance from major metro centers may limit networking options

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $7,837

A strong option for career-focused students in agriculture and hospitality.

Bemidji State University

Bemidji State University offers a truly unique college experience in northern Minnesota for $7,976 per year. Its lakeside campus blends natural beauty with strong academics, especially in environmental and outdoor-focused programs.

Main Courses:

Standout areas include environmental studies, education, business, criminal justice, and design technology.

Pros:

• Beautiful setting on the shores of Lake Bemidji
• Tight-knit student community with outdoor lifestyle focus
• Strong programs tied to regional strengths and sustainability

Cons:

• Harsh winters may be challenging if you’re not used to the cold
• Fewer urban-style amenities and entertainment options nearby

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $7,976

An affordable and distinctive option for nature lovers and environmental majors.

University of Minnesota Crookston

UMN Crookston offers access to the respected University of Minnesota system at $10,430 per year, with a strong focus on applied learning and online education.

Main Courses:

Key programs include agriculture, natural resources, business, and information technology, many offered both in person and fully online.

Pros:

• Hands-on programs with real-world applications
• Small campus feel with University of Minnesota benefits
• Laptop program and strong online degree flexibility

Cons:

• Rural location and smaller student body limit social life
• Fewer majors than larger campuses in the UMN system

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $10,430

A great choice for students seeking UMN credentials in a small campus setting.

University of Minnesota Rochester

UMN Rochester provides a specialized health sciences education for $12,190 per year, working directly with medical leaders like the Mayo Clinic to prepare students for careers in healthcare and research.

Main Courses:

The campus focuses on health sciences, bioinformatics, and biomedical programs with guaranteed internship pathways.

Pros:

• Direct access to Mayo Clinic resources and mentorship
• Tailored programs and a close-knit academic environment
• Personalized support and career pathways in medicine

Cons:

• Limited academic offerings beyond the health and biomedical fields
• Urban campus lacks traditional college-town atmosphere

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $12,190

A strategic investment if you’re aiming for a career in healthcare or biotech.

University of Minnesota Duluth

UMN Duluth offers one of the most picturesque settings in the state, combining research-driven academics with a scenic lakeside campus at $12,200 per year.

Main Courses:

Programs in engineering, business, education, environmental science, and fine arts are among the most popular.

Pros:

• Stunning campus on the shores of Lake Superior
• Strong research facilities and academic reputation
• Active arts, music, and outdoor recreation scenes

Cons:

• Winter weather can be extreme
• Distance from the Twin Cities may limit metro-based job access

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $12,200

Well worth the investment if you want both academic depth and natural beauty.

University of Minnesota Morris

UMN Morris is Minnesota’s only public liberal arts college, offering a small-campus, high-touch academic experience for $12,320 per year.

Main Courses:

Focused programs in environmental science, education, humanities, and sciences, with an emphasis on undergraduate research and sustainability.

Pros:

• Small class sizes and direct faculty engagement
• Strong emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility
• Public liberal arts education at a lower cost than private colleges

Cons:

• Limited pre-professional programs or urban experiences
• Rural location may not suit all lifestyle preferences

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $12,320

A top pick if you value personalized learning and liberal arts in a public setting.

Key Requirements for Enrolling in the Most Affordable Minnesota Colleges

If you’re aiming to enroll in one of Minnesota’s affordable colleges, you’ll need to meet a few basic requirements. While each school may have its own process, most follow a similar set of admissions steps designed to keep education accessible while maintaining academic standards.

High School Diploma

You’ll need to have a high school diploma or an equivalent credential, such as a GED. Many schools also accept homeschool transcripts if they meet Minnesota state guidelines.

Completed Application Form

Most colleges in the state use either the Minnesota State system application or the University of Minnesota application portal, though some have their own online forms. Expect a small application fee, usually between $20 and $40, but waivers are often available if you qualify based on financial need.

Standardized Test Scores

Many Minnesota colleges, especially community and technical colleges, have moved to test-optional admissions. That means you may not need to submit ACT or SAT scores. However, submitting them can still help with merit scholarships or admission into selective programs at schools like UMN Duluth or Winona State.

Official Academic Transcripts

You’ll need to ask your high school to send official transcripts directly to the college. Most affordable colleges in Minnesota require a minimum GPA of 2.0 to 3.0, depending on how competitive the school or program is.

Financial Aid Application

Filling out the FAFSA is essential. It determines your eligibility for federal aid and qualifies you for Minnesota’s State Grant Program, which significantly supports low- and middle-income students. To get the most aid, apply before the priority deadline, typically in late winter.

How Do Minnesota College Costs Compare to National Averages?

Minnesota’s public colleges and universities tend to have slightly higher tuition rates than the U.S. average. While the national average for in-state public college tuition is around $11,000, flagship schools like the University of Minnesota Twin Cities can cost closer to $15,000 per year.

That said, Minnesota helps balance those higher rates with generous financial aid programs, including the Minnesota State Grant, reciprocity agreements with neighboring states, and a variety of school-specific scholarships. These resources often bring the net cost down to comparable or lower levels than schools in states with cheaper tuition but less financial aid.

Minnesota schools often offer strong graduate employment outcomes, internship opportunities, and academic support services, which can make the initial investment more worthwhile in the long run.

What Are the Tuition Fees for International Students at Affordable Minnesota Colleges?

If you’re an international student looking to study in Minnesota, the good news is that many of the state’s most affordable colleges still offer competitive tuition rates compared to national and global averages.

At public institutions like Minnesota State University Moorhead, Bemidji State University, and St. Cloud State University, annual tuition for international students generally falls between $8,500 and $16,000. That’s considerably lower than what you’d pay at large U.S. research universities, which often exceed $25,000 per year.

In addition to affordable rates, these colleges usually offer:

• Dedicated international student services
• Orientation and cultural integration programs
• Merit-based scholarships that may reduce your total cost

Just be aware that living expenses in Minnesota can be higher than in other Midwestern states, especially during winter months when heating and transportation costs rise. It’s important to factor in housing, health insurance, and visa-related fees when calculating your full investment.

How Does University of the People Compare with Most Affordable Colleges in Minnesota?

University of the People offers a very different approach than even Minnesota’s most affordable colleges. While schools like MSU Moorhead and Bemidji State charge around $7,000–$12,000 per year, UoPeople has no tuition and only small assessment fees, totaling about $4,800 for a full degree.

UoPeople is fully online and asynchronous, making it ideal if you need flexibility or can’t relocate. In contrast, Minnesota colleges provide in-person learning, campus life, and local job connections, plus access to the Minnesota State Grant and other aid.

On accreditation: UoPeople holds regional WASC accreditation comparable to the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accreditation used by Minnesota’s public colleges, improving its recognition with employers and transfer institutions.

If you want maximum flexibility and minimal cost, UoPeople is a strong option. But if campus support and local networking matter more, Minnesota’s public colleges still offer excellent value.

Ready to Choose the Most Affordable College?

Choosing the right college is about more than finding the lowest tuition—it’s about value. Minnesota’s affordable colleges may come with slightly higher sticker prices than some states, but they also offer:

• Strong academic programs
• Exceptional student support
• Generous financial aid

Whether you’re interested in nursing, engineering, education, agriculture, or the liberal arts, Minnesota has an affordable college that aligns with your goals. Take time to review what each school offers in your area of interest. Look at graduation rates, job placement success, class sizes, and the campus environment.

Also explore state-specific financial help like the Minnesota State Grant, reciprocity agreements, and work-study programs. These can make a huge difference in what you actually pay out of pocket.

In short, the most affordable college for you is the one that balances cost, academic fit, and long-term outcomes, while supporting your personal and professional goals.

FAQs

Which Minnesota college has the lowest tuition?

Minnesota State University, Mankato currently offers one of the lowest in-state tuition rates for a comprehensive university in Minnesota at $7,450 per year.

Do Minnesota’s affordable colleges offer quality education?

Yes. Affordable doesn’t mean low quality—schools like Winona State and Bemidji State are known for strong academics, student support, and career readiness.

Which Minnesota colleges offer the best value for money?

Schools like UMN Crookston and Minnesota State University Moorhead offer excellent value through hands-on programs, job placement support, and competitive tuition.

Which affordable Minnesota colleges offer online degrees?

UMN Crookston, Bemidji State, and several colleges in the Minnesota State system are known for their robust online offerings.

Which affordable Minnesota colleges accept transfer credits easily?

Most public colleges in Minnesota, including MSU Moorhead and St. Cloud State, participate in statewide credit transfer agreements that simplify the process.

Do Minnesota’s cheapest colleges have strong job placement?

Yes. Many of these schools work closely with local employers and industries. Schools like UMN Rochester and SMSU have especially strong healthcare, education, and business outcomes.