10 Cheapest and Most Affordable Colleges in Nebraska

If you’re searching for an affordable college education that still delivers on quality, Nebraska is an excellent place to look. Known as the Cornhusker State, it offers tuition rates well below the national average, plus extensive scholarships and financial aid programs that make higher education accessible to students from all backgrounds.

What sets Nebraska apart is how its colleges combine affordability with opportunity. Schools here are closely connected to the state’s strongest industries like agriculture, healthcare, transportation, insurance, and manufacturing, giving you direct pathways into stable careers. Major employers such as Berkshire Hathaway, Union Pacific, ConAgra Foods, and Mutual of Omaha are based here, along with growing bioscience and renewable energy sectors that create new job options every year.

Affordability extends beyond tuition. Nebraska’s cost of living is among the lowest in the country, so your money stretches further on housing, food, and transportation. Campuses are also known for their close-knit communities, approachable professors, and strong alumni networks that open doors across the Midwest. Whether you prefer a rural campus in farm country or a vibrant setting in Omaha or Lincoln, Nebraska provides both value and opportunity.

Key Takeaways

• Nebraska colleges cost 20–30% less than the national average, with in-state tuition often under $10,000.
• The state’s low cost of living keeps overall expenses manageable.
• Programs are directly tied to Nebraska’s economy in agriculture, healthcare, transportation, insurance, and tech.
• Students enjoy smaller campuses, strong faculty connections, and supportive alumni networks.
• Choosing Nebraska can save thousands on tuition while still providing excellent job opportunities after graduation.

10 Most Affordable Colleges in Nebraska

Nebraska’s higher education system stands out for its balance of affordability and quality. Across the state, you’ll find colleges that keep tuition rates among the lowest in the country while still offering strong academic programs, close student support, and career connections in Nebraska’s key industries. Below are the ten cheapest and most affordable colleges in Nebraska, starting with the lowest tuition.

Chadron State College

Chadron State College sits in western Nebraska and is an important educational hub for rural communities. With a history rooted in teacher education and liberal arts, it continues to offer some of the state’s most affordable degree programs.

Main Courses

Education, business, liberal arts, and range management are among its most popular programs.

Pros

• Lowest tuition among four-year Nebraska institutions
• Small class sizes with strong faculty-student interaction
• Scenic campus in the Pine Ridge region
• Strong connections with local communities

Cons

• Remote location far from major cities
• Limited research opportunities
• Fewer specialized graduate programs

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$4,600 — the lowest tuition rate in Nebraska for a four-year public college.

Peru State College

Peru State College is Nebraska’s oldest higher education institution, founded in 1867. Located in the southeast, it’s known for preparing teachers and offering liberal arts degrees at a low cost.

Main Courses

Education, business, psychology, and liberal arts remain its core academic strengths.

Pros

• Affordable tuition with strong financial aid availability
• Longstanding reputation in teacher education
• Supportive, small-campus learning environment
• Personalized advising and faculty mentorship

Cons

• Rural location limits access to large-city resources
• Fewer advanced graduate programs
• Limited research infrastructure

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$4,800 — an outstanding value, especially for students pursuing teaching degrees.

University of Nebraska Medical Center

The University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) in Omaha is one of the nation’s leading public medical universities, offering specialized training in healthcare professions. It combines affordable tuition with world-class facilities and research opportunities.

Main Courses

Medicine, nursing, dentistry, pharmacy, and allied health sciences.

Pros

• Globally recognized medical and health science programs
• Cutting-edge research centers and teaching hospitals
• Strong job placement and residency opportunities
• Urban location with access to Omaha’s healthcare employers

Cons

• Highly competitive admissions
• Limited programs outside health sciences
• Demanding academic environment

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$6,400 — excellent value for top-tier health sciences training.

University of Nebraska at Kearney

The University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) provides a comprehensive education in the heart of Nebraska. Known for its strength in education and liberal arts, it delivers affordable degree options supported by strong student services.

Main Courses

Education, business, liberal arts, and health sciences.

Pros

• Affordable tuition with diverse academic offerings
• Strong teacher preparation programs
• Attractive campus and welcoming student environment
• Comprehensive support services, including tutoring and advising
  

Cons

• Rural location with fewer large-scale research opportunities
• Limited graduate-level specialization
• Smaller campus compared to flagship institutions

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$6,580 — offering excellent educational value for central Nebraska students.

Summit Christian College

Summit Christian College in Gering is a small private institution dedicated to biblical studies and ministry preparation. It combines faith-based education with affordable private tuition.

Main Courses

Biblical studies, ministry, business, and liberal arts.

Pros

• Strong Christian foundation and mission-driven teaching
• Small, close-knit campus community
• Affordable option for private education
• Personalized faculty attention and mentorship

Cons

• Very limited program diversity outside ministry fields
• Small enrollment base
• Few secular or research-focused courses

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$6,900 — one of Nebraska’s most affordable private colleges.

Bellevue University

Bellevue University is a private institution in the Omaha metro area, designed to serve working adults and nontraditional students. It’s well known for its flexible online and evening programs.

Main Courses

Business administration, cybersecurity, healthcare management, and liberal arts.

Pros

• Flexible scheduling with strong online degree options
• Career-focused programs tailored to adult learners
• Strong ties to employers in the Omaha area
• Supportive transfer credit policies

Cons

• Higher tuition than public Nebraska colleges
• Limited traditional campus life
• Fewer opportunities for research compared to larger universities

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$8,130 — affordable for a private school, especially for adult and transfer students.

University of Nebraska Omaha

University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO) serves Nebraska’s largest city with a wide range of professional programs. Known for its strong ties to Omaha employers, UNO blends affordability with urban opportunities.

Main Courses

Business, engineering, education, and public affairs.

Pros

• Urban location with strong internship pipelines
• Wide range of professional and academic programs
• Strong partnerships with Omaha’s major industries
• Affordable tuition for a metropolitan research university

Cons

• Commuter campus atmosphere
• Limited on-campus housing
• Parking challenges are common in urban settings

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$8,400 — excellent value for a metropolitan university with professional connections.

University of Nebraska–Lincoln

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) is the state’s flagship public research university. With a strong national reputation, it offers comprehensive academic programs and a proud agricultural and research heritage.

Main Courses

Agriculture, engineering, business, and journalism.

Pros

• Extensive research opportunities across disciplines
• Wide variety of academic programs
• Strong athletics and school spirit
• National reputation and robust alumni network

Cons

• Higher costs compared to regional Nebraska colleges
• Large class sizes in entry-level courses
• Competitive admissions for selective programs

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$10,100 — strong value for a flagship research institution with national recognition.

Wayne State College

Wayne State College in northeastern Nebraska provides affordable education with a focus on teaching, business, and athletics. It has a reputation for strong community engagement and student support.

Main Courses

Education, business, sports management, and liberal arts.

Pros

• Well-regarded teacher education programs
• Comprehensive athletics programs
• Supportive and close-knit campus culture
• Affordable tuition compared to national averages

Cons

• Higher tuition than some regional Nebraska colleges
• Rural setting limits access to large-city opportunities
• Fewer advanced research options

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$14,100 — higher than other regional schools, but still an affordable option with strong academic and athletic programs.

Bryan College of Health Sciences

Bryan College of Health Sciences in Lincoln is affiliated with Bryan Health System and specializes in healthcare education. It’s ideal for students seeking hands-on clinical training in a focused healthcare environment.

Main Courses

Nursing, medical imaging, cardiovascular technology, and health sciences.

Pros

• Specialized focus on healthcare professions
• Excellent job placement and clinical training opportunities
• Modern facilities tied to Bryan Health System
• Strong partnerships with hospitals and clinics

Cons

• Highest tuition among Nebraska colleges on this list
• Limited program diversity outside health sciences
• Narrow career pathways focused almost entirely on healthcare

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$14,800 — the highest on this list, but provides exceptional healthcare education and employment outcomes.

Key Requirements for Enrolling in the Most Affordable Nebraska Colleges

If you’re planning to apply to one of Nebraska’s most affordable colleges, there are a few steps you’ll need to complete. Each institution has its own process, but most share common requirements related to applications, transcripts, residency, and financial aid.

Complete Application Form Submission Process

Most Nebraska colleges accept applications through the University of Nebraska System application portal or their own institutional websites. Make sure to complete all sections carefully, as details like personal statements, recommendations, and extracurricular activities can help with admission decisions and scholarship eligibility.

Official High School Transcripts

You’ll need to submit official high school transcripts or GED documentation. These records are used to confirm eligibility and determine merit-based scholarships or honors program placement. Transcripts should be sent directly from your school to the college.

Nebraska Residency Status

Documenting Nebraska residency is crucial for accessing in-state tuition rates, which are often 65–70% lower than non-resident tuition. Colleges typically require proof such as a Nebraska driver’s license, voter registration, or state tax returns.

ACT or SAT Score Submission

Many Nebraska colleges still consider ACT or SAT scores for admissions and scholarship awards. While some schools may be test-optional, strong scores can improve your chances of receiving competitive scholarships.

FAFSA Financial Aid Application

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is essential. Submitting your FAFSA by Nebraska’s priority deadlines opens the door to federal aid, state grants, and institutional scholarships that can significantly lower your overall cost of attendance.

How Do Nebraska College Costs Compare to National Averages

Nebraska consistently ranks among the most affordable states for higher education. In-state students at public colleges typically pay around $8,500–$9,500 per year, compared to the national average of about $10,700. Even private colleges in Nebraska tend to have tuition rates 20–30% lower than their counterparts in other states.

The cost advantage doesn’t stop at tuition. Housing in Nebraska often runs 25–40% below national averages, and everyday expenses like food, transportation, and healthcare are significantly cheaper. Many colleges also reduce textbook costs through rental programs and digital options.

The value grows even more when you add in Nebraska-specific scholarships and grants. Programs like the Nebraska Opportunity Grant and institution-based merit scholarships help many students graduate with far less debt than the national average. This means you can pursue your degree with strong academic support while keeping your finances manageable.

What Are the Tuition Fees for International Students at Affordable Nebraska Colleges

Tuition at Nebraska colleges is higher for international students than for residents, typically ranging from $18,000 to $26,000 annually at public institutions. While this is 2.5 to 3 times more than what Nebraska residents pay, it’s still often 25–35% lower than international student costs in states like California or New York.

In addition to tuition, international students should budget for health insurance (usually $1,600–$2,200 per year), visa fees, and student service charges. Housing and meal plans remain affordable thanks to Nebraska’s relatively low cost of living, with rural campuses offering particularly low rates compared to Lincoln and Omaha.

International students can also save through part-time on-campus employment and practical training opportunities in Nebraska’s growing sectors like agriculture, transportation, biosciences, and renewable energy. Altogether, Nebraska provides an affordable and welcoming option for students from abroad seeking quality education with manageable costs.

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

University of the People (UoPeople) provides a unique alternative to Nebraska’s affordable colleges by eliminating traditional tuition. Instead, students pay assessment fees at the end of each course: $160 for undergraduate courses, $450 for MBA and MSIT, $400 for the M.Ed., $250 for certificates, and $150 for the English as a Second Language program. With a one-time $60 application fee and a graduation fee, the total cost of a bachelor’s degree comes to about $6,400, far less than even Nebraska’s lowest-priced universities.

UoPeople is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), approved by the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE), and recognized as a candidate by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). While UoPeople offers an entirely online, flexible model, Nebraska’s colleges provide traditional campuses, in-person learning, and direct ties to regional industries like agriculture, healthcare, and technology.

Ready to Choose the Most Affordable College?

Choosing the right college in Nebraska means looking beyond just tuition. You’ll want to think about total costs, available financial aid, program quality, career outcomes, and whether the school fits your lifestyle. The good news is that Nebraska makes this process easier with consistently affordable options and generous scholarships.

To make the best decision, consider visiting campuses, meeting with financial aid counselors, and exploring program-specific outcomes. Nebraska’s colleges combine academic support, affordable living, and strong connections to industries like agriculture, insurance, transportation, and tech. If you’re looking for a balanced mix of affordability, opportunity, and community, Nebraska offers some of the strongest options in the Midwest.

FAQs

What is the average tuition at Nebraska’s most affordable colleges?

The average in-state tuition at Nebraska’s most affordable colleges ranges from about $4,600 to $10,500 per year, depending on the institution.

Which Nebraska college has the lowest in-state tuition rates?

Chadron State College has the lowest tuition, at about $4,600 per year.

What is the average student debt at Nebraska colleges?

Student debt for Nebraska graduates averages around $25,000, which is below the national average.

Do Nebraska colleges offer online degree programs?

Yes, several Nebraska colleges, including Bellevue University and University of Nebraska Omaha, offer fully online programs in business, healthcare, and liberal arts.

Do Nebraska colleges accept transfer credits from other schools?

Yes, most Nebraska colleges accept transfer credits from accredited institutions. Policies vary, so you’ll want to confirm with the admissions office.

Which Nebraska college has the best alumni network?

University of Nebraska-Lincoln has the largest and most active alumni network, with strong connections across the Midwest and nationally.