Cheapest Universities in the USA for International Students in 2025 

Choosing to study in the United States offers so many benefits for international students, from enhancing language skills through full immersion to gaining a prestigious degree recognized globally. However, navigating the financial aspects of studying abroad can be quite difficult. U.S. universities have a range of tuition fees, living expenses, and scholarship opportunities, that can largely impact the overall affordability for international students.  

Public universities normally provide more cost-effective options than private ones, with many offering financial aid packages to reduce costs for international students.    

Let’s take a closer look at the cheapest universities in the U.S. for 2025 and what they have to offer for international students.  

What is an International Student?

If you’re reading this, you likely already have a good idea of what an international student is. However, let’s clarify just in case. An international student is someone who applies to U.S. universites from a high school or equivalent institution outside the United States. 

For example, a student from India applying to a U.S. university would be considered an international student. It’s important to check each university’s specific requirements and definitions for international students, as these can vary. Understanding these definitions will help you navigate the application process more smoothly.

Why Study in America?

Studying in America offers international students access to renowned academic programs and a chance to develop in a culturally diverse environment. U.S. universities provide extensive networking opportunities, connecting students with industry professionals and peers worldwide enhancing their educational experience and career prospects. Here are a few more significant reasons: 

Quality Education

American universities are known for their high academic standards and rigorous education. Institutions in the U.S. consistently rank among the best in the world, providing students with top-notch education and research opportunities.

Cultural Diversity

American campuses are melting pots of cultures, ethnicities, and ideas. This diversity enriches the educational experience, allowing students to gain a broader perspective on global issues and build a network of peers from around the world.

English Proficiency

Immersing yourself in an English-speaking environment is one of the best ways to improve your language skills. Studying in the U.S. helps international students become fluent in English, a valuable skill in the global job market.

Career Opportunities

A degree from an American university is highly respected by employers worldwide. U.S. institutions often provide excellent internship and job placement opportunities, giving students a head start in their careers.

Academic Flexibility

U.S. universities offer a wide range of programs and majors, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. Additionally, students can often change their major or take a variety of elective courses to explore different fields.

Research and Innovation

The U.S. is a leader in research and innovation. Many universities receive substantial funding for research projects, offering students the chance to work alongside experts in cutting-edge fields.

Support Services

American universities provide extensive support services for international students, including orientation programs, academic advising, language assistance, and cultural activities. These services help students adjust to their new environment and succeed academically.

Networking

Studying in the U.S. offers unparalleled networking opportunities. Students can connect with industry leaders, professors, and peers, building relationships that can be beneficial throughout their careers.

Campus Life

U.S. colleges and universities are known for their vibrant campus life. From sports and clubs to cultural events and volunteer opportunities, there’s always something happening on campus to enhance the student experience.

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Things to Know Before Applying

Now that you’re almost ready to take the plunge and start the admissions process, there are a few things that need to be understood. This will help you to streamline your decisions.

Private vs. Public Institution

When researching the cheapest universities in the U.S., you’ll likely discover that there are significant differences in areas such as tuition, housing, and acceptance rates. This has to do with whether the school is private or public. 

Public colleges and universities are primarily funded by the government, while private schools rely heavily on student tuition and private endowments. 

Tuition Costs 

Understanding tuition costs is crucial when considering studying in the U.S. According to U.S. News data for the 2024-2025 academic year, the average cost for public in-state students is $11,011 annually. Out-of-state students at public universities pay around $24,513, while private universities have an average tuition fee of $43,505 per year.

These figures do not include additional expenses such as housing, food, and books, which can add several thousand dollars annually. Therefore, planning and exploring financial aid options are essential for managing these costs effectively.

Additional Costs

Aside from tuition, international students need to budget for several other expenses while studying in the U.S. These include housing, food, books, and supplies, which can significantly add to the overall cost. Health insurance is also required and can vary in price. Transportation, whether for daily commuting or travel during breaks, should also be considered. The cost of living varies greatly depending on the university’s location, with urban areas typically being more expensive than rural ones. It’s essential to research these costs to manage your budget effectively while studying in the U.S.

Cheapest Universities in the US 

We’ve covered a lot of information so far on the journey to find the cheapest university for international students in the USA, so let’s now take a look at some of the cheapest universites in the U.S. that offer a great education.

1. University of the People

University of the People has revolutionized college education. This accredited, fully online university has lowered traditional barriers by being tuition-free and lowering admission standards by accepting any student who has a high school diploma and proof of English language proficiency. 

• Tuition: $0 (there are assessment fees to be paid at the end of each course
• Scholarships: Available.
• Degrees: UoPeople’s global community of students pursue certificates, associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in areas such as business administration, computer science, health science, and education. 
• Requirements: High school diploma and proof of English language proficiency. 
• Duration: Varies by program, typically 2-4 years depending on the degree level.

2. South Texas College

South Texas College (STC), located in the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas, is a public community college offering a wide range of academic programs. Established in 1993, STC provides affordable education with six campuses and online options. The college offers certificates, associate’s, and bachelor’s degrees in fields such as business, health sciences, technology, and the arts. Known for its commitment to accessibility and innovation, STC serves a diverse student population, with many being the first in their families to attend college.

• Tuition: For the 2024-2025 academic year, the tuition for international students is $254 per credit hour.
• Scholarships: Available
• Degrees: South Texas College offers a variety of programs for those students interested in pursuing certificates, associate’s, or bachelor’s degrees. Fields of study include business, health science, engineering, performing arts, and IT.
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, placement tests may be required. 
• Duration: Certificate and associate programs can take 1-2 years, bachelor’s degrees typically take 4 years.

3. Northern State University

Northern State University, located in Aberdeen North Dakota, is a small public university on a picturesque 66-acre campus. Its programs are offered in 4 schools and students and faculty have been recognized globally for their research.

• Tuition: Out-of-state Yearly Estimate of $10,717
• Scholarships: Available
• Degrees: Certificates, associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s programs in areas such as accounting, banking, justice, science, education, and digital media are offered.
• Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, ACT/SAT scores for undergraduates. 
• Duration: Generally 4 years for bachelor’s programs, shorter for certificates and associate degrees, and 1-2 years for master’s programs.

4. California State University 

California State University is a 23-school public college system. Its diverse student body enjoys unique opportunities and CSU is recognized as a Hispanic-serving institution. It has been ranked among the most affordable university systems in the country. 

• Tuition: $5,742 and an additional $396 per semester unit or $264 per quarter unit for international students.
• Scholarships: Available
• Degrees: CSU offers certificate, undergraduate, and degree programs across a myriad of fields. These include Aerospace engineering, agriculture, education, medicine, STEM, and film. 
• Requirements: High school diploma, SAT/ACT scores, and for some programs, specific prerequisites may apply. 
• Duration: Typically 4 years for undergraduate programs.

5. Oklahoma Panhandle State University

Oklahoma Panhandle State University is a public college in Goodwell, Oklahoma. It first began as an agricultural university and then expanded to include teacher training. Today, it’s organized into 3 colleges that offer associate’s and bachelor’s degrees.

• Tuition: $8,254
• Scholarships: Available
• Degrees: Program offerings include agriculture, nursing, science, communication, music, social science, IT, and business administration.
• Requirements: High school diploma, SAT/ACT scores. 
• Duration: 4 years for most bachelor’s degree programs.

6. Alcorn State University 

Alcorn is a historically black public land grant university that was started in 1871. Located near Lorman, Mississippi, this school has been recognized for excellence in agricultural research, liberal arts, technology, music, and nursing. 

• Tuition: $7,868
• Scholarships: Available
• Degrees: Alcorn offers several notable programs in agricultural sciences as well as liberal arts, military technologies, and nursing. 
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, SAT/ACT scores. 
• Duration: Most bachelor’s degrees are completed in 4 years.

7. Minot State University 

Minot State University is the third largest university in North Dakota. It’s a public school with a very small faculty-to-student ratio of 11:1. The student body is very diverse and the school strives to offer affordable education. 

• Tuition: $11,219.48
• Scholarships: Available
• Degrees: MSU offers several programs. Students have the option of majoring or minoring in areas such as criminal justice, deaf/hard of hearing education, corporate fitness, and wellness management, human services, and music. They also offer programs like pre-law, pre-med, and pre-seminary.
• Requirements: High school diploma, ACT/SAT scores typically required. 
• Duration: Generally 4 years for a bachelor’s degree.

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Final Thoughts

Finding affordable universities in the U.S. is challenging but achievable for international students. Public universities often offer more cost-effective options compared to private ones. Besides tuition, students should consider additional costs like housing, food, and transportation. Financial aid and scholarships can significantly reduce expenses, making quality education accessible. 

Institutions like the University of the People provide innovative, tuition-free education. Thorough research and planning are essential, but with the right approach, you can achieve a quality education in the U.S. and unlock numerous opportunities.

FAQs

What are the cheapest universities in the U.S. for international students? 

Some of the cheapest universities for international students include the University of the People, South Texas College, California State University, and Minot State University. 

Are there additional fees besides tuition for international students? 

Yes, international students often incur additional fees such as international student fees, service fees, technology fees, and health insurance costs, which can vary significantly from one university to another. 

What are the benefits of studying in the United States? 

Studying in the U.S. offers high-quality education, diverse cultural exposure, extensive networking opportunities, and various academic and professional development resources. 

Are there any restrictions on the majors available to international students? 

Generally, there are no restrictions on majors for international students. However, some programs may have limited spaces or specific entry requirements, and competitive majors may be harder to get into. 

Can international students transfer credits from previous institutions to U.S. universities?

Many U.S. universities accept transfer credits from international institutions, but the process involves evaluating and approving the credits. Students should check with the admissions office about their specific policies and procedures. 

Can international students find jobs in the U.S.? 

International students can work on campus and may also be eligible for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) opportunities that allow them to work in their field of study for limited periods during or after their studies.