While the United States is renowned for its world-class education, it often comes with a hefty price tag. However, for international students seeking quality education without breaking the bank, there are affordable options. Here are some recommendations for budget-friendly universities in the USA.
Note: Tuition fees mentioned here exclude accommodation, books, and living expenses.
Bridgewater State University
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- Location: Bridgewater, Massachusetts
- Bachelor’s Tuition: $7,050 per semester
- Master’s Tuition: $488.50 per credit hour
Situated near Boston, Bridgewater State University is nestled in a peaceful college town. With 11 on-campus residence halls fostering a strong student community, it offers a serene learning environment. The tuition fees make it an attractive choice for international students pursuing both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
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Eastern New Mexico University
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- Location: Portales, New Mexico
- Bachelor’s Tuition: $8,568 per year
- Master’s Tuition: $7,110 per year
Recognized as one of the most economical 4-year universities in the Southwest, Eastern New Mexico University provides on-site and distance learning options. With small class sizes, students benefit from an intimate learning atmosphere, facilitating better interaction with professors.
Nicholls State University
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- Location: Thibodaux, Louisiana
- Bachelor’s Tuition: $4,482.90 per semester (based on 15 hours)
- Master’s Tuition: $4,440.36 per semester (based on 15 hours)
Nestled in a small Louisiana city, Nicholls State University offers diverse programs, ranging from culinary arts to nursing. The campus, deemed one of the safest in the state, accommodates 1,255 undergraduate students. The cost-effective tuition makes it an appealing choice for international students.
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Brigham Young University
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- Locations: Provo, Utah; Laie, Hawaii; Rexburg, Idaho
- Bachelor’s Tuition (Utah): $6,304 per semester
- Master’s Tuition (Utah): $14,636 per semester
Sponsored by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Brigham Young University is a private research institution with campuses in Utah, Hawaii, and Idaho. It welcomes students from various religious backgrounds, offering quality education at reasonable tuition rates.
Minnesota State University-Moorhead
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- Location: Moorhead, Minnesota
- Tuition: $8,837 per semester (for 12-18 credits)
With a global perspective, Minnesota State University-Moorhead attracts students from 58 countries. Boasting 213 majors and providing online learning options, it ensures a diverse educational experience at an affordable cost.
Delta State University
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- Location: Cleveland, Mississippi
- Tuition fees: $4,217 per semester (for 12-19 hours)
Nestled in Cleveland, Mississippi, Delta State University offers students the charm of one of the best Southern small towns. Boasting a vibrant student community, lively music scene, and delectable food options, it also stands out as an affordable city to reside in.
Mississippi University for Women
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- Location: Columbus, Mississippi
- Tuition fees: $3,883 per semester (for 9-13 credits)
Known as the first public college for women in the United States, Mississippi University for Women takes pride in enabling students to graduate with less debt compared to other regional Southern universities. Its commitment to affordability makes it an appealing choice for international students.
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Southwest Minnesota State University
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- Location: Marshall, Minnesota
- Tuition fees: $10,116 per year (Bachelor’s), $9,324 per year (Master’s)
With a focus on liberal arts majors, Southwest Minnesota State University provides an engaging campus life with student residences, clubs, and organizations. Offering degree programs in liberal arts and professions, it combines academic excellence with affordability.
Henderson State University
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- Location: Arkadelphia, Arkansas
- Tuition fees: $7,480 based on 15 hours per semester
Henderson State University extends scholarships with lower tuition fees for international students, taking into account their academic performance. Additional financial aid opportunities are also available, based on family income, making education accessible and affordable.
Bemidji State University
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- Location: Bemidji, Minnesota
- Tuition fees: $10,150 for two semesters
Situated by Bemidji Lake and surrounded by Minnesotan forests, Bemidji State University offers a picturesque campus, especially appealing to nature enthusiasts. With a variety of academic programs, including distance learning options, it combines academic excellence with a stunning campus environment.
National Louis University
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- Location: Chicago, Illinois; Tampa, Florida
- Tuition fees: $19,350 per year (based on 14-18 hours)
National Louis University stands out by offering an annual renewable scholarship of $7,599 for full-time international students. With a career-focused education system, it caters to over 8,000 students across Illinois and Florida.
South Dakota State University
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- Location: Brookings, South Dakota
- Tuition fees: $5,642 based on 15 credits per semester
Featuring 80 majors, 97 minors, and a campus teeming with activities, South Dakota State University offers an enriching academic experience. Ranked as the safest campus in the state for three consecutive years, Brookings is considered a pleasant city to call home in South Dakota.
Choosing an affordable university doesn’t mean compromising on the quality of education. These institutions provide a balance of affordability and academic excellence for international students pursuing their educational dreams in the USA.
FAQs on Affordable Education Options for International Students in the USA
1. Which state is the most affordable for international students in the USA?
When seeking affordability for international students, consider the following states:
- Wyoming: Known for its mountainous terrain.
- Indiana: A top state for affordability.
- Missouri: Popular among international students.
- Alabama: Offers cost-effective living.
- Kansas: Another budget-friendly option.
2. Are there US universities offering full scholarships for international students?
Yes, several top US universities provide full scholarships for international students, covering tuition costs. These include:
- Brandeis University
- Duke University
- Georgia University
- Case Western Reserve University
- Columbia University
- Swarthmore College
- Columbia College
3. Is the cost of living cheaper for international students in the USA compared to Canada?
In general, the cost of living for international students in Canada is often more affordable than in the USA. Even in major Canadian cities, the cost of living is lower than their counterparts in the US. Additionally, Canadian tuition fees are generally more economical than those in the US.
4. Should I choose to study in the USA or Canada?
While Canadian universities offer quality education and lower living costs, US universities are globally renowned for their top-ranking courses and prestigious reputation. Degrees from US universities are highly regarded worldwide, making the USA an attractive option for many international students.
5. Which US university has the highest number of international students?
New York University (NYU) leads in hosting international students, with over 21,000 learners from more than 140 countries during the 2021-2022 school year.
6. What universities in the USA have the highest visa acceptance rates?
Universities with high visa acceptance rates (82-99% range) include:
- Colorado State University
- Kent State University (OH)
- University of Kansas
- The University of Texas at Arlington
- Loyola University Chicago
- Virginia Commonwealth University
- University of Utah
- University of Colorado Boulder
7. What GRE scores are required for scholarships in the USA?
For scholarships, aim for a GRE score above 300, with a balanced score of 160 in both verbal and quantitative reasoning sections. An analytical writing score above 5 enhances your eligibility for scholarships.
8. What GPA is needed for a full scholarship in the USA?
While a strong GPA increases your chances, a perfect 4.0 is not mandatory. Typically, a GPA requirement for full scholarships is set at an average of 3.0, with a “good GPA” falling between 3.5 and 3.8.