While higher education in the US is generally known for being expensive, it remains a popular study-abroad destination for international students. If you are considering pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in the US, you want to be aware of the available options that offer affordability. Despite the overall cost, there are several low tuition fees universities in USA for international students and accredited Master’s programs in the USA that provide affordable education for international students.
Low Tuition Fees Universities in USA for International Students [Semester Costs Between $3,000 and $20,000]
One notable aspect of this list is that it includes universities beyond the prestigious Ivy League institutions located in major cities. It is important to note that this does not diminish the quality of education offered by these institutions. These affordable US universities provide a more intimate learning environment, a vibrant student community, and a higher quality of life due to the lower cost of living. The tuition fees mentioned do not cover accommodation, books, and living expenses.
Here are the best low tuition fees universities in USA for international students:
1. Brigham Young University
Brigham Young University, a private research university, is sponsored by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It has campuses in Utah, Hawaii, and Idaho. While the majority of its student body consists of members of the Church, individuals with different religious affiliations are also welcome to attend BYU.
Location: Provo, Utah; Laie, Hawaii; Rexburg, Idaho
- Tuition fees:
- $6,304 per semester for Bachelor’s
- $14,636 per semester for Master’s students in Utah
2. Nicholls State University
Located in a small city in Louisiana, Nicholls State University is a public university offering diverse programs ranging from culinary arts to nursing. With 1,255 undergraduate students residing on campus, it boasts one of the safest campuses in the state.
Location: Thibodaux, Louisiana
- Tuition fees:
- $4,482.90 based on 15 hours per semester for Bachelor’s
- $4,440.36 based on 15 hours per semester for Master’s students
3. Eastern New Mexico University
Eastern New Mexico University stands out as one of the most affordable four-year universities in the Southwest US. It provides students with both on-site and distance learning options. The university’s small class sizes foster an intimate learning environment that facilitates closer interaction with professors.
Location: Portales, New Mexico
- Tuition fees:
- $8,568 per year for Bachelor’s students
- $7,110 per year for Master’s students
4. Bridgewater State University
Situated in the tranquil college town of Bridgewater, near the bustling city of Boston, Bridgewater State University is a public college renowned for its strong student community. The campus houses 11 residence halls accommodating over 2,000 students.
Location: Bridgewater, Massachusetts
- Tuition fees:
- $7,050 per semester for Bachelor’s students
- $488.50 per credit hour for Master’s students
5. Delta State University
Located in Cleveland, Mississippi, Delta State University is renowned for being one of the best Southern small towns. Students are drawn to Cleveland for its thriving student community, lively music scene, and diverse food options. Living in Cleveland is affordable.
Location: Cleveland, Mississippi
- Tuition fees:
- $4,217 per semester for 12-19 hours
6. Mississippi University for Women
Located in Columbus, Mississippi, the Mississippi University for Women holds the distinction of being the first public college for women in the United States. As per the university’s website, students graduating from this institution carry less debt compared to graduates from other regional Southern universities.
The tuition fees for a semester consisting of 9-13 credits are set at $3,883.
7. Southwest Minnesota State University
Southwest Minnesota State University, with its focus on liberal arts majors, boasts a vibrant campus life that includes student residences, clubs, and organizations. The university offers degree programs in both liberal arts and professions.
Location: Marshall, Minnesota
- Tuition fees:
- $10,116 per year for Bachelor’s students,
- $9,324 per year for Master’s students
8. Minnesota State University-Moorhead
Situated in Moorhead, Minnesota, Minnesota State University-Moorhead attracts students from 58 countries and boasts a wide range of academic programs with 213 majors to choose from. The university offers online learning options for several courses.
- The tuition fees for a semester consisting of 12-18 credits amount to $8,837.
9. Bemidji State University
Situated adjacent to Bemidji Lake and the forests of Minnesota, Bemidji State University is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and winter lovers. It provides a wide range of educational opportunities, including 70 Bachelor’s and eight Master’s degree programs, as well as distance learning options. The university is renowned for its picturesque campus if you’re considering on-campus living.
Location: Bemidji, Minnesota
- Tuition fees:
- $10,150 for two semesters
10. Henderson State University
Henderson State University offers scholarships for international students based on their GPA, which results in lower tuition fees. The university provides further financial assistance based on family income.
- Location: Arkadelphia, Arkansas
- Tuition fees: $7,480 based on 15 hours per semester
11. National Louis University (NLU)
NLU is dedicated to supporting full-time international students through its annual scholarship, which amounts to $7,599 and is renewable. With a focus on career-oriented education, NLU has garnered the preference of more than 8,000 students in Illinois and Florida.
Locations: Chicago, Illinois; Tampa, Florida
- Tuition fees:
- $19,350 per year (based on 14-18 credit hours)
12. South Dakota State University (SDSU)
With a wide range of 80 majors and 97 minors, South Dakota State University provides students with numerous academic options. Alongside the diverse academic offerings, the university boasts a vibrant campus life filled with various activities. Notably, SDSU has been recognized as the safest campus in the state for three consecutive years. Situated in the pleasant city of Brookings, South Dakota, it offers an appealing environment for students.
Location: Brookings, South Dakota
- Tuition fees:
- $5,642 per semester (based on 15 credits)
How Can I Save Money While Studying in the US?
If you’ve found low tuition fees universities in USA for international students or even secured a scholarship, here are some money-saving tips that can help:
1. Consider staying in student dorms
Living expenses are increasing globally, and worrying about utility bills, groceries, and deposits can be burdensome while living abroad. Student dorms provide all-inclusive facilities and are particularly popular among first-year students.
2. Prioritize student towns over big cities
Choosing to study in small college towns allows you to be close to student activities, events, and the campus. In larger residential towns, which are often commuter cities, you may need to commute to your classes.
3. Take advantage of student discounts
Many establishments offer discounted prices for students, including restaurants, cafes, bars, bookshops, clothing stores, cinemas, and more. Be sure to inquire about student discounts wherever you go.
4. Consider buying used textbooks, furniture, or clothes
When former students move out, they often sell their belongings to new students. This presents a win-win situation as you can save a significant amount of money by purchasing used textbooks, furniture, or clothes.
5. Apply for a scholarship
Many of the affordable universities mentioned here provide scholarship opportunities for international students based on merit or need. Consider applying for scholarships in the US for the following countries:
- 14 US Scholarship for Indian Students [Partially and 100% Funded]
- 11 Scholarships for Brazilian students in USA
- Fully funded scholarships for Pakistani students in USA
6. Work part-time
If you hold an F1 student visa, you can work part-time on campus for up to 20 hours per week. There are various job opportunities available to international students, such as tutoring, campus ambassador roles, baristas, receptionists, and sales assistants.
7. Consider distance learning
Don’t forget that distance learning is also a viable option. You can pursue a US degree without physically being in the country, which eliminates the cost of living abroad and the complexities of obtaining a student visa. Online universities like Walden University and Kettering University Online offer programs that cater to these needs.
Conclusion
If you have been admitted into any of the low tuition fees universities in USA for international students, that does not mean you should not save money. Instead, use this opportunity to save even more. Living in the US can quickly get expensive, especially regarding non-academic expenses. So make sure to do your best and avoid unnecessary expenses to help you go through your degree smoothly.
Read also: 15 US universities that accept international transfer students
