Studying in the United States is a dream for many international students — world-class education, cultural diversity, and exciting career opportunities await. But one major challenge is cost. With tuition fees often soaring above $40,000 per year at private institutions, affordability becomes a key factor when choosing a university.
Fortunately, many U.S. universities offer quality education at relatively low tuition costs, especially for foreign students. If you’re looking to earn a recognized degree in the U.S. Check out this list of the Top 18 Budget-Friendly Universities in the USA for International Students in 2025 that won’t empty your wallet.
1. University of the People (California – Online)
- Tuition: $0 (Pay per exam – approx. $4,000 total for a bachelor’s degree)
- Why It’s Affordable: Entirely online with tuition-free model
- Best For: Tech, business, and health science students
UoPeople is a non-profit, accredited, tuition-free online university offering degrees in business, health science, and computer science. While not a traditional campus experience, it’s perfect for budget-conscious international students.
2. Alcorn State University (Mississippi)
- Annual Tuition (Out-of-State): ~$7,290
- Location: Lorman, Mississippi
- Why It’s Great: Small class sizes, solid academic programs, and affordable living
This historically black university (HBCU) provides high-quality programs in agriculture, business, and education with one of the lowest out-of-state tuition rates in the country.
3. Minot State University (North Dakota)
- Annual Tuition (International): ~$7,896
- Why Students Love It: Personalized support and low student-to-faculty ratio
Minot State offers over 60 undergraduate programs and provides solid support services for international students with affordable tuition and a welcoming campus environment.
4. South Texas College (Texas)
- Annual Tuition (International): ~$7,830
- Why It’s Unique: Offers both 2-year and select 4-year degrees
This college is an excellent option for students looking to start with an associate degree or complete a bachelor’s in select fields like Computer & Information Technology.
5. Bemidji State University (Minnesota)
- Annual Tuition (International): ~$9,000
- Highlight: Set on a beautiful lakeside campus
Bemidji State offers great programs in education, business, and environmental studies. It also provides scholarships and assistantships to international students.
6. Chadron State College (Nebraska)
- Annual Tuition (International): ~$9,200
- Perks: Free laptop program and low living costs
Chadron State combines affordability with strong liberal arts and professional programs. It is part of the Nebraska State College System and offers small class sizes.
7. Delta State University (Mississippi)
- Annual Tuition (International): ~$8,605
- Why Consider It: Friendly community and great music & arts programs
Delta State is another affordable option in Mississippi that offers undergraduate and graduate degrees with competitive pricing and international student scholarships.
8. University of Central Arkansas
- Annual Tuition (International): ~$9,600
- Best For: Education, health sciences, and computer science
Located in Conway, Arkansas, this university offers good academic quality, affordable housing, and a growing international student support system.
9. California State University, Long Beach (CSU System)
- Annual Tuition (International): ~$9,500 – $10,000
- Strengths: Business, engineering, and arts programs
CSU campuses offer affordable education across California. Long Beach stands out for its vibrant campus life and proximity to major economic hubs.
10. University of South Dakota
- Annual Tuition (International): ~$12,500
- Why It’s a Good Choice: Research-focused with high ROI
A strong research university offering a wide range of degrees at an affordable rate. It’s known for business, health, and liberal arts programs.
11. Eastern New Mexico University
- Annual Tuition (International): ~$8,540
- Perks: Scholarship opportunities for international students
ENMU is one of the most affordable schools in the Southwest. It has strong programs in aviation, education, and business.
12. Fayetteville State University (North Carolina)
- Annual Tuition (International): ~$7,700
- Why It’s Great: Part of the UNC system with great value
An HBCU offering low-cost tuition and a variety of degree programs, including cybersecurity, psychology, and criminal justice.
13. Missouri Western State University
- Annual Tuition (International): ~$9,500
- Highlight: Internship-focused learning and career support
Located in St. Joseph, Missouri, this university emphasizes practical learning and affordability for international students.
14. West Texas A&M University
- Annual Tuition (International): ~$11,100
- Why Students Like It: Generous scholarships and great for business, education, and engineering
A member of the Texas A&M system, WTAMU offers great value for money, especially with its global student scholarships.
15. University of Louisiana at Monroe
- Annual Tuition (International): ~$9,000
- Strengths: Pharmacy, business, and health sciences
With a supportive campus culture and affordable pricing, ULM is increasingly attracting international students from across the globe.
16. University of North Carolina at Pembroke
- Annual Tuition (International): ~$7,500
- Why It’s Appealing: Small class sizes and personal attention
UNC Pembroke combines quality with affordability and provides great opportunities for community engagement and research.
17. Jackson State University (Mississippi)
- Annual Tuition (International): ~$8,445
- Perks: Historic legacy and STEM programs
As another HBCU, JSU provides excellent programs in STEM and the arts with a warm and diverse community.
18. SUNY – that’s the State University of New York system.
- Average Tuition (International): ~$10,000–$12,000 depending on campus
- Why It’s Popular: World-class education at public university prices
The SUNY system comprises more than 60 campuses located throughout New York. Institutions like SUNY Albany, SUNY New Paltz, and SUNY Buffalo offer fantastic education with low tuition fees.
How to Lower Costs Even Further
Even with these affordable options, studying abroad involves other expenses such as housing, health insurance, and travel. Here are a few tips to help:
- Apply for scholarships: Many universities offer scholarships exclusively for international students.
- Choose a public university: Public institutions are typically cheaper than private ones.
- Consider community colleges: Start with a 2-year associate degree and then transfer to a 4-year school.
- Work on-campus: Many international students are eligible for on-campus jobs to help cover living expenses.
- Live off-campus or with roommates: Shared accommodations can cut your housing costs significantly.
Affording a U.S. education as an international student doesn’t have to feel impossible. The universities listed above offer great academic value while keeping tuition fees low. With proper planning, budgeting, and research, you can receive a world-class education in the United States without overwhelming student debt.
Remember, the cheapest university isn’t always the best fit. Look beyond the price tag—consider programs, campus life, career support, and location. If you strike the right balance between cost and quality, you’re on the path to a rewarding academic journey in the USA.
