Studying in the USA is a dream for many — but high tuition fees often turn that dream into a financial burden. Fortunately, many U.S. universities offer high-quality education at an affordable cost, especially for international students and those on a budget.
This blog highlights the Top 10 Cheapest Universities in the USA (2025) that offer excellent academic programs, recognized degrees, and solid career outcomes — without a sky-high price tag.
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1. University of the People (UoPeople) – Online
Tuition-Free, Fully Accredited University
UoPeople is the world’s first non-profit, tuition-free, accredited online university, ideal for international students and working professionals.
Highlights:
- 100% online learning model
- Degrees in Business, CS, Health Science, Education
- Only charges minimal exam & processing fees
- Partnerships with NYU, Harvard, and IBM
Average Annual Cost (2025): ~$1,200 (exam fees only)
Why Choose UoPeople: Extreme affordability + flexible scheduling
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2. California State University – Long Beach (CSULB)
Top Public University with Low Tuition
Part of the CSU system, CSULB offers excellent academics at a low cost, especially for in-state and Hispanic/first-gen students.
Highlights:
- Strong in engineering, business, and arts
- Vibrant campus life near Los Angeles
- High job placement rates post-graduation
- Generous scholarships and work-study options
Average Annual Tuition (2025):
- In-State: ~$6,800
- Out-of-State: ~$17,000
Why Choose CSULB: Quality + coastal location + affordability
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3. Brigham Young University (BYU) – Provo, Utah
Private but Incredibly Affordable
Owned by the LDS Church, BYU offers deeply subsidized tuition for both national and international students.
Highlights:
- Ranked for business, CS, and engineering
- Faith-based but open to all backgrounds
- Strong moral code and campus safety
- Excellent ROI and high graduate earnings
Average Annual Tuition (2025):
- LDS members: ~$6,400
- Non-members: ~$12,000
Why Choose BYU: Low cost + strong academics
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4. Alcorn State University – Mississippi
Affordable HBCU with Rich Heritage
Alcorn is one of the most affordable Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) in the U.S., offering solid degrees in education, nursing, and business.
Highlights:
- Strong in agricultural sciences and education
- Safe rural campus setting
- Supportive academic community
- Scholarships for international students
Average Annual Tuition (2025): ~$7,400
Why Choose Alcorn: Cultural pride + affordability
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5. South Texas College – McAllen, Texas
Low-Cost Pathway to a U.S. Degree
South Texas College offers 2-year associate degrees and affordable pathways to transfer into top universities.
Highlights:
- Tuition under $5,000/year
- Strong English language programs
- Smooth transfer to UT Austin, Texas A&M, etc.
- Good for first-generation and low-income students
Average Annual Tuition (2025): ~$4,800
Why Choose STC: Great starter college + transfer pathway
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6. Minot State University – North Dakota
Hidden Gem for International Students
Minot State is gaining popularity among international students for its low cost and welcoming community.
Highlights:
- Accredited programs in business, health, and science
- Small class sizes and personalized learning
- Low cost of living in North Dakota
- Scholarships available up to 50% tuition
Average Annual Tuition (2025): ~$7,500
Why Choose Minot State: Low cost + supportive for internationals
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7. City University of New York (CUNY) – New York City, NY
Affordable Urban Education
CUNY offers high-quality education across 25 campuses in NYC, including Baruch, Hunter, and City College.
Highlights:
- Strong in business, journalism, and liberal arts
- Diversity-driven, inclusive community
- Tuition discounts for state residents
- Access to New York-based internships
Average Annual Tuition (2025):
- In-State: ~$7,500
- Out-of-State: ~$15,000
Why Choose CUNY: Affordable + access to NYC opportunities
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8. Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU)
One of the Lowest-Cost Public Universities in the USA
ENMU offers excellent undergraduate and graduate programs at a very low cost, especially for online and rural students.
Highlights:
- Strong in education, nursing, and applied arts
- Online bachelor’s programs available
- High graduate employment rates in New Mexico
- Financial aid for online and transfer students
Average Annual Tuition (2025): ~$6,500
Why Choose ENMU: Online + rural access + low fees
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9. Delta State University – Mississippi
Affordable Southern University with Quality Faculty
DSU is known for its affordable tuition and quality teaching in aviation, business, and healthcare.
Highlights:
- Small class sizes
- Easy application and admission process
- Safe and friendly campus
- Transfer-friendly and military-friendly
Average Annual Tuition (2025): ~$8,000
Why Choose DSU: Small, affordable, and career-focused
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10. Fayetteville State University – North Carolina
Military-Friendly and Budget-Friendly
A part of the UNC system, Fayetteville offers excellent affordability and strong ROTC, nursing, and criminal justice programs.
Highlights:
- Scholarships for military and minority students
- Accessible online programs
- Low housing and living costs
- Offers transfer credit recognition
Average Annual Tuition (2025): ~$6,900
Why Choose FSU: Affordable + career-readiness support
💡 Final Thoughts: How to Study in the USA Without Breaking the Bank
If cost is a concern, these 10 universities prove that you don’t need to attend the Ivy League to get a top-quality education in the United States.
👉 Tips for Saving on U.S. Education:
- Choose public universities or community colleges to start
- Look for in-state tuition, even for certain internationals
- Apply early for scholarships & assistantships
- Consider online degree options like UoPeople or ENMU
- Research tuition waivers or exchange programs (J-1, F-1, OPT)
