Studying in the United States is a dream for many international students, but the cost can often be a barrier. Thankfully, several affordable US universities offer quality education without breaking the bank. In this 2025 edition, we highlight the top 10 cheap universities in the USA for international students, factoring in tuition fees, scholarships, and living costs.
1. Minot State University (North Dakota)
⚫ Tuition Fee: Around $18,124/year
⚫ Living Costs: Approx. $8,500/year
⚫ Offers scholarships for academic merit and on-campus jobs to help reduce expenses.
2. Alcorn State University (Mississippi)
⚫ Tuition Fee: Around $18,124/year
⚫ Living Costs: Approx. $8,500/year
⚫ Offers scholarships for academic merit and on-campus jobs to help reduce expenses.
3. California State University, Long Beach
⚫ Tuition Fee: $16,300/year
⚫ Living Costs: $10,000–$12,000/year
⚫ It offers numerous scholarships and is part of the CSU system, one of the most affordable higher education systems in the U.S.
4. South Texas College (Texas)
⚫ Tuition Fee: $4,200–$7,000/year
⚫ Living Costs: $7,500/year
⚫ It is ideal for associate degrees or as a stepping stone to larger universities at a lower cost.
5. University of the People (Online)
⚫ Tuition Fee: $0 (only pays for assessments – approx. $1,200/year)
⚫ Living Costs: None (fully online)
⚫ Tuition-free, accredited, and flexible — great for those needing the most economical path.
6. Bemidji State University (Minnesota)
⚫ Tuition Fee: $9,076/year
⚫ Living Costs: $9,000–$12,000/year
⚫ Offers in-state tuition rates to some international students and multiple scholarship options
7. City University of New York (CUNY)
⚫ Tuition Fee: $18,600/year
⚫ Living Costs: Around $12,000/year
⚫ While slightly higher than others on the list, CUNY offers many scholarships and part-time job opportunities in NYC.
8. University of North Carolina at Pembroke
⚫ Tuition Fee: $8,500/year
⚫ Living Costs: $9,000/year
⚫ Offers specific international student scholarships and affordable dormitory options.
9. Brigham Young University (Utah)
⚫ Tuition Fee: $6,304/year
⚫ Living Costs: $8,800/year
⚫ One of the most affordable US universities, thanks to subsidies from its religious affiliations
10. New Mexico Highlands University (New Mexico)
⚫ Tuition Fee: $12,024/year
⚫ Living Costs: Approx. $9,460/year
⚫ Known for its low tuition rates, strong STEM and business programs, and merit-based scholarships specifically for international students.
Why Choose These Universities?
All these institutions combine cheap universities in the USA for international students with recognized academic quality. Many also offer OPT (Optional Practical Training) and CPT (Curricular Practical Training) opportunities, which allow students to gain work experience while studying.
How IIE Education Can Help You
At this point, you might be wondering — how do I apply to one of these affordable US universities and successfully get a student visa?
That’s where IIE Education comes in. With years of experience in guiding students through the US admissions and visa process, we help you:
- Shortlist the most budget-friendly and career-oriented universities
- Navigate application paperwork and documentation
- Secure scholarships and financial aid
- Prepare for visa interviews with mock sessions and expert advice
✅ Start Your Journey with IIE Education
Don’t let finances stop you from achieving your American dream! Let IIE Education guide you toward the best and most affordable US universities for 2025. Our experts are ready to help you from application to arrival.
📞Contact us today to book your free consultation and take the first step toward studying in the USA!
📌 FAQs – Affordable US Universities for International Students (2025)
1. What makes a university “affordable” for international students?
Affordability is determined by a combination of low tuition fees, reasonable living costs, and the availability of scholarships or financial aid. Some universities also offer part-time job opportunities to offset expenses.
2. Can I apply for scholarships at these affordable universities?
Yes, many of the affordable US universities offer merit-based, need-based, or internationalspecific scholarships. Universities like the University of the People and Minot State University provide significant aid opportunities.
3. Are these affordable universities accredited and recognized globally?
Absolutely. All the universities listed in the blog are accredited institutions in the United States and their degrees are recognized internationally.
4. Will studying at a cheaper university affect my job opportunities later?
No. What matters most is your skills, academic performance, internships, and networking. Affordable universities still provide quality education and access to OPT/CPT work options in the U.S
5. Can I work part-time while studying at these universities?
Yes. International students on F-1 visas can work up to 20 hours/week on-campus during the academic term and full-time during breaks. Some universities may offer curricular practical training (CPT) options as well.
6. What are the living costs like at these universities?
Living costs vary by state and city. Smaller towns (like those in North Dakota or Mississippi) have lower costs of living, which can significantly reduce your overall budget.
7. How can I apply to these universities?
Each university has its application portal. However, IIE Education simplifies this for you by helping
with:
⚫ University selection
⚫ Application processing
⚫ Visa documentation
⚫ Interview Preparation
8. How can I get started with IIE Education?
Simply contact IIE Education to book a free consultation. Their team will guide you through every
step—from choosing the right cheap universities in the USA for international students to visa
approval and pre-departure preparation.
