The United States of America has some of the best universities in the world. But while those schools can go toe-to-toe with other institutions across the globe, they are incredibly expensive and can often only be afforded by the citizens. Therefore, if you are an international student looking for affordable schools in America, read this article on 30 cheapest universities for international students in usa 2025.
In most countries, education is either cheap or almost free. However, that is not the situation in the United States. Matter of fact, studying in the US is one of the most expensive expenses you could ever make as a foreign student. But thankfully, there are still some top universities that provide quality education at a low price.
This post will share a list of the cheapest universities in usa, where they are located, how much their tuition fees are, and how to apply to each of them. At the end of this article, you would have learned how to go to school in the US and save money.
In this article:
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5 Reasons to study at a cheap university in USA.
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How to find the cheapest universities for international students in usa
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Table showing the cheapest universities for international students in usa 2025
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30 cheapest universities for international students in usa 2025
5 Reasons To Study At At Cheap University In USA
There are a lot of beneficial reasons why you should consider studying at a cheap university in the United States. Take a look at some of them below:
1. High Standard Of Education
High standard of education, strict practices to preserve quality, and well-equipped institutions are the trademarks of American universities. By enrolling in one, you’ll not just get an advanced knowledge of your field, but a globally recognized degree certificate.
2. Variety Of Courses
American universities and colleges offer an array of courses and programs you can choose to enroll in.
3. Community Of International Students
While studying in the USA, you’ll meet a community of international students who can form part of your support group.
4. New Cultures
International students in the US get the chance to share and learn new cultures and ways of life.
How To Find The Cheapest Universities For International Students In USA
If you’re looking for cheap colleges in the United States, a great way to go about it would be to evaluate features like, the school’s ranking on academic quality, job placements, number of foreign students that attend there, facilities, and research opportunities. Doing this ensures that you still get premium education from the school, no matter how cheap it is for.
Below are other tips that can help you with your search:
1. Check University Rankings
It is imperative that you check the ranking of the university you want to attend before you apply. A well-ranking university has more scope for good education and job prospects, than those ranking lowly.
2. Apply To State Universities
State universities or public universities in the United States are often cheaper than private universities. So if you are an international student looking to study in America, make a list of different state universities and start applying to the ones you prefer.
3. Ask About Scholarship Opportunities
Before applying to any university in the US, make enquiries about the school’s scholarship and how the application process works. Getting a scholarship cuts the cost of you studying in the US in half and reduces the financial burden you’ll bear if you’re paying for the full thing. You can visit our site to see how to find scholarships in USA.
Table Showing 30 Cheapest Universities For International Students In USA 2025
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Universities |
Tuition Fee |
|
University of Buffalo |
$33,800 annually |
|
Nicholls State University |
$25,000 annually |
|
United States Military Academy at West Point |
Free |
|
The University of Wisconsin |
$42,104 |
|
Towson State University |
$29,820 |
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Brigham Young University |
$6,688 |
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Indiana State University |
$22,042 |
|
Southwest Minnesota State University |
$20,972 |
|
Eastern New Mexico University |
$4,527 |
|
Temple University |
$33,912 |
|
Brooklyn College |
$620 per credit |
|
City University of New York |
$620 per credit |
|
McNeese State University |
$10,000 |
|
University of New Mexico |
$34,129 |
|
Dakota State University |
$7,954 per semester |
|
Florida State University |
$721,10 annually |
|
Southwestern Oklahoma State University |
$239.10 per semester |
|
Northern State University |
$10,717 |
|
Bridgewater State University |
$17,874 |
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Mississippi State University |
$27,637 |
|
Berea College |
Free |
|
Purdue University |
$9,718 per semester |
|
Snow College |
$14,900 |
|
Delta State University |
$4,217 per semester |
|
Bemidji State University |
$10,198 |
|
Duke University |
Available on request |
|
West Texas A&M University |
$29,702 annually |
|
John Jay College Of Criminal Justice |
$620 per credit |
|
Henderson State University |
$366 per credit |
|
Brandeis University |
$67,082 annually |
30 Cheapest Universities For International Students In USA 2025
Here we have made a list of the 30 cheapest universities for international students in usa 2025. Each school comes complete with information about its location, tuition fee, and admission process for applying to the school. We have also added links in case you want to visit their websites to learn more about each one.
In addition to apply for these schools, you can also explore scholarships as a way to further cut the costs of your tuition in America.
1. University of Buffalo
The University of Buffalo is New York City’s flagship and a member of the Association of American Universities. It is recognized consistently as one of the most exceptional and affordable universities in the world, placing it among the cheapest universities in usa.
Tuition Fee - $33,800 annually.
Location: Getzville, New York.
Admission Requirements For The University Of Buffalo
Interested students applying to the University of Buffalo, are required to submit the following documents to the school’s Applicant Status Portal:
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Transcripts, marksheets, and result certificates.
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English Language Proficiency test scores.
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SAT/ACT scores (optional).
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Personal essay (optional).
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Letters of recommendation (optional).
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Supplemental requirements for special majors (if applicable).
Learn more about UB’s admission process.
2. Nicholls State University
Nicholls State University is an accredited regional university that houses over 5,900 traditional and nontraditional students. In addition to being one of the cheapest colleges in the us, Nicholls provides over 60 degree programs, 100+ student organizations and 15 Division I athletic teams.
Tuition fee: $25,000 annually.
Location: Thibodaux, Louisiana.
Admission Requirements For Nicholls State University
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High school (secondary school) transcripts and certifications.
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English level certificate - Duolingo, IELTS, SAT/ACT, TOEFL, etc.
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Documentation of financial support.
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Immunization form.
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Summary of educational background.
Learn more about Nicholls’ admission process.
3. United States Military Academy at West Point
The United States Military Academy is a four-year college that develops, trains, educates, and inspires Corps of Cadets to become commissioned leaders of character dedicated to the Army Values and ready to serve the Army and Nation for life. Graduates of West Point get a Bachelor of Science degree and are commissioned as second lieutenants in the United States Army. Tuition to this school is free, making it the cheapest university in america.
Tuition fee: Free.
Location: West Point, New York.
Admission Requirements For The United States Military Academy
Candidates applying for the United States Military Academy must meet the following requirements.
- Be up to 17 years, but not 23 or older, on July 1 of the year you enroll at West Point.
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Be a U.S. Citizen or one of the 60 international students specially selected by the school.
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Not be married.
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Not be pregnant.
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Not be legally responsible for paying child support.
Learn more about the admission process for West Point.
4. The University of Wisconsin
The University of Wisconsin has always been a driving force for change since its founding. As a public land-grant university and major research institution, the students, staff, and faculty for this school indulge in a world-class education, while solving real-life issues. UW offers the cheapest master degree in usa for international students.
Location: Wisconsin, USA.
Tuition fee: $42,104.
Admission Requirements For The University Of Wisconsin
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Complete the Common Application or the Universities of Wisconsin Application.
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Pay the non-refundable fee of $70 USD.
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Submit two essays.
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Provide the course grade and information.
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Submit one letter of recommendation.
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English language test - Duolingo, TOEFL, or IELTS.
Learn more about the admission requirements at UW.
5. Towson State University
Towson State University is a nationally ranked public university situated in Towson, Maryland. It is within close proximity to major American cities such as Washington, D.C, New York, and Philadelphia. Besides being one of the cheapest universities in the USA for international students, TU is also among the top 10 safest campuses in Maryland. It provides a diverse and inclusive community for international students to feel at home.
Location: Towson, Maryland.
Tuition fee: $29,820.
Admission requirements for Towson University
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English language proficiency result.
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Course by course evaluation.
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First-year applicants must be enrolled in a secondary school or graduated and yet to attend college.
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Transfer students should be secondary school graduates or previously enrolled to a university or college.
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Graduates seeking admission for a master’s or doctoral program can apply.
6. Brigham Young University
Brigham Young University is established, supported, and led by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Its mission is to help individuals in their journey for perfection and eternal life. BYU is a great place to find a cheap masters degree in usa, and getting an education here is spiritually strengthening.
Location: Provo, Utah.
Tuition fee: $6,688.
Admission Requirements For Brigham Young University
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Connect a church account.
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Accept BYU’s Honor Code and get Ecclesiastical Endorsements.
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Provide a complete academic history.
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Submit an ACT or SAT score (if applicable).
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Submit an English Proficiency Score (if required).
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Get required recommendation letters.
Learn more about the admission requirements for BYU.
7. Indiana State University
Indiana State University offers phenomenal undergraduate majors, graduate programs, online degree and certificate courses that challenge its students to explore, work together, and grow. Studying at Indiana encourages you to dream big enough to make a global impact and gives you access to study in one of the affordable universities in usa for international students.
Location: Terre Haute, Indiana.
Tuition fee: $22,042.
Admission requirements for Indiana State University
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Complete and submit the online admissions application form.
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Pay the non-refundable application fee of $65.00 USD.
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Begging the credential evaluation process.
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Provide an affidavit of financial support.
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Submit an original current bank statement mailed directly from the issuing back to the University.
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Submit an official IELTS, TOEFL Or ELS score from the testing center to Indiana State.
Learn more about the admission requirements for Indiana State.
8. Southwest Minnesota State University
Southwest Minnesota State University is a four-year public university that provides top-notch education in the liberal arts and professions to give students a highly successful professional and personal life. SMSU has become a choice university due to its high national rankings and producing influential alumnus.If you’re looking for low tuition universities in usa, this is the one to attend.
Location: Marshall, Minnesota.
Tuition: $20,972.
Admission Requirements For Southwest Minnesota State University
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Create an account and begin your application.
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Pay the $100 Non-refundable International Application Processing Fee.
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Provide proof of high school or secondary education.
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Submit an official transcript in English language.
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Show proof of English proficiency - IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC, etc.
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Personal statement.
Learn more about the admission requirements for SouthWest.
9. Eastern New Mexico University
If you’re looking for the cheapest ms finance in usa, then you should consider Eastern New Mexico University. For almost 90 years, New Mexico has equipped students for different careers and progressive study. This institution believes that every student matters and has what it takes to become more than what they are.
Location: Portales, Nex Mexico.
Tuition fee: $4,527.
Admission Requirements For The Eastern New Mexico University.
10. Temple University
Temple University is considered to be one of the top 10 cheapest universities in usa. Established first as a night school in 1884, Temple has grown to become an international stronghold of higher education and first-class research institution with over 33,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Tuition fee: $33,912.
Admission Requirements For Temple University
Graduate students applying to Temple should:
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Provide official transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate schools attended.
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Submit official results for GRE or GMAT.
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Submit a Test of English proficiency.
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Statement of goals.
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CV.
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Letters of recommendation.
Learn more about the admission requirements for Temple.
11. Brooklyn College
Brooklyn College is among the cheap colleges in usa for international students and a fundamental part of New York, using the entire city as a live classroom to expand its students’ understanding of the world. For over 90 years, Brooklyn has taught a vast variety of motivated students; many of them being immigrants or children of immigrants who wish to use education to change their lives.
Location: New York, New York.
Tuition fee: $620 per credit.
Admission Requirements For Brooklyn College
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Official high school transcripts or TASC/GED diploma with scores.
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College essay.
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Proof of proficiency in Mathematics and English.
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Overall academic average or GPA.
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Curriculum rigor.
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Level of course work completed in every subject area.
Learn more about the admission requirements for Brooklyn College.
12. City University of New York
City University of New York is a low cost university in usa and the country’s largest urban public university. Established in 1847 as America’s first free public institution of higher education, CUNY now has 25 colleges all over New York City’s five boroughs, training over 233,000 degree-seeking students of all age grades and giving 50,000 degrees annually.
Location: New York, New York.
Tuition fee: $620 per credit.
Admission Requirements For City University of New York
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Students applying to CUNY must complete Form I-20 & DS-2019 before attending the school.
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English proficiency certificate - TOEFL, IELTS, Pearson Test of English.
Learn more about the admission process for CUNY.
13. McNeese State University
McNeese State University is a low cost university in usa for international students. For the past 85 years, McNeese has consistently proven itself to be a reliable and highly regarded institution of innovation and academic excellence. This university is ranked as one of the USA’s top public universities and one of the best regional universities in the South.
Location: Lake Charles, Louisiana.
Tuition fee: $10,000.
Admission Requirements For McNeese State University
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Pay the application fee of $30.
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Submit proof of Immunization Compliance.
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Send your transcripts and diplomas from all secondary schools attended to McNeese.
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Submit a copy of your passport.
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If you have SAT scores, request that the CollegeBoard send them directly to McNeese (school code 6403).
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Submit your IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic score report.
Learn more about the admission requirements for McNeese.
14. University of New Mexico
The University of New Mexico is another low tuition fee universities in usa you can attend. Here, state-of-the-art research and creative pursuits thrive. As a high research (R1) institution, UNM puts millions of dollars into the economy of New Mexico, funding its health care sector and elevates teaching, giving you priceless hands-on training in cutting-edge laboratories.
Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Tuition fee: $34,129.
Admission Requirements For New Mexico University
Learn more about the admission process for New Mexico.
15. Dakota State University
Dakota State University is the cheapest university in usa for masters for international students. In 1881, DSU was established as a school for teacher education. However, since then, the institution has turned its attention to the cyber world. Dakota State is still one of the few schools in America that provides students with the required technology to succeed in any career path.
Location: Madison, South Dakota.
Tuition fee: $7,954.
Admission Requirements For Dakota State University
To study a graduate degree at DSU, you must:
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Have a bachelor’s degree that is the same as a four-year undergraduate degree in the USA.
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Complete an evaluation of your transcripts by a DSU-recognized transcript evaluation agency.
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Possess a minimum undergraduate point average (GPA) for the program you’re applying to.
Learn more about the admission requirements at DSU.
16. Florida State University
Florida State University is one of the most affordable universities in usa and among the country’s elite research institutions. Florida State upholds, grows, and shares knowledge in technology, humanities, arts, professions, and sciences, while following a learning philosophy with roots in liberal arts and critical thinking.
Location: Tallahassee University.
Tuition fee: $721,10.
Admission Requirements For Florida State University
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Submit academic records such as official school transcripts, secondary school evaluation, and international examination results.
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Standardized Test Scores for ACT/CLT/SAT.
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Proof of English Language Proficiency for non-native English speakers.
Learn more about the admission process at FSU.
17. Southwestern Oklahoma State University
The Southwestern Oklahoma State University is among the most affordable colleges in the us. It also has some of the finest degree programs in the State of Oklahoma and is also one of the cheapest schools in the state.
Location: Weatherford, Oklahoma.
Tuition fee: $239.10 per semester.
Admission requirements for SWOSU
18. Northern State University
Besides providing the cheapest mba in usa for indian students, Northern State University also offers you a high-quality education that is affordable and personalized for your needs. Here, you’ll experience hands-on learning led by a renowned faculty. Additionally, you’ll get the full campus experience with the option to join any student activity and event in a community that is hospitable and secure.
Location: Aberdeen, South Dakota.
Tuition fee: $10,717.
Admission requirements for Northern State University
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Complete an online application.
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Submit an English proficiency test score.
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Send your high school transcripts to Northern State.
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Complete a declaration of finances.
Learn more about the admission requirements for Northern State.
19. Bridgewater State University
Bridgewater State University deserves to be on this list of cheap schools in usa for international students. Bridgewater has been changing lives, by giving its students an exceptional education to start fulfilling careers and transform their families. The school provides a secure, diverse, welcome, and inclusive space for students and employees.
Location: Bridgewater, Massachusetts.
Tuition fee: $17,874.
Admission Requirements For Bridgewater State University
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Provide all the items listed on the application for admissions.
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Pay $50.00 application fee.
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Submit academic transcripts and credentials.
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Submit an affidavit of financial support.
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Provide proof of English language proficiency.
Learn more about the admission requirements for Bridgewater State.
20. Mississippi State University
Aside from placing among this list of low fee universities in usa for international students, Mississippi State University also believes that a university should be a place where all individuals are welcome. This school is bringing in a new age of education that is centered on catering to what is important. Mississippi provides a space where faculty, staff, and students can progress, succeed and grow together.
Location: Starkville, Mississippi.
Tuition fee: $27,637.
Admission Requirements For Mississippi State University
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A complete online application.
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$60 non-refundable application fee.
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Translated, certified copies of all transcripts, marksheets, and diplomas.
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Official ACT score of 20 or higher, or SAT score of 1030.
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English Language Proficiency.
Learn more about the admission process for Mississippi State.
21. Berea College
Berea College earned this spot on the list of most affordable universities in usa for international student, for a special reason. It is not like other American colleges. Berea was the first integrated, co-educational college in the South, and has not taken tuition from students since 1892.
Location: Berea, Kentucky.
Tuition fee: Free.
Admission requirements for Berea College
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Complete the free Berea College Application for Admission for International Students.
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Write a 2-5 page personal essay.
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Provide a copy of official secondary school records such as - West African Examination, A-Level, O-Level, or National Higher Diploma results.
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One Teacher Recommendation form.
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Ask an employer, religious leader, or administrator to fill out a financial resource recommendation form for you.
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Submit the scores for Duolingo, SAT, IELTS, TOEFL or ACT exams.
Learn more about the admission process for Berea.
22. Purdue University
Purdue University is one of the cheap us universities for international students. For more than 150 years, generations of its alumni have made their mark with small steps and giant strides. Today, Purdue continues in that footstep by bringing their best and learning to build a better future with their students.
Location: West Lafayette, Indiana.
Tuition fee: $9,718.
Admission Requirements For Purdue University
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To begin your application, create an Application Account.
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Select up to 2 campuses and/ or graduate majors in order of priority.
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Submit results of your tests if applicable for your graduate program (e.g - TOEFL, IELTS, GMAT, GRE).
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Review your current or previous academic institutions' country to see the required admission documents for them.
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Prepare any extra documents you need based on your preferred graduate program.
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Pay the Nonrefundable Application fee.
Learn more about the admission process for Purdue.
23. Snow College
Located in Ephraim, Utah, Snow College is one of the cheapest schools in the us for international students. It offers learners certificates and associate degrees with bachelor’s degrees in areas such as nursing, software engineering, and music. Snow is a member of the Utah System of Higher Education.
Location: Ephraim, Utah.
Tuition fee: $14,900.
Admission Requirements For Snow College
Learn more about the admission process for Snow College.
24. Delta State University
Delta State University is a four-year public institution with almost 2,700 students from mostly U.S. states and over 35 countries. Delta also has the cheapest tuition in us which you can enjoy as an foreign student.
Location: Cleveland, Mississippi.
Tuition fee: $4,217.
Admission Requirements For Delta State University
Learn more about the admission process for Delta.
25. Bemidji State University
Bemidji State University believes in the transformative power that liberal arts, education in the professions and ample engagement of their students hold. Teaching up to 5,000 students in undergraduate, graduate, and online degree programs, Bemidji’s philosophy is founded on a dedication to environmental stewardship, community service and global understanding. This school is also the cheapest university in usa for indian students.
Location: Bemidji, Minnesota.
Tuition fee: $10,198.
Admission Requirements For Bemidji State University
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Complete the International Student Application online.
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Pay a $50 international application processing fee.
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Submit a financial affidavit form.
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Provide the official transcripts for all the secondary schools you attended.
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Provide records of any colleges or universities you attended.
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Provide proof of English Language Proficiency.
Learn more about the admission process for Bemidji State University.
26. Duke University
Duke University is a private research university in Durham, North Carolina, United States. It is a renowned school in America, and has the most affordable mba programs in usa which international students can apply for.
Location: Durham, North Carolina.
Tuition fee: Available on request
Admission Requirements For Duke University
Learn more about the admission requirements for Duke University.
27. West Texas A&M University
West Texas A&M University students, faculty, and alumni are taking their places as agents of change globally through service and innovation. Technologies brought to life by A&M’s research programs are shaping reality, and their education goes beyond the classroom, collaborating with industry partners and practitioners to create real-world opportunities for its students. The school also offers the cheapest masters in usa.
Location: Canyon, Texas.
Tuition fee: $29,702 annually.
Admission Requirements For West Texas A&M
Learn more about the admission process for A&M.
28. John Jay College Of Criminal Justice
The John Jay College of Criminal Justice is one of the universities in usa for international students with low tuition fee. This school is a public college with a focus on criminal justice. John Jay is a senior college of the City University of New York. It was established as the only liberal arts college with a focus on forensic and criminal justice in the USA.
Location: New York, United States.
Tuition fee: $620 per credit.
Admission Requirements For John Jay College Of Criminal Justice
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Explore the majors and minors programs at John Jay.
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Attend a virtual international student info session.
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Take a virtual tour of the campus.
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Send in your application to CUNY.
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Citizens of countries where English is not the official language, are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
Learn more about the admission requirements for John Jay.
29. Henderson State University
Henderson State University is dedicated to equipping students to become gainfully employed in high-demand fields in the state of Arkansas and other regions. Henderson is one of the most affordable online universities in usa, and provides extensive academic programs through its Science, and Nursing, College of Business; College of Aviation; College of Performing Arts and Social Sciences; and Teachers College.
Location: Arkadelphia, Arkansas.
Tuition fee: $366 per credit.
Admission Requirements For Henderson University
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Complete the International admissions application.
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Non-refundable $30 application fee.
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Official academic credentials.
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Proof of English proficiency.
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Vaccination records containing all necessary immunization.
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A copy of your passport, plus a picture of yourself.
Learn more about the admission requirements for Henderson University.
30. Brandeis University
Brandeis University is one of a kind when it comes to education. As a medium-sized university recognized globally, they are committed to providing premium education while making revolutionary discoveries. Brandeis’ faculty are recognized in their disciplines, and are zealous about teaching and mentoring students as they are about pushing the boundaries of knowledge. It is also one of the cheapest universities in usa.
Location: Waltham, Massachusetts.
Tuition fee: $67,082.
Admission Requirements For Brandeis University
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A completed Common Application or Coalition Application.
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Pay the $80 application fee.
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Submit official copies of all your high school transcripts and/or GED certificate or marks from any externally graded national exams.
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A school report and letter of recommendation from a secondary school personnel.
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High School Senior Grades.
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Letter of recommendation from a teacher who taught you in a core academic course (math, history, foreign language, English or science).
Learn more about the admission process for Brandeis.
Conclusion
Thanks to our extensive selection of cheap universities for international students in USA 2024, you can now fulfill your dream of studying in the United States of America, without needing to empty your pockets to do that. Additionally, these schools also have some scholarships you can explore to further help with your tuition.