As the cost of education continues to be a pivotal factor in the decision-making process for international students, it is increasingly important for students to consider tuition fees and living costs as key parameters of what and where they should study.
Recognizing the financial concerns of studying abroad, this article focuses on USA university affordability, presenting a comprehensive overview of the most budget-friendly universities in the USA for international students. Learn more about the top 10 most affordable universities in the USA below (US News) and begin your application to study in the USA by arranging a free consultation with SI-USA today.
Top 10 Affordable USA Universities
1. University of Maine at Presque Isle
The University of Maine at Presque Isle boasts a remarkable 99.9% acceptance rate, offering accessible education. In 2024, it earned impressive rankings: #36 in Regional Colleges North, #17 in Top Public Schools, and #31 in Top Performers on Social Mobility, reflecting its commitment to quality and inclusivity.
- Location: Presque Isle, Maine
- Estimated Annual Tuition Fees: $24,590
- Available Scholarships and Financial Aid: International Presidential Scholarships
- Eligibility: English proficiency, visa, financial, and documentation requirements, with specific program-related prerequisites and deadlines to consider.
2. Northern State University
Northern State University, with an acceptance rate of 79.8%, offers accessible education. In 2024, it achieved notable rankings: #88 in Regional Universities Midwest, demonstrating academic excellence; #26 in Top Public Schools, emphasizing quality and affordability; and #124 in Top Performers on Social Mobility, highlighting its role in improving students' socioeconomic prospects.
- Location: Aberdeen, South Dakota
- Estimated Annual Tuition Fees: $24,497
- Available Scholarships and Financial Aid: Future of Connectivity Scholarship
- Eligibility: English language proficiency, and specific visa requirements. Financial documentation and health insurance are often necessary.
3. University of South Dakota
The University of South Dakota, with a favorable acceptance rate of 87%, welcomes a broad range of applicants. In 2024, it achieved rankings such as #269 in National Universities, highlighting its academic standing, and #145 in Top Public Schools, emphasizing its commitment to quality and affordability.
- Location: Vermillion, South Dakota
- Estimated Annual Tuition Fees: $24,485
- Available Scholarships and Financial Aid: Coyote Beginnings Scholarship
- Eligibility: Minimum GPA of 2.7, on a 4.0 scale and language proficiency requirements, submitting academic transcripts and fulfilling visa requirements
4. South Dakota State University
South Dakota State University boasts an acceptance rate of 87.4%, making it an accessible choice for prospective students. In 2024, it earned rankings including #296 in National Universities, demonstrating its academic presence, #159 in Top Public Schools, highlighting quality and affordability, and #181 in Engineering Programs (doctorate), showcasing excellence in engineering education.
- Location: Brookings, South Dakota
- Estimated Annual Tuition Fees: $24,240
- Available Scholarships and Financial Aid: Coyote Beginnings Scholarship
- Eligibility: English language proficiency requirements (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS), provide academic transcripts and demonstrate financial capability for tuition and living expenses.
5. Talladega College
Talladega College, with a selective acceptance rate of 49%, ensures a competitive admission process. The 2024 rankings by US News and World Report secured the following positions: #61 in Regional Colleges South, #57 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and #21 in Top Performers on Social Mobility, reflecting its academic and social impact.
- Location: Talladega, Alabama
- Estimated Annual Tuition Fees: $23,975
- Available Scholarships and Financial Aid: Jackrabbit Guarantee Scholarship
- Eligibility: Average unweighted GPA of 2.4 and a completed application, proof of English proficiency, academic transcripts, and financial documentation are typically required for admission consideration
6. Nicholls State University
Nicholls State University in Louisiana boasts an exceptionally high acceptance rate of 98%. In the 2024 rankings by US News and World Report, it secured the following positions: #69 in Regional Universities South, underlining its regional academic standing, #32 in Top Public Schools, highlighting its commitment to quality and affordability; and recognition in Business Programs.
- Location: Talladega, Alabama
- Estimated Annual Tuition Fees: $23,975
- Available Scholarships and Financial Aid: Jackrabbit Guarantee Scholarship
- Eligibility: A completed application, proof of English proficiency, academic transcripts, and financial documentation are typically required for admission consideration
7. Bemidji State University
With a 75% acceptance rate, Bemidji State University provides opportunities for a diverse range of applicants. In 2024, it earned rankings such as #83 in Regional Universities Midwest, highlighting its academic performance, #26 in Top Public Schools, emphasizing quality and affordability, and #402 in Nursing programs.
- Location: Bemidji, Minnesota
- Estimated Annual Tuition Fees: $21,892
- Available Scholarships and Financial Aid: International Student Merit Award (ISMA)
- Eligibility: Average GPA score of 3.2, SOP, proof of English language proficiency, international agreement form, and high school transcript.
8. Dickinson State University
With a 72% acceptance rate, Dickinson State University offers accessibility to prospective students. The 2024 US News and World Report rankings earned impressive distinctions, including #49 in Regional Colleges Midwest, #5 in Top Public Schools, and #55 in Top Performers on Social Mobility, reflecting its commitment to quality and inclusivity.
- Location: Dickinson, North Dakota
- Estimated Annual Tuition Fees: $21,458
- Available Scholarships and Financial Aid: DSU Heritage Foundation Scholarship
- Eligibility: International students must meet English proficiency requirements with TOEFL (90), IELTS (7.0), or Duolingo English Test (DET - 120) or have three years of high school instruction in English.
9. Western Carolina University
Western Carolina University maintains an acceptance rate of 85%, making it accessible to aspiring students. In the 2024 rankings by US News and World Report, it is positioned at #227 among National Universities, demonstrating its academic prowess, and at #123 in Top Public Schools, showcasing its commitment to quality and affordability.
- Location: Cullowhee, North Carolina
- Estimated Annual Tuition Fees: $21,435
- Available Scholarships and Financial Aid: Boren Scholarships
- Eligibility: A competitive GPA, English proficiency tests (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS), completed application, visa documentation, and financial support proof
10. Delta State University
Delta State University's remarkable 99% acceptance rate stands out, making it highly accessible. In 2024, it secured notable rankings, including #55 in Regional Universities South, #23 in Top Public Schools, and #13 in Best Value Schools, underscoring its commitment to quality, affordability, and value for students.
- Location: Cleveland, Mississippi
- Estimated Annual Tuition Fees: $21,422
- Available Scholarships and Financial Aid: Okra Scholarship Management System
- Eligibility: A competitive profile includes a minimum GPA of 3.37, ideally around 3.5, and an average SAT score of 995. Other requirements include English proficiency exams and visa documentation.
Study in the USA
If you want to apply to study at an affordable US university, contact SI-USA today for a free consultation.
