While the US is known for its expensive education system, it remains one of the top study destinations globally, offering world-class academic opportunities. Fortunately, not all US universities come with a hefty price tag. Public universities, supported by state funding, generally have lower tuition fees than private institutions. Additionally, some private universities offer financial aid and scholarships, making them more accessible to international students.
If you’re seeking an affordable Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in the US, this list highlights universities with low tuition fees, non-refundable application fees, and available financial aid opportunities.
General Requirements For US College Admissions for International Students?
Once you decide to study at the most affordable colleges in the USA for international students, it’s important to prepare thoroughly for your application. Below are the typical admissions requirements for international students. Additionally, keep in mind that each school has its own specific requirements listed on their admission portal. For your convenience, we have included these links in the list below.
- Get your graduation certificate
- Certificate of English Language Proficiency: TOEFL≥79 or IELTS≥0
- Personal statement and letters of recommendation
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Supplementary materials
- Financial statement
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10 Cheapest Universities in the US for International Students
Here is the list of most affordable colleges in the US for international students. The list is arranged from the least affordable to the most affordable.
1. San Jose State University (SJSU)
Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, SJSU is a prime destination for students pursuing tech, engineering, and business degrees. It has one of the highest international student enrollments among CSU schools, with strong industry connections to companies like Apple, Google, and Cisco. SJSU also waives IELTS for students from English-medium schools.
Application Fees: $70
Tuition Fees: $9,934
English Test: Waived if previous education was in English
Financial Aid: Yes (scholarships available)
Admission Portal: Link
2. California State University, Long Beach (CSULB)
CSULB is a top choice for international students because of its high-quality services, activities, and programs. The university boasts award-winning faculty members and offers hundreds of clubs and organizations, including those specifically designed for international students. Additionally, CSULB provides safe and comfortable on-campus housing. It is particularly well-known for its programs in business, engineering, and the arts, making it an attractive option for students seeking career opportunities.
Application Fee: $70
School Fees: Undergraduate – $18,972, Postgraduate− $17,922
English Test: Required
Admission Portal: link
Financial Aid: Yes (limited for international students)
3. University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP)
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP) is a diverse university that encourages intercultural appreciation and inclusion. It offers a wide range of programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, and is located in the southeastern North Carolina town of Pembroke. UNCP also provides an English Language Institute (ELI) for international students.
Application Fee: $60.00
Tuition Fees: Undergraduate – $19,499
English Test: Required
Admission Portal: Link
Financial Aid: Yes
4. San Francisco State University (SFSU)
San Francisco State University (SF State) offers a welcoming and diverse campus for international students, with a strong support network and a focus on academic excellence. SF State is part of the California State University system, offering affordable tuition and a variety of programs, including the International Year One Pathway Program, which helps students prepare for university-level studies.
Application Fee: $70.00
Tuition Fees: $26,034
English Test: Required
Admission Portal: Link
Financial Aid: No
5. University of North Texas (UNT)
The University of North Texas (UNT) in Denton, Texas, is a Tier-1 research university with a significant international student population, particularly in the fields of music, engineering, and business. The university hosts over 2,500 students from 141 different countries. UNT provides various support programs, including pre-arrival orientation, workshops on taxes and cultural adaptation, and events such as “Football 101” and an American Thanksgiving dinner. Additionally, UNT has several international communities and a police force trained to engage with college students from diverse backgrounds.
Application Fee: $75.00 – $85.00
School Fees: Undergraduate – $28,494, Graduate – $26,774.
English Test: Required
Admission Portal: Link
Financial Aid: Yes
6. Texas State University
Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas, is a welcoming campus for international students, with over 80 nations represented in its student body. The university offers a wide range of academic programs, research opportunities, and a supportive learning community for international students.
Application Fee: $90.00
School Fees: link
English Test: Required
Admission Portal: Link
Financial Aid: Yes
7. Florida State University (FSU)
Florida State University (FSU) has a welcoming environment for international students, with approximately 2,500 international students from 130 different countries. FSU offers extensive support services for international students, including immigration assistance, academic advising, and cultural integration programs
Application Fee: $30.00
School Fees: $21,683 – $41,779
English Test: Required
Admission Portal: Link
Financial Aid: Yes
8. Purdue University
At Purdue, we embrace a diverse and inclusive community, and welcome students from around the globe. Proudly ranked among the top 10 public institutions in the U.S. and top 100 in the world, Purdue is home to over 9,000 international students from 127 countries.
Application Fee: $75.00
School Fees: $23,715.90
English Test: Not Required
Admission Portal: Link
Financial Aid: Yes
9. University of Washington, Seattle
UW Seattle is a top-ranked public research university, especially strong in computer science, medicine, and environmental sciences. It has a large international student population and offers conditional admission without IELTS for some applicants.
Application Fee: $75.00
Tuition Fees: $43,209
English Test: Required
Financial Aid: Yes
Admission Portal: Link
10. University of Florida (UF)
The University of Florida (UF) is a major institution with a large and diverse international student population, hosting over 6,000 students. International students are welcome at UF across all levels of study and benefit from the university’s strong academic programs and global reach.
Application Fee: $30.00
School Fees: Undergraduate – $50,235, Graduate – $51,705
English Test: Not Required
Admission Portal: Link
Financial Aid: Yes
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