Why Studying in the USA Can Still Be Affordable
Studying in the United States sounds expensive, right? It doesn't have to be. With careful research, you can find low fee universities in USA for international students that offer respected degrees at a fraction of the usual cost.
In this guide, we're walking through the cheapest universities in USA, what to expect with tuition, and how international students—including those from Pakistan—can study in the U.S. without breaking the bank.
What Makes a University "Cheap" in the USA?
Before diving into the names, let's break down what makes a university affordable. It's not just tuition. It's the whole package.
Here's what to look for:
- Low tuition fees (under $10,000/year)
- Waived application fees
- No hidden charges for lab or admin
- Affordable cost of living near campus
- Scholarships or work-study options for international students
The good news? Many affordable public universities in USA tick all of these boxes.
Cheapest Universities in USA for International Students (2025 List)
Not every American university costs $40,000 a year. Some offer degrees that cost less than $7,000 annually—even for international students.
Here are the top options for 2025:
1. University of the People
Tuition: $0 (only assessment and application fees)
Location: Online
Programs: Business, Computer Science, MBA
Notes: The most affordable degree in USA for those open to online study
2. Minot State University
Tuition: ~$7,000 per year
Location: North Dakota
Programs: Business, IT, Education, more
Notes: Accepts Pakistani students and has a straightforward admission process
3. South Texas College
Tuition: ~$4,600 per year
Location: Texas
Programs: Undergraduate only
Notes: One of the cheapest colleges in USA for international students
4. California State University – Long Beach
Tuition: ~$8,100 per year
Location: California
Programs: Business, Science, Engineering
Notes: Public university with in-demand degrees
5. Alcorn State University
Tuition: ~$6,700 per year
Location: Mississippi
Programs: MS, MBA, Public Health
Notes: One of the oldest affordable universities in America for international students
These schools have a long history of supporting international education and offer some of the most inexpensive universities in USA.
Cheapest MS and MBA Programs in USA
Graduate programs don't always come with sky-high price tags. Some schools offer low cost MBA in USA and cheap MS in Computer Science options that are ideal for working students or international graduates.
Cheapest MBA Programs in the US
- University of the People – Online, tuition-free MBA
- Texas A&M International University – ~$7,000/year
- Fayetteville State University – ~$6,500/year
Cheapest MS in Computer Science or Finance
- California State University – Chico – ~$8,500/year
- Arkansas State University – ~$7,400/year
- Mississippi Valley State University – ~$6,900/year
If you're after the cheapest ms finance in usa, these universities deserve a look. They're accredited and recognised worldwide.
Cheapest PhD Programs in USA
Doctoral programs don't have to cost a fortune. Some universities offer fully funded or low fee PhD programs for international students.
Cheapest PhD in USA
- University of South Florida – PhD in Education and Business
- University of Wyoming – STEM programs
- North Dakota State University – Engineering and Computer Science
Many of these universities also provide teaching assistantships, which include living and small tuition fee.
Universities in USA Without Application Fee
Application fees range from $50 to $100. That adds up fast. But some schools don't charge a fee at all.
Here are a few universities in USA without application fee:
- Wellesley College
- St. Louis University
- University of Dayton
- Tulane University
- University of the South
These fees can be skipped to afford more schools at the same budget.
Cheapest Universities in USA for Pakistani Students
Thousands of Pakistani students are enrolled in the U.S each year. They opt with low tuition universities in USA that offer international scholarships and are also visa friendly.
Top options include:
- Minot State University
- Alcorn State University
- University of the People
- Delta State University
- University of Texas – Permian Basin
These are universities which are most cheapest universities in USA for Pakistani students and provide good academics with low tuition fee.
Cheapest Private and Catholic Universities in the US
If you're looking beyond public schools, you can still find cheap private universities in USA with faith-based or liberal arts focus.
Options include:
- Benedictine University – ~$10,000/year
- St. Catherine University – Known for women's education and health sciences
- Spring Hill College – One of the cheapest catholic universities in USA
These schools often have smaller class sizes and personal support, but still charge less than $12,000 per year.
How to Apply to Low Fee Universities in USA
Applying to cheap universities in USA for international students doesn't mean cutting corners. In fact, the process can be smoother than high-cost schools.
Follow these steps:
- Shortlist at least 5 schools from the list above
- Prepare your transcripts, test scores (IELTS/TOEFL), and statement of purpose
- Apply early—fall intake deadlines begin in January
- Email admissions to ask about scholarships or tuition waivers
- Make sure your documents meet visa requirements
Many of these USA cheap universities respond within 4–6 weeks of application.
Final Thoughts: Is a Low Fee University in the USA Worth It?
Yes—if you plan well, apply early, and pick the right program. Choosing from the cheapest universities in USA for international students doesn't mean settling for less. You still earn a respected degree, build global connections, and position yourself for work or further study.
The goal is to study smart, not expensive. And this list gives you the head start you need.
FAQ's
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Which is the cheapest university in the USA for international students?
The University of the People is tuition-free, making it the cheapest option for international students.
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Can Pakistani students apply to affordable universities in the USA?
Yes. Universities like Minot State and Alcorn State welcome Pakistani applicants with low tuition fees.
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Are there universities in the USA without application fees?
Yes. Schools like University of Dayton and Tulane University offer no-fee applications for selected programs.
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What is the average tuition at low-fee US universities?
Tuition typically ranges from $4,000 to $8,000 per year at affordable public institutions.
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Are there affordable MBA programs in the USA?
Yes. Options include University of the People (online) and Fayetteville State University.
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Does 7 Sky Consultancy help with admission to these universities?
Yes. 7 Sky Consultancy guides international students through applications, visa prep, and university selection.