Cheap Universities in USA: Courses, Scholarships, and Cost of Living

The United States of America, which is known for its outstanding educational system, often brings up visions of excessive tuition costs and cost of living. However, obtaining a higher education in the USA is now more accessible than it has ever been before due to the wide range of cheap universities in USA that provide top-tier programs and the significant scholarship options that are available. This article explores the list of cheap universities in the United States, examining popular courses, accessible scholarships, and projections of the cost of living among students. In order to support you in making well-informed choices about your academic path, we will also provide a list of the top 10 cheapest universities in USA that are favorable to students’ budgets and highlight some of the academic fields that are now experiencing the highest demand.

Why Study in the USA?

The United States has long been a top choice for international students seeking world-class higher education and unparalleled opportunities. International students who are looking for an education of world-class caliber and chances that are unmatched have long considered the United States to be their top option. Here are some of the reasons why it is one of the top choice:

• Academic Excellence: Home to some of the world’s most of the best universities, the USA boasts a strong reputation for academic excellence and innovation.
• Diverse Programs: From STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics) fields to humanities and arts, American universities offer a vast array of programs catering to diverse interests and career goals.
• Global Career Prospects: A US degree holds significant weight in the global job market, opening doors to exciting career opportunities worldwide.
• Cultural Immersion: Living and studying in the USA provides an incredible opportunity to experience different cultures, broaden perspectives, and build a global network.
• Post-Study Work Options: The USA offers various post-study work options, allowing international students to gain valuable professional experience.
• Innovation and Entrepreneurship: The US is a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship, creating a dynamic environment for aspiring business leaders.
• Personal Growth: Studying abroad in the USA is a transformative experience that encourages independence, adaptability, and personal development.

Top 10 Cheapest Universities In The USA

In the United States, pursuing the dream of higher education can frequently come with a costly financial burden. However, there is no need for prospective students to feel disappointed. It is possible to get reasonable tuition costs at a variety of public and private universities in USA, without sacrificing the quality of the education they provide. In order to provide students with a starting point for achieving a balance between academic quality and affordability, this list highlights the top 10 cheapest universities in USA that are well-known for their cost-effective education.

Universities	Total Undergraduate Cost	Total Graduate Cost
California State University	USD 44,337	USD 40,821
Southeast Missouri State University	USD 31,165	USD 23,190
Arkansas State University	USD 28,152	USD 26,752
The University of Wisconsin	USD 61,106	USD 49,390
Brigham Young University	USD 28,692	USD 37,056
Brooklyn College	USD 620/Credit	USD 915/Credit
The University of Louisiana at Monroe	USD 26,657	USD 26,858
Southwest Minnesota State University	USD 25,712	USD 22,340
Northwest Missouri State University	USD 34,716	USD 22,098 – USD 23,142
Dakota State University	USD 9,942	USD 5,492.25

Also Read: Cost of Studying in USA

Top Courses for Indian Students to Pursue In the USA

The USA offers a diverse range of academic programs, making it a preferred study destination for Indian students. Here are some of the most popular and prospective courses:

STEM Fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)

• Computer Science and Engineering: This field has witnessed exponential growth, offering lucrative job prospects.
• Data Science and Analytics: With the increasing importance of data, this field is in high demand.
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: These cutting-edge technologies are shaping the future.
• Information Technology: IT professionals are essential for every organization.
• Engineering (various branches): Civil, mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering continue to be popular choices.

Business and Management

• MBA: A classic choice for aspiring business leaders.
• Finance and Accounting: Offers strong career opportunities in the financial sector.
• Marketing and Advertising: For those interested in the world of branding and consumer behavior.
• Business Analytics: The intersection of business and data analysis.

Healthcare

• Medicine (MD/DO): A challenging but rewarding career path.
• Nursing: A high-demand field with various specializations.
• Pharmacy: Offers job security and good earning potential.
• Biomedical Engineering: The convergence of biology and engineering.

Other Popular Courses

• Psychology: Understanding the human mind and behavior.
• Law: For those aspiring to be legal professionals.
• Design: Graphic design, fashion design, and interior design are popular options.

Cheap Universities In USA For UG Students

A number of public universities across the country offer undergraduate programs at a more affordable cots compared to their private counterparts. While costs still significantly exceed those in many countries, these cheap universities in USA present viable options for budget-conscious students. This list highlights some cheap universities in USA that offer relatively lower tuition fees, providing a starting point for your search. Remember, the overall cost of attending a university includes not just tuition but also living expenses, books, and other miscellaneous fees.

University	State	Average Tuition (USD)
University of Louisiana at Monroe	Louisiana	12,000 – 15,000
Southeast Missouri State University	Missouri	13,000 – 16,000
Dakota State University	South Dakota	14,000 – 17,000
Arkansas State University	Arkansas	13,500 – 16,500
University of North Georgia	Georgia	14,500 – 17,500
Minot State University	North Dakota	12,500 – 15,500
South Texas College	Texas	10,000 – 13,000
California State University, Long Beach	California	15,000 – 18,000
Brooklyn College	New York	16,000 – 19,000
University of Wisconsin-Madison	Wisconsin	15,500 – 18,500

Cheap Universities In the USA For PG Students

The total cost of living in the United States, particularly in metropolitan locations, might have a major influence on your budget, considering the fact that these colleges are regarded to be relatively affordable in comparison to many others.

University	State	Average Tuition (USD)
University of Alabama at Birmingham	Alabama	13,000 – 16,000
University of Texas at Arlington	Texas	14,000 – 17,000
University of Idaho	Idaho	12,500 – 15,500
University of North Dakota	North Dakota	13,000 – 16,000
University of Nebraska-Omaha	Nebraska	14,500 – 17,500
University of Central Florida	Florida	15,000 – 18,000
University of Missouri-Kansas City	Missouri	14,000 – 17,000
University of Colorado Denver	Colorado	16,000 – 19,000
Ohio University	Ohio	15,500 – 18,500
University of New Hampshire	Wisconsin	16,000 – 19,000

Also Read: Study in The USA For Free

Why Are These Universities Affordable

The universities listed are generally more affordable for international students due to several factors.

Public Institutions	State Funding	Many of these universities are public institutions, meaning they receive funding from state governments. This helps keep tuition costs lower compared to private universities.
	Focus on In-State Students	These universities often prioritize in-state students with lower tuition rates, which indirectly benefits out-of-state and international students.
Location	Lower Cost of Living	Many of these universities are located in areas with a lower cost of living compared to major metropolitan cities. This can significantly impact overall expenses for students.
	Smaller Cities	Universities in smaller cities often have lower operational costs, which can be reflected in tuition fees.
Accessibility	State Grants and Scholarships	Some states offer financial aid and scholarships to attract students, including international students.
	Diverse Student Body	Many of these universities aim to create a diverse student population, which includes offering affordable options to international students.
Specific Fields	Regional Strengths	Some universities excel in specific fields or industries, which can attract students and help maintain lower tuition costs.

Also Read: Aspirants Guide for Admission Process to Study in USA

Top 10 Scholarships For Indian Students In The USA

Securing a scholarship can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying in the USA. Here are the top 10 scholarships for Indian students in the USA:

Scholarship Name	Award	Eligibility
Inlaks Scholarships	Fully funded	Outstanding academic record, leadership qualities, social service
Tata Scholarship	Tuition, fees, stipend	Exceptional academic performance, leadership potential, financial need
Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship	Tuition, fees, stipend	Strong academic record, leadership qualities, financial need
Central Sector Scheme of National Overseas Scholarship	Tuition, fees, stipend	Merit, financial need, preference for underprivileged
University of Cincinnati Scholarships	Partial or full tuition waivers	Academic merit, extracurricular activities, financial need
Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholarships	Tuition, fees, living expenses, travel	Leadership, community service, academic excellence
Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships	Tuition, fees, stipend, travel	Advanced degree, leadership, strong project proposal
Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship	Tuition, fees, living expenses	Academic excellence, financial need, community service
Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship	Full tuition, fees, stipend	Exceptional academic record, leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit
Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarships	Tuition, fees, living expenses	Excellent academic record, leadership potential, financial need

Cost of Living in the USA for Indian Students

The cost of living in the USA for Indian students can vary significantly depending on the city, lifestyle, and university chosen. Generally, it’s higher than in India. 

Reason	Description
Housing	On-campus: $9,800 – $11,000/year, Off-campus: ~$3,500/month
Food	$200 – $400/month
Transportation	$50 – $100/month
Books and Supplies	$300 – $500/Semester
Health Insurance	Varies based on coverage
Personal Expenses	Entertainment, clothing, etc.

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So, this was all about the Cheap Universities in USA. Many Indian students dream of pursuing education in USA due to the exposure and career growth it offers. Consider joining a free counseling session with Leverage Edu if you plan to study abroad.