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Cheapest Online Bachelor’s Degree
Earning a degree is one of the most prudent decisions any aspiring professional can make, but it can be challenging to negotiate the tuition when your favorite schools are all out-of-state. However, there are dozens of options available for nonresident students in some of the best regional schools, colleges, and universities in the country! Do not fret the out-of-state tuition, because many of these colleges offer in-state tuition to out-of-state students. These thirty outstanding colleges and universities are listed from most to least expensive. Below you will find a break down of the housing and meal plans, as well as the tuition per credit hour, the semester tuition, and the annual tuition, or the closest approximations according to information found on the schools’ websites.
The researcher/writer’s for Online-Bachelor-Degrees.com utilize strict criteria in the selection of colleges and universities for their lists and rankings. The methodology used in the generation of the Lowest Out-of-State Tuition Colleges and Universities included the following:
- An institution of higher education offering at least undergraduate degrees, if not graduate and doctoral degrees,
- Colleges and universities that offer in-state tuition to out-of-state students,
- Colleges and universities that waive out-of-state tuition,
- Colleges and universities with out-of-state tuition no higher than $15,000 per academic year,
- Affordable housing and meal plans,
- And regional accreditation.
Allen University
About the School
Allen University has a flat-rate cost of attendance for all students and waives out-of-state tuition. The college tuition list shows the direct and indirect costs of enrolling at Allen University as a full-time student. The living and meal plan is $3,440 per semester and $6,880 per academic year. Tuition plus room/board at Allen University is $19,920 for two semesters.
Allen University is a private, Christian school in the Southern United States that maintains a small enrollment every year of around 500-1,000 students. At this least expensive college, the professors put a tremendous amount of effort into each class, and students find the coursework to be reasonable and manageable. Some of the most popular degrees at Allen University are Social Sciences and Biology, as well as Business.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- Approx. $434.67 per credit hour – tuition
- $6,520 per 12-15 credit hours – semester tuition
- $13,040 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Columbia, SC
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Dakota State University
About the School:
Dakota State University ranks among colleges with lowest tuition across numerous states in the Midwest and is also a cheapest out-of-state college for non-residents. DSU provides a cost breakdown for fees, residence, and meal plans. Housing and food are $3,516.65 per semester and $7,033 per academic year, which is lower than average and is the same for all students. The South Dakota Advantage program gives students from surrounding states the opportunity to have in-state tuition for their freshman year.
Dakota State University is a great school for online degree programs and has been recognized for its numerous achievements in distance education. Some of the most popular majors are technology-based at this school, including Information Science, as well as Network, Database, and System Administration. DSU has outstanding dorms, an eclectic student vibe, and a highly supportive and motivated learning atmosphere.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $393.75 per credit hour – tuition
- $5,906.25 per 12-18 credit hours – semester tuition
- $11,812.50 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Madison, SD
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Alice Lloyd College
About the School
Using the Net Price Calculator on the Alice Lloyd College website, applicants to cheap colleges can estimate the tuition for one academic year. The tuition listed below is calculated for an 18-year-old student living on campus who comes from a home with four people, and that earns $60,000-69,000 each year. The breakdown and per credit pricing is based on this estimation. Throughout a four-year degree, this student could potentially receive up to $10,000 in grants, plus other financial aid.
The Alice Lloyd College campus is a gorgeous rural academic learning environment that provides a peaceful living environment for undergraduate students. This out-of-state university is highly ranked among academic and journalistic resources as one of the best value schools in the United States. This is an excellent affordable college for Biology, Kinesiology and Exercise Science, and Sociology majors.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- Approx. $382 per credit hour – tuition and fees
- Approx. $5,730 per 15 credit hours – semester tuition and fees
- $11,460 per academic year – annual tuition and fees
Campus Location: Pippa Passes, KY
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Dickinson State University
About the School
One of the many reasons that make Dickinson State University a cheap out of state college is the accessibility to distance education/online coursework. Students save money by staying home, continuing their professional lives, and paying the lowest out-of-state tuition while earning the same degree online from DSU. Meal plans are three-tiered depending on whether students are living on or off-campus, and range from $1,059-2,119. There are two housing options which cost $1,515 or $1,724 per semester.
Dickinson State University is one fo the best value schools in North Dakota, according to statistical academic resources. It is an excellent choice for future Business leaders and Accountants, where they learn in small classroom environments with easy access to professors. Many students attend Dickinson part-time and it is a great commuter school for those with the availability to do so. It provides rigorous and challenging programs that are highly rewarding to graduates.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $428.82 per credit hour – tuition
- $303.40 per credit hour – online tuition
- $5,522.09 per 13 or more credit hours – semester tuition
- $11,044.18 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Dickinson, ND
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Henderson State University
About the School
One of the cheapest out-of-state tuition universities in the South, Henderson State University provides a breakdown of tuition costs based on full-time students taking 15 credits each semester. The meal plan is $1,663 each semester and $3,326 each year, and the residence plan is $2,227 each semester and $4,454 each year. However, there are options available on the Cost and Fees Sheet for residence halls that are double or single occupancy, as well as block meal plans—navigate to the school’s tuition page by following the link below.
Henderson State University is known as one of the best regional universities in the Southern United States and provides cheap out-of-state tuition to nonresidents of Arkansas. The beautiful college campus is home to a lively student body of around 2,500 undergraduates. Students often major in business, liberal arts degrees, or psychology and maintain a friendly and outgoing learning environment with one another.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- Approx. $353.73 per credit hour – tuition
- $5,306 per 15 credit hours – semester tuition
- $10,612 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Arkadelphia, AR
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Northern State University
About the School
The college tuition list at Northern State University indicates varying price ranges for residents of states surrounding South Dakota. There are over 13 different options for residence halls and living arrangements at NSU, from two to four-person rooms, semi-suites, private rooms, and others, ranging from $3,787.40 – 6,336.50 per year. Students have delicious options in the dining hall, where meal plans are $1,962 per semester and $3,924 per year. Flex dollars are added to student accounts each semester for use at other locations such as Papa John’s.
Located in the small city of Aberdeen and founded in 1901, Northern State University has been educating students for nearly 120 years. It is now considered one of the greatest institutions of higher education in the Midwestern United States and has earned its place among low tuition universities. Some of the most excellent degrees at NSU are the business and elementary education programs. Students love this little hidden gem in South Dakota.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- Approx. $442.13 per credit hour – tuition
- $5,305.50 per 12-15 credit hours – semester tuition
- $10,611 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Aberdeen, SD
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
New Mexica Highlands University
About the School
Colleges with low out-of-state tuition New Mexico are rivaled by New Mexico Highlands University, where students have flat-rate full-time tuition for non-residents. Utilizing the Net Price Calculator on the NMHU website, the researcher writers of Online-Business-Degrees.com were able to establish that the room and board for an entire year is around $7,400. There are numerous grants and institutional scholarship opportunities available through the Financial Aid Department.
New Mexico Highlands University is a great school for students studying Nursing and Medical Social Work. The yearly enrollment at this small school is around 1,300 students. The campus provides a diverse, friendly, and supportive learning environment where students take part in a collaborative educational space. The professors are well-loved by students who have glowing recommendations for NNHU.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $435 per credit hour – part-time tuition
- $5,220 per 12-18 credit hours – full-time tuition
- $10,440 per academic year (including fees) – annual tuition
Campus Location: Las Vegas, NM
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
LeMoyne-Owen College
About the School
LeMoyne-Owen College provides in-state tuition for out-of-state students at full-time and part-time rates. Students taking classes full-time (12-17 credits) pay a flat-rate, which makes the out-of-state tuition even more affordable. Those taking 16 credits, for example, end up paying about $336 rather than $449 per credit hour! The residency plans are quite affordable as well, with double rooms for $1,800 per semester. Students can live alone in a double room, but they will have to pay for the roommate’s share. The meal plan is also inexpensive at $1,250 per semester.
Founded in 1862, LeMoyne-Owen College has been educating students for over 150 years in Memphis, Tennessee. The 15-acre campus is centered in a vibrant city, and the college has been highly ranked in the top regional colleges in the South. Many students major in Business, Education, and Criminal Justice at this out-of-state university.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $449 per credit hour (less than 12 hours) – tuition
- $5,388 per 12-17 credit hours – semester tuition
- $10,776 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Memphis, TN
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Mayville State University
About the School
Mayville State Tuition has a banned tuition rate for all students making it one of the best out-of-state colleges to attend full-time. The online tuition rate is the lowest tuition rate possible, including the nursing program online which is $354 per credit hour. The cost for a room at Mayville State University is $2,310-4,220 per academic year depending on the residence hall, and board is $1,500-$4,500 depending on the contract.
This out-of-state university is located on a gorgeous campus with beautiful academic buildings. It has been highly ranked in the Best Colleges in America, the Best Colleges of the Midwest, and the Top Public Schools. It is an excellent school for degrees in Business, Elementary, Education, and Nursing. One of the points that are often made by students and alumni of Mayville State University is that the professors put considerable effort into each class and individual student’s success. It is a small, yet diverse, school where students feel at home.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $414.43 per credit hour – tuition
- $305 per credit hour – online tuition
- $9,946.42 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Mayville, ND
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Thomas Edison State University
About the School
Thomas Edison State University is a college with low out-of-state tuition, but mainly for students who are attending school full-time. The part-time, per credit hour tuition rate is significantly higher than the banded tuition available to students who are taking ten or more credits per semester. There are varying tuition rates for different programs, such as the RN to BSN/MSN nursing program, which is $550 per credit hour for out-of-state residents. Students taking 18 credit hours are receiving $4,234 in savings every semester at TESU!
Thomas Edison State University is a small school in Trenton, New Jersey, where many students go for their Nursing and Social Science degrees. Many of the programs are specifically designed for adult learners, and there are numerous programs available at a distance. The general atmosphere at this lowest costing university is that of determination and focus on achieving educational and professional goals.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $509 per credit hour – tuition
- $4,928 per 10 credit hours or more – semester tuition
- $9,856 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Trenton, NJ
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
West Texas A&M University
About the School
Universities with lowest out-of-state tuition in the state of Texas are very much rivaled by West Texas A&M University, where non-resident students only pay $30 more per credit hour. WTAMU has ranked in dozens of lists of the best colleges, best online programs, and other such accolades. The Tuition Estimator available on the university website gives a breakdown of the various fees associated with an undergraduate major.
West Texas A&M University is one of the best public schools in the nation and provides one of the cheapest out-of-state tuition rates. This university is an excellent choice for Business, Nursing, and Music majors, and has fantastic programs in Educator Preparation. WTAMU is a diverse and beautiful campus with great sports teams and a friendly, hospitable atmosphere.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $408.46 per credit hour – tuition
- $4,901.50 per 12-15 credits – semester tuition
- $9,803 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Canyon, TX
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Rust College
About the School
There are no out-of-state tuition costs at Rust College. It is recommended as a cheap out-of-state college for students seeking a degree founded in the teachings of Christ. Not including the personal expenses and transportation, the tuition, room, and board total is $14,000 per year. However, room/board is even less expensive for students with no children who live with their parents, in which case it is $1,500 per year, as opposed to $4,300 per year, making the grand annual total for this group (minus personal expenditures) $11,200.
One of the cheapest out-of-state tuition colleges in the Southern United States, Rust College is a small four-year institution with a total undergraduate population of around 850 students. It is considered to be in the top 100 liberal arts schools in the country and is an excellent choice for teachers seeking certification in Kindergarten and Preschool Education, or Broadcast Journalism!
Out-of-State Tuition:
- Approx. $404.17 per credit hour – tuition
- $4,850 per 12-15 credits – semester tuition
- $9,700 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Holly Springs, MS
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Harris-Stowe State University
About the School
At Harris-Stowe State University, students can pay as low as $305 per credit hour if they take 16 in one semester. Housing plans listed in the tuition estimate on the school website are for double occupancy rooms and are a fixed rate of $3,700 per semester and $7,400 per year. However, there are other plans available for single rooms and upper class-man housing. One unique aspect that makes HSSU one of the universities with low out-of-state tuition is that students pay $25 per credit hour for their books.
Harris-Stowe State University is a great small school that has popular majors in Business and Education. The academic environment is nurturing and supportive, and students feel very at home on campus. Class sizes are small, with a ratio of around 18:1, giving students direct access to professors, all of their classmates, and academic resources.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $403 per credit hour – tuition
- $4,836 per 12-16 credit hours – semester tuition
- $9,672 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: St. Louis, MN
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Bellevue University
About the School
Bellevue University is a particularly affordable university for students who want to live off-campus. The affordable out-of-state tuition provides a lot of room for students to allocate for housing in the surrounding area. For those who choose to live on Bellevue campus, housing is around $780 per month. Bellevue University is a prominent provider of online degree programs and has been recognized innumerable times for its excellence in distance education. While the price for online education is higher than on-campus learning, there are significant savings to be found in learning from a distance as an out-of-state student.
Bellevue University is a private institution of higher education that values diversity and accessibility. According to academic resources, Bellevue is in the top twenty best value colleges in the state of Nebraska. Two popular majors at this out-of-state university are Business and Information Systems.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $299 per credit hour – tuition
- $425 per credit hour – online tuition
- $4,485 per 15 credit hours – semester tuition
- Approx. $8,970 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Bellevue, NE
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Central State University
About the School
Non-resident students at Central State University pay slightly higher tuition than residents of Ohio, but the total annual cost is still much lower than most other out-of-state colleges! Housing costs are very affordable, as well, at around $2,800 for the entire year for a double occupancy room. The meal plan is also a standard rate of $2,440 per academic year. Students can find a breakdown of the out-of-state tuition costs on the school website below.
Central State University is a historically African-American college that supplies excellent degrees in Psychology, Business, and Criminal Justice. Students take their learning very seriously on the CSU campus, where they will find many peers who are working hard to become leaders of their field. It is one of the top schools in the midwest according to U.S. News and World Report and maintains a diverse learning environment on a large piece of property in the Dayton area.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- Approx. $361.34 per credit hour – tuition
- $4,336 per 12-18 credit hours – semester tuition
- $8,762 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Wilberforce, OH
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Wayne State College
About the School
Wayne State College has out-of-state tuition that is twice as expensive as the in-state rate, but is still an incredibly low price! Students can also take online classes available from this out-of-state college, which is even lower. Housing costs vary between residence halls, which are $3,990-4,580 per year for standard rooms, $5,760 for single rooms, and $5,070-5,820 for premium rooms. There are very few other lowest costing universities on this ranking that provide such copious housing opportunities! There are also various meal plans available from $2,050-4,142.
Wayne State College has ranked in the top thirty public schools in the nation as well as one of the topmost affordable schools in the state of Nebraska. WSC offers excellent undergraduate and graduate programs in liberal arts, education, and business. Nearly every student and alumnus agrees that the professors make a considerable effort in each of their classes and that the coursework, while rigorous, is easy to manage.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $363 per credit hour – tuition
- $296.50 per credit hour – online tuition
- $4,356 per 12 credit hours – semester tuition
- $8,712 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Wayne, NE
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Granite State College
About the School
This school’s affordable out-of-state tuition is negligibly higher than the resident cost. Transportation and personal expenses are built into the total cost of attendance, which is $15,933. Room and board are affordably priced at $3,060 for Fall, Winter, and Spring Terms (36 weeks). The out-of-state tuition is for both certificate and undergraduate degrees.
Granite State College is well-known for its online degrees and has been included in several lists of the best distance education degree programs in the country. There is a strong focus on the education of adult learners at GSC, and students of all ages populate the diverse academic environment. Both on-campus and online programs are leadership-focused and flexible.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- Approx. $243 per credit hour – tuition
- Approx. $2,919 per 12 credits – term tuition
- $8,760 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Concord, NH
Accreditation:
- New England Commission of Higher Education
Mississippi Valley State University
About the School
At Mississippi Valley State University, non-resident students take advantage of one of the cheapest out-of-state tuition rates. The housing and meal plans, as well as the tuition and fees, are the same for in-state and out-of-state students at MVSU. The housing plans provide standard and premium boarding options both on and off-campus, starting at $3,373 per year (off campus) and $7,437 per year (on campus) including fees.
Mississippi Valley State University has been included in numerous rankings, including the U.S. News and World Report list of the Best Colleges – Regional Universities of the South, as well as Top Performers on Social Mobility. A historically black university, MVSU is committed to diversity, equality, and the academic success of all students.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $280.25 per credit hour (including fees) – tuition
- Approx. $4,203.75 per 15 credit hours – semester tuition
- Approx. $8,407.50 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Itta Bena, MS
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Bemidji State University
About the School
This college offers in-state tuition to out-of-state students, and also provides banded tuition with a flat-rate after 12 credit hours. Bemidji State University supplies a Net Price Calculator on the Admissions website where students and parents can estimate the total cost of a full year or an entire degree. Room and board are one fixed plan that costs $4,330 per academic year, which is much more affordable than most colleges with low tuition. The Financial Aid Department makes it very easy to locate and apply for grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study opportunities.
Bemidji State University is well-known for its degrees in Business, Nursing, and Education. It is a small school that can be challenging to get into, but it is well-loved by students, alumni, and faculty alike. It is highly ranked among the colleges with the best professors in the nation, and all students agree that instructors care a lot about their classes. It is an outdoorsy school with a friendly, open atmosphere where students take their studies seriously.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $327.41 per credit hour – tuition
- $3,929 per 12-18 credit hours – semester tuition
- $7,858 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Bemidji, MN
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Oklahoma Panhandle State University
About the School
Oklahoma Panhandle State University provides a Tuition and Cost Estimator on the school website for students to calculate an accurate estimate of the lowest tuition possible. Using the Estimator, one can see that 15 credits of Fall Semester courses for an out-of-state student who is living in a private dorm and consuming 20 meals per week, ends up being about $8,313.50, which is the same for in-state students. That puts OPSU among colleges that offer in-state tuition for out-of-state students! Throughout the said example semester, students will pay $3,894.50 for a private dorm room. However, there are other housing arrangements available, as well, such as Married Student Housing.
A small university of around 1,200 students, Oklahoma Panhandle State University rests on a 120 acre campus in rural Goodwell, OK. It is considered one of the best regional colleges of the west. The three most popular majors include Animal Science and Husbandry, Liberal Arts and Humanities, and Nursing.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $259.64 per credit hour (including fees) – tuition
- $3,894.60 per 15 credit hours – semester tuition
- Approx. $7,789.20 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Goodwell, OK
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Carolina Christian College
About the School
Applicants searching for colleges that offer in-state tuition to out-of-state students should look no further than Carolina Christian College. The college tuition list indicates all of the various fees that are included in the undergraduate program tuition. There is no housing at Carolina Christian College due to its small size, so students live in the surrounding community. There is limited institutional scholarship funds available and the faculty and staff of CCC work tirelessly to provide anything for their students.
Carolina Christian College is a historically African-American school for ministry and theological studies. Today, CCC educates students of all races in preparation for ministry or positions in the clergy within their communities. This college is a special purpose institution that enrolls a very small population of students at around 32. Carolina Christian College is an excellent choice for students who are looking for an affordable approach to their theological education.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- Approx. $253.34 per credit hour – tuition
- $3,800 per approx. 15 credit hours – semester tuition
- $7,600 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Winston-Salem, NC
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Minot State University
About the School
Minot State University is an affordable out-of-state college that provides all students the same in-state tuition rate! The website offers a breakdown of the annual tuition and fees, plus the housing and meal plans. Minot is one of the cheapest out-of-state universities, and the tuition structure is based on a 12-credit enrollment per semester, which results in a total cost of $14,514 per academic year, which is highly affordable. There are numerous awards, scholarships, and financial aid opportunities, as well, particularly for students with excellent grade point averages.
According to respected journalistic resources, Minot State University is considered one of the top public schools in the nation. Students can expect small class sizes that allow them to have a prominent voice during class discussions and projects. It also gives students more opportunities to build strong relationships with professors and peers.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $316.31 per credit hour – tuition
- $3,796 per 12-15 credit hours – semester tuition
- $7,592 per year (including fees) – annual tuition
Campus Location: Minot, ND
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Chardon State College
About the School
Out-of-state undergraduate students at Chadron State College pay almost the exact same amount as individuals living in-state. The only disparity in price for students living outside of Nebraska is an extra dollar per credit hour—only $1 difference! Chadron State also offers online classes and degree programs for $44 more than the out-of-state tuition for students who would rather stay in their communities. Full semester rates for housing plans are $2,756 for a single room and $1,853 for a double. There are four meal plan selections for students living on and off campus that range from $765 – $2,025 for an entire semester. You can view a list of college tuition costs by following the link below.
Across the state of Nebraska, Chadron State College is known for its affordability as one of the lowest costing universities. Two popular areas of study at CSC include Business and Elementary Education, and student reviews profess the effort of the instructors, and the ease of getting into the classes they want. Student life is quiet, and while there is Greek life on campus it is quite calm.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $252.86 per credit hour (including fees) – tuition
- $296.50 per credit hour – online tuition
- $3,792.90 per 15 credit hours – semester tuition
- Approx. $7,585.80 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Chadron, NE
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Delta State University
About the School
This cheap out-of-state college provides tuition that has $0 in non-resident fees. All undergraduate students pay the same costs, which totals $7,500 for two semesters, making it one of the most affordable colleges available on this ranking. There are residence halls at Delta State University that vary between $4,335 – $4,896 per year, and an unlimited meal plan that costs $3,378 per year. Altogether, students can expect to pay about $15,000 – 15,800 for housing and tuition. The Financial Aid Department provides a Net Price Calculator so that individuals can estimate their own costs, as well as numerous scholarship, grant, and award options.
Founded in 1924, Delta State University has been educating students for nearly 100 years in the state of Mississippi and stands on a beautiful campus that stretches across 332 acres. DSU is an excellent university for teacher education and maintains its roots as a highly respected teacher’s college. Some of the exciting areas of instruction include Commercial Aviation and the Geospatial Information Technology degree.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- Approx. $250 per credit hour – tuition
- $3,750 per 15 credit hours – semester tuition
- $7,500 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Cleveland, MS
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Southwest Minnesota State University
About the School
Southwest Minnesota State University is at the top of the list of cheap colleges in the state by offering in-state tuition for out-of-state students. This school offers students a banded tuition rate, which means that they may take anywhere between 12-18 credits per semester and only pay for 12 credits overall. Room and board for a full year at SWMSU is $8,036 per academic year and $4,018 per semester (based on a double occupancy room with a roommate). There are generous scholarships available for new and existing students, many of which can be found on the Financial Aid page.
A somewhat larger school compared to many on this ranking, Southwest Minnesota State University has an average annual enrollment of around 6,500 students. It is a great school for future teachers in Elementary and Early Childhood Education environments and maintains an excellent graduation rate of 45%. The unique university campus provides a fun and friendly academic community.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $312 per credit hour – tuition
- $3,748 per 12-18 credit hours – semester tuition
- $7,496 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Marshall, MN
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Alcorn State University
About the School
On the Alcorn State University website, readers can see that this college offers in-state tuition to out-of-state students. The college tuition list breakdown clearly delineates the price differences between residence halls from lowest ($4,100) to highest ($5,300) per year. There are four residence halls from which to choose and four varying price points. ASU’s Financial Aid Department is an excellent resource for families struggling to pay tuition and provides institutional scholarships, grants, loans, as well as part-time employment.
This university in Mississippi is a land-grant institution in the rural town of Lorman located on a beautiful campus sprawling 1,756 acres. Ranked in the best 100 regional universities in the South, Alcorn is well-loved by its students. Lorman is a quiet town with a peaceful atmosphere, but the student life on campus is still lively and spirited!
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $304 per credit hour up to 12 hours – tuition
- $3,648 per 12 credit hours or more – semester tuition
- $7,296 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Lorman, MS
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
University of Texas of The Permian Basin
About the School
Looking for the cheapest state colleges in America? The University of Texas of the Permian Basin provides all of the resources and benefits of a state university with affordable out-of-state tuition rates. Non-residents of Texas pay only 18% more than residents, making this one of the top out-of-state colleges on this ranking. All of the same policies and fees apply to each student without discrimination of residency.
The University of Texas of the Permian Basin is a well-known institution of higher education and is recognized as such. It is a particularly prudent choice for out-of-state colleges because of the fantastic online degree opportunities it has available. UTPB is recognized every year as best public schools in the nation that also provides its outstanding degrees with affordable out-of-state tuition.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $202.87 per credit hour – tuition
- $3,229 per 15 credit hours – semester tuition
- $6,458 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Odessa, TX
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Peru State College
About the School
Peru State College offers in-state tuition to out-of-state students and is found among several rankings of the most affordable colleges with out-of-state tuition. The college tuition list provides a cost breakdown for each semester, which can be found below. Housing and meal plans are offered at a flat rate each year, and the 2019-2020 price point is $2,346 per semester for housing and $2,248 per semester for the meal plan. The estimated annual cost including all fees, housing and meal plans, books and supplies, and even personal funds and transportation is drastically more affordable compared to most state colleges at $20,936.
Peru State College is a small four-year institution with an enrollment of around 1,100 students. Some of the most popular degrees include Business, Psychology, and Criminal Justice. Class sizes are about 21 students on average, giving students excellent opportunities to build relationships with one another and the professor. According to student reviews, the class work is manageable and the professors care a lot about their students.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- Approx. $184 per credit hour – tuition
- $2,760 per 15 credit hours – semester tuition
- $5,520 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Peru, NE
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Panola College
About the School
Panola College is among the cheapest out-of-state colleges because non-residents pay only 32% more than residents of Texas, who already pay a very low tuition rate. There are several housing options at Panola College in either dorms or student apartments, some of which are new. The meal plan consists of 19 weekly meals and is built into the housing cost with an additional $200 deposit. This is the cheapest out-of-state tuition meal plan on this ranking as it is subsidized by the Texas State Government.
Panola College is located in the beautiful, small town of Carthage, Texas, with a population of around 6,000 people. The total enrollment at Panola is approximately 1,200 students, which makes for a comfortable academic atmosphere. The dining and recreation/athletic facilities are highly rated among students, as are the professors.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $349 per credit hour (including fees) – tuition
- $2730 per 15 credit hours – semester tuition
- $5,460 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Carthage, TX
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Mid-South Christian College
About the School
Mid-South Christian College is one of the least expensive colleges for all students—residents and non-residents alike. It is one of the best out-of-state colleges not only because of the low-priced housing cost of only $1,700 per semester, but also the incredibly affordable tuition. The college website provides applicants a Net Price Calculator that estimates their total cost per year. At Mid-South Christian College, 50% of all programs are financially benefited by donations, which, combined with the already low tuition, makes this school “the most affordable in the state of Tennessee.”
This is one of the best out-of-state colleges providing coursework with a Christ-centered message. There are particularly exciting bachelor’s degrees available in such areas as Christian Leadership and Christian Ministry, for students who want to dedicate their professional lives to the church. Located in the bustling metropolis of Memphis, Tennessee, this school provides access to an unending amount of academic, extracurricular, and religious resources to students.
Out-of-State Tuition:
- $200 per credit hour – tuition
- $1,600 per 12-15 credit hours – semester tuition
- $3,200 per academic year – annual tuition
Campus Location: Memphis, TN
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Affordable Online College
College is expensive, but it doesn’t have to be that way. A lot of prospective students, especially those who travel out-of-state to earn their degree, worry about how they will afford it. Instead, we will look at some of the cheapest out-of-state tuition schools, as well as the opportunity to earn your degree online at tuition-free institutions, like at University of the People.
Out-of-State Versus In-State?
Before we get into the list, let’s define what out-of-state means. For students in America, you are considered an in-state student in the state in which you have resided in for a period of time. However, students who have a working visa in another state (outside their residence) may be able to apply for schools in said state as an in-state student.
The biggest difference between the two designations is the associated tuition fees. Out-of-state students generally have to pay double that of in-state students. Keep in mind, this only holds true for public institutions. Private schools cost the same for everyone, regardless of where they are from.
Low Cost Tuitions: Out-of-State
Although the cost of most out-of-state tuition is astronomical, these universities have relatively low and “cheap” out-of-state tuition fees.
1. Chadron State – $5,760
Chadron State College is a public school located in Chadron, Nebraska. The school offers both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in a variety of majors, including 52 undergraduate options and 8 graduate programs. With a low student-faculty ratio at 19-1, the classes are also small, averaging only 14 students per class. Chadron State is situated in a rural and agricultural community and was founded in 1911.
2. Delta State University – $6,562
With over 3,000 students enrolled, Delta State University is a public institution located in Cleveland, Mississippi that offers over 40 majors and north of 100 organizations to get involved in. Beginning as a teacher’s education college, the University has expanded to offer core programs as well as unique areas of study like Commercial Aviation. The school has no out-of-state fees and prides itself on being affordable.
3. Minot State University – $7,064
Located in Minot, North Dakota, Minot State University has over 100 majors to choose from. Additionally, the school charges all students the same amount of money, whether they are considered to be out-of-state or in-state students. With over 3,000 students, MSU boasts almost 2,000 of whom are full-time and pursuing their undergraduate degree. The average high school GPA of those who are accepted is 3.36 and the most popular type of degree pursued is a Bachelor of Science.
4. Southwest Minnesota State University – $8,640
In Marshall, Minnesota sits Southwest Minnesota State University that was founded in 1963. The school has nearly 7,000 enrolled students coming from 75 different countries. 99% of recent graduates are employed. In Minnesota, the school ranked 6 in terms of the best return on investment.
5. Eastern New Mexico University – $10,633
With both online and on-campus options, Eastern New Mexico University has over 90 programs and more than 1,200 courses to choose from. It is considered to be in the top 10% of most affordable universities located in the Southwest region and 97% of its students feel satisfied with their overall experience. The school has a wide array of opportunities, from studying online to accepting transfer units, providing support for those in the military and veterans and more.
Why is College so Expensive
In the United States, the price of college continues to rise. This is because there’s high demand paired with a low supply of faculty and teachers. Compounded by a lack of funding, the burden often falls on students to bear the expenses, and as such, many are left struggling to pay for school or taking out loans that are overwhelming to pay back.
Although the quality of education is seemingly strong, the drawbacks of high costs keep many from attending school. In an effort to combat this situation, as well as democratize education around the world, University of the People is reshaping what it means to earn your degree.
Paying for School
If you do choose to attend a traditional institution, here are a few ways you can help to pay for school:
1. Work study
Work at a job on campus and receive a portion of your salary tax-free that counts towards your tuition.
2. Part-time job
Balancing work and school isn’t an easy task, but it’s more doable with a part-time job rather than a full-time job.
3. Scholarships
Regardless if you attend an online school or on-campus school, you can apply for scholarships that are basically free money to earn your education.
4. Loans
You can take out federal or state loans to help pay for school, but keep in mind, you will have to pay them back (and often with high interest rates).
University of the People: A Revolutionary Approach
University of the People is an entirely online and accredited institution that grants degrees from associate’s to bachelor’s to master’s degrees. In four subject areas (Health Science, Education, Computer Science and Business Administration), you could attend school tuition-free. The benefits of online education are many, and perhaps one of the biggest differences compared to a traditional campus is the flexibility online schools offer. You are in control of where and when you learn and study.
The UoPeople model is a low-cost alternative to the high price of most traditional institutions. Additionally, with students in attendance from over 200 countries and territories, as well as the high value it places on peer-to-peer learning, you can network and meet people from around the world (from the comfort of your own home).
The Bottom Line
Depending on your preferences, moving out-of-state to go to school may be what you desire. If so, there are affordable universities that don’t charge an arm and a leg for visiting students.
However, you may now realize that online universities provide a better and more cost-effective alternative to moving away for school. Even if you do want to go to a different state to learn, you can enroll online and still gain the experience of moving away to earn your degree!
Cheapest Online Colleges (Out-of-State)
Prices can soar if you’re looking to study at an out-of-state college, even online. Discover the best cheapest online colleges and see how you can save money!
Which Online Colleges are the Most Affordable (Out-Of-State)
Is the program you’re looking to pursue best in another state? Don’t let the out-of-state tuition costs prevent you from reaching your goals! Browse through the list of cheapest online colleges in the United States with our easy-to-use search tool.
Recommended Schools
- Southern New Hampshire University
- One of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation and a network of support.
- Dedicated to giving you the support you need to pursue your degree.
- Choose from over 200 affordable programs.
- Private. Nonprofit. Accredited
- Ashford University
- Choose from more than 70 online Bachelor’s degree programs that allow you to complete your coursework on your schedule.
- Online degree programs and their courses cover a full spectrum of modern knowledge from accounting to sustainable enterprise management.
- Earn college credits for your previous schooling, corporate education, and military training.
- Purdue University Global
- Fully personalized, flexible online learning tailored to the needs of working adults
- A public, nonprofit institution that’s part of the prestigious Purdue University system
- Highly accessible, world-class education, with 180 online programs at the associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels
- Comprehensive career counseling services before and after graduation
| Rank | School Name | City | State | Net Cost | School Level | Retention Rate | Out-of-State Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | United States Merchant Marine Academy | Kings Point | NY | $4,392 | 4 year | 95.33% | $0 |
| 2 | Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute | Albuquerque | NM | $9,222 | 2 year | 35.77% | $0 |
| 3 | San Bernardino Valley College | San Bernardino | CA | $7,655 | 2 year | 65.92% | $0 |
| 4 | College of Charleston | Charleston | SC | $17,609 | 4 year | 79% | $70 |
| 5 | Citadel Military College of South Carolina | Charleston | SC | $17,450 | 4 year | 85.74% | $410 |
| 6 | Panola College | Carthage | TX | $9,263 | 2 year | 47.89% | $600 |
| 7 | Dine College | Tsaile | AZ | $8,595 | 4 year | 80% | $660 |
| 8 | Blue Ridge Community and Technical College | Martinsburg | WV | $7,579 | 2 year | 54.24% | $720 |
| 9 | Central Louisiana Technical Community College | Alexandria | LA | $6,959 | 2 year | 37.79% | $1,461 |
| 10 | New Mexico Junior College | Hobbs | NM | $7,228 | 2 year | 62.25% | $1,488 |
| 11 | Dodge City Community College | Dodge City | KS | $8,695 | 2 year | 49.14% | $1,500 |
| 12 | Wharton County Junior College | Wharton | TX | $3,969 | 2 year | 63.77% | $1,536 |
| 13 | South Plains College | Levelland | TX | $4,266 | 2 year | 46.48% | $1,684 |
| 14 | Clarendon College | Clarendon | TX | $6,275 | 2 year | 45.6% | $1,752 |
| 15 | Turtle Mountain Community College | Belcourt | ND | N/A | 4 year | 77.78% | $1,776 |
| 16 | Broward College | Fort Lauderdale | FL | $9,417 | 4 year | N/A | $1,810 |
| 17 | Allen County Community College | Iola | KS | $7,033 | 2 year | 50.96% | $1,824 |
| 18 | Oglala Lakota College | Kyle | SD | $3,141 | 4 year | 50% | $1,920 |
| 19 | Pratt Community College | Pratt | KS | $6,037 | 2 year | 55.15% | $2,016 |
| 20 | Neosho County Community College | Chanute | KS | $8,605 | 2 year | 54.01% | $2,040 |
| 21 | Frank Phillips College | Borger | TX | $7,137 | 2 year | 44.2% | $2,100 |
| 22 | Mesalands Community College | Tucumcari | NM | $6,753 | 2 year | 69.09% | $2,136 |
| 23 | Clovis Community College | Clovis | NM | $10,024 | 2 year | 59.02% | $2,136 |
| 24 | Blackfeet Community College | Browning | MT | N/A | 2 year | 46.15% | $2,160 |
| 25 | Luna Community College | Las Vegas | NM | $6,430 | 2 year | 48.28% | $2,184 |
Going the Affordable Route: Cheapest Online Colleges
Why is out-of-state tuition sometimes expensive? Tuition is cheapest for state residents because state schools receive state taxpayers’ money. For “outsiders,” a school adds anywhere from $0 to many thousands per year. Rest assured, you can still experience online education out-of-state for an affordable price. Sometimes, neighboring states make tuition agreements, giving each other’s residents in-state prices or their lowest out of state tuition rates.
Online Colleges: Tips for Getting the Lowest Tuition
- Find State-To-State Deals
- Cross the border for low tuition! State schools often let residents of neighboring states pay in-state tuition. In other cases they guarantee their lowest out-of-state cost to people in the region. Here are three top examples.
- Midwestern Colleges
- The Midwest Student Exchange Program automatically gives tuition discounts to residents attending eligible state schools in Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, and Wisconsin, to name a few.
- New England Colleges
- More than 80 state colleges and universities forming the New England Board of Higher Education give their lowest out-of-state tuitions to residents of Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont.
- Western Colleges
- The Western Undergraduate Exchange includes schools in Alaska and Hawaii along with dozens in Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. Students must complete extra paperwork in order to be considered. Not all applicants are offered the lowest out-of-state tuition.
- Many states make independent agreements too. For example, schools in South Dakota give nearly in-state rates to Minnesotans and also have a generous “Border Bonus” for residents of Wyoming.
- Become a State Resident
- If you live near school for most of the year, why keep paying out-of-state tuition? Many students forget that they can establish state residency after 12 months. Some ways to help establish residency are registering to vote, getting a state driver’s license and setting up a local bank account.
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