20 Cheapest Universities in USA for International Students

20 Cheapest Universities in USA for International Students

The US is home to some of the best universities in the world. However, these high-caliber schools can come with an equally high price tag, especially for international students. So, if you’re looking for the cheapest universities in USA for international students, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll break down the cheapest universities for international students—where they are, how much they cost, and why you might want to add them to your college list. 

For international students, college finances can be particularly challenging. In fact, the international college admissions process is difficult to navigate in many ways. By attending the cheapest universities for international students, you can set yourself up for less debt after graduation. 

In many countries, education is free. However, that’s certainly not the case in the United States. In fact, universities in the United States are some of the most expensive in the world. Still, the cheapest universities for international students will provide quality education at a more affordable price. 

In this article on the cheapest universities in USA for international students, we’ll cover: 

• International student definition: what is an international student? 
• Cost of college and US university fees for international students
• Top 20 cheapest universities in USA for international students
• Universities in USA for international students with scholarships
• How to prepare to study in the USA
• Advice on completing international college applications

The international college admissions process can be overwhelming. There are many great colleges in USA for international students, each with their own requirements. However, you’ll be pleased to know that there isn’t just one list of universities in USA for international students. In fact, most top US schools regularly accept international students, while the international college admissions process varies by school. So, if you’re willing to do the research, you’ll find the best colleges in USA for international students—and, more importantly, for you.

But, before we start discussing colleges in USA for international students, let’s focus on the basics: what is an international student? 

What is an international student?

If you’re wondering about the cheapest universities in USA for international students, then it’s likely that you’re familiar with the international student definition. However, to make sure we’ve covered our bases, let’s answer the question: what is an international student? 

Within the American college admissions process, an international student is any student applying to US colleges from a high school (or equivalent) outside the United States. Note that some colleges don’t include Canada in their international student definition—that is, Canadian students follow the same application process as domestic students. So, you should always double-check the international student definition for each college on your list. 

We’ve answered the question “what is an international student?” Next, let’s talk more about international college applications. 

International college admissions requirements

In general, the international college admissions process is similar to the domestic admissions process. However, you’ll find a few additional requirements for international college students. 

These might include:

• Financial documents
• Visas or authorizations to study in the US
• English proficiency tests (e.g. TOEFL)
• Additional fees

Once again, in some cases, students from Canada are not subject to regulations or additional requirements for international college students. So, it’s always important to check for any international student requirements and who needs to complete them at each school. 

Overall, international college students will need to complete a few extra requirements when completing any international college applications. So, to put your best foot forward in the international college admissions process, make sure you plan ahead.

Reasons to study in the US as an international student

The US is home to a wide variety of elite colleges. Additionally, by attending the best universities in USA for international students, you can build a network in the US—and, potentially, move to the US after graduation. 

At the cheapest universities in USA for international students, you’ll find:

• Strong alumni networks
• Diverse coursework
• Bountiful research opportunities
• Academic flexibility  

So, it’s not just prestige that has students around the world searching for universities in USA for international students. The flexibility, research opportunities, and diversity that a US college provides also make these colleges attractive. Overall, for international college students, US universities have a lot to offer. 

We’ve answered the question “what is an international student?”, but if you want more information, check out this U.S. News article on the top three reasons that international college students choose to study in the U.S.A.

Exploring universities in USA for International Students

Now that you’re clear on just what is an international student, let’s explore some more facts about universities in USA for international students. 

First of all, if you fit the international student definition, this won’t limit your education options. In fact, international college students can apply to a vast variety of colleges and universities in the US. And, in general, the international college admissions process isn’t that different from the college process for domestic students. 

However, finances can make a huge impact on the college search, especially for international college applications. For international college students, college financial planning can become a bit more complicated. 

International students are not eligible for federal aid. This means that international students cannot receive financial aid from the U.S. government. So, even international students with financial need will often not receive as much aid directly from colleges, except in special circumstances.

Certain universities will offer merit scholarships specifically for international students. However, keep in mind that these scholarships are quite limited and highly competitive. 

Finding affordable options

If you are an international student concerned about the cost of college, it would be wise to focus on the cheapest universities in USA for international students. Additionally, you might look for merit scholarships from universities and other organizations in order to lessen the cost of college. 

Remember that there are options when it comes to financial planning for international college students. You’ll just have to do some digging to find what’s best for you. But, looking at the cheapest universities in USA for international students is a great place to start.  

Finding the cheapest universities in USA for international students may be at the top of your list right now. However, you’ll also want to consider schools that are good fits in other ways, not just financially. Building a community is a big part of the experience of studying at a US university. 

You may also want to consider schools with the most international students when building your college list. These schools are likely to have additional support for international college students. 

US University Fees for International Students

As we’ve mentioned, financial planning is a vital part of the process for international college students. And, since many universities won’t offer international applicants federal financial aid packages, you should pay attention to the details of all college tuition costs. So, let’s learn more about US university fees for international students. 

Different universities in USA for international students will approach international student tuition in different ways. Some colleges apply different fees for international students, while others might calculate tuition differently for international students than their domestic counterparts. And, in some cases, international college tuition costs will not differ from domestic tuition at all. 

So, while certain schools may not necessarily have specific US university fees for international students, note that these policies vary by school. Additionally, you should still consider costs associated with student visas as part of your college financial planning. 

How much does it cost to study in USA for international students?

Searching for the best universities in USA for international students can be an exciting process. However, for both international and domestic students, US universities don’t come cheap. Many other countries automatically provide their residents with federal funding for education. However, this is not the case in the US, where financial aid is limited to need-based grants and student loans. Additionally, as discussed, international college students cannot receive federal aid when completing their international college applications.

Note that some colleges make a strong effort to provide need-based aid to international students. This amount is calculated based on the information students submit in the CSS profile. However, as an international student, your financial aid package may be much more limited than that of a domestic student.

Overall, there may not be any specific US university fees for international students at your top schools. However, without need-based federal financial aid, attending school in the US will generally be more expensive on average for international students.

College costs in the US are high

Additionally, college in the US is more expensive than in many other countries. For instance, the Oxford University tuition is 9,250 GBP per year for UK students. The Oxford University tuition isn’t cheap, but for one of the best universities in the world, Oxford is relatively affordable compared to its US counterparts. 

Still, remember that tuition isn’t the only cost associated with college. Returning to our Oxford example, the university estimates students will spend around 12,000+ GBP per year on other expenses (including accommodation). This amounts to at least 21,250 GBP per year, or around $25,570 USD per year, which is still much cheaper than most US universities.

To put college tuition costs into perspective, let’s check out some of the top US colleges and their yearly tuition costs before aid. 

Although these tuition amounts may seem inaccessible, Northeastern University actually had the second most international students after NYU in 2021-22. 

The search for affordable colleges

However, if those tuition costs seem high to you, you’re not alone. Many students worldwide are searching for the cheapest universities in USA for international students in order to avoid paying these high costs. In fact, later in this article, we’ll list the best universities in USA for international students looking for the most affordable options. You may also want to check out U.S. News’ list: 15 Most Affordable Schools for International Students.

Additionally, you may be surprised by some of the schools found on Forbes’ Top 50 Schools for International Students list. While some of these schools might seem to have expensive college tuition, they also offer scholarships and aid to international students. 

Understanding college tuition inflation

Colleges in USA for international students may seem extremely expensive, especially for students living in countries that provide free or affordable education to residents. We’re going to explore the causes of such high college tuition costs. So, let’s discuss college tuition inflation. 

First, let’s define inflation. Inflation is the increase in prices that causes a decrease in the value of money. When we talk about college tuition inflation, we’re referring to the increase in college tuition costs each year. That’s right! Those hefty tuition costs that we mentioned will likely increase slightly each year you’re in college. In fact, from 2010-2020, there’s been an average yearly increase of 4.63% in college tuition costs. 

For more information on college tuition inflation and the most expensive college tuition, check out our article on the most expensive universities in the US below.

The high cost of college in the US has led to the nation’s student debt crisis. Unfortunately, not all university degrees allow students to quickly access high-paying careers. That means that the vast majority of students graduate with a lot of debt.

As an international student who is unable to receive federal aid, you may be even more subject to the influence of tuition inflation. That’s why it’s important to know the cheapest universities for international students as well as the universities in USA for international students with scholarship. 

Are there free universities in the USA?

With such high university costs, you may be wondering not only about the cheapest universities for international students but also if there are free universities in the USA. 

Certainly, free education is even more alluring for the fiscally conscious than even the cheapest universities in USA for international students. Well, there are a very small handful of free universities in the US. However, free higher education in the US is quite uncommon. 

Three Free Universities in the US

Curtis Institute of Music

Are you a musician looking to hone your craft and build your career? Well, then the Curtis Institute of Music could be for you. This school offers all accepted students full merit scholarships, meaning your tuition costs will be nonexistent. As an international student, you’ll just have to cover living expenses. However, note that Curtis is incredibly selective. 

College of the Ozarks

This Christian liberal arts college is located in Missouri. While the school was founded with the intention of serving students from the Ozarks region, they do have limited spots available for international students. However, the College of the Ozarks admissions process is selective. The College of the Ozarks tuition is free, but the school requires students to work a certain number of hours. So, if you find the College of the Ozarks tuition (free!) alluring, then plan to impress the College of the Ozarks admissions officers with a strong application. 

Berea College

This Kentucky college aims to provide high-quality education to students with limited financial resources. The Berea College tuition is free for every student—this includes international students. However, while the first-year Berea College tuition is free for international students, they are then required to contribute 1,000 in the years following. The school provides summer work opportunities in order to allow students to earn money. Logically, it makes sense that the Berea College admissions rate is selective. The Berea College admissions acceptance rate is 33%. 

Although not free, there are other affordable options when searching for the cheapest universities for international students. For example, the CUNY tuition (City University of New York) is $620 per credit for New York State non-residents. This makes it among some of the cheapest universities for international students. Another affordable option is Brigham Young University, a university affiliated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The BYU tuition per semester for those not affiliated with the church is $6,304.

So, there are options when it comes to the cheapest universities for international students, whether free or more affordable. However, don’t limit yourself to the cheapest universities for international students based solely on the tuition cost. Some of the cheapest universities for international students may actually seem quite expensive at first glance. However, with specific scholarship opportunities, these universities can become much more affordable. 

Universities in USA for International Students with Scholarship

Logically, if you’re looking for the cheapest universities for international students, then you’re probably also interested in universities in USA for international students with scholarship. There are many scholarships available for international college students. 

Universities that Offer International Student Scholarships

Duke and UNC

Duke University is one of the most prestigious universities in the nation. Additionally, UNC Chapel Hill is considered a Public Ivy. So, at both these schools, students will great educations.

Of course, neither school is “cheap.” However, we’d consider them among the cheapest universities in USA for international students if you can secure the Robertson Scholarship. This scholarship is offered to domestic and foreign students. However, the selection process is highly competitive.

NYU

NYU is located in the heart of one of the most international cities: New York City.

Maybe NYU didn’t cross your mind when looking for the cheapest universities for international students. However, international first-year applicants to NYU are eligible for scholarships and financial aid based on the information they include in the CSS profile. Additionally, NYU Wagner’s graduate programs in public policy offer merit scholarships to students that can lessen tuition costs. 

American University

Located in the heart of DC, American University is another college that encourages its students to take full advantage of its location. If you look at American University’s tuition, there’s no way you’d consider it when looking for the cheapest universities in USA for international students. However, like the other schools highlighted, international students can receive funding from American University.

Merit scholarships for international students are partial scholarships, meaning they do not cover all tuition costs. All applicants are automatically considered, with the exception of the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship, which does require its own application. It should be noted that these scholarships are limited and quite competitive. 

Brandeis University

This private liberal arts school located in Massachusetts provides students with an education that focuses on critical analysis, creativity, and self-expression.

First-year international students are eligible for the Wien International Scholarship. This scholarship was founded in 1958. The aim of the scholarship is to make a Brandeis education more accessible to international applicants. However, there are a limited number of scholarships available, so the selection process is quite competitive. 

Dartmouth College

You may not have expected to consider an Ivy League university when exploring the cheapest universities in USA for international students. However, Dartmouth offers its international applicants many options.

Dartmouth is located in Hanover, New Hampshire. International students interested in applying will be happy to know that Dartmouth offers them scholarships and loans to make tuition costs more accessible. In fact, it’s expanded its need-blind admissions policy to include international citizens. 

University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota aims to provide a high-quality education at an affordable cost. Located in Minneapolis, students will have access to the city’s vast opportunities and cultural events.

International students are automatically considered for the Global Excellence Scholarship when they apply. Awards range from $10,000 to $25,000 per year. Additionally, the University of Minnesota offers limited need-based aid for international students. 

Wesleyan University

A prestigious and well-known university in the US, Wesleyan receives many applicants each year. International students will need to be competitive to make the cut.

While probably not one of the cheapest universities in USA for international students, there are still opportunities for scholarships at Wesleyan if accepted. The Wesleyan Freeman Asian Scholars Program offers full scholarships to applicants from Asia. Additionally, international applicants can look to the Office of International Student Affairs for help with financial planning. 

While this isn’t a complete list of universities in USA for international students with scholarship or financial aid opportunities, it is a good place to start. So, look at these schools as you begin your college and scholarship research. Later in this article, we’ll list some of the cheapest universities in USA for international students according to our research. 

What is the cheapest university in USA?

Next, let’s take a closer look at some of the cheapest universities for international students. The cheapest universities in USA for international students have the least expensive tuition, room, and board. 

According to U.S. News, Oklahoma Panhandle State University (OPSU) is the cheapest university in the USA. With a price tag of only $16,342, OPSU allows international college students to secure an affordable college degree. As a result, OPSU may be one of the best colleges in USA for international students.

It is important to note that OPSU is a four-year university. Generally, four-year institutions are far more expensive than community colleges and other educational options. To save on costs, some US students attend community colleges for their first two years before transferring to a four-year institution. However, these options may be less attractive to international students. 

What is the cheapest university in USA for international students?

As discussed, Oklahoma Panhandle State University is the cheapest university for international students according to U.S. News. However, you can also find more affordable options throughout the country, including elite colleges in other regions. 

By now, you can answer, “What is an international student?” and you know more about college tuition inflation. In this article, we’ve covered several overall best colleges in USA for international students like Berea College and Wesleyan College. Moreover, we discussed universities in USA for international students with scholarship, such as Curtis School of Music, Dartmouth College,  and the University of Minnesota. Furthermore, we reviewed major scholarship programs for international students, like the Robertson Scholarship and awards from Brandeis University.

Even so, most merit-based scholarships and other aid for international students are partial, not full. In fact, some international college students will not benefit from any scholarships to cover the cost of college. Therefore, in the next section, we will review 20 of the cheapest universities in USA for international students. 

20 Cheapest Universities for International Students

Using data from U.S. News and other sources, we have compiled a list of 20 of the cheapest universities in USA for international students. Please note that college tuition costs change yearly, especially given college tuition inflation. As we mentioned, college tuition inflation refers to the steady increase in college tuition costs over time. 

While this is not a definitive list of the cheapest universities in USA for international students, it’s a good start. All costs are yearly, including room and board, unless specified otherwise. 

20 Cheapest Universities for International Students

1. Oklahoma Panhandle State University

The first school on our list is Oklahoma Panhandle State University (OPSU), a public university located in Goodwell, Oklahoma. As mentioned earlier, with a price tag of  $16,342, OPSU is considered #1 on the list of cheapest universities in USA for international students. Despite the affordable price, OPSU has a lot to offer international students. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including agriculture, business, education, and nursing. OPSU is known for its strong emphasis on hands-on learning.

2. Mississippi University for Women

Mississippi University for Women (MUW) is a public university in Columbus, Mississippi. On our list of cheapest universities in USA for international students, MUW comes in at #2 with a price tag of $16,366. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, focusing on healthcare and the liberal arts. MUW provides merit scholarships for international college students.

3. Dickinson State University

Costing $17,040 annually, Dickinson State University (DSU) ranks #3 on our list of the cheapest universities in USA for international students. DSU is a public university in Dickinson, North Dakota. DSU is recognized for its strong commitment to experiential learning, with ample opportunities for internships, research, and community engagement.

4. Minot State University

Minot State University (MSU) is a public university in Minot, North Dakota. At #4 on our list of cheapest universities in USA for international students, MSU costs $17,421 on average. The university has a vibrant campus life, with numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic teams MSU offers students innumerable chances to engage in extracurricular activities and build lifelong connections.

5. City University of New York

Number 5 on our list of cheapest universities in USA for international students is the City University of New York (CUNY) CUNY is a public university system in New York City with 25 campuses across the city’s five boroughs. The overall CUNY acceptance rate is 60%. Unlike many schools in New York, CUNY tuition is extremely affordable. Without room and board, CUNY tuition is $18,600. Considering CUNY tuition and the CUNY acceptance rate, its universities could be great options for international college students. 

6. University of North Carolina at Pembroke

The University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNC Pembroke) ranks #6 among cheapest universities in USA for international students. UNC Pembroke is a public university located in Pembroke, North Carolina. UNC Pembroke is recognized for its affordability, with competitive tuition rates and financial aid packages. Its annual cost of $19,499 makes the university one of the most affordable colleges in USA for international students.

7. Northern State University

Northern State University (NSU) is a public university in Aberdeen, South Dakota. With a total cost of $19,555, NSU is #7 on our list of cheapest universities in USA for international students. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in diverse fields, including arts and sciences, business, education, fine arts, and nursing. 

8. Delta State University

Coming in at #8 on our list of cheapest universities in the USA, is Delta State University (DSU), a public university in Cleveland, Mississippi. DSU has a strong athletic program with several winning teams, including football, basketball, and baseball. DSU is extremely affordable: Delta State University tuition is only $8,360. Adding other expenses like room and board to Delta State University tuition, the final cost is $21,422. Clearly, it’s one of the cheapest universities for international students. 

9. Mississippi Valley State University

The next affordable university is also based in Mississippi. Ninth on our list of cheapest universities in USA for international students is Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU). MVSU is a public university in Itta Bena, Mississippi, and costs $21,746. MVSU is one of America’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and is strongly committed to promoting social justice and diversity.

10. Western Carolina University

At #10 on our list of 20 cheapest universities in USA for international students is Western Carolina University (WCU). WCU is a public university located in Cullowhee, North Carolina, and costs $22,106. WCU is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, providing students with access to a beautiful natural environment for outdoor recreation and research. The university strongly focuses on sustainability and offers coursework and research opportunities in environmental science, sustainability studies, and renewable energy.

11. Texas A&M University Kingsville

Next in our 20 cheapest universities for international students is Texas A&M University Kingsville (TAMUK). TAMUK is a public university and Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) in Kingsville, Texas. The university’s location in South Texas is a diverse and multicultural region known for its unique history, culture, and natural resources. Tamuk has a total cost of $23,684.

12. Bemidji State University

If you’re looking for a beautiful natural environment for outdoor recreation, research, and cultural immersion, you may consider Bemidji State University. Bemidji State University (BSU) is a public university in Bemidji, Minnesota. For the price of $25,316, students can attend BSU. BSU is strongly committed to serving indigenous communities, offering coursework and research opportunities in indigenous studies, including the Ojibwe language and culture. At #12 on our list, Bemidji State University is one of the cheapest universities for international students.

13. Nicholls State University

At #13 on the list of cheapest universities for international students, Nicholls State University is a public university located in Thibodaux, Louisiana. This university offers strong nursing, culinary arts, coastal management, and marine biology programs. Additionally, it offers research programs focusing on the Louisiana coast and the Gulf of Mexico region. Nicholls State University tuition is only $9,039. Including other expenses on top of Nicholls State University tuition, it costs $23,377, making it one of the cheapest universities in USA for international students. 

14. Talladega College

Next on our list of cheapest universities in USA for international students is a school in the South. Talladega College is a private HBCU in Talladega, Alabama. With a price tag of $20,701, Talladega College is one of the cheapest universities for international students. It’s also one of the oldest private historically black colleges in the United States, established in 1867. With its commitment to social justice, civil rights, and equal opportunity, Talladega offers strong programs in social sciences, education, and arts.

15. West Liberty University

The 15th cheapest university on our list of cheapest universities in the USA for international students is West Liberty University. This public university in West Liberty, West Virginia has a price tag of $24,450. The university focuses on entrepreneurship and innovation, offering numerous programs and resources to help students develop and launch business ventures. 

16. University of Maine at Presque Isle

The University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI) is a public liberal arts university located in Presque Isle, Maine. UMPI is a small, close-knit university that provides students with a supportive and inclusive learning environment. UMPI’s commitment to sustainability, entrepreneurship, and academic excellence makes it attractive for students seeking a unique and rewarding educational experience. At #16 among the cheapest universities in USA for international students, students can attend UMPI for $24,220 per year.

17. University of South Dakota

At #17 on our list of cheapest universities in USA for international students is the University of South Dakota (USD). USD is a public research university located in Vermillion, South Dakota that costs students $24,768 per year on average. USD has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, with numerous programs aimed at promoting equity and social justice. The university is also known for its programs in business, law, education, health sciences, and the arts. In other words, students have a wide range of academic options to choose from. 

18. South Dakota State University

Also in South Dakota is South Dakota State University (SDSU), another one of our cheapest universities in USA for international students. SDSU is located in Brookings, South Dakota. The university is known for its strong focus on research and innovation, with numerous research centers and institutes. SDSU also has the Van D. and Barbara B. Fishback Honors College, which offers a challenging and rewarding academic experience. International college students can attend SDSU for an average price of $24,948.

19. St. Petersburg College

If you prefer warmer weather, then you may consider the 19th cheapest university in the USA, St. Petersburg College. St. Petersburg College is located in Clearwater, Florida, and costs students $25,956. With a cost of less than $26,000, St. Petersburg college is one of the cheapest universities for international students. The college is known for its strong focus on career and workforce training. It has numerous certificate and degree programs that prepare students for high-demand careers in a wide range of industries. 

20. Brigham Young University

Rounding out our list of the 20 cheapest universities in USA for international students is Brigham Young University (BYU) in Provo, Utah. BYU tuition is extremely affordable, which makes it a great university for international students. Specifically, BYU tuition plus costs like room and board total $27,484. BYU is owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. One of the unique aspects of BYU is its strong focus on the integration of faith and learning. BYU tuition provides students with a university that offers a broad liberal arts education.

5 Steps you can take today to plan to study in USA

Enrollment into one of the best universities in USA for international students is absolutely possible, but it requires careful planning. International college students choosing to study in the USA should take various steps to ensure successful enrollment. To that end, here are five important steps to consider.

Steps to Plan to Study in USA

1. Create a Financial Plan

Firstly, financial planning is essential when studying in the USA. It can help you avoid stress and ensure that you can afford the total cost of college. 

You must understand the costs associated with studying in the USA, including:

• The cost of college tuition
• Accommodation
• Living expenses, including food and transportation
• Healthcare
• Specific US university fees for international students 

Clearly, college tuition costs aren’t the only figure to research. Often, US university fees for international students like visa processing fees are not included in the listed cost of college. So, you should do all your research to make sure you understand the full costs you’ll pay as an international student. 

After researching, you can begin to plan your finances, considering your income, savings, and potential sources of financial aid. Whether you are seeking loans or other scholarship opportunities, finding the best sources of income to fund college is essential.

Indeed, the cost of college in the USA is often relatively high, and not just because of US university fees for international students. Moreover, college tuition inflation drives up the average tuition nationwide year after year. Therefore, it’s important to consider whether a US college will work for your finances.

2. Consider Your College Goals

After researching college tuition costs and US university fees for international students, it’s also important to consider your college goals. 

When considering your college goals, it is important to consider what you want to achieve from your college experience. Are you seeking top-ranked universities, or are you prioritizing finding a program that fits your interests and career goals? These are important questions to ask yourself, as they can help you determine which colleges and universities best fit you. 

Generally, top-ranked US colleges have the most expensive college tuition due to their reputation, resources, and facilities. However, it’s also important to remember that a college’s ranking doesn’t necessarily equate to a better education or experience. Your dream school should be one that best suits your needs and aspirations, not just the highest-ranking institution.

Therefore, unless your financial plan allows you to afford the most expensive college tuition, it’s crucial to look beyond rankings. Namely, consider factors such as location, program offerings, faculty, and student life when making college decisions. Compare colleges to narrow down your prospects and figure out which schools are best for you.

3. Build a US College List

After considering finances and goals, international college students should create a US college list. Research universities in USA for international students while considering your academic goals, personal preferences, and financial situation. You can create a list of universities in USA for international students that will help you achieve your goals. When creating your list of universities in USA for international students, include a select number of safety, match, and reach schools. These categories can help you diversify your college list and increase your chances of acceptance.

4. Check Eligibility Requirements

As an international student, it is important to thoroughly check your international college applications. Some colleges require additional tests, exams, or certifications beyond the standard admissions requirements. Particularly, some colleges may require English language proficiency exams, such as the TOEFL or IELTS, to demonstrate English ability. Generally, immigration forms and financial certification are also required. For instance, the College of Ozarks international college student application is very detailed.

This step may cause you to review your financial plan. Depending on the required paperwork, US university fees for international students may vary among schools. Also, exam fees and transportation for those exams usually must be paid out of pocket. Like US university fees for international students, you should factor exam costs into your overall financial plan.

5. Ask For Help

The final step that international students should take when seeking admission to US schools is to ask for help. Other people can guide you in understanding the international student admissions process and completing international college applications. Based on individual circumstances, even the answer to, “What is an international student? Do I qualify?” may differ.

Luckily, CollegeAdvisor.com is an excellent resource for international students seeking guidance through international college admissions. We can help give you the tools and support to create strong international college applications and choose the best colleges in the USA for international students that fit international college students’ goals and needs.

Whether you need help finding the top colleges in the USA for international students, crafting standout essays for your international college applications, or preparing for interviews, we’re here to support you. Our support makes international students feel confident and prepared to tackle the international college admissions process.

More resources on the Cost of College from CollegeAdvisor

CollegeAdvisor.com offers a wealth of resources to help international students navigate the international college admissions process. CollegeAdvisor.com also hosts webinars on scholarships and the cost of college, featuring college admissions consultants and former admissions officers. They can provide valuable insights and guidance on navigating the financial landscape of higher education in the US. 

Our website provides detailed guides on finding and applying for these awards and expert advice on crafting a powerful application. In addition to merit scholarships, CollegeAdvisor.com also offers information on the most expensive college tuition, which can help you make informed application decisions.

From analyzing the cost of college to compiling merit scholarships and college tuition data, CollegeAdvisor.com offers tons of resources. With our articles and webinars, students from the US and abroad can make informed decisions about their college plans.

Cheapest Universities in USA for International Students – Takeaways

We covered a lot of ground in this article about the international college admissions process and tuition. First, we covered the international student definition—we asked the question, “What is an international student?” It is extremely important to answer  “What is an international student?” to ensure you understand your status and complete all requirements. 

Then, we provided details on 20 of the cheapest universities for international students across the country. We used information from credible sources like U.S. News, Statista, and Forbes to highlight the best universities in USA for international students. Moreover, we covered additional costs international students may need to pay before enrolling, including US university fees for international students. Finally, we shared more CollegeAdvisor resources you can use during your college search.

If you need support, CollegeAdvisor can help

At CollegeAdvisor.com, we understand that college planning as an international student can be daunting, and we’re here to help. Our team of experienced Admissions Experts can guide you through the international student college admissions process. 

Now, you know more about US university fees for international students and the best universities in USA for international students. Did you know we also provide one-on-one support with college applications and essays? Our team can provide valuable insights and expert advice to help you achieve your college goals. With our help, you can confidently navigate the financial landscape of US colleges and universities.

This article was written by Sarah Kaminski and senior advisor Ashley Hollins. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.