Find your perfect college degree
Out-of-state students often face tuition costs two to three times higher than in-state rates, making many colleges unaffordable. Without researching options for the most affordable out-of-state tuition, students may miss out on colleges that fit both their academic needs and budget.
This article will guide you in choosing an institution with the cheapest out-of-state tuition.
Score Big Savings: Top 24 Colleges With Cheapest Out-Of-state Tuition
Mississippi Valley State University, West Texas A&M University, Diné College-Tsaile Arizona, Mississippi University for Women, and Oklahoma Panhandle State University offer some of the most affordable out-of-state tuition rates nationwide. These colleges provide quality education options for non-resident students looking to maximize value and minimize college costs.
There are approximately 4,627 exceptional education institutions in the United States, including Ivy League universities, large public colleges, and small private colleges. This makes it challenging to choose an institution that best suits your financial and educational needs. We’ve carefully picked the best schools that offer low out-of-state tuition.
| Institution | Out-of-State Tuition | In-State Tuition | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mississippi Valley State University | $11,723 | $7,812 | 79% |
| West Texas A&M University | $24,978 | $9,204 | 97% |
| Diné College-Tsaile, Arizona | $11,000 | $11,100 | 100% |
| Mississippi University for Women | $8,392 | $8,392 | 99% |
| Oklahoma Panhandle State University | $8,636 | $8,636 | 90% |
| Southern University and A&M College | $17,272 | $9,922 | 50% |
| Minot State University | $8,633 | $8,633 | 72% |
| Peru State College | $5,760 | $5,760 | 49% |
| Southwest Minnesota State University | $10,362 | $10,362 | 92% |
| Alcorn State University | $8,785 | $8,785 | 30% |
| Carolina Christian College | $13,100 | $7,600 | 100% |
| Chadron State College | $15,147 | $8,294 | 72% |
| Thomas Edison State University | $9,556 | $7,372 | 100% |
| Central State University | $10,058 | $8,058 | 89% |
| New Mexico Highlands | $11,988 | $7,140 | 100% |
| Delta State University | $8,605 | $8,605 | 99% |
| Dickinson State University | $9,118 | $9,118 | 72% |
| Granite State College | $8,880 | $7,536 | 97% |
| Bemidji State University | $10,996 | $4,497 | 78% |
| Mayville State University | $9,608 | $7,978 | 71% |
| Black Hills State University | $13,013 | $9,911 | 97% |
| Youngstown State University | $11,900 | $11,900 | 81% |
| Harris-Stowe State University | $5,808 | $2,904 | 51% |
| University of Southern Mississippi | $11,998 | $9,998 | 99% |
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Mississippi Valley State University
Mississippi Valley State University, a public historically black university, offers a flat rate per credit hour fee of $312 for undergraduate and $510 for graduate degree programs. MVSU offers one of the cheapest out-of-state tuition for doctoral degrees, which is less expensive than the national average. The university is renowned for its accomplishments in scientific agriculture and engineering.
West Texas A&M University
West Texas A&M University offers one of the most affordable out-of-state tuition fees nationwide. This is one of the top-rated public schools that provides high-quality education at a fraction of the price of comparable schools outside of Texas. With over 80 majors and small class sizes, West Texas A&M delivers personalized attention and career-oriented programs.
Diné College-Tsaile, Arizona
Located in the Navajo Nation, Diné College-Tsaile has an incredibly low out-of-state tuition of just $11,000 per year. Diné College emphasizes Navajo cultural traditions and language in its curriculum. With strong vocational academic programs, the institution’s commitment is for college students to gain skills for in-demand jobs.
Mississippi University for Women
For about $8,392 a year, Mississippi University for Women provides full access to its excellent programs with low-cost out-of-state tuition. Like Southern University, The W is one of the top schools that offers academic excellence and a close-knit community emphasizing service and leadership.
Oklahoma Panhandle State University
Oklahoma Panhandle State University is a public university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Out-of-state tuition fees at OPSU are estimated to cost $8,636. Oklahoma Panhandle State University has five academic schools — Agricultural, Science, Mathematics and Nursing, Liberal Arts, Business and Technology, and Education.
Southern University and A&M College
Louisiana’s Southern University is one of the cheapest out-of-state universities, with students paying around $9,922 annually. With over 100 degrees available, students can excel in engineering, nursing, and teaching. Southern University is an excellent option for non-resident students looking for cultural traditions and a reasonably priced college education.
Minot State University
Minot State University has a flat rate tuition fee for students living in all 50 states. The average tuition fee is 8,633 per year. Minot State University is popularly known for its majors in Nursing, Social Work, Business, Criminal Justice, Finance, and Communications Sciences.
Peru State College
Peru State College is a small public college founded by the Methodist Episcopal Church. Peru provides financial aid opportunities, such as the Competitive Academic Scholarships and Invest in Success Awards. Quite like Minot State University, the most popular majors offered by the school include Business, Criminal Justice, and Criminal Justice and Safety Studies.
Southwest Minnesota State University
Southwest Minnesota State University offers various online degree programs for working adult students and students not ready for on-campus commitments. Students from ND, SD, IA, WI, MSEP States, and Manitoba may be eligible for reciprocity rates. Popular majors at Southwest Minnesota State University include Kinesiology and Exercise Science, Early Childhood Education, Nursing, Business, and Psychology.
Alcorn State University
Alcorn State University, a public land-grant institution, is another historically black college that allows out-of-state students to pay tuition and fees as it is in-state. It offers various financial aid opportunities that help students reduce out-of-pocket costs. Alcorn State University has five schools: Agriculture and Applied Sciences, Arts and Sciences, Business, Education and Psychology, and Nursing.
Carolina Christian College
Carolina Christian College is the oldest African-American Bible college in the state. Programs run around $7,600 annually. The Bachelor of Arts in Ministry program is open to all undergraduate students, who may select one of five theological minors.
Chadron State College
At Chadron State College, out-of-state students pay slightly higher than in-state graduate students; however, residents pay $8,294. Accounting, writing, public relations, health sciences, business, journalism, and information technology are just a few of the many majors offered at CSC.
Thomas Edison State University
Thomas Edison State University, accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, allows out-of-state students to pay discounted or in-state tuition and fees as long as they enroll in 9 or more credits per term. It’s one of the first institutions in the nation to be specifically designed for adults.
Central State University
With accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, Central State University offers over 30 bachelor’s degrees and graduate programs. Non-residents pay an annual average of $10,058, below the average out-of-state tuition. The University’s diverse academic offerings empower students in the areas of education, arts and sciences, and business.
New Mexico Highlands University
New Mexico Highlands University is one of the most progressive small-sized universities in the United States, serving local and international communities. Out-of-state undergraduate students pay $325 per credit hour, while graduate non-residents pay $525. The most popular majors at NMHU include Medical Social Work, Business, and Nursing.
Delta State University
Delta State University is a public institution offering an extensive undergraduate and graduate curriculum. Out-of-state students pay the same tuition as in-state students, $8,605 for undergraduate and graduate degrees. Popular majors at DSU include Nursing, Physical Education Teaching and Coaching, Elementary Education, and Business.
Dickinson State University
Dickinson State University is among the best public colleges focusing on intellectual, social, economic, and cultural development. Out-of-state tuition for undergraduate students costs $249 per credit hour, while graduate students pay a flat rate of $337. The most popular majors at Dickinson State University include Business, Teacher Education, Human Resources Management, Agriculture, and Nursing.
Granite State College
Granite State College offers degree programs designed for full-time working adult students. Because of the school’s efforts to cater to working students’ educational and financial needs, GSU offers low and affordable per-credit-hour costs. Their method for credit transfer makes the most of your previously acquired credits so you can finish your degree faster.
Bemidji State University
Bemidji State University offers 70+ undergraduate programs and eight graduate degrees on a beautiful lakeside campus. The estimated cost per semester to attend Bemidji State University full-time is $10,996 for all students, regardless of their residency. The university offers several opportunities for off-campus activities through The Outdoor Program Center.
Mayville State University
Mayville State University is among the friendliest and most affordable universities in the United States. On-campus students not part of MHEC pay an average tuition fee of $9,608, much lower than the national average. However, those who enroll in MSU’s online degree programs pay flat tuition rates.
Black Hills State University
Black Hills State University, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, fosters a sense of belonging among its students and offers them a wealth of learning opportunities. It has one of the nation’s most affordable out-of-state tuition costs, with non-residents paying an average of $10,718 yearly.
Youngstown State University
Youngstown State University has the lowest out-of-state tuition rates and provides financial aid to its students. Undergraduate students spend an estimated annual tuition and fee of $11,900, while graduate students pay $10,750. Residents and non-
residents can also apply for scholarships from the Youngstown State University Foundation.
Harris-Stowe State University
Harris-Stowe State University, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, is one of the most affordable colleges with low out-of-state tuition rates. The school offers 23 undergraduate degrees, with 20 majors within 12 broad fields of study.
University of Southern Mississippi
The University of Southern Mississippi attracts students from outside the state by offering cheap out-of-state tuition. USM is ranked in the top 3% of elementary teacher preparation schools.
Things to Consider in Choosing Colleges for Out-Of-State Students
Cost should not be the only factor when considering colleges as an out-of-state student. While regional colleges and state tuition colleges can offer significant savings, you may be sacrificing other priorities that impact your academic success and holistic experience.
Whether you choose private or public colleges, think about:
- The size of the school and if you prefer large or small environments
- The location and distance from home
- Program offerings and opportunities related to your interests
- The social scene, like Greek life or party reputation
- Academic quality based on admissions rates and reviews
- The area and campus setting in a city versus small town
Once you determine your priorities beyond just cost, you can compare schools more holistically. While it’s okay to compromise on some preferences, know what matters most for your ideal college experience. Being an informed consumer will lead to the best fit academically and financially.
Ways to Reduce Out-Of-State Tuition Cost
The cost of in-state versus out-of-state tuition differs significantly. Here are some helpful ways to help you avoid or reduce high out-of-state tuition costs.
- Become a resident of the state: You can either move to an apartment and make it your permanent address or have your family move to the state to get close to private or regional colleges.
- Seek waivers and financial aid: Several college education institutions offer scholarships and tuition breaks to attract talented students outside the state. To avoid higher tuition fees, other schools provide waivers or scholarships for students who reside in a neighboring state or whose parent(s) attended the college.
- Become a military member: Even if you haven’t resided in the state where the school is situated, you can be eligible for in-state tuition rates at a public institution if covered by the GI Bill or the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program.
- Enroll in online programs: Thanks to technological advancements, plenty of schools now offer online or distance education programs. Students in most online academic programs pay a flat per-credit-hour rate, meaning you’ll pay the same amount as their in-state students.
- Have high GPAs: High academic achievement can be another way to earn in-state tuition at an out-of-state school. High-GPA students and those who have won academic scholarships may be allowed to pay in-state tuition rates at some state universities.
- Take out student loans: A student loan is money taken out to pay for college, either from the government or a private lender. Federal student loans have annual debt restrictions, yet certain advantages make them the best starting step for borrowers. Student loans can fill in any remaining gaps in your tuition costs if you cannot pay the balance in cash.
State Schools in Academic Common Markets
Various states and educational institutions have teamed up to offer discounted tuition to students living in the same geographic region. If your state is among those in this category, you might pay less to attend the institution.
There are four academic common markets. However, not every school will participate. You should check if your dream school is one of them.
Midwestern Higher Education Compact
Students can receive discounted tuition rates from more than 100 colleges in the member states, saving them typically between $500 and $5,000 per year. Also, students get a 10% tuition discount at private colleges that are involved.
States involved:
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Nebraska
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- South Dakota
- Wisconsin
New England Board of Higher Education
This program, often called Tuition Break, offers students the chance to enroll in more than 700 undergraduate and master’s programs at a discounted rate. Eighty-two public colleges and universities throughout six states participate in the program. The typical student saves $7,200 each year.
States involved:
- Connecticut
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- New Hampshire
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
Southern Regional Education Board
The Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) has offered college students the chance to pay less for out-of-state education for over 35 years. Across the SREB member states, more than 1,900 undergraduate and graduate degrees are available in different regional colleges.
States involved:
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Mississippi
- North Carolina
- Oklahoma
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Virginia
- West Virginia
Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education
College students who live in the member states are entitled to discounted tuition. The majority of participating institutions extend the reduced tuition rate for two-year or four-year degrees.
States involved:
- Alaska
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Montana
- Nevada
- New Mexico
- North Dakota
- Oregon
- South Dakota
- Utah
- Washington
- Wyoming
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of studying out of state instead of being an in-state student?
Among the advantages of studying out-of-state is that you get to experience new locations and cultures while gaining independence. You’ll also get to widen your perspective with more options on academic programs.
What are the drawbacks of out-of-state tuition?
The disadvantage of out-of-state tuition is the possibility of a higher tuition cost. You may not be able to go home often because of higher travel costs.
Why is out-of-state tuition expensive?
Out-of-state tuition can be expensive because of state income taxes and budget cuts at state schools. Meanwhile, some schools don’t offer reciprocity with other states.
Summary Points
By focusing on colleges with lower out-of-state tuition rates, you can reduce the general cost of attendance and avoid being priced out of your top choices. Enrolling in a college with cheaper out-of-state tuition yet diverse academic programs provides significant savings that make earning a degree more feasible.
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