With approximately 4,627 higher education institutions in the United States — ranging from large public and Ivy League universities to small private colleges — picking an institution that best suits your financial and educational needs can be difficult. It will be more complicated if the major you’re looking for is only offered in another state. Not only will you be away from your hometown, but you’re likely required to pay higher tuition than in-state students.
Many students are eager to study out of state for several reasons. We’ve carefully picked the best schools that offer low out-of-state tuition. Additionally, we will list each school’s best majors to help you narrow your search.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Studying Out of State
Attending college is one of the biggest decisions you’ll get to make. If in-state colleges and universities do not provide the specialized program you’re seeking, you can study out-of-state. However, you should always weigh the benefits and drawbacks before adding an out-of-state public institution to your list.
Benefits
Experience New Locations and Cultures and Gain Independence
When studying out of your state, you’ll likely encounter more people from various backgrounds, allowing you to experience new things. You’ll likely face new challenges as you meet new people from different backgrounds, allowing you to grow and develop independence. Although you still have the option to return home for breaks and holidays, you will be able to experience life on your own.
More Academic Programs
You can widen your perspective on what is available regarding education by thinking about universities outside of your own state. You can apply to the best universities for your desired major, research specialized majors, or pick a school that offers things other schools in your state don’t.
There are numerous colleges and universities out there, and if you’re not finding a school that suits your interests and needs in-state, out-of-state may be your best alternative.
Drawbacks
Higher Tuition Cost
Out-of-state students are often required to pay twice or triple what in-state students pay. A public four-year university’s average in-state student tuition and fees for 2021–2022 were $10,740. In contrast, an out-of-state student’s average tuition and fees at a public university were $27,560, which is nearly three times the in-state sticker price.
Higher Travel Cost
Consider this while planning your budget if you’ll be living far from home because it’s evident that flying to a state on the other side of the country would cost more than riding an hour-long train home.
You won’t be able to go home often.
If you’re attending an out-of-state institution, it’s doubtful that you’ll be able to see your family frequently, given the high cost of airfare. This is not the best choice if you often feel homesick.
Why is Out-of-State Tuition Expensive
State Income Taxes
Did You Know? Public colleges and universities charge higher out-of-state tuition fees than private schools. This is because most funds used in state universities or college systems are from state income taxes. Since out-of-state students have yet to contribute to the state income tax, they will have higher tuition costs.
In-state students thus benefit from tuition far less than that paid by their out-of-state counterparts in appreciation of their families’ financial support to the state over the years.
Not All Schools Offer Reciprocity
To control the cost of out-of-state tuition, some states maintain what is popularly known as tuition reciprocity agreements with other states. Usually, students from nearby states can receive tuition discounts below the out-of-state tuition rate or, in certain situations, the same rate as in-state. Sadly, not all states have reciprocal tuition agreements with other states, and even in those that do, the reduced tuition still much outweighs in-state rates.
Budget Cuts At State Schools
Budget cuts that make it difficult for public colleges and universities to give students the resources expected of a higher education institution are a widespread problem. State universities often rely on out-of-state students and their ability to pay higher tuition fees to help balance the books to compensate for budgetary gaps.
How To Reduce Out-of-State Tuition Cost
The cost of in-state vs. out-of-state tuition differs significantly. Here are some helpful ways to help you avoid or reduce high out-of-state tuition costs.
Choose a state school in “academic common markets.”
Various states and educational institutions have teamed to provide students living in the same geographic region with discounted tuition. You might pay less to attend the institution if your state is among those in this category.
There are four academic common markets. However, not every school will participate. You should check if your dream school is one of them. The four common markets in academia are:
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, is run by the NEBHE-New England Board of Higher Education and offers students the chance to enroll in more than 700 undergraduate and graduate programs at a discounted rate. Participating in the program are 82 public colleges and universities throughout six states. 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 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 degree programs are available.
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
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
Become a resident of the state.
Becoming a state resident is one of the most effective ways of reducing out-of-state tuition costs. Most states require you to spend a full year in the state with your parents or guardians if you are a dependent student before you are regarded as a resident.
One of the biggest questions asked here is if living in a residence hall for a year counts. The answer is that it does not.
You can either move to an apartment and make it your permanent address or have your family move to the state. Whichever option you select, be sure to have documentation supporting your residency. This involves filing taxes, registering to vote, and obtaining a driver’s license in the state.
This may seem drastic, but in many circumstances, it’s the right and most cost-effective way. In addition to tuition, it could significantly reduce the cost of attendance because, in some cities and towns, apartments are less expensive than dorm rooms.
Seek waivers and financial aid.
Several higher education institutions offer scholarships and tuition breaks to attract talented students outside the state. Other schools provide waivers or scholarships for students who reside in a neighboring state or whose parent(s) attended the college.
Additionally, there are waivers for undocumented students in some states.
Under the education code in California, non-resident students who attended a California high school and graduated with a diploma or equivalent are eligible for exemption from out-of-state tuition rates.
Like California, Florida offers out-of-state students who graduated from a Florida high school in-state tuition rates. There are, however, a few more restrictions in the Sunshine State: undocumented students must enroll in college within two years after graduating from a Florida high school and must have attended a Florida high school for three consecutive years.
You can also ask the schools for financial aid opportunities for out-of-state students. You should complete the FAFSA application to see an award letter that will show you financial aid opportunities. Additionally, you can participate in work-study programs to lower your out-of-pocket expenses.
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 you’re 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. Not only are these programs flexible and convenient, but they are also much more affordable than on-campus degrees. Students in most online 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.
Even if you find a school that offers low and affordable out-of-state tuition, you may still need to spend thousands of dollars on providing for your other school needs. College costs are spiking. Even if you exhaust financial aid, scholarships, and reciprocity agreements, you might still be responsible for some expenses and experience cash shortage. Student loans can fill in any remaining gaps in your tuition costs if you cannot pay the balance in cash.
A student loan is money taken out to pay for college, either from the government or a private lender. The loan must be repaid down the road, along with accruing interest. Typically, the funds can be used for tuition, board, books, or other fees.
Federal student loans have annual debt restrictions, but they have certain advantages that make them the best starting step for borrowers. These restrictions may not be adequate for attending an out-of-state institution but are frequently sufficient for in-state tuition fees. In this situation, you may need to take out loans from private lenders, which hardly ever have lending limitations but might need a cosigner.
Before taking out any student loan, carefully consider how much you would need to borrow for an out-of-state school versus an in-state institution. Sure, you can loan enough money to cover your degree’s full tuition fee; but remember that you still need to pay this back after graduation. Borrowing tens of thousands of dollars for an out-of-state school and having a student loan debt that follows you for a decade or more may not be worth it.
Try using a Student Loan Calculator to estimate your overall cost before taking out a student loan.
20 Colleges with Cheap Out-of-state Tuition 2023
Mississippi Valley State University
Mississippi Valley State University, a public historically black university, offers a flat-rate per credit hour fee of $303.08 for their undergraduate and $447 for their graduate programs. MVSU’s tuition for their undergraduate and graduate degrees are $7,852 and $9,579, respectively. MVSU is less expensive than the national average for out-of-state tuition.
Mississippi Valley State University offers extensive undergraduate and graduate programs in education, the arts and sciences, and professional courses. It is a Carnegie Classified Master’s University. The academic programs, especially its graduate degree programs, offer exceptional educational opportunities for the Mississippi Delta and beyond, intending to improve life quality.
MVSU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
The university is renowned for its accomplishments in scientific agriculture and engineering. It remains a top-ranked school among public institutions in science and engineering.
Oklahoma Panhandle State University
Oklahoma Panhandle State University, a public university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, offers one of the cheapest out-of-state tuition and fees. Out-of-state tuition fees at OPSU are estimated to cost $15,865 for 24 hours and $17,493.50 for 30 hours. These numbers are only $1,000 higher than the school’s in-state sticker price.
Oklahoma Panhandle State University is a diverse school that accepts applicants from all backgrounds and educational levels. OPSU offers several associate and bachelor’s degree programs and a few pre-professional programs. The university has five academic schools — Agricultural, Science, Mathematics and Nursing, Liberal Arts, Business and Technology, and Education — and is mainly known for its nursing program and computer information systems department.
Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university that promotes its students’ intellectual, social, and personal growth. To attract more talented students, MSU has a flat rate tuition fee for students living in all 50 states. The average tuition fee for MSU’s undergraduate degrees is $6,891.84, while graduate programs average $8,991.84. Out-of-state students, however, may need to pay a small additional fee.
The university was established as a two-year regular school to train teachers for employment. It has continually improved to live up to its promise to support North Dakota and offer its residents opportunities. Today, MSU offers a wide range of undergraduate degree programs on top of its eight master’s programs and one specialty program.
The Higher Learning Commission accredits MSU. MSU is popularly known for its majors in Nursing, Social Work, Business Administration and Management, Criminal Justice, Finance, and Communications Sciences and Disorders.
Peru State College
Peru State College, Nebraska’s oldest higher education institution, is a small public college founded by the Methodist Episcopal Church. In addition to being known as the “Campus of a Thousand Oaks,” PSU is also known as one of the best-value schools for out-of-state students.
Peru’s out-of-state students pay the same tuition and fees as their in-state counterparts. The estimated tuition cost is $5,760 annually. In addition to being affordable, Peru’s financial aid opportunities, such as the Competitive Academic Scholarships and Invest in Success Awards, are also available to out-of-state students.
However, online degree programs at Peru State College are slightly more expensive than on-campus. While the on-campus rate is $186 per credit hour, online courses cost $299.
Peru State College offers various majors that lead to certification, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. The most popular majors offered by the school include Business, Criminal Justice, and Criminal Justice and Safety Studies. The Higher Learning Commission fully accredits PSU.
Southwest Minnesota State University
Southwest Minnesota State University, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, is a four-year public university that offers affordable and high-quality education in the liberal arts and professions. SMSU is dedicated to educating students — residents and non-residents — and preparing them to grow professionally and personally. Out-of-state students pay the same tuition and fees as in-state students; students from ND, SD, IA, WI, MSEP States, and Manitoba may be eligible for reciprocity rates.
Undergraduate students in the fall and spring pay $354.17per credit hour, and graduate students pay $535.17. Full-time on-campus students can apply for Student Worker Job Openings. Additionally, out-of-state students obtain similar financial aid opportunities as in-state students.
SMSU provides various associate, undergraduate, and graduate academic programs. Popular majors at SMSU include Kinesiology and Exercise Science, Early Childhood Education, Nursing, Business, and Psychology. SMSU also offers various online degree programs for working adult students and students not ready for on-campus commitments.
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 its in-state students. Students in-state and out-of-state pay an estimated tuition and fees of$23,744, which is about $4,000 cheaper than the national average of out-of-state tuition costs. In addition to low tuition costs, Alcorn also offers various financial aid opportunities that help students reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Alcorn recently launched a tool that helps students find the best financial aid opportunity without hassle. The Scholarship Universe lists financial aid opportunities offered by the school and the state and allows students to find the best match for their profiles.
Alcorn State University is the SACSCOC-Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to grant associate, bachelor’s, master’s, education specialist, and doctorates to students. Alcorn has five schools: Agriculture and Applied Sciences, Arts and Sciences, Business, Education and Psychology, and Nursing.
The most popular majors at Alcorn include Liberal Arts and Sciences, Liberal Studies, Military Technologies and Applied Sciences, RN to BSN, General Studies, Business Administration and Management, and Biology/Biological Sciences.
Carolina Christian College
Carolina Christian College is the oldest African-American Bible college in the state. Undergraduate and graduate programs average $3,800 and $5,000 per semester. While tuition and fees are low, there is limited financial aid to help with tuition fees. Eligible students can cover up to 25% of the total cost of actual tuition and fees.
Carolina Christian College is best suited for students who want to earn a degree in Ministry. The Bachelor of Arts in Ministry program is open to all undergraduate students, who may select one of five theological minors. All classes meet in the evenings and are geared toward working adults.
Chadron State College
Chadron State College offers a cozy and active student life in Dakota. Several intramural sports and activities are available for folks who like friendly competition. There are teams for people who enjoy playing sports like dodgeball, flag football, disc golf, or 3v3 basketball. There are also options for students who want to participate in eSports, music, mental health, and the natural sciences.
Chadron State College offers various on-campus and online majors leading to baccalaureate and master’s degrees. Undergraduate students pay the same tuition and fees of $249.70 regardless of residency status. On the other hand, out-of-state students pay slightly higher than in-state graduate students; residents pay $296.20, while non-residents pay $528.70.
Accounting, writing, public relations, business, journalism, and information technology are just a few of the many majors offered at CSC. With an average class size of 14 and a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1, CSC students are guaranteed a positive on-campus learning environment. Additionally, CSC provides opportunities for online learning in various subject areas, including applied sciences, geoscience, mathematics, and psychological sciences.
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. On the other hand, out-of-state students who enroll in a few credits per term are entitled to pay the per credit hour cost of $535, which is only slightly higher than the in-state per credit hour cost.
TESU is nationally recognized for providing academic excellence and educational integrity. It’s one of the first institutions in the nation to be specifically designed for adults and is one of New Jersey’s 11 senior public institutions of higher learning. The University offers degree programs and certificates in more than 100 fields of study and flexible, high-quality collegiate learning opportunities for self-directed adults.
Flexible learning options at TESU include online classes, evaluation of prior learning, credit transfer, and credit-bearing tests. Students at TESU can gain credit for any Saylor Direct credit courses that meet their degree programs. Saylor Academy and TESU have partnered to provide the “Open Course Option” for their ASBA degree, which allows students to earn a flexible, cheap degree.
Central State University
With accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, Central State University offers over 30 bachelor’s degrees and graduate programs. The University’s diverse academic offerings are centered on the three colleges of education, arts and sciences, and business and industry, which house the departments of manufacturing engineering and water resources management.
The most popular majors at CSU include Business/Commerce, Psychology, Social Work, Criminal Justice, Broadcast Journalism, Accounting, Early Childhood Education and Teaching, and Manufacturing.
While out-of-state students pay more tuition than residents, the difference is small. Non-residents pay an annual average of $21,632, which is below the average out-of-state tuition.
Central State University also offers one of the best Undergraduate Student Success Centers. On-campus and online students receive advising, tutoring (live and via online eTutoring), and skills workshops. Additionally, CSU’s Center for International Education offers study-abroad opportunities in an effort to develop global citizens and culturally curious learners.
New Mexico Highlands University
New Mexico Highlands University is one of the most progressive small-sized universities in the United States, serving both the local and international communities. NMHU offers affordable out-of-state tuition. Out-of-state undergraduate students pay $493 per credit hour, while graduate non-residents pay $512. However, out-of-state graduate students who major in Fine Arts pay $524 per credit hour.
NMHU, fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, gives graduate and undergraduate students a chance to receive an exceptional education by promoting innovation, critical thinking, and research in the humanities, social sciences, and professional fields within a multicultural setting. The university’s faculty is of the highest caliber and are leaders in their fields. These academics, however, are more than just teachers. They serve as mentors, too.
The most popular majors at NMHU include Medical Social Work, Business, and Nursing.
Delta State University
Delta State University is among the best institutions for out-of-state and international students. DSU does not charge out-of-state tuition and has a menial international tuition fee. Out-of-state students pay the same tuition as in-state students, $4,217.50 for undergraduate and graduate programs. International students, on the other hand, pay $500 per credit hour.
DSU, accredited by the SACSCOC, is a public institution offering an extensive undergraduate and graduate curriculum. DSU’s Colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business, and Education, along with the Robert E. Smith School of Nursing, offer educational opportunities through dozens of degree programs at the undergraduate level. Master’s, educational specialist, and doctoral graduate programs provide advanced training in various subject areas.
DSU is dedicated to fulfilling the changing requirements of the students it serves, from the fundamental disciplines such as the arts, humanities, and sciences to innovative programs such as Commercial Aviation, the Delta Music Institute, and the nationally renowned Geospatial Information Technology department. Popular majors at DSU include Nursing, Physical Education Teaching and Coaching, Elementary Education, and Business.
Dickinson State University
Dickinson State University is a comprehensive public university focusing on North Dakota’s intellectual, social, economic, and cultural development. The university offers excellent programs accessible to all students, in-state and out-of-state, to foster excellence in teaching and learning. DSU offers low out-of-state tuition. Out-of-state undergraduate students pay $319 per credit hour, while graduate students pay a flat rate of $336.67.
Dickinson State University, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, offers several majors that lead to certification, bachelor, and graduate degrees. Additionally, DSU offers independent research, internships, and externships. The most popular majors at DSU include Business Administration and Management, Teacher Education, Human Resources Management, Agriculture, and Nursing.
Granite State College
Granite State College offers degree programs designed for full-time working adult students. GSC received accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education to award 100% online degree programs. Because of the school’s efforts to cater to working students’ educational and financial needs, GSU offers low and affordable per-credit-hour costs; out-of-students pay $370 per credit hour for an undergraduate and post-baccalaureate degree and $595 for graduate degrees.
Granite State College offers degrees from the associate to graduate levels. Students can expect to receive a world-class education in the comfort of their homes. Additionally, GSC is a Military Friendly university. More than 13% of GSC’s students are active-duty military personnel or veterans.
GSC is one of the best schools for transferring credits. Their method for credit transfer makes the most of your previously acquired credits so you can finish your degree faster. The school will learn more about your background and look for opportunities to give credit for what you’ve learned outside of the classroom, in addition to looking at your transcripts and previous college coursework.
Bemidji State University
Bemidji State University offers strong foundational knowledge of the liberal arts and professional education. With accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, Bemidji State University provides an outstanding education by offering 70+ undergraduate programs and eight graduate degrees on a beautiful lakeside campus. Students will do more than learn at BSU; they’ll also innovate, create, discover, experiment, and change.
The estimated cost per semester to attend Bemidji State University full-time is $10,296 for all students, regardless of their residency. This fee is $4,497 for tuition, $4,786 for room and board, $445 for books and supplies, and $568 for other fees. Part-time students will pay on a per credit hour basis of $313.55 plus fees.
Bemidji State University is best for students who want to be “one with nature.” The university offers several opportunities for off-campus activities through The Outdoor Program Center. Additionally, the school provides several on-campus amenities for international students, including an English Language Center with tutoring and classes. Also, the International Program Centre has staff available to assist international students at BSU at every turn.
Mayville State University
Mayville State University is among the friendliest and most affordable universities in the United States. MSU is dedicated to providing an accessible, affordable college alternative that allows people to develop into successful, contributing members of society. They not only focus on improving the lives of their in-state students but also of students worldwide.
On-campus students not part of the Midwestern Higher Education Compact pay an average tuition fee of $19,722.56, much lower than the national average. However, those who enroll in MSU’s online degree programs pay flat tuition fees.
MSU, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, only wants the best for its students. The campus provides low-cost, small classroom sizes and a warm, personable academic environment. The low student-to-teacher ratio allows students to easily approach their professors and ask questions about the course/program.
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. To make sure that students can focus on their studies instead of the high tuition costs, BHSU offers low and affordable tuition costs.
Black Hills State University is an excellent deal for both residents and non-residents because it has one of the nation’s most affordable out-of-state tuition costs. Non-residents pay an average of $20,367 yearly.
Did you know that Sanford Lab and Black Hills State University are collaborating to construct an underground laboratory to give students various research opportunities? The intended lab will contain a clean room and work area and be utilized for short-term student projects in multiple disciplines, material assaying with ultra-sensitive physics detectors, and analyzing geological rock formations.
Youngstown State University
Youngstown State University has the lowest out-of-state tuition rates and provides financial aid to its students. Out-of-state students are treated equally to in-state students. They receive the same caliber of education and pay the same tuition and fees as residents. Undergraduate students spend an estimated annual tuition and fee of $23,775, while graduate students pay $22,805.
In addition to being one of the cheapest out-of-state universities, YSU is also known for its philanthropic activities through the Youngstown State University Foundation. The YSU Foundation offers a variety of scholarships to assist students majoring in journalism or gerontology or participating in particular extracurricular activities. The cost of tuition for residents and non-residents would be even lower if they were to be awarded one of these scholarships.
YSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and known for its majors in Liberal Arts, Social Sciences, and Education.
Harris-Stowe State University
Harris-Stowe State University, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, is one of the most affordable colleges for out-of-state students. Out-of-state students pay an estimated annual tuition of $20,438.80, much lower than the national average.
In addition to providing low-cost but high-quality education, HSSU offers a range of programs to accommodate the educational needs of all its current and incoming students. The school offers 23 undergraduate degrees, with 20 majors within 12 broad fields of study. To accommodate working adult students, HSSU provides evening and weekend classes.
In addition to baccalaureate degrees, HSSU offers certificates in urban agriculture. HSSU also collaborates with other institutions to give students more alternatives. For instance, nursing students at HSSU can major in biology while taking courses at the Goldfarb School of Nursing to follow a nursing route.
University of Southern Mississippi
The University of Southern Mississippi attracts students from outside the state by offering cheap out-of-state tuition. Out-of-state undergraduate students pay an average of $6,440 per term for every 21 hours, while graduate students pay $7,722 for 17 hours per term. Out-of-state students can also apply for study-abroad opportunities, including France, Japan, Spain, and 17 more countries.
USM, accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, is the only school in the state that offers an undergraduate degree in ocean engineering and doctoral degrees in nurse anesthesia and audiology. Moreover, it provides the world’s first unmanned maritime systems credential program.
USM, being ranked in the top 3% of elementary teacher preparation schools, is also best for students who want to major in education.
Additional Information:
