College is an exciting step toward a bright future. But it can also be expensive. Thankfully, some colleges in the USA offer a great education at a low cost. These colleges are perfect for students who want good value without giving up quality. In this article, we’ll look at the top 5 affordable colleges in the USA for 2025. These schools offer strong programs, helpful teachers, and chances to grow—all without breaking the bank.
University of Florida (UF) – Gainesville, Florida
The University of Florida is known for its strong academics and low tuition fees, especially for Florida residents. It offers over 100 majors and has great sports, science, and business programs. UF also gives scholarships to help students pay less.
Why it’s a great choice:
- Low tuition (in-state around $6,400 per year)
- Top-ranked public university
- Lots of research and internship opportunities
Brigham Young University (BYU) – Provo, Utah
BYU is a private university with one of the lowest tuition rates in the country. It is supported by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, so students pay less. BYU is known for strong engineering, science, and business programs.
Why it’s a great choice:
- Tuition around $6,500 per year
- Clean, safe campus with a focus on values
- Excellent job placement after graduation
California State University, Long Beach (CSULB)
Part of the California State University system, CSULB offers a great education at a low price. It’s located near Los Angeles and is known for programs in art, business, and health sciences.
Why it’s a great choice:
- In-state tuition around $7,000 per year
- Diverse student community
- Beautiful campus with beach access
| College Name | Location | Approx. Tuition (Per Year) | Key Programs | Why Choose This College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Florida (UF) | Gainesville, Florida | $6,400 (in-state) | Business, Engineering, Science | Top-ranked public school with great internships and low in-state tuition |
| Brigham Young University (BYU) | Provo, Utah | $6,500 | Engineering, Science, Business | Low private tuition, strong academics, and safe campus |
| California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) | Long Beach, California | $7,000 (in-state) | Arts, Business, Health Sciences | Diverse students, near the beach, and excellent value education |
| University of North Carolina (UNC) | Chapel Hill, North Carolina | $9,000 (in-state) | Journalism, Law, Public Health | High reputation, many scholarships, and good job success rates |
| Minot State University | Minot, North Dakota | $8,000 | Nursing, Education, Business | Affordable for all, small classes, and strong student support |
| South Dakota State University (SDSU) | Brookings, South Dakota | $9,200 | Agriculture, Engineering, Nursing | Friendly campus, low cost for both in-state and out-of-state students |
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC)
UNC is one of the oldest public universities in the USA. It has low tuition for in-state students and a strong national reputation. The school is known for its public health, journalism, and law programs.
Why it’s a great choice:
- In-state tuition around $9,000 per year
- Many scholarships and grants
- High graduation and job success rates
Minot State University – North Dakota
Minot State is one of the most affordable colleges for both local and international students. It offers small class sizes and good support services, which help students do well.
Why it’s a great choice:
- Tuition around $8,000 per year
- Personal attention from teachers
- Good programs in nursing, education, and business
Choosing the right college doesn’t always mean picking the most expensive one. These five affordable colleges in the USA prove that students can get a great education without spending too much. They offer strong programs, helpful professors, and opportunities for success. Whether you’re from the USA or another country, these schools are smart picks for your future. Start your college journey without worrying about big loans and enjoy learning with peace of mind.
What is the cheapest college in the USA for 2025?
The University of Florida and Brigham Young University are among the cheapest, with tuition around $6,400–$6,500 per year for eligible students.
Are affordable colleges still good in quality?
Yes! All the colleges listed offer strong academic programs, good career support, and recognized degrees.
Can international students apply to these affordable colleges?
Yes, international students can apply, though tuition may differ. Some schools like Minot State and SDSU are known for being affordable to international students too.
Do these colleges offer scholarships or financial aid?
Most of these colleges offer scholarships, grants, and financial aid to help students reduce costs even further.
Which affordable college is best for business studies?
The University of Florida and BYU both have strong and well-ranked business programs at low costs.