Studying in the USA offers a unique and enriching educational experience for students from around the world. Renowned for its top-tier universities, research opportunities, and diverse academic programs, the USA attracts a multitude of ambitious individuals.
The country's dynamic and innovative learning environment fosters critical thinking, creativity, and cultural exchange. Additionally, students in the USA often benefit from modern facilities, professionals, and various extracurricular activities that contribute to comprehensive personal development.
The comprehensive education system, combined with a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, makes studying in budget-friendly universities in the USA a transformative journey that prepares individuals for success in their chosen fields on a global scale.
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Top 10 affordable universities in the USA for international students
The USA has been the top destination choice for higher education among Indian students. With some of the world’s leading universities and colleges, the country provides various academic programs.
Below are the top 10 affordable Universities in the USA for international students:
Arizona State University (Lake Havasu campus)
Eastern Michigan University
Wichita State University
University of New Orleans
California State University Fresno
California State University Northridge
California State University Long Beach
Cleveland State University
University of Wyoming
Indiana State University
1. Arizona State University (Lake Havasu Campus)
Arizona State University stands out as one of the most preferred choices among American public universities for international students. Situated in the southwestern United States, ASU offers top-tier facilities, extensive student support services, and competitive athletics programs. It has over 350 bachelor's degrees and nearly 200 master's degrees across subjects including Business, Computing, Engineering, Health Care, Performing Arts, Science, and more, ensuring a truly exceptional educational experience.
The undergraduate annual tuition fee for international students is $12,200.
2. Eastern Michigan University
Eastern Michigan University has always been dedicated to helping students discover what they love. Established in 1849 as a small teacher's college, EMU has grown into a large university with a focus on learning and research. It provides a wide range of academic resources and community programs. It offers over 200 undergraduate majors, minors, and certificates, as well as more than 150 graduate programs.
The Tuition fee for undergraduate courses is $13,000.
3. Wichita State University
Wichita State University is constantly evolving through collaboration, innovation, and practical learning, fostering an environment where students, industries, and communities can work together to create a bright future for the city, region, and beyond.
The university offers a wide range of programs, with over 225 majors and specialisations available. It provides impressive facilities, including a vast library with over 1 million items. Additionally, Wichita State has one of the largest Cooperative Education programs in the Midwest, providing students with paid internships for valuable work experience.
The Tuition fee for undergraduate courses is $15,000.
4. University of New Orleans
Since its founding, the University of New Orleans has prioritised diversity and inclusion. The university offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in various fields, including business administration, education, engineering, liberal arts, and sciences. It also provides interdisciplinary studies. As a global community asset, the University of New Orleans offers a wide range of relevant undergraduate and graduate programs, along with world-class research opportunities.
The Tuition fee for undergraduate courses costs around $15,200.
5. California State University Fresno
Fresno State has over 25,000 students and offers 66 undergraduate and 44 master's degree programs. These programs cover areas like agriculture, business, engineering, health services, and education. International students are supported by the International Student Services and Programs office, which offers a quick orientation program to help them settle in, make friends, and get to know the campus and local community.
The Tuition fee for undergraduate courses costs around $16,100.
6. California State University Northridge
California State University Northridge offers over 140 degree programs across 70+ subjects, with 8000 courses available each semester. Many programs are nationally ranked, and CSUN excels in social mobility, value, and graduating women and minorities in STEM. The university also has a highly regarded Intensive English-language Program (IEP) that prepares students for university study and English communication.
The Tuition fee for undergraduate courses is around $16,500.
7. California State University Long Beach
California State University - Long Beach was established in 1949 and enrolls over 37,000 students each year, making it one of California's and the nation's largest four-year universities. The university has eight colleges with more than 2,100 faculty members, offering 85 bachelor's degrees, 64 master's degrees, and four doctoral degrees. Its major programs include Engineering & Computer Science, Social Sciences, and Visual & Performing Arts.
The Tuition fee for undergraduate courses is approximately $16,500.
8. Cleveland State University
Cleveland State University is a public research university with 10 colleges and over 175 academic programs. It emphasises creating a global community by collaborating with top hospitals, Fortune 500 companies, government research centres, and cultural institutions. This collaboration helps develop academic programs, research projects, and job opportunities. CSU's approach to learning includes connecting students with 3,000 internships and real-world experiences. Its major courses include Engineering & Computer Science, Health Sciences, and Social Sciences.
The Tuition fee for undergraduate courses is $16,800.
9. University of Wyoming
The University of Wyoming has 80 undergraduate and more than 90 graduate academic courses across seven colleges, and interdisciplinary institutes. With a low student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1, the university provides a supportive community for scholars and learners dedicated to achieving excellence. Its academic programs are focused on six key areas: science and technology, the arts and humanities, environment and natural resources, life sciences, and professions crucial to the state and region.
The tuition fee for the undergraduate courses is around $18,000.
10. Indiana State University
Indiana State University (ISU) provides over 100 majors, 70+ online programs, and numerous opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students. The university encourages students to learn and grow in and out of the classroom, urging them to make a difference in the community, locally or globally. At ISU, students can expect enriching experiences, abundant opportunities, and engaging classes taught by dedicated professors. The university’s key programs include Health Sciences, Business and Engineering Technology.
The tuition fee for undergraduate courses is around $20,150.
English language proficiency requirements to study in USA universities
To pursue your education in any of the top universities of the USA mentioned above, you may be required to provide proof of proficiency in English. You must appear for any of the English language proficiency tests, such as IELTS, to gain admission to the applied university. You must achieve the minimum band score required by the university you apply for.
IELTS for USA is accepted by over 3,400 institutions, including Ivy League institutions and programs (visiting programs, Fulbright scholarships, degree programs, masters, PhD, MBA, etc.) as proof of English language proficiency.
If you are applying for a USA student visa, you must appear for the IELTS Academic Test and obtain a minimum IELTS band score of 6.5. The minimum overall IELTS band score requirement for undergraduate degrees in the USA is 6.0, whereas post-graduate degrees generally require a minimum band score of 6.5.
The minimum IELTS score varies depending on the specific universities. For example, prestigious Ivy League schools often set a minimum overall score requirement of 7.0, whereas other institutions may typically ask for a score of 6.0 or 6.5.
Explore more: Universities accepting IELTS in USA
The factors making these US universities budget-friendly
Several factors contribute to the affordability of universities in the USA for Indian students. One key factor is the availability of scholarships and financial assistance programs offered by the universities and external organisations.
For instance, California State University offers financial assistance based on academic merit and financial need. Similarly, Brigham Young University, operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, subsidised tuition fees, making it an economical choice for international students.
Some universities receive funding from government or non-governmental organisations to support educational programs and research activities.
Conclusion
Studying in the USA can be an exciting and fulfilling experience for Indian students. Although the cost of living and tuition fees may seem high, there are several ways to make them affordable, such as opting for shared accommodation, using public transport, and using student discounts, scholarships, and financial assistance programs.
Pursuing higher education in the USA not only opens doors to diverse opportunities but also equips you with valuable skills and knowledge essential for career success. If you're an Indian student aspiring to broaden your horizons and achieve academic goals, considering studying in the USA could be the optimal choice for you.