Affordable Universities in the USA for Master’s and Undergraduate

admin 04 July 2025

Introduction

The United States has long been considered the ultimate destination for higher education due to its cutting-edge research, global recognition and diverse academic opportunities. However, one major concern for many Indian families is the high tuition and living costs. Study Masters abroad

While elite institutions like Harvard, MIT, or Stanford charge hefty fees, many public universities and state colleges in the U.S. offer world-class education at far more affordable rates, especially when compared to private institutions. With careful planning, Indian students can pursue both masters and undergraduate degrees in the U.S. at a reasonable cost, while also exploring scholarships and on-campus jobs to support their studies. Masters in abroad

Affordable Universities in the USA for Indian Students

For Undergraduate and Master’s Degrees

Below are the most affordable and popular U.S. universities offering quality education with relatively low tuition fees. Masters abroad for Indian students at low cost

1. California State University (CSU) System

  • Location: California (multiple campuses: Long Beach, Fresno, Fullerton, etc.)

  • One of the largest and most affordable public university systems

  • Offers 100+ undergraduate and graduate programs

  • Excellent STEM, business, and liberal arts degrees

2. University of the People (UoPeople)

  • Location: Online (U.S.-accredited)

  • 100% online, U.S.-accredited

  • Extremely low-cost degree for bachelor's and master's in business, computer science, education

  • Ideal for students on a tight budget

3. Minot State University

  • Location: North Dakota

  • Offers undergraduate and master’s programs in business, IT, health sciences

  • Low living costs and small-town safety

  • Strong Indian student community

4. South Texas College

  • Location: McAllen, Texas

  • One of the lowest tuition rates in Texas

  • Offers associate and bachelor’s degrees in applied sciences

  • Excellent for transferring to larger universities later

5. Alcorn State University

  • Location: Mississippi

  • Historically black university with low fees and high-quality programs

  • Offers nursing, education, biology, and technology programs

  • Scholarships for international students

6. University of Central Missouri

  • Location: Missouri

  • Highly ranked for affordability

  • Strong programs in aviation, computer science and business

  • Graduate assistantships and merit scholarships available

7. Arkansas State University

  • Location: Jonesboro, Arkansas

  • Great for MBA, engineering, IT, and nursing

  • Low cost of living in the region

  • On-campus housing and jobs available

8. Eastern New Mexico University

  • Location: Portales, New Mexico

  • Bilingual programs, STEM focus

  • Scholarships for international and graduate students

  • Great for both master’s and bachelor's programs

9. Bemidji State University

  • Location: Minnesota

  • Special tuition discounts for international students

  • Strong programs in engineering, design, and business

  • Safe environment with cultural inclusivity

10. Kent State University

  • Location: Ohio

  • Wide variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs

  • Research opportunities and OPT/CPT support

  • Good job placement and internship support

Admission Requirements for Indian Students

Undergraduate

  • 12th-grade completion (minimum 60%)

  • SAT/ACT (optional in many universities)

  • IELTS (6.0+) or TOEFL (80+)

  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)

  • Academic transcripts

Master’s

  • 3 or 4-year bachelor’s degree

  • GRE/GMAT (optional in many universities)

  • IELTS (6.5+) or TOEFL (85+)

  • Resume, SOP, and Letters of Recommendation

Scholarships for Indian Students in the USA

Affordable universities still offer scholarships such as:

  • Merit-Based Scholarships

  • International Student Grants

  • Graduate Assistantships (Master’s level)

  • Need-based Aid

  • Education USA Opportunity Funds

Benefits of Studying in the USA

  • World-class education at lower costs

  • OPT & CPT work opportunities

  • Pathways to H-1B visa and PR

  • International exposure and global networking

  • Scholarships and on-campus jobs to support expenses

Conclusion

Studying in the United States does not have to be expensive. By selecting the right universities such as Minot State University, University of the People, California State University System, or Alcorn State University Indian students can gain access to high-quality, accredited programs at affordable tuition rates. Masters abroad for Indian students

Whether you plan to pursue an undergraduate degree in engineering or a master’s in data science, these institutions provide great value for money, strong academic environments and clear career pathways. Masters abroad for Indian students

With abundant scholarships, internships and post-study work opportunities, the USA remains a top destination not just for prestige, but also for affordability. Best country for Masters for Indian students