Most Affordable Universities In The USA 2024

Studying in the USA can be an excellent opportunity for Indian students to gain a high-quality education and enhance their career prospects. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of Indian students studying in the USA. 

According to the latest data, the number of international students going from India to the USA increased by 35%, reaching an all-time high of 2,60,000 in 2022/23. Additionally, the employment rate in the USA is relatively high, making it an attractive destination for students looking to launch their careers.

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By choosing one of the cheapest universities in the USA, Indian students can save on tuition costs without compromising the quality of education.

Get a quick overview of the blog’s key highlights and unlock valuable information about the cheapest universities in the USA for International students.

Blog Highlights:

Why Study In The USA

Studying in the USA can be a life-changing experience for students from all over the world. The country is home to some of the best colleges and universities in the world and offers diverse academic programmes.

 Here are some of the reasons why Indian students should consider studying in the USA:

• High-quality education 
• Diverse academic programmes
• Opportunities for research and innovation
• Excellent career prospects
• Exposure to different cultures and perspectives
• English language proficiency
• Opportunities for personal growth and development
• Access to world-class resources and facilities
• Opportunities for networking and building connections 

These are just some of the many reasons why studying in the USA can be an excellent choice for Indian students.

Cheapest Universities In The USA

For Indian students looking to study in the USA, finding affordable universities can be a challenge. However, there are several universities that offer high-quality education at a lower cost. 

In this section, we have compiled a list of the top 10 cheapest universities in the USA for Indian students based on tuition fees and other factors.

Here is a list of the top 10 Cheapest Universities in the USA for International Students:

• California State University
• The University of Wisconsin
• Brigham Young University
• Brooklyn College
• Southeast Missouri State University
• The University of Louisiana at Monroe
• South Dakota State University
• Northwest Missouri State University
• Southwest Minnesota State University
• Henderson State University

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Top Courses for Indian students to pursue In the USA

The USA has long been considered a top destination for higher education for Indian students. The country boasts some of the world’s best universities and colleges, offering various academic programs. 

Studying in the USA can provide students with a unique and enriching experience, exposing them to diverse perspectives and cultures while also providing opportunities for personal and professional growth. 

Here are some of the top courses for Indian students to pursue in the USA across different fields:

Cheapest Universities In The USA For UG Students

Every year, many Indian students wish to pursue their undergraduate studies in the USA, attracted by the country’s reputation for quality education and excellent career opportunities. According to the latest data, the number of Indian students going to the USA for undergraduate studies has grown steadily in recent years.

In the 2022-23 academic year, over 54,000 Indian students were enrolled in undergraduate programs in the USA, making India the 2nd largest source of international undergraduate students. The USA continues to be a popular destination for Indian students pursuing their academic and career aspirations.

Here is a table of the top 10 cheapest universities in the USA for undergraduate students:

While undergraduate studies are undoubtedly important, pursuing a postgraduate degree can be an even more significant investment in your future career. Let’s look at the top 10 cheapest universities in the USA for postgraduate studies.

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Cheapest Universities In The USA For PG

When it comes to pursuing postgraduate studies in the USA, Indian students often face high tuition fees. The average cost of tuition fees for postgraduate programs in the USA is around INR 16L – INR 54L per year.  

While undergraduate studies may provide a strong foundation, postgraduate studies offer students the opportunity to specialise in their field of interest, gain in-depth knowledge, and develop advanced skills. The cheapest universities in the USA for postgraduate studies offer quality education at a reasonable cost, providing students with access to world-class resources and facilities without facing any financial barriers.

Here is a table of the top 10 cheap universities in the USA for master’s:

For Indian students interested in pursuing the cheapest MBA in the USA, these universities offer affordable tuition fees and quality education facilities. 

Why Are These Universities Affordable?

The reason why these universities are more affordable in the USA can be attributed to several factors. 

Here are some reasons why these universities are cheaper in the USA for Indian students:

• One of the primary reasons is the availability of scholarships and financial assistance programs offered by the universities themselves or external organisations. For example, the University of Louisiana at Monroe offers a scholarship program for international students, reducing their tuition fees by up to INR 5L per year. 

• Similarly, California State University provides financial assistance programs for international students based on academic merit and financial need.
• Some universities receive funding from government or non-governmental organisations to support their educational programs and research activities. For instance, the University of Wisconsin is a public university that receives state funding, making it more affordable for domestic and international students.

• Brigham Young University is owned and operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. It subsidises tuition fees for its students, making it an affordable option for international students. 

Scholarships For Indian Students In The USA

Scholarships can be an excellent way for Indian students to reduce the financial burden of pursuing higher education in the USA. Many universities in the USA offer scholarships, grants, and fellowships to international students, including Indian students, to help them cover their tuition fees. 

Here are some of the popular scholarships for Indian students in the USA:

• Fulbright-Nehru Research Fellowship
• Tata Scholarship Fund
• Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships
• Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowships for Indian Students
• Harvard Business School Boustany MBA Scholarship
• The Wharton School’s Joseph Wharton Fellowships
• Central Sector Scheme of National Overseas Scholarship
• Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program

Eligibility Criteria For Scholarships In The USA

To pursue UG, PG and Doctorate studies in the USA with a scholarship, Indian students need to fulfil specific eligibility criteria. Each university may have its own set of requirements, but some basic requirements remain the same.

Here are some of the standard eligibility criteria for scholarships in the USA for Indian students:

• A Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university
• A good GMAT score or GRE score
• A minimum of 2-3 years of work experience
• English proficiency test scores (TOEFL or IELTS)
• LOR (Letters of recommendation)
• SOP (Statement of purpose)
• Resume/CV
•  Application fee

It is advisable to check the specific requirements of each university before applying to ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria.

Affordable Stay In The USA

Are you wondering how to make your stay affordable in the USA while pursuing higher education? Here are some steps to help you save money and make your stay more affordable:

• Look for shared accommodation options such as apartments or dormitories.
• Opt for public transportation like buses or trains instead of taxis or ride-sharing services.
• Cook your meals at home instead of dining out frequently.
• Take advantage of student discounts offered by various stores and restaurants.
• Avoid buying unnecessary items or impulse purchases.
• Plan your trips and outings in advance to get better ticket or booking deals.
• Find part-time jobs or internships to earn extra money and gain work experience.
• Join student clubs and organisations to access free or discounted events and activities.
• Consider applying for scholarships or financial assistance programs to reduce tuition fees.

By following these steps, you can make your stay in the USA more affordable without compromising on your education or experience.

Cost of living in the USA for Indian students

For Indian students planning to study in the USA, the cost of living is an essential factor to consider. One person’s average cost of living in the USA is approximately INR 1L per month. 

The USA is known for its high cost of living, and it can be challenging to estimate expenses accurately. However, having a basic idea of the average rent, transportation, utilities, and grocery costs can help students plan their budget accordingly. 

Here is a table summarising the average cost of living expenses for Indian students in the USA: 

Final Thoughts

Studying in the USA can be an exciting and rewarding experience for Indian students. While the cost of living may seem high, there are ways to make your stay more affordable, such as finding shared accommodation, using public transportation, and taking advantage of student discounts. 

Additionally, universities in the USA offer scholarships, financial assistance programs, and external funding sources to help students reduce tuition fees. 

Pursuing higher education in the USA can open up a world of opportunities and provide you with valuable skills and knowledge to succeed in your career. So, if you’re an Indian student looking to broaden your horizons and achieve your academic goals, studying in the USA might be the right choice for you.

And if you’re considering other options like the UK, Australia and Canada, we’ve got you covered, too. Schedule a free consultation with our experts today for personalised guidance and advice.

Leap Scholar is proud to have a highly qualified team of counsellors with 50+ years of combined experience in helping students study abroad. Talk to us and find out which country is ideal for you!

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