Cheapest Universities In the USA for Master’s 2025

Did you know that over 1.1 million international students choose to study in the USA every year? In 2023, India became the top source of international students, with more than 330,000 students pursuing their dreams in American universities. The USA hosts many top-ranked universities known for their world-class research facilities and diverse programmes.

While studying in the USA is exciting, you may worry about the cost. It’s true that some universities can be expensive, but the good news is that there are plenty of affordable options that still offer top-quality education. From smaller public universities to institutions with generous scholarships, you don’t have to break the bank to get a great degree.

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This blog will cover everything you need to know about the cheapest universities in the USA for master’s, offering quality education without a hefty price tag. Dive in.

Key Highlights

Top 10 Cheapest Universities in the USA for Master’s

Studying in the USA can be expensive, especially with high tuition fees, living costs, and exchange rates to consider. As an international student, managing these expenses might feel overwhelming.

That’s why choosing one of the cheapest universities in the USA for master’s is a smart move. You’ll get access to great academic programmes, knowledgeable faculty, and opportunities to build your professional network. 

What’s more, graduates from these institutions often earn an average of INR 84L (USD 100K) annually after completing their studies.

Here’s an overview of the top 10 cheapest universities in USA for masters.

Next, take a look at the universities in detail.

1. Minot State University (North Dakota)

Minot State University (MSU) is one of the cheapest universities in the USA for master’s. Established in 1913 in Minot, North Dakota, as a regular school, MSU has since evolved into the third-largest university in the state, offering both undergraduate and graduate programs.

The university comprises four academic schools and offers nine master’s degrees and one education specialist degree in communication disorders, management, and mathematics. With more than 60 undergraduate majors, MSU provides a nice mix and match of liberal arts subjects and professional programs.

Overview 

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2. Sonoma State University

Sonoma State University (SSU), established in 1960, is a public institution in California’s Rohnert Park, about an hour north of San Francisco. The campus spans 269 acres and has an undergraduate enrollment of 5,412 students (Fall 2023). 

SSU offers around 45 bachelor’s degree programs and 15 graduate programs, including unique offerings in the wine business. It ranked #25 in Regional Universities West for 2025 and is among the best and cheapest universities in the USA for master’s.

Overview

3. Southeast Missouri State University

Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) is a public university in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, with four regional campuses and a secondary campus for the Holland College of Arts and Media. It is also among the cheapest universities in the USA for master’s.

Founded in 1873, SEMO offers over 175 undergraduate and 75 graduate programs, with a historical focus on teacher education. The university comprises five academic colleges: Arts and Media, Business and Computing, Education, Health and Human Studies, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

Overview

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4. Alcorn State University in Mississippi

Alcorn State University (ASU) is a public, historically black land-grant institution near Lorman, Mississippi. Founded in 1871, it is the first black land-grant college in the United States. It is one of the most affordable universities in the USA for master’s.

Alcorn State offers degree programs in over 50 fields across seven schools, including programs in nursing and a Master of Business Administration (MBA). More than 3,000 students study at this university at present. 

Overview

5. California State University, San Bernardino

California State University, San Bernardino, also called CSUSB, is a public university founded in 1962, located on a 441-acre main campus in San Bernardino’s University District. It is one of the most sought-after and cheapest universities in the USA for master’s degrees.

CSUSB follows a semester-based academic calendar and is ranked #171 among National Universities in the 2025 edition of Best Colleges. It also has a 40-acre branch campus in Palm Desert, California, offering additional educational opportunities.
Overview

6. Dakota State University

Dakota State University (DSU) is a public university in Madison, South Dakota, founded in 1881 as a teacher training institution. DSU offers courses in education, health, business, technology, digital media and communications, and maths and science. DSU is also home to the Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences, one of the top programs in the nation. 

Overview

7. The City University of New York

The City University of New York (CUNY) is the largest urban public university in the USA. It was established in 1847 as the nation’s first free public institution of higher education. CUNY now comprises 25 colleges across the city’s five boroughs, serving over 2L students and awarding 50K degrees annually.

Overview

8. Missouri State University

Missouri State University (MSU), based in Springfield, Missouri, was founded in 1905 under Fourth District Normal School. It is the state’s second-largest university, with an enrollment of 26,001 students.

MSU also offers associate degrees at its West Plains campus, operates a fruit research station in Mountain Grove, and has a Department of Defense program in Fairfax, Virginia. Additionally, it offers a business degree in China.

Overview

9. California State University, Fresno

California State University, Fresno, is a California State University system public university. Fresno State’s eight schools and colleges offer 74 undergraduate, 49 graduate, and three doctoral programs, all focused on hands-on learning to equip you with the skills needed for success after graduation.

Fresno State is a Hispanic-serving institution (HSI) eligible for Asian American Native American Pacific Islander designation (AANAPISI). It is considered one of the cheapest universities in the USA for master’s.

Overview

10. California State University, Northridge

California State University, Northridge, is a diverse institution in Los Angeles’ San Fernando Valley. It features among the most popular and cheapest universities in the USA for master’s.

The university’s nine colleges offer many academic options. They include 149 bachelor’s degrees, 105 master’s degrees, three professional doctorates, 26 teaching credential programs, and various extended learning opportunities. You will find something for every interest and career path.

Overview

Application Process at the Cheapest Universities in the USA for Master’s Degree

Did you know the acceptance rate for a student’s F-1 visa has recently risen to 65%? While the application process is competitive, staying organised, providing accurate documentation, and demonstrating your commitment to studying in the USA can significantly improve your chances of success. 

Here are the necessary application steps.

To apply for a master’s degree at a university in the USA with affordable tuition, begin by researching and shortlisting universities offering suitable programs. Review the admission requirements, such as transcripts, English proficiency scores, GRE/GMAT scores (if required), a Statement of Purpose, recommendation letters, and minimum proof of funds of INR 8L (USD 10K). Gather and organise all necessary documents before submitting your application through the university’s portal and the application fee is INR 4K and INR 8K (USD 50 to USD 100)]. Track your application status, and upon receiving an offer, accept it and begin the F-1 visa process using the I-20 form. Finally, plan your arrival by arranging travel and housing based on university guidelines.

Scholarships for Affordable Universities in the USA for Masters

As an Indian student planning to study in the USA, you can apply for various scholarships. Government-funded scholarships, like the Hubert Humphrey Fellowship and Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships, are available. Non-government scholarships include AAUW International Fellowships and ISFA.

Additionally, many USA universities offer university-funded scholarships based on specific criteria, such as the University of Minnesota Fellowship and University of New Haven Scholarship, providing you with financial support for your education.

Major Scholarships Overview

Cost of Living in the USA

The cost of living in the USA is, on average, 229.5% higher than in India. However, this higher cost is often offset by a higher quality of life, including better access to healthcare, education, and overall infrastructure. 

With careful planning and a wise budget, you can comfortably manage your rent and daily expenses while maximising the abundant opportunities available.

Cost of Living Overview

Top 5 Highest-Paying Jobs in the USA 

The USA job market is diverse, with several high-paying career opportunities across industries. The best part is that the employment rate for master’s degree holders is around 90%.

Here’s a list of some of the five highest-paying jobs in the USA.

Are you ready to pursue your postgraduate degree at one of the best universities in the USA for MS with low tuition fees? Leap Scholar will guide you through every step, from selecting the cheapest master’s degree in the USA for international students to visa support and creating the perfect essay.  Start your education journey in the USA today!

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