[Updated]: Cheapest and Tuition-Free Universities in USA 2025

Are you considering studying in the United States but are concerned about the high cost of education? Many students and their families struggle to afford the rising costs of college tuition. But what if we told you that there are affordable and even tuition-free universities in the USA? In this article, we have compiled a list of 10 of the most affordable and tuition-free universities in the United States, so that students from all backgrounds can have access to quality education. Here’s a list of the most affordable and tuition-free universities in the USA that you should consider.

Berea College

Berea College offers a tuition-free education and provides scholarships to all enrolled students, making it possible to graduate debt-free. They offer 49 major programs and have competitive admission requirements.

Washington State University

With an acceptance rate of 77%, Washington State University offers local tuition at an affordable rate of $11,584. They have dedicated faculty and offer online courses to make education accessible.

Alice Lloyd College

Alice Lloyd College has an annual tuition fee of $12,230 and an 8% acceptance rate. They are known for their academic excellence and high rankings.

Curtis Institution of Music

For a tuition fee of just $2,525, Curtis Institution of Music provides exceptional education for budding young musicians based solely on talent and artistic promise.

The City University of New York (CUNY)

CUNY provides quality education at an affordable cost. Their tuition varies for in-state and out-of-state residents, with additional scholarships and financial aid available.

Alcorn State University

Located in Mississippi, Alcorn State University has a tuition of $7,084 and has been a historically prominent institution for black students. They offer various courses like education, medicine, law, and business.

Minot State University

Ranked as the 32nd regional university in top public schools, Minot State University offers a tuition of $7,288 and has a strong online learning presence.

Webb Institute

For citizens and permanent residents, Webb Institute offers a full scholarship, while others have to pay $50,175. The prestigious engineering college is known for its high-quality education.

Franklin W Olin College of Engineering

Franklin W Olin College offers a private institution scholarship-based education with a tuition of $52,844, and an excellent academic program.

California State University

For residents and out-of-state students, California State University offers varying tuition rates to make education accessible to all students.

FAQs

What are some of the cheapest universities in the USA for 2025?

Some of the cheapest universities in the USA for 2025 include universities that offer low in-state tuition such as the University of Florida, CUNY colleges (like Hunter College), and California State Universities. Additionally, institutions like Brigham Young University and Minot State University are known for offering affordable tuition even for international students.

Are there tuition-free universities in the USA in 2025?

Yes, some universities in the USA offer tuition-free education, particularly for domestic students. Examples include Berea College in Kentucky, Alice Lloyd College, and College of the Ozarks, which provide full tuition coverage through grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. For international students, Berea College remains one of the leading tuition-free options.

How do tuition-free universities in the USA cover student expenses?

Tuition-free universities often rely on endowments, donations, and mandatory student work programs to cover education costs. For instance, Berea College requires students to work at least 10–15 hours per week on campus, which helps reduce overall expenses. However, while tuition is covered, students may still need to pay for accommodation, meals, and personal expenses.

Can international students apply to tuition-free universities in the USA in 2025?

Yes, some tuition-free universities in the USA accept international students. Berea College is one of the most notable, providing free tuition for all admitted students regardless of nationality. Other institutions may not fully waive tuition for international students but offer generous scholarships that significantly reduce costs. It is advisable for international applicants to check specific university policies and deadlines.