Discover 12 accredited U.S. universities with 2025-26 tuition under $15 000 for international students, plus admission tips, funding hacks and cost-of-living insights in one practical guide.
Why an “Affordable” List Matters
Average out-of-state tuition in the United States just broke $27 000—but dozens of public institutions still charge a fraction of that. We screened recent fee tables, acceptance rates and graduation outcomes to shortlist 12 wallet-friendly campuses that welcome international students. Figures below are official 2025-26 sticker prices, not scholarships.
12 Universities with Tuition Below $15 000
| Rank | University (State) | 2025-26 Tuition/Year* |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brigham Young University, UT | $4 208 WeMakeScholars |
| 2 | Delta State University, MS | $4 717 WeMakeScholars |
| 3 | Dakota State University, SD | $7 954 WeMakeScholars |
| 4 | Trine University, IN | $8 170 WeMakeScholars |
| 5 | Cal State Univ. Channel Islands, CA | $8 668 WeMakeScholars |
| 6 | Jacksonville State University, AL | $8 706 WeMakeScholars |
| 7 | University of Central Missouri, MO | $9 242 WeMakeScholars |
| 8 | Southeast Missouri State University | $13 237 WeMakeScholars |
| 9 | Eastern Illinois University | $14 223 WeMakeScholars |
| 10 | Wright State University, OH | $14 340 WeMakeScholars |
| 11 | Texas A&M University – Kingsville | $14 345 WeMakeScholars |
| 12 | Cal State University San Bernardino | $14 657 WeMakeScholars |
*Tuition only; housing and fees vary by campus.
How We Picked Them
- Sticker price ≤ $15 000 for full-time under-grad or graduate coursework.
- SEVP-approved to issue I-20s for F-1 students.
- Minimum 45 % graduation rate or nationally recognised niche strength (cyber-security at Dakota State, wildlife science at TAMU-Kingsville).
- Manageable cost-of-living in the surrounding city (below U.S. median on Numbeo).
Funding Hacks to Drive Costs Even Lower
Leverage “Good-Neighbour” Awards
Many Midwestern schools (e.g., U Central Missouri) give automatic $4 000-$5 000 discounts to students from developing nations; check the bursar’s page right after admission.
Transfer from a Community College
Start at a two-year college that charges $8 000 or less, earn 60 credits, then articulate into one of the universities above with junior standing.
On-Campus Jobs & CPT
All 12 campuses list at least 200 student-worker positions and endorse Curricular Practical Training after one academic year, letting you offset living costs with part-time income.
Quick Admission Tips
- Timing: Competitive low-fee universities fill international quotas early; submit by January 15 for Fall 2025.
- Academics: Most require a 2.5 GPA/65 % or higher; BYU expects moral-conduct essays because of its faith affiliation.
- Tests: Several CSU campuses are GRE/SAT-optional through 2026—good news if testing centres in Bangladesh stay backlogged.
- Visa Proof of Funds: Even with cheap tuition, budget $25 000–$28 000 total (tuition + living) on your bank statement to satisfy the consular officer.
Life on a Budget Campus
- Rent: Expect $350–$550 per month in towns like Cape Girardeau (MO) or Kingsville (TX).
- Transport: Many rural schools include unlimited bus passes in student fees ($100+ annual value).
- Community: Bangladeshi Student Associations operate at eight of the 12 picks, easing cultural transition.
Takeaway
High-quality U.S. degrees don’t have to wreck your savings. Shortlist two or three schools from this table, compare curriculum fit, and apply early to maximise scholarship odds. Your biggest expense drops from tuition to time well spent.
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