10 Most Affordable Online Colleges in Alabama 2025

The most affordable online colleges in Alabama offer accredited degrees to learners at reduced tuition rates with many opportunities for using financial aid.

Are you searching for the best online colleges in Alabama that don't break the bank? You're in luck; plenty of accredited universities offer low undergraduate tuition with rates ranging from $256 per credit hour to $424.

Below, we discuss the most affordable online colleges and other degree seekers desiring schedule flexibility. Explore programs, financial aid, and frequently asked questions.

List of the Cheapest & Most Affordable Online Colleges in Alabama

Keep reading to find the cheapest colleges in Alabama offering online learning and comprehensive curricula.

1. Columbia Southern University

Columbia Southern University is a for-profit distance-learning school accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Online students may choose from bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degrees.

An undergraduate program costs $270 per credit hour. Graduate students pay a tuition rate of $349.

Students may apply for institutional scholarships or financial aid to help lower the cost of tuition. Additionally, the school offers weekly, biweekly, and monthly payment plan options.

2. Troy University

Troy University is a public university founded in 1887. It offers 109 degree options fully online. Some of the available online programs include:

computer science
criminal justice
human resources management
healthcare informatics and nursing leadership
elementary education

Undergraduate tuition costs $424 per credit hour, while graduate tuition is $475. Active duty service members and their families are eligible for a tuition discount. Scholarships, business partnership discounts, and financial aid are available.

3. University of Alabama

The University of Alabama is based in Tuscaloosa but offers many degree programs online. Students choose from several bachelor's degrees, as well as certificate programs and graduate degrees.

The undergraduate tuition rate is $385 per credit hour and the graduate rate is $440. Financial aid, grants, and scholarships are available. Several scholarships are designated for online students aged 25 and over, including the Robert M. and Muriel R. Barksdale Endowed Scholarship and the Campbell-Ellis Endowed Scholarship.

4. Auburn University

Auburn University is a highly ranked public research university with a graduation rate of 79% according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). While the school has a physical campus, it also offers bachelor's and master's degrees fully online.

In-state tuition costs $6,445 per semester for an undergraduate degree, while out-of-state residents pay $17,461. Students may apply for many scholarship categories, including ones for transfer students, veterans, alumni, and merit. Financial aid is also available.

5. Jacksonville State University

Jacksonville State University is a public university that offers online undergraduate and graduate degrees. Online learners can pursue various programs such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS) in sociology.

Undergraduate tuition for part-time online students is $348 per credit hour. Full-time students may benefit from the block tuition rate of $5,220 for 12 to 18 credit hours.

6. University of North Alabama

The University of North Alabama is another excellent online learning option. With rigorous coursework, expert instructors, and student support services, learners pursue online degree programs that are as comprehensive and valuable as traditional on-campus ones.

Tuition for online undergraduates is $340 per credit hour or a block rate of $5,100 per semester for full-time students. Graduate students also enjoy low tuition rates of $495 per credit hour.

7. University of South Alabama

The University of South Alabama offers many flexible and affordable online degree programs. Some of the programs include:

interdisciplinary studies
criminal justice
organizational leadership
business administration

Online courses are flexible enough for working adults and others who require an adjustable learning schedule.

In-state undergrads pay $374 per credit hour, while out-of-state students pay $748. Scholarships are available at all degree levels.

8. Faulkner University

Faulkner University is a four-year Christian liberal arts school located in Montgomery. It offers several online bachelor's degrees as well as a few graduate programs.

Online undergraduate tuition is $325 per credit hour. Typically, the graduate tuition rate is above $500 and varies by program.

Students can apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to receive federal and state financial aid. Additionally, applicants who have resided in Alabama for the last year should complete the Alabama State Grant Program Application.

9. University of West Alabama

The University of West Alabama is based in Livingston and has over 70 programs available for 100% online learning. Undergraduate and graduate degrees are available in business, teaching, and psychology.

Over 80% of students receive financial aid; however, tuition rates are also affordable. Undergraduate students pay $325 per credit hour and graduate students pay $429.

Scholarships and partnerships can help lower the cost of attendance. Some of the partnership opportunities include:

teacher connect
military connect
business connect
community college connect

10. Athens State University

Athens State University offers various bachelor's completion degrees and master's programs. Undergraduate students must have at least 36 transfer credits to enter the program.

Tuition for in-state or out-of-state undergraduates is $256, while graduate students pay $369. The school offers monthly payment plans to help make higher education more attainable.

Our Selection Criteria

We include online schools in our list based on several ranking factors. Our methodology includes:

Accreditation: We chose schools with a strong academic reputation and are accredited to ensure students receive a high-quality education.
Learning format: All schools listed above offer 100% online degree programs.
Affordability: We chose schools that prioritize affordability. The cheap online colleges on this list offer low tuition rates, scholarships, financial aid, or payment plans.

How Much Does a Cheap College in Alabama Cost?

Many affordable degree programs in Alabama range between $300 and $450; however, the cost of tuition varies. One of the cheapest undergraduate degrees comes from Athens State University, which is priced at $256 per credit hour.

How Can I Make an Online Degree Affordable?

There are several ways to make an online degree more affordable. The first step to making an online degree more affordable is to submit a FAFSA to qualify for federal grants that do not have to be repaid.

Research financial aid opportunities that fit your situation. For example, military affiliation typically lowers the cost of your tuition. Submit applications for scholarships and consider tuition waivers.

If you are employed, your employer may offer a tuition assistance program to cover some or all of your tuition.

Learn more below on how to make an online degree more affordable:

FAQs About the Cheapest Colleges in Alabama

Below, we answer some of the most common questions about cheap colleges in Alabama.

What Is the Cheapest Online College in Alabama?

Athens State University has one of the lowest tuition rates for undergraduates in Alabama at $256 per credit. Please note they only offer bachelor's completion degrees and you must have enough transfer credits to enter these programs.

Are Cheap Online Colleges in Alabama Accredited?

Yes, all of the listed affordable online colleges in Alabama are accredited. These schools have a reputation for academic excellence.

What Is the Easiest Online College To Get into in Alabama?

Columbia Southern University has an open admissions policy, so anyone with a high school diploma may enroll in undergraduate online classes.

Do You Have To Live in Alabama To Attend Online College in Alabama?

No, you do not have to live in Alabama to attend an Alabama college. It should be noted that in-state students typically have significantly lower tuition rates, though not always. At Athens State University, both in-state and out-of-state students pay the same online tuition costs.

Find Accredited Online Degree Programs

If you're ready to find the best online colleges in Alabama, browse the accredited schools here on Learn.org. Contact each school individually to learn about their enrollment policies, financial aid opportunities, and more.