10 Most Affordable Online Colleges in Arkansas 2025

Arkansas students pursuing an online degree can choose between several accredited universities offering low tuition rates, scholarships, and financial aid.

Arkansas has many affordable online colleges that deliver a high-quality education with tuition rates under $500 per credit hour. Among these, the best accredited online colleges in Arkansas stand out for offering students the flexibility and support necessary to complete their degrees.

We rank the cheapest online colleges in Arkansas by considering tuition rates, financial aid opportunities, and online learning reputation. Keep reading to explore some of the cheapest online colleges, first-time students, and anyone seeking a convenient, flexible alternative to on-campus programs.

List of the Cheapest Online Colleges in Arkansas

Are you searching for online colleges in Arkansas that won't break the bank? If you're looking for an affordable online degree, check out this list of top colleges in Arkansas. We discuss cheap colleges in Arkansas that offer excellent student resources, expert instruction, and various program options.

1. University of Arkansas-Little Rock

The University of Arkansas-Little Rock is a public research institution offering fully online undergraduate and graduate degrees. Students benefit from the same expert instruction, rigorous coursework, and support that on-campus students receive.

Bachelor's degrees cost $296 per credit hour and master's degrees cost $396. These standard rates apply to both in-state and out-of-state students. Online learners can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) yearly for loan and grant opportunities. Additionally, many institutional merit-based scholarships are available to incoming freshmen and transfer students.

2. Arkansas Tech University

Arkansas Tech University is a four-year school with a campus in Russellville. It offers online bachelor's and master's degrees in various fields, including:

business management
criminal justice
applied science
health informatics
history

Tuition for in-state students is $249.78 per credit hour, while out-of-state students pay $499.56. Students can utilize payment plans to help make tuition more manageable.

3. Arkansas State University

Arkansas State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and offers numerous online degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. These programs are offered in accelerated formats and feature multiple start dates throughout the year and an asynchronous learning environment.

Tuition rates vary by program and degree level. For instance, a Bachelor of Science in business administration costs $282 per credit, while a Master of Science in strategic communication costs $340. Military members and their spouses can receive a 50% tuition discount. Other scholarships and financial aid opportunities are available too.

4. University of Arkansas-Fort Smith

The University of Arkansas-Fort Smith offers several online bachelor's and master's degrees. Online learners may pursue subjects such as:

healthcare administration
early childhood education
organizational leadership
criminal justice

In-state undergraduates pay $299 per credit hour and out-of-state students pay $501. Students may receive institutional scholarships and federal and state loans to help pay tuition.

5. University of Arkansas-Grantham

The University of Arkansas-Grantham offers several 100% online degrees. These accelerated, flexible programs have eight-week courses with new start dates on a monthly basis.

Tuition rates are the same for in-state students and those from out-of-state. Undergraduates pay $305 per credit hour and graduate students pay $365.

6. Southern Arkansas University

Based in Magnolia, Southern Arkansas University is accredited by the HLC and offers fully online bachelor's and master's degrees. Students may access various support services such as career support, academic advising, and writing assistance.

The tuition rate for in-state students is $246 per credit hour, while out-of-state students pay $437. Financial aid and scholarships are available.

7. Ecclesia College

Based in Springdale, Ecclesia College is a four-year Christian school offering several online undergraduate and graduate programs. Students can pursue degrees in Christian leadership, biblical studies, psychology, and other subjects.

Tuition for online degrees is $299.67 per credit hour. Students may apply to FAFSA for federal and state aid. Additionally, institutional scholarships may be available to online students.

8. University of Central Arkansas

The University of Central Arkansas is based in Conway but offers several flexible online degree paths. Students can expect the same comprehensive and challenging coursework as on-campus programs.

The tuition rate is $307 per credit hour for in-state and out-of-state students pursuing a bachelor's degree. Several scholarships are available for incoming freshmen and transfer students.

9. University of Arkansas

The University of Arkansas is a public research institution accredited by the HLC. According to the U.S. Department of Education Score Card, it has a graduation rate of 66%, which is higher than the national average. It offers several online bachelor's and master's degrees in fields such as:

human resource management
information systems
marketing
interdisciplinary studies
business administration

In-state tuition is $263.18 for undergraduates. Many students receive financial aid, including federal or state loans, grants, and scholarships.

10. John Brown University

John Brown University is a private Christian school, where students can pursue several online bachelor's and master's degrees. Enrollment requirements are minimal &emdash; students only need a 2.0 GPA and do not need to submit test scores.

Tuition is $325 per credit hour for undergraduate degrees. Admissions counselors are available to help students maximize financial aid opportunities, including federal and state loans, grants, and scholarships.

Our Selection Criteria

To choose the schools on this list, we relied on several ranking factors, including:

Accreditation: All schools on this list are accredited and offer comprehensive curriculums and challenging coursework.
Learning format: We chose schools that offer at least three 100% online bachelor's degrees, though many schools offer associate's, master's, doctorates, or certificates as well.
Affordability: All listed schools offer low tuition rates, financial aid opportunities, or payment plans to help make a college degree attainable.

How Much Does a Cheap College in Arkansas Cost?

Tuition rates at cheap colleges in Arkansas vary by institution, program, and degree level. Some online colleges may offer tuition rates ranging from around $250 to $500.

How Can I Make an Online Degree Affordable in Arkansas?

Here are some tips to help you achieve an affordable online education. Learn more below on how to make an online degree cheaper:

Apply for Financial Aid

Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal financial aid, including low-interest federal loans and need-based grants like the Pell Grant.
Explore independent scholarships, which offer free money that doesn't need to be repaid.

Attend an In-State Public School

Consider enrolling in an in-state public school for your online degree. Many public institutions offer lower tuition rates for in-state residents, even for online programs.

Some states may also have tuition reciprocity programs, providing discounted or in-state rates to students from neighboring states.

Prioritize Online Colleges Offering Tuition Discounts

Look for online colleges that offer flat-rate or discounted tuition for all online students, regardless of their residency.

Earn Credits at a Community College

Save money by taking general education courses at a local community college before transferring the credits to a four-year university to complete your bachelor's degree.

Choose an Accelerated Program

Consider online programs with accelerated options, designed to help you graduate in less time and save money. Exploring bachelor's-to-master's programs offered by online colleges to earn both degrees can help reduce overall expenses.

FAQs About the Cheapest Colleges in Arkansas

Do you have questions about the cheapest colleges in Arkansas? We provide some answers to common questions, below.

What Is the Cheapest Four-Year College in Arkansas?

Southern Arkansas University has the cheapest tuition rate at $246. However, prospective students should also consider the financial aid options available at each school to assess the best overall value.

Can I Transfer Credits Toward a Bachelor's Degree in Arkansas?

Yes, you can transfer credits toward a bachelor's degree in Arkansas. Each school has its own transfer credit policy. For instance, John Brown University accepts credits from a community college or an associate's degree, as well as credits for military experience, prior learning, and AP exams.

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

The University of Arkansas-Grantham has an open admissions policy, so anyone with a high school diploma or passing GED test score can enroll in an undergraduate program.

Can You Go To College for Free in Arkansas?

Some schools have low tuition rates and various scholarship and financial aid opportunities, so it's possible to attend college for free or with very few out-of-pocket expenses. Prospective college students should contact each school's financial aid office to determine an estimated cost of attendance.

What Are the University of Arkansas Online Degree Offerings?

The University of Arkansas offers numerous bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs online. Students may study in fields, such as:

agricultural business
communication
English
Spanish
marketing
supply chain management
educational studies
interdisciplinary studies

Find Accredited Online Degree Programs

If you're ready to start your higher education journey, check out the cheap online colleges here on Learn.org. Request info from individual schools to learn more about the financial aid process.