10 Cheapest & Most Affordable Online Colleges 2025

Students looking for affordable tuition rates can check out these accredited online colleges that offer the inexpensive online degree programs in the United States.

College students interested in low-cost alternatives to on-campus degrees can find affordable online programs at schools nationwide. But where can you find the cheapest colleges?

New York, Georgia, Florida, and Texas are a few states with schools housing the best online degrees students can earn for less. Below, we'll highlight some of the most affordable online colleges for working adults, as well as recent high school graduates. We'll also answer frequently asked questions about cheap online colleges.

List of the Most Affordable Online Colleges

Are you interested in enrolling in a cost-friendly degree program? Explore the list below to find some of the least expensive universities in the U.S.

1. Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville State University offers several online degree completion programs. Areas of study include computer science, general business administration, and criminal justice.

The university participates in the NC Promise Tuition Plan, which reduces undergraduate tuition for North Carolina residents to $500 per semester, or $41.67 per credit. Out-of-state students enrolled in online programs pay just $104.17 per credit.

2. Middle Georgia State University

Students attending Middle Georgia State University can choose from online master's, bachelor's, and associate degrees. Aviation maintenance technology, information technology, and management are a few college program options.

Learners taking online courses pay just $174 per credit hour, and eCore coursework is charged at a rate of $159. Students earning online graduate degrees pay $261 per credit hour. The MGA Foundation offers 165 scholarships to help reduce costs.

3. University of Texas El Paso

The University of Texas at El Paso offers dozens of online undergraduate and graduate degrees. Learners can study nursing, business administration, social work, and more.

In-state students taking undergraduate courses pay as little as $183.19 per semester credit hour, and graduate rates start as low as $312.82. Eligible students can earn free tuition via the Promise Plus endowment.

4. University of Florida

The University of Florida, a public university recognized as a top online learning provider, offers programs in advertising, special education, and beyond. Online students can pursue bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.

Florida residents learning online receive a 40% discount to pay $129.18 per credit hour. Non-residents pay $552.62 per credit. Federal, state, and institutional aid can lower the cost of tuition.

5. Pathways College

Pathways College has campuses in Arizona and California; however, it offers online associate and bachelor's programs in business and liberal studies. Learners who took college courses at a community college or university can transfer up to 90 credits into the program.

Earning an online college education at Pathways costs $206 per credit. Students can lower costs with grants and scholarships.

6. California State University, East Bay

At California State University, East Bay, students can choose from fully online traditional and completion degrees. The school offers programs in history, eLearning, healthcare administration, and beyond.

In-state students enrolled in graduate and undergraduate programs pay $9,107 and $7,583 annually, respectively. Out-of-state students pay $420 per unit. Scholarships, grants, and other aid can increase affordability.

7. Norfolk State University

Norfolk State University students can choose from online bachelor's and master's programs. Some degree options include history, cybersecurity, and urban education.

Full-time undergraduates and graduates in Virginia pay $3,038 and $4,654 per semester, respectively. Pell-eligible students who reside within 45 minutes of the school can receive free tuition via the VCAN Scholarship.

8. Empire State University

The State University of New York, SUNY Empire (also known as Empire State University) has provided online education since 1995. Students can choose from over 120 online programs in biology, technology, and more.

New York residents pay $295 per credit hour for associate and bachelor's degrees and $471 for most graduate programs. Non-residents pay $353 and $565 per credit hour, respectively. Eligible students can earn a degree tuition-free with the Excelsior Scholarship.

9. Austin Peay State University

Austin Peay State University in Tennessee offers 100% online associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. Areas of study include university studies, public health, and marketing.

Undergraduate and graduate tuition is $303 and $488 per credit hour, respectively, with lower rates for full-time course loads. Scholarships and financial aid increase affordability.

10. Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

At Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, students can find traditional bachelor's and bachelor's completion programs and graduate degrees online. Programs are available in journalism, accounting, architecture, and beyond.

Per-credit tuition costs $321.50 for undergraduate coursework and $469.50 for graduate study. Filling out the FAFSA form and General Scholarship application can help students qualify for aid.

Our Selection Criteria

Our team selected the schools in the rank list above using a rigorous vetting process. Each institution has met the following criteria for delivering high-quality education:

Accredited: The institutions have received accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, WASC Senior College and University Commission, Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, guaranteeing recognized academic standards.
Reputable: We confirmed that the schools in this list are respected, considering factors such as acceptance rates, graduation rates, and student outcomes.
Affordable: These colleges and universities increase degree affordability with financial aid, scholarships, or lower tuition rates.

How Much Does an Online Degree Program Cost?

The cost of an online degree program depends on residency (in-state vs. out-of-state), enrollment status (part-time vs. full-time), and degree type. On average, an online bachelor's degree costs between $40,000 and $62,000.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), full-time, first-time undergrads received nearly $13,000 in scholarship and graduate aid in the 2022-23 academic year. Online learners at most schools can use these funds to lower tuition costs.

How Can I Make an Accredited Online Degree Affordable?

You can make an online degree more affordable by choosing a college or program that has a tuition cap, such as Capella University. At Capella, tuition is capped at $2,500 per semester - this allows students to nearly half the cost of their degree by attending full-time.

You can also make your online degree more affordable by applying for scholarships and grants through the FAFSA - this will lower your out-of-pocket costs.

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

FAQs About Cheap Online Colleges & Universities

Many inexpensive accredited online universities have great academic reputations and prepare students for top careers. Review the FAQs below to learn more about these institutions.

What Is the Cheapest Online Bachelor's Degree?

Numerous online schools offer budget-friendly bachelor's programs; however, Fayetteville State University is one of the nation's cheapest online colleges. With help from the NC Promise Tuition Plan, in-state tuition costs just $1,000 per year. Out-of-state learners pay about $2,500 annually.

Can I Get Financial Aid for Online Classes?

Many online institutions accept grants, student loans, and other forms of financial aid. Contacting your school's financial aid office can confirm whether your online program qualifies for federal or state assistance.

Is an Affordable Online Bachelor's Degree Worth It?

Yes, earning an affordable online bachelor's degree is worth it. You can earn your degree without leaving home and qualify for top roles in your field upon completion. Paying less for your online education helps you enjoy a great return on your investment.

Are There Any Free Online Universities That Offer an Accredited Degree?

Several universities offering distance learning opportunities help students earn accredited degrees tuition-free. SUNY and the City University of New York (CUNY) schools offer the Excelsior Scholarship Program, which covers tuition for students from families earning $125,000 or less.

The University of Texas System offers Promise Plus, which covers tuition for bachelor's degrees at its nine institutions. Eligibility is open to students from families earning below $65,000 to $125,000, depending on the university.

What Is the Easiest College To Get Into Online?

The easiest schools of higher education to enter have higher acceptance rates. Are you looking for an easy, low-cost school? Western Governors University has a 100% acceptance rate and offers affordable online bachelor's degree programs costing an average of $8,300 annually.

Find an Affordable Online College Degree Near You

Take the next step toward a rewarding career in your chosen field by exploring the degree programs listed on Learn.org. Contact one of these colleges today to learn how they can help you reach your career goals.