Top 10 Cheapest Colleges in Oklahoma (2025)

Get a budget-friendly education in the heartland.

Our list unveils the top 10 cheapest colleges in Oklahoma for 2024. Discover affordable excellence and Oklahoma charm as we guide you through the smartest savings in higher education.

Don't break the bank, fulfill your academic dreams without emptying your wallet.

List of Cheap Colleges in Oklahoma

Explore budget-friendly education options with our curated list of the cheapest colleges in Oklahoma, providing quality learning without breaking the bank.

1. Columbia College - Fort Sill

Columbia College-Fort Sill offers personalized attention and quality faculty, emphasizing a commitment to high-quality programs. With an affordable tuition of $8,496, it combines excellence with economic accessibility.

2. University of Oklahoma

The University of Oklahoma stands as an affordable institution with nationally ranked programs. Encompassing 170 academic options, including economical majors like meteorology, OU provides a world-class education.

With in-state tuition at $5,070, it delivers quality at an optimal cost.

3. Oklahoma State University - Stillwater

Oklahoma State University, founded in 1890, prioritizes accessibility to higher education.

Boasting a diverse student body of over 35,000, OSU offers 200 undergraduate majors and options. With an in-state cost of attendance at $25,860, OSU champions affordability.

4. University of Central Oklahoma

The University of Central Oklahoma, with a legacy since 1890, combines quality and affordability.

Recognized for a top-ranked student experience, UCO offers 118 undergraduate areas of study. With a tuition of $8,234 for in-state students, it exemplifies educational value.

5. Northeastern State University

Northeastern State University, established in 1909, is an economical choice with campuses across Oklahoma.

With 59 undergraduate programs and a tuition of $220.75 per credit hour for in-state students, NSU is committed to providing accessible and diverse educational opportunities.

6. Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Southwestern Oklahoma State University, founded in 1901, excels in affordability and quality. Recognized nationally for its programs, SWOSU offers a range of degrees.

With in-state tuition at $232.29 per credit hour, SWOSU is an outstanding choice for economical and top-notch education.

7. Langston University

Langston University, a historic HBCU established in 1897, is an affordable option with a diverse array of programs.

Offering programs like physical therapy and biotechnology, Langston ensures quality education. With tuition at $7,000 for residents, LU is an economical pathway to excellence.

8. East Central University

East Central University, founded in 1909, stands as one of Oklahoma's most economical colleges. With an average class size of 22 and over 70-degree programs, ECU provides personalized education. In-state tuition at $8,480 highlights its commitment to accessibility.

9. Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Southeastern Oklahoma State University, serving since 1909, is a best-value institution with diverse baccalaureate programs. With an emphasis on liberal arts, SOSU fosters cultural opportunities and economic growth.

With a tuition of $4,340 per semester for in-state students, SOSU ensures affordable and quality education.

10. Bacone College

Bacone College, founded in 1880, holds the distinction of being Oklahoma's oldest institution. As a historic American Indian-serving institution, Bacone fosters a culturally diverse environment that offers a holistic, liberal arts education.

With a tuition of $12,000, Bacone offers a transformative educational experience.

How Much Will a College Degree Cost?

According to CollegeBoard's data for the 2021-2022 academic year, the average tuition at a public, four-year university was $10,740 for in-state students and $27,560 for out-of-state students.

Notably, there's a 2.2% decrease in in-state tuition compared to the previous year. Private schools, on the other hand, averaged $38,070 per year.

How To Make College Affordable

Here are practical tips to lighten the financial load.

Apply for Scholarships

Explore various scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, athletics, or community service. Unlike loans, scholarships don't require repayment, offering a debt-free path through college. Research and apply widely to maximize financial aid opportunities.

Check Eligibility for Grants

Complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal, state, and institutional grants. Federal Pell Grants, based on financial need, are common. States and universities also offer grants, providing substantial assistance.

Grant applications often require information on financial need, academic merit, or specific qualifications.

Earn College Credits Before Enrolling

High school dual enrollment and Advanced Placement (AP) classes can earn college credits. Nontraditional students may receive credits for work experience or military service.

Research options and consult with high school guidance counselors or college advisors for personalized plans.

Participate in Work-Study Programs

Engage in work-study programs offered by colleges and universities, gaining work experience while earning money to offset education costs. Jobs may be on or off-campus and can align with the student's field of study.

Check eligibility and available opportunities through the financial aid office.

Live Off-Campus

Living off-campus can be more cost-effective than on-campus housing. Research affordable options, such as apartments or shared housing, to control living expenses. Some schools require on-campus living initially, so plan accordingly.

Buy Discounted Textbooks

Save on textbook expenses by purchasing used or rented books and exploring digital versions. Selling textbooks at the end of the semester helps recoup costs, minimizing the financial burden of course materials.

Do Cheap Colleges in Oklahoma Offer High-Quality Education?

Yes, the cheapest colleges in Oklahoma not only offer affordability but also provide high-quality education. Oklahoma, known for its low cost of living and favorable economic conditions, is an ideal state for pursuing a college education.

Contrary to the misconception that affordable options may compromise educational quality, many of the most budget-friendly colleges in Oklahoma consistently rank among the best.

Students can expect to receive a top-notch education without compromising their financial well-being, making Oklahoma an attractive destination for those seeking both quality and affordability in higher education.

In-State Vs. Out-of-State Tuition Rates

Understanding the distinction between in-state and out-of-state tuition rates is crucial for prospective college students.

In-State Tuition

In-state tuition is the subsidized rate that residents pay to attend public colleges within their home state. This cost is lower because state residents contribute to the public university system through taxes, allowing for a discounted education.

On average, in-state students paid $9,375 for tuition and fees at public four-year colleges in the 2020-21 school year.

Out-of-State Tuition

Out-of-state tuition, or nonresident tuition, is the higher rate charged to students attending public universities outside their home states.

Since these students haven't contributed to out-of-state school systems through taxes, their education costs are not subsidized.

On average, nonresident tuition is significantly higher, with Vermont being the most expensive state at $41,963 for the 2020-21 school year.

Find an Affordable College in Oklahoma Today

Secure your academic journey in the Sooner State without breaking the bank.

With our guide to the cheapest colleges in Oklahoma, you're not just getting an education, you're investing in a future as rich as Oklahoma soil. Enroll affordably and aim high.