10 Most Affordable Online Colleges in Indiana 2025
Indiana students pursuing higher education can choose between several accredited online universities offering low tuition rates and flexible learning options.
Are you searching for affordable higher education that doesn't involve on-campus learning? Many online colleges in Indiana offer high-quality degree programs with tuition rates under $500.
We'll explore the most affordable online colleges and other degree seekers needing a flexible schedule. Keep reading to discover the cheapest online colleges in Indiana offering low tuition rates and plenty of financial aid, scholarships, and discount opportunities.
List of the Cheapest & Most Affordable Online Colleges in Indiana
Below, we discuss the cheapest colleges in Indiana. Learn about degree programs, tuition rates, and financial aid opportunities.
1. Indiana University East
Indiana University East is a four-year public university based in Richmond. Over 40 online bachelor's and master's degree programs are available in fields such as:
- accounting
- business administration
- criminal justice
- digital media and storytelling
- healthcare management
In-state residents pay $257.23 per credit hour and out-of-state students pay $378.10 for an undergraduate degree. Tuition rates for graduate students are also affordable ?Indiana residents pay $342.42 per credit hour and out-of-state students pay $505.82.
Students may apply for financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Many scholarships are available for first-year or transfer students.
2. Vincennes University
Vincennes University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and offers several associate's and bachelor's degrees. The school has an open admissions policy, so anyone with a high school diploma or GED can enter these degree programs.
Tuition for in-state residents starts at $251.54 per credit hour. Students residing in Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, and Kentucky qualify for in-state tuition rates. Out-of-state students must pay $314.18 per credit hour.
The school offers four academic merit scholarships of varying award amounts: academic or technical honors diploma, blue and gold, presidential, and valedictorian/salutatorian. Students may receive only one of these four scholarships.
3. American College of Education
The American College of Education is a private, for-profit school offering only distance learning programs at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. The school is accredited by the HLC and allows students to take flexible online classes with rigorous coursework material.
Tuition varies by program and degree level. For example, a Bachelor of Science in healthcare administration costs $215 per credit hour and a Doctorate of Education in nursing is $306. To help manage tuition costs, the school offers several payment plan options and awards over $2 million in scholarships and grants.
4. Ball State University
At Ball State University, students may pursue over 100 online degrees at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Online students can access many support services, such as academic advising, technology support, and career planning.
Tuition for Indiana undergraduates costs $346 per credit hour or $4,999 per semester for full-time students. Over 80% of students received financial aid, including loans, scholarships, or grants.
5. University of Southern Indiana
The University of Southern Indiana offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in a 100% online learning format. Students can pursue programs such as:
- health informatics and information management
- sport management
- nursing
- social work
- communications
Undergraduate tuition rates for Indiana residents are $299.19 per credit hour. Out-of-state residents pay over double that amount at $727.23 per credit hour. Financial aid and scholarships are available at all degree levels.
6. Indiana State University
Indiana State University offers numerous online degrees at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Students benefit from expert instructors, online tutoring, academic advising, and more support services during their degrees.
Part-time Indiana students pay $361 per credit hour, while full-time students pay $4,989 per semester. Students may complete FAFSA and apply for numerous available scholarships.
7. Indiana Wesleyan University
Indiana Wesleyan University is a private, Christian university based in Marion. The school offers over 160 online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Tuition rates vary by program and degree level. For instance, a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity costs $455 per credit hour, while a bachelor's degree in data analytics costs $575.
Online learners may apply for federal and state aid. Loans, grants, and outside scholarships are available to help make tuition payments more manageable.
8. Trine University
Students may pursue several online degree options at Trine University. Some of the degree programs include:
- business administration
- criminal justice
- healthcare
- general studies
Tuition costs $299 per credit hour for undergraduates. Active-duty military service members receive a tuition discount. Scholarships and loans for Indiana residents are also available for students who meet specific criteria.
9. Indiana Institute of Technology
Indiana Institute of Technology is a private, four-year college based in Fort Wayne. Numerous degree programs are available, including:
- child development
- computer science
- engineering
- marketing
Students pursuing a non-engineering degree pay $399 per credit hour, while engineering students pay $426. Students may receive institutional scholarships, such as the merit scholarship for community college graduates or the military scholarship.
10. Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is a private, nonprofit school that offers several online degree programs. Students may pursue degrees in:
- business administration
- digital marketing
- mathematics
- psychology
- human resources
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the retention rate for full-time, first-year students is 67%.
Undergraduates pay $496 per credit hour, though tuition discounts are available for military members. Online students may receive institutional scholarships and financial aid.
Our Selection Criteria
Our methodology for this list includes several ranking factors:
- Accreditation: All schools listed are accredited and provide a comprehensive education.
- Program Type: We selected schools with fully online degree programs.
- Location: Every school is based in Indiana and may offer tuition discounts or scholarships specifically for Indiana residents.
How Much Does a Cheap College in Indiana Cost?
There are many affordable online colleges in Indiana. Typically, the tuition rates of cheap colleges range from around $200 per credit hour to $500.
How Can I Make Online Programs Affordable in Indiana?
Prospective students can look into several options to find an affordable online degree in Indiana. To take advantage of cheaper tuition costs, first think about enrolling in a public university as an in-state resident.
Look for external and institution-specific scholarship options relevant to your field of study. If you already have a job, research tuition reimbursement plans offered by your employer.
Before transferring to a four-year institution, use community college credits to efficiently finish the general education requirements.
Learn more below on how to make an online degree cheaper:
- online colleges that accept FAFSA
- online colleges that accept the Pell Grant
- online colleges that accept transfer credits
- online colleges with the most scholarships
- scholarships for online students
- online colleges with payment plans
- online colleges with no application fee
FAQs About the Cheapest Online Colleges in Indiana
Do you have questions about cheap online colleges in Indiana? We answer some of the most asked questions below.
What Is the Cheapest Online College in Indiana?
While there are many cheap colleges in Indiana, the American College of Education offers the most affordable tuition rate at $215 per credit hour. It's important to note that financial aid, scholarships, discounts, and business partnerships could make a school with a higher tuition rate more affordable. Speak with a school's financial aid office to determine the total cost of attendance.
What Financial Aid Is Available to Online Students in Indiana?
Indiana college students may apply for various forms of financial aid, including loans, grants, and scholarships. According to the Indiana Commission for Higher Education, the state ranks fifth in the U.S. for awarding need-based grants. The two main grants available are the Frank O'Bannon Grant and the 21st Century Scholarship.
How Much Does an Affordable Online Bachelor's Degree Cost?
The cost of a bachelor's degree varies by school, program, financial aid packages, and whether you are an in-state resident. The degree programs on this list range from $215 to $727.23 per credit hour.
Do You Have To Live In Indiana To Attend Online College in the State?
No, you don't have to live in Indiana to attend an online college within the state. Many schools offer lower tuition rates for Indiana residents, though.
Find Accredited Online Degree Programs
Start your academic journey today by contacting the cheap colleges here on Learn.org. Discover each school's enrollment policies, financial aid, and institutional scholarships.