Are There Tuition-Free Online Master's Degrees?

Although fully free online master's degrees are not available, students seeking an affordable degree path can significantly reduce costs through various financial aid options. Federal and state aid, scholarships from higher education institutions, and other funding sources can cover the majority of tuition costs for eligible students. However, it is important to note that additional costs beyond tuition may apply.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, professionals with advanced degrees earn higher median salaries. For those aiming to move up in their careers, a master's degree can provide a valuable boost. If you're searching for a free master's degree online or wondering whether free online colleges offer graduate-level programs, this guide breaks down the possibilities.

We'll explore the only tuition-free, accredited school. Additionally, you'll learn about graduate schools with significant scholarships and low tuition rates. Keep reading to discover affordable master's degree programs.

Can I Get a Master's Degree Online for Free?

Finding tuition-free online master's degree programs isn't realistic. Almost all accredited universities charge tuition fees. And, most schools reserve fully funded fellowships or full-tuition scholarships for on-campus students participating in research or teaching roles.

However, some of the most affordable online master's degrees offer significant financial aid, scholarships, or employer sponsorships that can dramatically reduce costs or even cover them completely. While you may not pay full tuition, other fees and material costs usually remain, so expect to invest something no matter what.

Are There Any Tuition-Free Master's Programs Online?

The University of the People (UoPeople) is the only accredited institution offering tuition-free online master's degrees, though students still pay fees per course. Beyond UoPeople, there are no tuition-free master's degrees.

How To Make Your Online Master's Degree Affordable

While tuition-free programs aren't usually possible, there are many aid opportunities that can lift some of the financial burden of a graduate degree. Below, we'll cover some of the most common aid options for those seeking an advanced degree.

Military Benefits

Active-duty service members, veterans, and their families can access generous education benefits through the GI Bill or tuition assistance programs. Many schools also offer military discounts or waive certain fees entirely.

Scholarships and Fellowships

Many universities and private organizations offer scholarships specifically for graduate students. These may be merit-based, need-based, or tied to a specific field. Some online schools award exclusive fellowships for working professionals or underrepresented groups.

State and School-Based Aid

Some states offer grants or tuition waivers for residents attending in-state schools — even online. Additionally, certain universities provide institutional aid, including discounts, assistantships, or payment plans for online learners.

Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

Filling out the FAFSA is the first step toward accessing federal student loans and is required for most types of state and institutional financial aid. Many of the cheapest online colleges that accept FAFSA use it to determine eligibility for grants, scholarships, and other funding.

Employer Tuition Assistance

Some employers offer tuition reimbursement or direct payment toward degrees that relate to your job. Check your HR benefits; many companies partner with specific schools to provide reduced tuition rates for employees.

What Other Costs Should I Expect?

Even at a tuition-free college, you'll still face other expenses. Expect to pay for application fees, technology fees, textbooks, course materials, and possibly exam or graduation fees. Some online programs also require proctored testing or residency components, which can add travel and lodging costs.

10 Low-Cost Online Master's Programs

While graduate school can be expensive, there are still many low-cost online learning options out there. From low tuition rates to extensive scholarships, it's possible to earn a high-quality master's degree without incurring a mound of debt. Below, we'll cover tuition fees, scholarships, and more.

1. University of the People

UoPeople is a nonprofit, accredited online university offering tuition-free degree programs worldwide. UoPeople offers low-cost, fully online master's degrees in business administration, education, and information technology. Courses are asynchronous, allowing flexible study.

While tuition is free, students pay fees per online course for assessments. Graduate students must pay $350 for each education course and $400 for business and information technology courses. The total cost for any of the three master's degrees is under $5,000.

Average in-state tuition: $0 (tuition-free)

Average out-of-state tuition: $0 (tuition-free)

Financial aid: Scholarships for assessment fees are available on a need basis.

Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

2. University at Buffalo

The University at Buffalo (UB), part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system, offers a range of online master's programs designed for working professionals. UB provides online master's degrees in various fields, including the Master of Science in information and library science. While tuition is not free, UB's online programs offer relatively low tuition rates, and several financial aid options are available to help offset costs.

Average in-state tuition: $5,655 per semester

Average out-of-state tuition: $6,785 per semester

Financial aid: There are extensive financial aid options for graduate students, including federal loans and institutional scholarships, like the Mary B. Cassata Library Studies and Information Department Fund scholarship award.

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

3. University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at Austin is a public research institution offering many online master's programs. Some programs include computer science, nutritional science, and data science. Courses are challenging and engaging to provide a valuable learning experience for online students.

Average in-state tuition: varies; computer science costs $1,000 per course for a total cost of $10,000 for the degree

Average out-of-state tuition: varies; computer science costs $1,000 per course for a total cost of $10,000 for the degree

Financial aid: The school offers numerous scholarships for graduate students in varying award amounts. Additionally, federal and state aid programs can help make the remaining tuition more manageable.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)

4. Texas A&M University-Central Texas

At Texas A&M University-Central Texas, students can pursue various graduate programs remotely. Fields include business administration, criminal justice, English, and several others. The university's online tuition rates are low, and the school offers many scholarship opportunities for graduate students.

Average in-state tuition: $308.76 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $308.76 per credit hour

Financial aid: Institutional financial assistance is available to qualifying graduate students. Eligibility varies by scholarship, and students must complete the general scholarship application to be considered.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

5. University of Alabama

The University of Alabama offers quality online degree programs in numerous fields: elementary education, marketing, nursing, and more. These degrees are just as valuable as traditional on-campus programs. Plus, online learners can access free resources, such as academic coaching and tutoring, throughout their studies.

While these degree programs aren't free, the school states that over half of graduate students receive some sort of funding. Online students can access several scholarships, grants, and other aid programs to help lower the total cost of attendance.

Average in-state tuition: $480 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $480 per credit hour

Financial aid: Graduate students can apply for many different institutional scholarships, like the The Campbell-Ellis Endowed Scholarship or the James C. Caldwell Endowed Scholarship. Alumni discounts and grants can also lower your tuition bill.

Accreditation: SACSCOC

6. University of Kansas

The University of Kansas is a large public research institution with numerous online degree programs. Online learners can choose from many graduate programs, such as public administration, sport management, and organizational communication. These programs feature the same rigorous curriculum and faculty as on-campus classes.

Average in-state tuition: varies by program; typically ranges from $445 to $695 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: varies by program; typically ranges from $445 to $695 per credit hour

Financial aid: Funding opportunities for graduate students are available, including scholarship opportunities.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

7. Ohio University

Ohio University is a large research university offering affordable online degree programs for undergraduate and graduate students. Some of the master's programs include communication, health administration, and social sciences. These remote programs feature flexible courses designed for working professionals juggling multiple responsibilities.

Average in-state tuition: $505 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $524 per credit hour

Financial aid: The school offers funding opportunities, including fellowships, grants, and scholarships, to graduate students.

Accreditation: HLC

8. University of Nebraska at Kearney

The University of Nebraska at Kearney offers a range of online bachelor's and master's degrees. Students can pursue graduate programs in biology, health sciences, history, and several other fields. The school is committed to providing a well-rounded learning experience and offers support resources, like technology help and academic advising, to help online learners succeed.

Average in-state tuition: $337 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $540 per credit hour

Financial aid: The school offers many scholarships dedicated to graduate students. Learners must complete the Current Student Scholarship Application before the deadlines to be considered for these awards.

Accreditation: HLC

9. University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers many online degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Students can pursue various degrees such as a Master of Business Administration, a Master of Education (MEd) in elementary education, or a Master of Arts (MA) in communication. Courses may be self-paced or follow a semester-based timeline.

Average in-state tuition: varies by area of interest; a graduate degree in education will likely cost around $552.57 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: varies by area of interest; a graduate degree in education will likely cost around $552.57 per credit hour

Financial aid: The school offers over a thousand scholarship opportunities to full-time undergraduate and graduate students. These scholarships range in award amounts but may be up to full tuition.

Accreditation: HLC

10. Boston University

Boston University is a private research university offering a range of online graduate programs through its various schools and colleges. Several online master's programs are available, including social work, criminal justice, and health communication.

These programs are designed for working professionals, with flexibility through remote coursework. While not tuition-free, BU offers competitive tuition rates for its online programs and various financial aid options, including scholarships, that can help reduce costs.

Average in-state tuition: varies; the criminal justice program is around $770 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: varies; the criminal justice program is around $770 per credit hour

Financial aid: The school offers merit-based scholarships for graduate students up to $5,000. Various other scholarships are available, including those for specific departments, like the Whitney Young, Jr. Fellowship, which is awarded to those pursuing social work, urban studies, or Afro-American Studies fields.

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

Find an Affordable Online Master's Degree Near You

If you're looking for the best best online master's programs, check out the ones listed here on Learn.org. Contact the admissions team of any school that interests you and find out more information about their financial aid.

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