Affordable Universities in USA for International Students

For thousands of Nepalese students, the dream of studying in the United States often fades beneath the weight of rising tuition fees. But what if we told you that a high-quality U.S. education is actually affordable and very achievable?

In this blog, we’ve curated a list of genuinely affordable universities in USA for international students that maintain academic excellence while offering lower tuition rates that Nepalese families can realistically plan for. Let this practical guide unlock real opportunities 

Why Study in the USA?

• A U.S. degree is globally respected and opens international career pathways.
• Home to top research-driven universities across every field.
• Cultural diversity makes it welcoming and adaptable for Nepalese students.
• Access to Optional Practical Training (OPT) and work opportunities post-graduation.
• World-class facilities, innovation, and internship networks in every state.

Why Nepalese Students Should Opt for Affordable Universities in the USA

In a country where education is one of the biggest investments for families, affordability matters. Choosing cost-effective universities allows Nepalese students to focus on learning and career-building without overwhelming financial pressure. Many affordable U.S. universities offer the same accredited degrees, excellent teaching environments, and diverse student support systems as high-priced institutions.

Moreover, affordable universities make education more inclusive and realistic, especially for students from middle-class families who want to study abroad without burdening their parents or taking extreme financial risks.

A smart student knows that it’s not about the most expensive university, it’s about the right one. And these affordable options are just that.

Top 10 Affordable Universities in USA for Nepalese Students

Some universities in the USA, particularly public universities (state schools), often have lower base tuition fees, which makes them cheaper for international students. While some other universities may charge higher, they may offer attractive financial waivers, making them more affordable. Explore all sort of low-cost options along with their scholarships here:

1. Minnesota State University

A top choice for international students, MSU Mankato offers a supportive campus, career-focused programs, and competitive tuition rates that attract students from over 90 countries.

• Location: Mankato, Minnesota
• Website: www.mnsu.edu
• Admission Fee: $20
• Annual Tuition Fee (Approx.): $9,000 – $10,000
• Acceptance Rate: 91%
• QS Ranking (2025): Not ranked globally, strong regional standing
• Type: Public
• Specialties: Aviation, Business, Nursing, Engineering
• Best Traits: Affordable tuition, safe environment, and strong job placement records
• Why it Stands Out: Recognized by the Council on Undergraduate Research as a top 20 university for undergraduate research
• Focus on specific students: Great option for undergraduates seeking career-ready programs in a midwestern setting
• University Values & Culture: MSU Mankato emphasizes diversity, inclusivity, and practical learning. Their motto “Big Ideas. Real-World Thinking.” is reflected in their strong focus on employability and community involvement.

Scholarships for at Minnesota State University for  International Students

2. University of South Florida (USF)

Renowned for high-impact research and global alumni, USF combines affordability with world-class academics.

• Location: Tampa, Florida
• Website: www.usf.edu 
• Admission Fee: $30
• Annual Tuition Fee: $17,000 – $18,500
• Acceptance Rate: 41%
• QS Ranking (2025): #601–610
• Type: Public
• Specialties: Engineering, Business, Public Health, Computer Science
• Why it stands out: Hosts over 5,000 international students; strong merit-based aid 
• University Values & Culture: USF fosters innovation, inclusion, and global collaboration, emphasizing career readiness and research-driven learning.

Scholarships at University of South Florida (USF) for International Students

3. California State University, Long Beach (CSULB)

CSU of Long Beach is one of the most diverse among the 23 CSU campuses spread across California, offering strong academic and professional pathways near LA at reasonable cost.

• • Location: Long Beach, California

• Website: www.csulb.edu 

• Admission Fee: $70
• Annual Tuition Fee: $16,000 – $17,000
• Acceptance Rate: 40%
• QS Ranking (2025): #1401+
• Type: Public
• Specialties: Film, Engineering, Business, Health Sciences
• Why it stands out: Proximity to Hollywood and tech hubs; strong internships
• University Values & Culture: CSULB embraces cultural diversity as a Hispanic‑serving institution. It supports equity through programs like the Dream Success Center and honors global scholarship societies like Phi Beta Delta

Scholarships in California State University for International Students

4.  University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV)

UTRGV is a Hispanic-serving, mission-driven university offering broad access and affordability for international students.

• • Location: Edinburg, Texas

• Website: www.utrgv.edu 

• Admission Fee: $50
• Annual Tuition Fee: ~$33,500
• Acceptance Rate: 84%
• QS Ranking: Regional strength
• Type: Public
• Specialties: Engineering, Health Professions, Business, Education
• Why it stands out: Free tuition programs for select qualifiers; inclusive culture 
• University Values & Culture: UTRGV prioritizes community engagement, bilingual education, and equity, having earned the Seal of Excelencia for Hispanic student support

Scholarships at  University of Texas Rio Grande Valley for International Students

5. Arkansas State University (A‑State)

A-State offers accredited degrees, vibrant student life, and some of the lowest international tuition in the U.S.

• • Location: Jonesboro, Arkansas

• Website: www.astate.edu 

• Admission Fee: $30
• Annual Tuition Fee: ~$9,972
• Acceptance Rate: 70%
• QS Ranking: Regional strength
• Type: Public
• Specialties: Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Nursing
• Why it stands out: Strong support services, on-campus community
• University Values & Culture: A-State’s motto, “Educate, Enhance, Enrich,” reflects its mission-driven commitment to student success, diversity, and community involvement

Scholarships at Arkansas State University for International Students

6. Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO)

Known for its welcoming international community and strong academic programs in STEM and the arts.

• Website: www.semo.edu
• Location: Cape Girardeau, Missouri
• Admission Fee: $70
• Annual Tuition Fee: ~$9.496
• Acceptance Rate: 79%
• QS Ranking (2025): Regional strength
• Type: Public
• Specialties: Cybersecurity, STEM, Education, Performing Arts
• Why it stands out: Automatically considers all applicants for scholarships; hosts “Carpe Diem” cultural festival with over 700 attendees
• University Values & Culture: SEMO cultivates inclusion, creativity, and engagement. SEMO could be your ideal university if you thrive in community-rich, hands-on learning environments.

Scholarships in SEMO for International Students

7. Brigham Young University (BYU)

A private institution known for maintenance of discipline and faith, offering high academic quality and affordability.

• Website: www.byu.edu
• Location: Provo, Utah
• Admission Fee: $35
• Annual Tuition Fee: ~$22,500
• Acceptance Rate: 69%
• QS Ranking (2025): #1001-1200
• Type: Private (Religious)
• Specialties: Business, Languages, Computer Science, Humanities
• Why it stands out: Offers strong moral values, ethical focus, and global alumni support
• University Values & Culture: BYU emphasizes honor, service, and academic excellence within a supportive community guided by LDS principles.

Scholarships at Brigham Young University for International Students

8. New Mexico State University (NMSU)

A research-focused public university offering strong STEM and community engagement programs.

• Website: www.nmsu.edu
• Location: Las Cruces, New Mexico
• Admission Fee: $50
• Annual Tuition Fee: $10,500 – $12,000
• Acceptance Rate: 76%
• QS Ranking (2025): Regional strength
• Type: Public
• Specialties: Aerospace, Agriculture, Engineering, Business
• Why it stands out: Offers in-state tuition rates to scholarship recipients
• University Values & Culture: NMSU values research, service, and cross-cultural partnerships, particularly in agriculture and STEM fields relevant to global challenges.

Scholarships at New Mexico State University for International Students

9. University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM)

Offers affordable, career-driven education with a culturally rich campus environment.

• Website: www.ulm.edu
• Location: Monroe, Louisiana
• Admission Fee: $30 for undergraduate and $40 for graduate students 
• Annual Tuition Fee: $8,500 – $9,000
• Acceptance Rate: 75%
• QS Ranking (2025): No world rank, but known for Regional strength
• Type: Public
• Specialties: Pharmacy, Business, Healthcare, Arts
• Why it stands out: Celebrates diverse cultures (Holi, Kukur Tihar, etc.)—vibrant support for international students
• University Values & Culture: ULM fosters Southern hospitality through inclusion, cultural celebration, and community engagement.

Scholarships at ULM for International Students

10. City University of New York (CUNY)

An immense public university system offering Ivy-level education at public prices in NYC.

• Website: www.cuny.edu
• Location: New York City, New York
• Admission Fee: $65
• Annual Tuition Fee: $15,000 – $17,000
• Acceptance Rate: around 62%
• QS Ranking (2025): #661-670
• Type: Public
• Specialties: Liberal Arts, Engineering, Journalism, Social Sciences
• Why it stands out: 25 campuses, global access in NYC with access to a wide scholarship pool
• University Values & Culture: CUNY prides itself on accessibility, diversity, and civic service, with strong support systems for international students.

Scholarships at City University of New York for International Students

List of the Most Affordable Universities in the USA for Nepalese Students

Explore Scholarships in the USA for International Students

Apart from the above listed university scholarships, the US government and other private organisations provide a lot of other scholarships and financial aid based on your merit or needs. 

Even at low-tuition universities, scholarships and financial aid can significantly reduce the cost of studying in the USA. Some of your options include:

U.S. Government Scholarships (highly competitive):

• Fulbright Foreign Student Program: For Master’s or PhD study, research, or teaching assistantships. Nepal is an eligible country, and it’s administered through the U.S. Embassy in Nepal and USEF-Nepal.
• Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program: For mid-career professionals. Nepal is an eligible country.
• Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD): For undergraduate students for a one-semester exchange. Nepal is an eligible country.

Private Organization/Foundation Scholarships:

• AAUW (American Association of University Women) International Fellowships: For women pursuing graduate-level studies. Nepalese women are eligible.
• Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme: This program has both merit and need components, and Nepal is an eligible country.
• Rotary Peace Fellowship: For individuals committed to peace and conflict resolution studies. Open to candidates worldwide, including Nepal.
• Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP): For students from developing countries (including Nepal) for development-related master’s programs.
• MPOWER Financing Global Citizen Scholarship / Women in STEM Scholarship: These are open to international students, including those from Nepal, who are enrolled in or accepted to an MPOWER-supported US or Canadian school.

Find the US scholarships that fit you the best in our dedicated blog.

Note: Scholarship deadlines often align with admission deadlines. Students are advised to apply early and submit all required documents accurately to be considered.

How to Apply to Affordable Universities in the USA

Applying to affordable universities in the United States involves a structured process that Nepalese students can successfully navigate with proper planning. While each university may have slightly different requirements, the general application steps are similar across most institutions.

1. Shortlist the Right Universities

Begin by identifying universities that align with your academic goals, budget, preferred location, and course of study. Consider factors like tuition, program quality, acceptance rate, and available scholarships. The 10 universities listed above are excellent starting points.

2. Check Admission Requirements

Each university has specific eligibility criteria. You will usually need:

• Academic transcripts (SLC, +2, Bachelor’s degree if applying for Master’s)
• English language proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo)
• Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT for undergraduates, GRE/GMAT for some Master’s programs—note that many affordable universities have waived these)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) or personal essay
• Letters of Recommendation (usually 1–3)
• Copy of your passport

3. Prepare and Submit the Application

Most universities allow online applications through their official website or through a common application system. You will need to:

• Create an applicant account
• Fill out your personal and academic information
• Upload required documents
• Pay the application fee (ranging from $20 to $70)
• Submit the application before the deadline (usually between December–May)

4. Wait for the Admission Decision

Once submitted, your application will be reviewed. You may receive an offer within a few weeks to a few months, depending on the university.

5. Accept Offer and Prepare for Visa Process

If accepted, you will receive an I-20 form (Certificate of Eligibility) from the university. Use this document to apply for an F1 student visa, schedule a US visa interview, and prepare your visa file.

Find a complete guide to Study in the USA from Nepal in 2025

Why These Universities Charge Lower Tuition Fees for International Students

Not all affordable universities in the USA compromise on quality. In fact, the low tuition rates at the institutions listed above are the result of intentional policies and long-term strategies aimed at expanding global access to education. Here’s why these universities can offer lower fees even for international students like those from Nepal:

1. Public Funding Support

Many of these universities are public institutions that receive state or federal funding. This financial backing allows them to keep tuition costs significantly lower than private universities. States like Texas, California, and Minnesota have well-established systems that prioritize affordability.

2. Regional Economic Advantage

Colleges located in smaller cities or less urbanized areas often have lower operational and living costs. These savings are reflected in their tuition fees. For example, universities in Arkansas, Missouri, or New Mexico can maintain high academic standards while charging less.

3. Strategic Internationalization Goals

To increase cultural diversity and global reach, many universities actively recruit international students. To make their institutions attractive to students from countries like Nepal, they offer reduced tuition, fee waivers, or competitive scholarships.

4. High Student Enrollment Volumes

Larger universities can afford to charge less per student because they admit thousands of students every year. This volume-based model allows them to maintain financial stability while keeping individual costs low.

5. Simplified Infrastructure and Lower Branding Costs

Unlike elite private universities that spend heavily on global branding and facilities, affordable universities focus more on function over prestige. They invest wisely in academics and student services rather than costly infrastructure, which also helps keep fees manageable.

6. Commitment to Access and Inclusion

Some universities view education as a public good and intentionally set tuition fees to reflect that value. Institutions like UTRGV or SEMO, for example, are deeply committed to inclusivity and often have policies aimed at supporting underrepresented and international students financially.

Final Takeaways

Studying in the USA doesn’t have to come with a heavy financial burden. The universities we’ve listed prove that world-class education, career-ready programs, and a supportive international student environment are still accessible, especially for Nepalese students who plan ahead and apply wisely.

Choosing an affordable university means more than just saving money. It means opening doors to global networks, high-quality research, practical learning, and future employment opportunities in the United States and beyond. And with the right academic plan, scholarships, and financial aid, the dream of a U.S. degree becomes truly attainable.

Thinking about your future in the USA? Let’s make it happen – affordably, smartly, and confidently.

Start Your Journey with Hardford Education

Applying to study in the USA can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Our consultancy is here to help you through all of it, efficiently & effectively. With our expertise in consulting services, we help you in:

• Shortlisting the best universities for your goals and budget
• Preparing winning applications
• Securing scholarships
• Guiding you through a smooth visa process, towards your success.

We don’t just process paperwork, we build futures. With years of experience, direct university connections, and a proven record of successful placements, we’re proud to be the trusted choice for Nepalese students planning their study abroad journey.

Contact us today for a personalized consultation and take the first step toward your U.S. degree.

FAQs – Study in Affordable American Universities from Nepal

1. Which university in the USA is the cheapest for international students?

While the cheapest option varies depending on living costs and scholarships, Arkansas State University & Southeast Missouri State University stands out with tuition fees lower than USD 10,000 per year for international students. Others like University of Wyoming and USF also fall in the $19,500–30,000/year range.

2. Which university is best for Nepali students in the USA?

Your best US university depends on your personal goals (affordability, programs, location, or support.) The University of Louisiana Monroe is popular for inclusiveness represented by their diverse cultural programs, including the celebration of Nepali festivals. For affordable tuition, international scholarships, strong career outcomes, and Nepalese-friendly environments, consider Minnesota State University, Mankato, USF, or A-State.

3. Which state is the cheapest for international students in the USA?

Midwestern and Southern states like Arkansas, Missouri, New Mexico, and Louisiana often offer the lowest combined tuition and living costs. Universities in these states, such as A-State, SEMO, ULM, and NMSU, frequently rank among the most affordable in the nation.

4. Which university has the lowest tuition fee for international students?

University of New Orleans, California State University (various campuses), Southeast Missouri State University, and Arkansas State University are some US universities providing the lowest tuition fees for international students. The affordability of these universities is a major draw for budget-conscious students seeking quality education.

5. Is the USA affordable for international students?

Yes, 100%! With careful planning, the USA is attainable. Many public universities offer tuition under $20,000/year; combined with scholarships, merit aid, and regional cost-savings, annual expenses can drop below $15,000–$18,000. For example, A-State offers lower base tuition, and scholarships at universities like USF, SEMO, and NMSU further ease the financial burden.

You need to plan diligently for your living costs in the USA, but that as well is usually covered by your part-time jobs.

6. Which US university has no application fee?

Numerous U.S. colleges waive application fees for international students. Top examples include:

• Eastern New Mexico University
• Ivy League and elite schools: Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Stanford, Dartmouth, Case Western, and many liberal arts colleges
• Regional public/private institutions like Michigan Tech, Trinity U, Drake U, Saint Louis U, Reed College, Colby, Denison

Also Read: Total Cost of Studying in USA from Nepal in 2025

Scholarships in USA for Nepalese Students 2025-26 

A Complete Guide to Study in USA from Nepal in 2025