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Are you ready to discover your college program?
Many people these days earn their degrees online. If you earn your online degree from an accredited college, employers will consider it just as legitimate as a degree earned on campus.
Convenience, flexibility, and affordability may persuade you to choose online education. After all, you can complete coursework from anywhere, and many programs offer asynchronous instruction.
The cheapest online colleges can also help you save money by charging lower tuition and fees. Here, we rank 10 of the most affordable online colleges to help you start your search.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Featured Online Colleges
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below
We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
#1 10 Most Affordable Online Colleges of 2024
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH
4 years
Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: Undergraduate | $330 Graduate | $637
You can select from over 200 Southern New Hampshire University online degrees, such as accounting, criminal justice, and mathematics. SNHU offers at least five annual start dates. Other advantages include accelerated classes lasting 8-10 weeks.
SNHU makes applying to an online program easy by not using GPA or test score cutoffs. You only need to submit the online application and an attestation form to start the admissions process. Active-duty service members receive a significant tuition discount.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,000
Out-of-state
$15,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,900
Out-of-state
$18,900
Retention Rate
62%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
145,533
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#2 10 Most Affordable Online Colleges of 2024
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: In-State | $129 Out-of-State | $553
Consider University of Florida's online degrees for an affordable education with excellent student support services. The 24 fully online bachelor's degrees at UF include media production, public relations, and sociology. UF's dozens of online certificates can help you advance your career without having to pause it.
Application requirements include a high school diploma and standardized test scores. UF waives the latter requirement for prospective students who graduated high school more than five years before applying.
Active-duty service members and veterans receive a tuition waiver. UF offers the same benefit to learners whose grandparents reside in Florida.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,477
Out-of-state
$25,694
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,770
Out-of-state
$27,335
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
30%
Students Enrolled
55,781
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
57%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Florida International University offers eight online undergraduate concentrations. Options include event management, food innovation, and spirits management. You can also major in information technology or the Internet of things.
First-year undergraduate applicants must submit ACT or SAT scores. You must also provide proof of Florida residency to pay the lowest tuition rate.
Online learners can apply for the one-time FIU Online Distance Learning Scholarship by submitting an essay, resume, and personal statement.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,721
Out-of-state
$16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,912
Out-of-state
$21,393
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
56,664
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Purdue University Global has over 175 programs and certificates for students to choose from across all degree levels. And with rolling start dates, you'll have an opportunity to begin your education every month.
Purdue Global has an open admission policy. If you're not sure the school is a good fit, Purdue Global offers a 3-week trial with no financial obligations.
Students have access to a career advancement center that assists with resume building, networking, career planning, interview training, and job hunting.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,080
Out-of-state
$13,356
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,730
Out-of-state
$9,700
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
43,458
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 10 Most Affordable Online Colleges of 2024
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: Undergraduate | $135 Graduate | $334
The academic experience at Florida Atlantic University Online starts with enrolling in one of seven colleges, including business, education, and science. FAU also appeals to working educators with online certificates in instructional design and teacher leadership.
Undergraduate programs require high school transcripts and standardized test scores.
Although FAU does not charge out-of-state tuition, online degree-seekers pay a per-credit distance learning fee. FAU's institutional scholarships award up to $10,000 per year to undergraduates with excellent high school grades.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,522
Out-of-state
$14,374
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,467
Out-of-state
$16,695
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
30,155
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 10 Most Affordable Online Colleges of 2024
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Cost per Semester: In-State | $2,871 undergraduate; $3,588 graduate Out-of-State | In-state tuition plus $396 per attempted credit
The San Diego State University Global Campus features fully online bachelor's degrees in business, administration, communication, and economics. You can also earn these and other undergraduate degrees in a hybrid format. Online master's degrees include big data analytics and computer engineering.
SDSU uses spring and fall application windows, and specific application requirements vary by major.
Online degree completion programs require 60 transferable credits and a minimum 2.0 undergraduate GPA. You submit only one form through the online Aztec Scholarships portal to apply for over 700 institutional scholarships.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
38%
Students Enrolled
36,484
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
64%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#7 10 Most Affordable Online Colleges of 2024
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ
4 years
Online + Campus
Cost per Semester: Undergraduate | $11,826 Graduate | $15,114
Consider Northern Arizona University's online degrees if you want a personalized educational experience. Some programs feature classes starting every week, and your degree may offer an accelerated track. Bachelor's programs with these benefits include management, human resources, and RN-to-BSN.
NAU uses a 2.75 high school GPA cutoff for first-year applicants. The university does not charge out-of-state tuition, and online learners pay the same as their on-campus peers. NAU's merit scholarships award up to full tuition to eligible degree-seekers.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,381
Out-of-state
$16,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,724
Out-of-state
$19,266
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
28,711
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 10 Most Affordable Online Colleges of 2024
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
Baton Rouge, LA
4 years
Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: Undergraduate | $399 Graduate | $459-$1,110
Consider Louisiana State University Online if you want flexible start dates and pay-as-you-go tuition. Fully online bachelor's degrees include accounting, criminal justice, and information systems. Many undergraduate programs feature one or more concentrations.
Applying involves creating an online account and selecting your degree. Rolling admissions means you can start or continue your college education as soon as possible.
You can also earn credit for prior learning, potentially saving you thousands of dollars on your education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,038
Out-of-state
$8,038
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,132
Out-of-state
$9,132
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
35,912
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
You should research online degrees at the University of West Florida if you want to continue working while in school. Bachelor's degrees that include human resources management and psychology offer many annual start dates and a flexible learning style.
UWF's online doctoral degrees train the next generation of school curriculum and instructional technology leaders.
Application materials and requirements vary by program. Alabama residents and active-duty service members receive an out-of-state tuition waiver. You can apply for institutional scholarships by submitting FAFSA results to the UWF financial aid office.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,735
Out-of-state
$16,004
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,088
Out-of-state
$22,166
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
53%
Students Enrolled
13,288
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
88%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
The UOnline at the University of Utah features fall, summer, and spring start dates. Popular bachelor's programs include human development, social work, and psychology. Graduate teaching and computer engineering programs require some hybrid coursework on the U's Salt Lake City campus.
The U's online programs do not accept applications from first-time college students. Transfer applicants with fewer than 30 undergraduate credits must submit high school transcripts. The U awards merit scholarships of up to $10,000 per year.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,749
Out-of-state
$27,201
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,970
Out-of-state
$24,607
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
34,464
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Methodology
At Affordable Colleges Online, we use a proprietary ranking system to help you find the best schools for your needs. Our most important metric, affordability, accounts for 60% of our weighted formula. We also consider academic quality, program offerings, online enrollment, and graduation rate.
Finding the Best Affordable Online College for You
Finding the best affordable online college starts with researching online education, setting career goals, and comparing accredited programs.
Research Reasons to Study Online
Online colleges can help you earn the degree you need for academic and career success while continuing to work or attending to other personal obligations. Online learners can use new skills in the workplace and put some of their salary toward education-related expenses.
Keep in mind that online education might not work for everyone. Some students learn better in a traditional, on-campus environment. Understanding why you choose online education can help you find your ideal program.
Establish Career Goals
Your career goals will influence which colleges and degree programs you should apply for.
Talking with family, friends, managers, and coworkers can help you identify the degree or certificate you need for a promotion or career change. Performing this self-reflection early on lets you set short- and long-term education goals, such as an advanced degree.
Choosing a degree or certificate also involves deciding how soon you want to graduate. Some of the cheapest online colleges offer accelerated tracks. Although rigorous, these programs can help you enter the workforce quickly or stay ahead of changing workforce demands.
Accreditation is when an independent organization reviews a college or university to determine whether the school meets certain quality standards regarding academics, faculty, and support services.
Accreditation is also required to qualify for federal financial aid and is important when it comes to transferring college credits to other institutions.
In addition, certain fields like healthcare and law require you to complete a program with programmatic accreditation in order to qualify for state licensure.
The average cost of tuition and fees at public four-year universities was $9,700 in 2021-2022, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). This is about $600 higher than the average cost a decade earlier.
Private colleges, which typically have higher tuition rates, also saw increased tuition costs. In 2021-2022, the average cost of tuition and fees at private nonprofit four-year universities was $38,800 — $4,800 higher than the average cost in 2010-2011.
As an online student, you may not have to pay the same fees as in-person students. That said, you may face other hidden costs, such as distance learner fees, laptop and technology purchases, and textbooks and supplies.
Price Check
Some public colleges offer an out-of-state tuition waiver to online learners. This discount can save you thousands of dollars on a degree.
How to Make Cheap Online College More Affordable: 6 Tips
Make earning an online college degree even more affordable by following these helpful tips.
How much you receive depends on factors like your school's tuition rate, income and assets, family size, and whether you have siblings attending college.
You should also apply for independent scholarships. Like federal and institutional grants, scholarships are free money and don't need to be repaid. Online students can apply for many of the same scholarships as on-campus students.
2. Attend an In-State Public School
Most public colleges and universities charge different tuition rates depending on whether you're an in-state or out-of-state resident. Attending an online college in your state could significantly lower the cost per credit.
Some states even participate in tuition reciprocity programs, which provide discounted or in-state tuition rates to students in neighboring states.
While some online programs maintain different rates for in-state and out-of-state students, others provide a discounted tuition rate for all online students, regardless of residency.
For example, the University of Central Arkansas offers flat rates for online students regardless of where they live, which may be cheaper per credit than attending an in-state school in person.
4. Earn Credit at a Community College
NCES data shows that community college tuition is generally far cheaper than tuition at four-year colleges and universities (whether online or in person).
One of the best ways to save money on college is to take general education classes at a local community college and then transfer those credits toward a bachelor's degree at a four-year university.
5. Choose an Accelerated Program
Some colleges offer accelerated online programs, saving you time and money. The University of Michigan-Flint, for instance, has online bachelor's degree programs designed for students aiming to graduate in fewer than four years.
Online colleges may also offer bachelor's-to-master's programs, saving you money. For example, Southern New Hampshire University provides many fast-track online degrees that let you earn a bachelor's while also earning credits toward a master's.
6. Opt for Part-Time Over Full Time
Earning your degree one or two courses at a time can help you save money by reducing your initial out-of-pocket expenses.
If you can pay for individual courses upfront or by the end of the term instead of taking out thousands of dollars in student loans to pay for a full-time course load, you can save money by not paying interest.
Read Reviews From Real Online College Students
We believe the best people to share about online learning experiences are students who have really done it, which is why we surveyed 600 unique students. Filter to find a student like you or sort to read the good, the bad, and everything in between. By leaving a review, students were entered to win a sweepstakes.
Filter reviews by:
Student characteristics
Topic
* means this student may have had to visit the campus a few times a year for their program.
Age 25
IT Technology
University of Phoenix
Online *
Experience
5.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
5.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"It was move convenient for me, and it cost a lot less."
Financial assitance
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 38
Business Administration
Devry
Online *
Experience
4.0
Value
4.0
Affordability
3.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"Seemed more cost effective"
Financial assitance
First generation student
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 30
Business Administration
UTH Florida
Online
Experience
5.0
Value
4.0
Affordability
4.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"Because of the cost"
First generation student
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 29
Master of Social Work
Ohio State University
Online
Experience
5.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
3.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"I was working full time and would not be able to take in person classes. I had thought about getting my master's, and decided to peruse it since my employer paid the majority of the cost."
Financial assitance
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 36
Medical Lab Science
CNM
Online *
Experience
3.0
Value
3.0
Affordability
3.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"More flexible and costs less"
Financial assitance
Has support system
Doesn't recommend
Age 30
Master of Business Administration
Arizona State University
Online *
Experience
4.0
Value
3.0
Affordability
5.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"Easier to use and work at the same time, with more affordable prices"
Financial assitance
First generation student
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 23
Bachelor's - Business Management
Valdosta State University
Online
Experience
4.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
4.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"It was more cost effective than living on campus and saves me time"
Financial assitance
First generation student
Has support system
Recommends
Age 21
Information Technology
The University of Alabama
Online *
Experience
4.0
Value
4.0
Affordability
4.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"Because the cost is affordable and an easier way to study"
Financial assitance
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 22
Finance
University of Minnesota
Online
Experience
5.0
Value
4.0
Affordability
5.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"Covid and cost"
Financial assitance
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 22
Associate Degree- Business Administration, Bachelor of Science - Retail Management
Florida State University
Online *
Experience
3.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
1.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"I decided to enroll in an online degree program because I live far from Florida State University. The cost of dorm living is too expensive."
Financial assitance
First generation student
Has support system
Recommends
Age 40
MBA, BSC
Northeastern University
Online
Experience
5.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
5.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"Because online degree programs take advantage of online's inherent ability for self-paced instruction, flexible adjunct faculty, and student mentors to help adult learners save on tuition, instruction, or other costs."
Financial assitance
First generation student
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 33
Master of Music
Kent State University
Online
Experience
4.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
5.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"Convenience, cost, and to self-pace my degree"
Financial assitance
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 26
BS - Communication
Regent University
Online *
Experience
4.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
5.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"It was convenient and cost effective"
Financial assitance
Works in field of study
Has support system
Doesn't recommend
Age 41
Business Administration
Grand Canyon
Online
Experience
4.0
Value
4.0
Affordability
3.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"Price"
First generation student
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 30
MBA
Grand Canyon University
Online
Experience
4.0
Value
4.0
Affordability
3.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"Price"
Works in field of study
Recommends
Survey Methodology: Data was collected May 19-May 26, 2021. All respondents were screened by multiple quality checks, including systems like Relevant ID, and responses were manually reviewed to ensure consistency and accuracy. Survey participants comprised 622 individuals who graduated with an online degree in the past six years. Credentials ranged from certificates to associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Respondents were between 21 and 60 years of age and identified as 48% female and 52% male.
Student testimonials have generally been obtained with the offer of compensation for completion of a survey (e.g., entrance into a gift card drawing). Such testimonials are the opinions of students, and surveys are designed to avoid influencing such testimonials either positively or negatively.
All student respondents were supplied by Lucid LLC.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheap Online Colleges
What's the cheapest online college degree you can get?
The cheapest online college degree is a free one. Some states, like Tennessee, have programs for free community college. Eligibility requirements vary but can include having no college degree, establishing residency, and submitting the FAFSA. You may also need to maintain continuous enrollment and attempt at least six credits per semester.
Is it cheaper to go to online college?
Online college can be cheaper than traditional college, depending on several factors.
For example, some colleges offer lower tuition rates for online courses. Attending an out-of-state college online could also come with a cheaper price tag than attending that same college in person.
Make sure to check tuition rates for any online programs you're interested in and compare them to any in-person equivalents.
What is the cheapest online college?
Ultimately, the cheapest online college for you will depend on factors like your degree, field of study, and location. Many find that the cheapest online colleges are public universities based in their state. Other cheap online colleges include local community colleges.
Remember that you can reduce your spending on online college by applying for federal financial aid and scholarships.
Is it worth it to go to online college?
Online college can be worth it if you're interested in earning a degree and are OK with missing out on the traditional campus experience. Online courses provide the same level of academic rigor as in-person courses, with added flexibility for full-time workers, parents, and caregivers.
How do people afford online college?
There are many ways you can save money on online college. Some people enroll in part-time online programs while working, paying for each course out of pocket. Others may attend accelerated programs to shorten the amount of time they're in school. And many students attend full-time and apply for financial aid to help cover costs.
Students at online colleges are eligible for the same scholarships and grants as on-campus students. Some employers even pay part of the cost for employees to take college courses and earn a certificate or degree.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Affordable Colleges Online. Page last reviewed November 13, 2023.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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