10 State Schools with the Lowest Out-of-state Tuition

Reviewed By: Melissa Anderson / First covered: December 2023 / Reading level: Grade 8

Key Takeaways:

• Delta State University offers the lowest out-of-state tuition at $8,434, with no additional fees for non-residents.
• Carolina Christian College emphasizes financial aid, maintaining low tuition rates for out-of-state students at $8,930.
• Bemidji State University charges a flat rate of $10,522 regardless of residence, providing significant financial aid.

When selecting the best college or state school to attend, you probably consider many factors. Perhaps one significant consideration is the cost, but at the same time, you want to choose a major or a program that will fit your goals in life. Some may not find what they’re looking for in the schools within their state. Or they might prefer to attend colleges that are out of state. Choosing a college that meets your financial and academic needs is challenging.

The US already has almost 6,000 higher education schools, from big public schools to tiny private schools, making it difficult to choose the right one for you. Choosing a major that is only offered in another state will even be more challenging. You’ll be away from home, and you’ll likely have to pay more tuition than an in-state student. However, the goal is to choose a state school that offers lower out-of-state tuition fees. 

State Schools with the Lowest Out-of-state Tuition

#1. Delta State University

Cleveland, Mississippi

Website
Tuition and Fees: $8,434

Delta State University believes that everyone should have access to higher education. Therefore, they do not charge out-of-state tuition. This allows students from any state to enroll and pay the same amounts as in-state residents. They have always been transparent with the educational expenditures of all their students. The main expenditure for a student attending Delta State University is tuition. This includes the cost of coursework. Still, fees, which might change based on the program and classes, pay for extra costs, including:

• Lab fees
• Books
• Course materials

Students should budget their college expenses and devise an estimate using calculators.

#2. Carolina Christian College

Winston-Salem, North Carolina

Website
Tuition and Fees: $8,930

Carolina Christian College provides qualified students with financial aid for tuition and fees. This is due to the help congregations and people around the country provide. It would be impossible for the College to give students a high-quality education without that support. Some students are struggling and need help to afford their educational expenses. Carolina Christian College is aware of this and is willing to step up for support. But, scholarships can be limited, so students must be able to meet their requirements to qualify. They support students who are from out of state. And offer equal educational opportunities by setting low out-of-state tuition. 

#3. Bemidji State University

Bemidji, Minnesota

Website
Tuition and Fees: $10,522

Bemidji State University has a fixed rate for their tuition fees. This is regardless of the number of credits. Their tuition is banded at BSU. As long as you are a full-time student, you’ll pay a fixed rate. Bemidji State University offers a high-quality education at one of the nation’s lowest out-of-state tuition rates. Minnesotans, out-of-state US students, and international students all pay the same tuition. More than 80% of Bemidji State University students receive financial help.

#4. Chadron State College

Chadron, Nebraska

Website
Tuition and Fees: $10,734

Chadron State College provides a comfortable and busy student life. Aside from high-quality academics, campus life is flourishing. There are a lot of hobbies and activities that will fit any kind of learner. There are on-campus and online programs leading to bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Undergraduate student tuition and fees are the same regardless of residence status. However, there is a slight difference for graduate students’ tuition for in-state and out-of-state.

#5. Mayville State University

Mayville, North Dakota

Website
Tuition and Fees: $11,193.24

Mayville State University has every student’s potential is a top priority. One of the goals at Mayville is to make tuition fees affordable for learners both in and out of state. It allows them to position to produce alumni who can contribute to success worldwide. The price per course for North Dakota residents is $330. Minnesota residents pay $363, and non-reciprocity state students pay $390 per credit. 

#6. West Texas A&M University

Canyon, Texas

Website
Tuition and Fees: $11,376

At West Texas A&M University, out-of-state students pay the same tuition as those from Texas. There is an additional $30 per credit hour.

The annual tuition for students from the remaining 49 states is $11,376. They have provided this fantastic deal to students from other states like:

• New Mexico
• Colorado
• Oklahoma
• Kansas

And now, no matter where you live, you can take advantage of their uniform tuition costs. 

#7. Black Hills State University

Spearfish, South Dakota

Website
Tuition and Fees: $11,865

Black Hills State University offers its students many academic options and a feeling of community. BHSU offers cheap and reasonable tuition. This way students may concentrate on their academics rather than the expensive tuition. Black Hills State University has some of the lowest out-of-state tuition rates nationwide. It is a great option for both locals and non-residents. Their in-state tuition is $254, while the out-of-state cost per credit is $357. Both residents and non-residents can find their costs reasonable. 

#8. Oklahoma Panhandle State University

Goodwell, Oklahoma

Website
Tuition and Fees (30 credit hours): $17,970.50

Oklahoma Panhandle State institution has some of the lowest out-of-state tuition and fees. It is a public institution recognized by the Higher Learning Commission. OPSU welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and educational levels. This leads to a diverse student body. And they want to balance the differences in the costs for the different types of learners. Besides a few pre-professional programs, OPSU has many associates and bachelor’s degrees. 

#9. Florida Polytechnic University

Lakeland, Florida

Website
Tuition and Fees: $21,005

Florida Polytechnic University’s distinctive mission is to shape Florida’s future. They are among the top institutions in the country for out-of-state tuition costs. Out-of-state students at Florida Polytechnic University pay the same tuition as in-state students. The university attracts the most talented, driven, and ambitious students nationwide. Out-of-state students pay the same tuition for each course, plus an extra $510. This implies that Florida Poly’s top-notch STEM programs may draw top-notch students. Learners from all over the nation can contribute to their systems and achievements.

#10. Central State University

Wilberforce, Ohio

Website
Tuition and Fees: $21,632

Central State University offers financial aid assistance that can help students cover:

• Lodging
• Books
• Other expenses

There are several bachelor’s and master’s degrees to choose from. The tuition gap between in-state and out-of-state students is not very significant. The average yearly tuition paid by non-residents is $21,632. This is less than that of out-of-state students but for a mere fraction. 

Benefits of Studying Out of State

Studying outside of your home state will probably expose you to a greater variety of people. As you meet new individuals, you’ll encounter new obstacles that can help you grow and gain independence. Consider the following benefits why it’s a wise choice to study out of state:

Out-of-state students get exposed to a new community.

Going out of state allows you to get out of your comfort zone. Many students want a fresh start in college. They hope to reinvent themselves and start over in the social sphere. Students at out-of-state colleges may make new friends, connections, and communities. You’ll get exposed to different communities and organizations that are very different from your experience.  

Out-of-state students experience a certain level of independence.

Studying out of state is a wonderful idea for those who want to gain more independence and freedom. Enrolling in a school in a different state is an excellent method to show your independence. Indeed, being able to travel home on the weekends and get back with your family and old friends is a good thing. But living far from home makes you rely more on yourself.

Out-of-state students get access to numerous career opportunities.

Your institution’s location might present you with more job options after graduation. It’s like how certain universities could have superior programs in your field of study. Other states may have more career options ready for you during or after your studies. 

Out-of-state students enjoy new experiences.

Going out of state allows you to get new experiences that you might not have if you stayed within your state. Depending on the state you want to study in, they might have unique activities and experiences that are worth trying. All these can contribute to your self-development. 

Out-of-state students get to meet new and more friends.

You’re bound to encounter other students who went to your high school if you attend an in-state institution. However, for out-of-state colleges, you’ll surely meet new people. You will have the opportunity to:

• Broaden your horizons
• Interact with others outside of your circle
• Be open to how diverse societies are

Another advantage is the chance to network with individuals from throughout the nation. You will get to know students who you otherwise would not have the opportunity to.

Out-of-state students enjoy diverse specialized programs.

Certain institutions may offer different programs than those accessible in your state. Especially if you already have a certain major in mind. Every school in the nation has something unique and exceptional to offer its pupils. In other states, universities can offer specialist courses in your field of study.

Out-of-state students widen their perspective because of their experience with different cultures.

You might want to consider attending an out-of-state university to experience diverse cultures. Different people are drawn to different parts of the nation. Moving to a new place might expose you to fresh cultural experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Resources:

• Best Online Colleges By State (part 1)
• Best Online Colleges Near Me (part 2)
• 100 Most Affordable Online Colleges and Universities
• Top 75 Online Community Colleges