Cheapest Online Universities: 8 Affordable Schools for Your Degree in 2025

The rising cost of higher education has led many students to seek out affordable online universities that offer flexible degree programs without the financial strain. The good news? There are plenty of low-cost accredited online universities that provide quality education at a fraction of the cost of traditional colleges.

Some universities even offer tuition-free programs, while others keep costs low through flat-rate tuition models or in-state discounts. If you’re looking for the cheapest online universities that won’t leave you buried in student debt, this guide will help you explore your best options.

Key Takeaways

• Some online universities offer tuition-free programs or low-cost degree options.
• Accredited universities ensure your degree is recognized by employers.
• Many schools provide scholarships, financial aid, or flexible tuition models to help lower costs.

Are Online Universities as Good as Traditional Ones?

One of the biggest concerns students have when looking at affordable online universities is whether they offer the same quality education as traditional, in-person colleges. The short answer? Yes—if they’re accredited.

Many online degree programs use the same curriculum as their on-campus counterparts, taught by the same professors. The main difference is the learning format—instead of attending lectures in person, you’ll complete coursework through an online platform.

Here’s why low-cost online universities are a great alternative:

Lower Costs, Fewer Fees – Without the costs of housing, commuting, and campus fees, you save thousands compared to a traditional degree.

Same Course Content – Many accredited online universities offer identical coursework to traditional colleges.

Flexible Learning – Online programs let you study at your own pace, making it easier to balance work and school.

Are Cheap Online Universities Accredited?

When looking for the cheapest online universities, one of the most important things to check is accreditation. Without it, your degree might not be recognized by employers or other institutions, making it harder to transfer credits or pursue further education.

Accreditation means that a university meets specific academic standards set by recognized organizations. There are two main types:

• Regional Accreditation – The highest standard, recognized by employers and graduate schools.
• National Accreditation – Common among trade schools and online colleges, but may not be as widely accepted.

Most affordable online universities on this list are regionally accredited, ensuring your degree is just as valid as one from a traditional university. Before enrolling, always check a school’s accreditation status through the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

By choosing an accredited university, you’re making sure your education is credible, respected, and valuable—even at a lower cost.

What Are the 8 Cheapest Online Universities in 2025?

Below is a list of eight of the most affordable online universities in 2025, offering budget-friendly degree programs while ensuring academic excellence. Whether you’re looking for a tuition-free institution or a low-cost public university, these schools provide excellent opportunities for online learners:

University of the People (UoPeople)

University of the People is a pioneering institution offering tuition-free, accredited online degree programs. While there are no tuition fees, students are responsible for minimal assessment fees at the end of each course. For a bachelor’s degree, the total cost is approximately $5,660.

• Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC).
• Popular Degrees: Business Administration, Computer Science, Health Science.

This model makes higher education accessible to individuals worldwide, especially those who might face financial constraints. 

Great Basin College

Great Basin College offers affordable online education with a variety of associate and bachelor’s degree programs. For in-state students, the cost is approximately $131.25 per credit for lower-division courses, totaling around $3,937.50 per year for a full-time student taking 30 credits. Out-of-state online students pay about $193.25 per credit, amounting to approximately $5,797.50 annually for the same credit load.

• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
• Popular Degrees: Business Administration, Nursing, Social Science.

The college’s commitment to accessible education makes it a viable option for students seeking affordable online degrees. 

Fort Hays State University (FHSU)

Fort Hays State University provides a variety of online undergraduate and graduate programs with competitive tuition rates. For the 2024–2025 academic year, online undergraduate courses are priced at $257.33 per credit hour. This means a full-time student taking 30 credit hours annually would pay approximately $7,720 in tuition.

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
• Popular Degrees: Education, Business, Criminal Justice.

FHSU’s commitment to affordable education makes it an excellent choice for students seeking quality online degrees without breaking the bank.

Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU)

Eastern New Mexico University offers affordable online undergraduate and graduate programs. For New Mexico residents, undergraduate tuition is $174.75 per credit hour, plus $120 in fees, totaling $294.75 per credit hour. Non-residents pay $257.25 per credit hour, plus the same fees, totaling $377.25 per credit hour. A full-time in-state student taking 30 credit hours per year would pay approximately $8,842.50 in tuition and fees.

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
• Popular Degrees: Aviation Science, Communication, Psychology.

ENMU’s low tuition rates and support for military personnel make it a compelling option for students pursuing affordable online education.

Valdosta State University (VSU)

Valdosta State University offers a range of online undergraduate programs with competitive tuition rates. For the 2024–2025 academic year, in-state undergraduate tuition is approximately $6,007 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $17,062 annually.

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• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
• Popular Degrees: Education, Psychology, Organizational Leadership.

VSU’s affordable tuition rates make it an attractive option for students seeking quality online education without a hefty price tag.

Western Governors University (WGU)

Western Governors University offers a unique flat-rate tuition model, charging a set fee every six months rather than per credit hour. As of the 2024–2025 academic year, the average annual bachelor’s degree tuition is approximately $8,300.

• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
• Popular Degrees: Business, Information Technology, Healthcare.

WGU’s competency-based education model allows students to progress through courses at their own pace, potentially accelerating graduation and reducing overall costs.

Thomas Edison State University (TESU)

Thomas Edison State University provides flexible online programs tailored for adult learners. For undergraduate students, the per-credit tuition rates for the 2024–2025 academic year are as follows:

• New Jersey Residents: $427 per credit.
• Out-of-State Residents: $556 per credit.

A full-time in-state student taking 30 credits per year would pay approximately $12,810 in tuition, while an out-of-state student would pay about $16,680.

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
• Popular Degrees: Homeland Security, Liberal Studies, Health Sciences.

TESU’s commitment to accommodating non-traditional students makes it an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable and flexible online education.

Southern Utah University (SUU)

Southern Utah University offers a variety of online undergraduate programs with a straightforward tuition structure. For the 2024–2025 academic year, online undergraduate tuition is $300 per credit hour. A full-time student taking 30 credits annually would pay approximately $9,000 in tuition.

• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
• Popular Degrees: Communication, Marketing, Psychology.

SUU’s transparent pricing and diverse program offerings make it an attractive option for students pursuing affordable online degrees.

How to Choose the Best Cheap Online University

With so many affordable online universities available, it’s important to find one that fits your needs. Beyond just looking at tuition costs, you should consider accreditation, degree flexibility, and financial aid options to make sure you’re getting the best value for your investment.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Accreditation Matters: Choose a university that is regionally accredited, as these degrees are widely accepted by employers and graduate schools.
• Understand Tuition Costs: Look for transparent pricing and watch out for hidden fees, such as technology or course material costs.
• Flexibility in Learning: Some schools offer self-paced programs (like WGU), while others follow a traditional semester schedule.
• Financial Aid & Scholarships: Many universities provide grants, work-study programs, and tuition discounts to help lower costs.

Doing thorough research before enrolling ensures that you choose an online university that is both affordable and reputable.

Why University of the People Stands Out Among Affordable Online Universities

Among all the low-cost online universities, UoPeople is unique in its tuition-free model. While most universities charge at least some tuition, UoPeople provides an accredited education with no tuition fees, making it one of the most accessible online universities worldwide.

What sets UoPeople apart?

• 100% Tuition-Free: Students only pay small fees for assessments, keeping costs at a fraction of traditional tuition.
• Global Student Base: With students from over 200 countries, UoPeople is an inclusive, international university.
• Accredited & Respected: The university is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and has partnerships with institutions like Harvard and NYU.

For students looking for the cheapest online university without sacrificing quality, UoPeople is an exceptional choice.

Final Thoughts: Is an Affordable Online University Right for You?

Choosing an affordable online university is a smart way to earn a degree without accumulating excessive debt. Whether you opt for a tuition-free school like University of the People or a low-cost public university with competitive rates, online education provides a flexible and accessible path to higher learning.

The right university for you will depend on your budget, learning style, and career goals. Some students prefer structured programs with set deadlines, while others thrive in self-paced learning environments. Accreditation is also key—earning a degree from a recognized institution ensures that employers and graduate schools will respect your qualifications.

Online education continues to grow in popularity, and as more universities refine their digital offerings, affordable degree options are becoming even more accessible. With the right research and planning, you can find an online university that meets your needs, supports your ambitions, and helps you take the next step in your education without financial stress.

FAQs

What is the cheapest online university?

University of the People is one of the most affordable accredited online universities, offering tuition-free degree programs where students only pay small assessment fees. Other low-cost options include Great Basin College, Eastern New Mexico University, and Fort Hays State University, all of which provide competitive tuition rates.

Can I really earn a tuition-free online degree?

Yes, University of the People offers tuition-free education, though students must pay modest fees for assessments and applications. Some public universities also provide scholarships, grants, or income-based tuition assistance that can significantly lower or eliminate costs for eligible students.

Are degrees from cheap online universities respected by employers?

As long as the university is accredited, an online degree is just as valid as one from a traditional institution. Employers value degrees from regionally accredited schools, and many affordable online universities meet these high academic standards.