Affordable Online Degrees: Save Money
Are you thinking about earning a degree but worried about the cost? Online degrees are a great way to get a quality education without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about affordable online degrees, including the cheapest online colleges, how to save money, and why online education is worth it.
Why Trust BestColleges
BestColleges is a trusted resource for students looking for reliable information about online education. We provide up-to-date data, expert advice, and detailed reviews of online colleges to help you make the best decision for your future.
What to Know About Earning an Online Bachelor’s Degree
Earning an online bachelor’s degree is a flexible and affordable way to get a college education. Here’s what you need to know:
- Flexibility: You can study from anywhere and often choose your own schedule.
- Affordability: Online programs are often cheaper than traditional on-campus programs.
- Accreditation: Make sure the school is accredited, which means it meets quality standards.
Scholarships for Online College Students
Did you know there are scholarships just for online students? Here are a few options:
- BestColleges Scholarship: Awards $5,000 to online students.
- FAFSA: Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to see if you qualify for grants or loans.
- Private Scholarships: Many organizations offer scholarships for online learners.
How Much Does Online College Cost?
The cost of online college varies, but it’s often more affordable than traditional college. Here’s a breakdown:
- Public 4-Year (In-State): $10,000–$15,000 per year.
- Public 4-Year (Out-of-State): $20,000–$25,000 per year.
- Private Nonprofit 4-Year: $30,000–$40,000 per year.
Cheapest and Most Affordable Online Colleges of 2025
Here are some of the most affordable online colleges for 2025:
Appalachian State University
Why We Chose This School
Appalachian State University offers high-quality online programs at an affordable price.
Highlights
- Cost: $7,500 per year (in-state).
- Programs: Business, education, and healthcare.
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Know Before You Apply
- Application fee: $65.
- Deadlines: Rolling admissions.
Ball State University
Why We Chose This School
Ball State University is known for its flexible online programs and low tuition rates.
Highlights
- Cost: $9,000 per year (in-state).
- Programs: Nursing, communications, and computer science.
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission.
Know Before You Apply
- Application fee: $60.
- Deadlines: Fall, spring, and summer terms.
Boise State University
Why We Chose This School
Boise State University offers affordable online degrees with a focus on career readiness.
Highlights
- Cost: $8,000 per year (in-state).
- Programs: Business, engineering, and social work.
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Know Before You Apply
- Application fee: $50.
- Deadlines: Rolling admissions.
Central Michigan University
Why We Chose This School
Central Michigan University provides affordable online programs with a strong reputation.
Highlights
- Cost: $12,000 per year (in-state).
- Programs: Psychology, administration, and health sciences.
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission.
Know Before You Apply
- Application fee: $40.
- Deadlines: Fall, spring, and summer terms.
Colorado State University
Why We Chose This School
Colorado State University offers affordable online degrees with a focus on innovation.
Highlights
- Cost: $10,000 per year (in-state).
- Programs: Agriculture, engineering, and education.
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission.
Know Before You Apply
- Application fee: $50.
- Deadlines: Rolling admissions.
How Much Does Online College Cost?
Here’s a breakdown of average tuition and fees for 2023-2024:
- Public 4-Year (In-State): $10,000–$15,000 per year.
- Public 4-Year (Out-of-State): $20,000–$25,000 per year.
- Private Nonprofit 4-Year: $30,000–$40,000 per year.
5 Tips for Making Online College More Affordable
- Apply for Financial Aid: Fill out the FAFSA and search for scholarships.
- Transfer Credits: Use credits from community college or previous education.
- Test Out of College Classes: Take CLEP exams to earn credits faster.
- Get Credit for Life Experience: Some schools give credit for work or military experience.
- Consider Employer Tuition Assistance: Ask your employer if they offer tuition reimbursement.
Is Online College Worth the Cost? Yes — Here’s Why
- You Could Earn More Money With a Degree: The median annual pay for workers with a bachelor’s degree is $65,000, compared to $40,000 for those with only a high school diploma.
- You Could Get a Job More Easily With a Degree: Many employers prefer candidates with a degree.
- Online Degrees Are More Popular Than Ever: Employers are increasingly accepting online degrees as equal to traditional degrees.
How to Make Online College Worth It for You
- Know Exactly What You Want From Your Degree: Choose a program that aligns with your career goals.
- Plan for Obstacles: Be prepared for challenges like time management and staying motivated.
- Choose a Program That Fits Your Needs: Look for programs with flexible schedules and affordable tuition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheap Online Colleges
Do online colleges offer financial aid?
Yes, many online colleges offer financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and loans.
What is the cheapest online college?
Appalachian State University is one of the cheapest, with tuition at $7,500 per year for in-state students.
Are there any free online colleges?
While there are no completely free online colleges, some schools offer free tuition for low-income students.
What is the average cost of online college?
The average cost is $10,000–$15,000 per year for in-state students at public universities.
How can online students avoid out-of-state tuition costs?
By choosing an affordable online degree program and following these tips, you can achieve your educational goals without breaking the bank. Start your journey today!