Cheap or Free Masters Programs: How to Earn a Graduate Degree Without Breaking the Bank

Cheap or Free Masters Programs: How to Earn a Graduate Degree Without Breaking the Bank

Tuition costs and funding sources will probably be major factors in your decision if you want to pursue a master’s degree overseas. Fortunately, there are several affordable solutions available to potential overseas students.

In this guide, I will list and discuss the most affordable study abroad destinations for cheap masters programs worldwide, along with a few where you might be able to study abroad for free!

Cheap Masters Degree Programs In the USA

Studying in the USA can be costly, particularly when taking into account high living expenses, tuition fees, and exchange rates. It is therefore wise to pursue a master’s degree at one of the least expensive universities in the United States. This is a summary of the most affordable master’s degree programs in the United States.

#1. Minot State University (North Dakota)

Minot State University (MSU) is among the most affordable institutions in the United States for master’s degrees. Originally founded as a regular school in Minot, North Dakota, in 1913, MSU has grown to become the state’s third-largest university, providing undergraduate and graduate courses.

In addition to nine master’s degrees and one education specialist degree in management, mathematics, and communication disorders, the institution has four academic schools. MSU offers a good balance of professional programs and liberal arts courses, with over 60 undergraduate majors.

Summary

#2. Sonoma State University

Founded in 1960, Sonoma State University (SSU) is a public university in Rohnert Park, California. There are 5,412 undergraduate students enrolled on the 269-acre campus as of fall 2023. 

About 45 bachelor’s degree programs and 15 graduate programs, including specializations in the wine industry, are available at SSU. It is among the best and most affordable institutions in the United States for master’s degrees, and it was ranked #25 in Regional Institutions West for 2025.

Summary

#3. Southeast Missouri State University

Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) has four regional campuses and a satellite campus for the Holland College of Arts and Media. It is a public university located in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. It is also one of the most affordable master’s degree programs in the United States.

SEMO specializes in teacher education and provides more than 175 undergraduate and 75 graduate degrees. Arts and Media, Business and Computing, Education, Health and Human Studies, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics are the five academic colleges that make up the institution.

Summary

#4. Alcorn State University in Mississippi

Alcorn State University (ASU) is an institution that is open to the public and historically Black. It was the nation’s first black land-grant university when it was established in 1871. For master’s degrees, it is among the most reasonably priced universities in the United States.

Alcorn State has seven schools that offer degree programs in more than 50 professions, including nursing and Master of Business Administration (MBA) degrees. Currently, this university has over 3,000 students enrolled. 

Read Also: Pursue Your MBA Studies in the USA: Harvard University MBA Scholarship 2025-2026

Summary

#5. California State University, San Bernardino

California State University, San Bernardino, popularly known as CSUSB, is a 441-acre public institution that was established in 1962 and is situated in the University District of San Bernardino. For master’s degrees, it is among the most affordable and coveted universities in the United States.

In the 2025 edition of Best Colleges, CSUSB is placed #171 among National Universities and operates on a semester-based academic calendar. It also offers further educational options at its branch campus in Palm Desert, California.
Summary

#6. Dakota State University

Dakota State University (DSU) is a public university in Madison, South Dakota, that was established in 1881 as a school for teacher preparation. DSU provides courses in math and science, education, digital media and communications, business, health, and technology. One of the best programs in the country, the Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences, is also located at DSU. 

Summary

#7. The City University of New York

The City University of New York (CUNY) is the biggest public university in an urban area in the United States. It was the first free public university in the country when it was founded in 1847. With 25 institutions spread around the city’s five boroughs, CUNY currently serves over 2L students and grants 50,000 degrees a year.

Summary

#8. Missouri State University

Founded in 1905 as the Fourth District Normal School, Missouri State University (MSU) is located in Springfield, Missouri. With 26,001 students enrolled, it is the second-largest institution in the state. It offers cheap masters programs for international students in the USA.

In addition, MSU has a Department of Defense program in Fairfax, Virginia; a fruit research station in Mountain Grove; and an associate degree program at its West Plains site. It also provides a Chinese business degree.

Summary

#9. California State University, Fresno

California State University is a public university in the California State University system. The 74 undergraduate, 49 graduate, and three doctoral programs offered by Fresno State’s eight schools and colleges are all centered on experiential learning to give you the tools you need to succeed once you graduate. It offers cheap masters programs for international students in the USA.

Asian American Native American Pacific Islander designation (AANAPISI) is available to Fresno State as a Hispanic-serving institution (HSI). It is regarded as one of the most affordable master’s degree programs in the United States.

Summary

Cheap Masters Degree Programs in the UK

#1. London School of International Business

The London School of International Business (LSIB) is a contemporary organization that provides adaptable online education options. It offers more than 100 LSIB degrees, half of which are less than 4,000 GBP and about a fifth of which are under 2,100 pounds. Popular courses, including MBA, marketing, finance, and human resource management, are among the university’s business- and management-focused offerings.

#2. Middlesex University

Middlesex University is ranked in the top 4% of universities worldwide, providing a lively and multicultural atmosphere. The institution offers a range of housing options to accommodate varied budgets, even though living expenses in London can be considerable. It is well known for its wide range of programs, which include computer science, business, law, health and education, and art and design.

With more than 100 degrees available, Middlesex also offers reasonably priced degrees in finance and investment-related subjects (advanced financial mechanisms, investment strategies, regulatory compliance, and the integration of new technology in finance) for less than 2400 GBP.

#3. London School of Planning and Management

The London School of Planning and Management (LSPM) is a modern school that provides online instruction designed for foreign students and working professionals. In addition to offering flexible, reasonably priced learning alternatives, LSPM is based in London, a city renowned for its thriving culture and high cost of living.

Furthermore, it offers programs including business management, project management, and health care among its areas of expertise. With an emphasis on hands-on, career-focused learning, LSPM guarantees that students acquire skills that apply to the worldwide labor market.  

#4. University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)

The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), based in Preston, was founded in 1828. It provides both rural and urban experiences. The moderate cost of living makes it a desirable choice for students.

Furthermore, UCLan is well known for its engineering and health sciences programs and for emphasizing practical skills and real-world experience. UCLan offers relatively low tuition costs for each module when compared to other universities.

#5. University of Portsmouth

The University of Portsmouth, situated on England’s southern coast, was established in 1992. The university is well-known for its reasonably priced living expenses and provides a wide range of well-liked degrees, such as business, engineering, and creative technologies. Numerous fully paid degree apprenticeships in a range of disciplines, including journalism, engineering, public administration, and teaching, are available at the University of Portsmouth. The institution also provides degrees in learning at work and distance learning at a fair price.

#6. Lancaster University

Lancaster University is well-known for its robust academic programs in business, social sciences, and environmental studies. The campus features cutting-edge research centers, libraries, and sports facilities in a lovely parkland environment. The university is popular for its quality of teaching and research.

Nonetheless, Lancaster University offers certain of its programs at a comparatively inexpensive cost per module (about 500 pounds) when compared to other universities.

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Cheap Masters Degree Programs In Canada

Let’s examine a few of Canada’s most affordable institutions where you can earn a master’s degree without going over budget.

#1. University of Regina

A variety of programs with affordable tuition are available at the University of Regina. It is a good choice for those studying the arts and social sciences. International tuition for a master’s degree normally ranges from £5,800 to £14,000 ($10,200 to CAD 24,400) per year. The good news is that you’ll be part of a welcoming campus community that celebrates diversity and education.

#2. Memorial University of Newfoundland

Memorial University of Newfoundland should be taken into consideration if you’re searching for cheap master’s programs in Canada. For international students, the institution is frequently one of the most affordable options; annual tuition for degrees like engineering and education is about £7,800 (CAD 13,600).

Additionally, compared to larger cities, Newfoundland has a significantly cheaper cost of living, which increases its allure.

#3. University of Manitoba

The University of Manitoba offers a variety of affordable graduate programs, especially in the arts and sciences. This university provides not only affordability but also a lively student community in the center of Winnipeg, with annual tuition fees for international students averaging between £8,000 and £15,000 (CAD 14,000 and $26,000).

#4. Simon Fraser University

Simon Fraser University in British Columbia is popular for its extensive research opportunities and reasonably priced master’s degrees. The average annual cost of tuition for international students here is between £8,000 and £18,000 (CAD 14,000 and $31,000). In addition to getting a top-notch education, you’ll get to see the West Coast’s natural splendor!

#5. University of Saskatchewan

With international tuition costs for some programs starting at £8,000 (CAD 14,000), the University of Saskatchewan is a desirable choice for students on a tight budget. This university promotes a well-rounded educational experience by placing a strong emphasis on research and community involvement.

#6. University of Alberta

The University of Alberta offers a wide range of master’s degrees at reasonable costs. International students’ annual tuition costs normally range from £9,000 to £16,000 (CAD 15,600 to $27,800). The university is well-liked by graduate students because it provides a vibrant research culture together with a wide range of academic options.

Read Also: How Much Does a Travel Nurse Make in America, Europe, Asia

Cheap Masters Degree Programs In Australia

Australia provides top-notch education at reasonable costs. Here is a carefully compiled list of affordable Australian universities:

#1. University of Southern Queensland (USQ):

Well-known for its reasonably priced tuition and wide range of academic offerings, USQ is a great option for individuals looking for high-quality education on a tight budget.

#2. Charles Darwin University (CDU):

Located in the energetic city of Darwin, CDU provides affordable tuition costs and a friendly atmosphere for students from throughout the world.

#3. Federation University Australia:

This university is well-known for offering affordable educational options, which makes it a popular choice for students from outside.

#4. University of the Sunshine Coast (USC):

USC appeals to students on a tight budget because it offers a top-notch education together with a cheaper cost of living.

#5. Southern Cross University:

Offering reasonably priced education and a laid-back Australian environment, Southern Cross University has campuses in scenic areas.

#6. Central Queensland University (CQU):

CQU provides a variety of academic degrees and is renowned for its affordability. It is situated in Queensland and offers international students a welcoming environment.

#7. University of Wollongong:

Well-known for being reasonably priced, it provides more than 300 programs in fields including engineering, medicine, and the arts. Wollongong is a popular option for overseas students due to its reasonably priced tuition and campuses located in Greater Sydney.

#8. Western Sydney University:

For overseas students seeking undergraduate degrees, Western Sydney University is notable for its affordable tuition costs. It is a thriving, diverse university with a solid academic standing.

#9. Edith Cowan University (ECU):

ECU provides international students with a range of reasonably priced master’s degrees. It is renowned for emphasizing hands-on instruction and high-caliber research.

#10. La Trobe University:

La Trobe University is popular for providing affordable master’s degrees, especially those that emphasize research. It offers the perfect setting for graduate work without breaking the bank.

Read Also: Top 40 best highest paid jobs without a degree in Australia/world

Cheap Masters Degree Programs In Singapore

#1. National University of Singapore (NUS)

One of the most affordable master’s degrees in Singapore is the Master of Architecture program offered by NUS, which prepares students for a future in architecture. This course’s primary discipline is design, which is supplemented by other courses that concentrate on the technical, moral, professional, and managerial facets of architecture. Through the courses, students will advance the idea of tropical environment architecture, hone their scholarly research skills, and strengthen their critical and intellectual thinking talents in and around the profession of architecture.

#2. Singapore Management University (SMU)

Singapore Management University’s Master of Applied Information Systems program gives students a comprehensive understanding of information systems in addition to practical experience that will improve their applied information systems knowledge and proficiency.

In addition to learning in the classroom, you can put what you’ve learned into practice while you’re studying.

Cheap Online Masters Degree Programs

#1. Columbia University

Columbia University provides overseas students with tuition-free online programs. It offers a wide range of online courses and micro-masters in subjects like robotics, business analytics, animation, corporate finance, and artificial intelligence thanks to its cooperation with edX.

The best part is that while some of these programs can cost up to US$199, the majority are free. After the course, you can optionally opt to pay a nominal amount to obtain a verified certificate. 

#2. University of the People

The University of the People (UoPeople), the first non-profit, tuition-free online institution in the United States, was established in 2009 and is certified by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission.

It provides three master’s degree programs in education, information technology, and business administration.

Note that a one-time application cost of $60 and a course assessment charge of up to $400 are all that are required.

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