15 Cheapest Universities in Arkansas for International Students

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In Arkansas, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in United States without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in Arkansas, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 20 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Arkansas, make sure to read more!

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Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in Arkansas for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Arkansas ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Arkansas Baptist College 8,760 USD 55%
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff 10,500 USD 46%
Arkansas Tech University 11,700 USD 40%
Philander Smith College 11,900 USD 39%
Southern Arkansas University 12,500 USD 35%
Arkansas State University 12,800 USD 34%
University of Arkansas at Monticello 13,900 USD 28%
University of Arkansas – Fort Smith 15,000 USD 23%
University of Arkansas at Little Rock 15,000 USD 22%
University of Central Arkansas 16,800 USD 13%
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences 17,900 USD - 40,500 USD 7%
Henderson State University 18,800 USD 3%
Alaska Pacific University 20,400 USD -6%
Harding University 22,500 USD -17%
University of the Ozarks 25,000 USD -30%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 19,200 USD for universities in Arkansas.

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1. Arkansas Baptist College

Arkansas Baptist College is a historically black liberal arts institution established in 1884 with the goal of making higher education more accessible to the African-American community in Little Rock, Arkansas. It offers a range of bachelor’s and associate degrees in various disciplines, the most popular of which is its program in Religious Studies. The college also encourages its students and faculty members to participate in different outreach activities to promote social responsibility in its campus community.

2. University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is a land-grant HBCU with a long and rich history of academic excellence and commitment to serving the social and economic needs of the state. Tuition fees at the university are known to be among the lowest in Arkansas, allowing individuals from different backgrounds and walks of life to gain high-quality education and be equipped for promising careers in the future. It offers its students over 50 innovative programs to choose from, including Aquaculture, Biotechnology, and Addiction Studies.

3. Arkansas Tech University

Arkansas Tech University is considered one of the most important and affordable universities in the state. It offers more than 50 bachelor’s degree programs and 25 master’s degree programs across its six colleges. The university has two campuses in Arkansas, a career center, and a virtual campus that offers multiple online undergraduate and graduate programs. Education here focuses on giving real-life experiences through service learning and has a stackable modality, which means that students that certain credits earned during a degree program can count towards a superior program if students graduate and want to continue their education.

4. Philander Smith College

Philander Smith College is a private institution established in 1877 to provide former African-American slaves with something they have been deprived of for a long time – an opportunity to gain and complete their education. Over the years, this historically black college has produced several alumni with significant contributions to society. Philander Smith College continues to provide high-quality liberal arts programs designed to prepare students to become socially responsible leaders and professionals.

5. Southern Arkansas University

Southern Arkansas University (SAU) is known for its excellent programs in agriculture and plant and animal sciences. The university also boasts of a small student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring that each pupil is given the chance for an enhanced learning experience. Aside from that, SAU has a dynamic sports culture and a vibrant campus.

6. Arkansas State University

Founded in 1909, Arkansas State University (A-State) was initially established as an agriculture school. It has since expanded to provide higher education in different academic disciplines awarding degrees at undergraduate and graduate levels. The university is located in the northeast of Arkansas, where headquarters of various industry sectors are situated. This will significantly benefit its students because countless opportunities will await them.

7. University of Arkansas at Monticello

The University of Arkansas at Monticello was founded in 1909, originally named Fourth District Agricultural School, and adopted its name in 1971. Different services are available to students from career services, counseling, dining and meal plans, housing, health services, recreational activities in arts and sports, as well as social events for the community. One of the innovations the school has introduced is its own UAM Sports Association (UAMSA), created to build the future of the field of athletics for the University of Arkansas at Monticello.

8. University of Arkansas – Fort Smith

The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith was founded in 1928, with currently over 7000 students in its care. The mascot Numa, the Lion sports its Blue and White colors to depict the “proud, strong, and courageous” identity of the school. Its mission and vision are to create students actively participating in the economic development of the world, and model professionals that will lead or serve the workforce. Undergraduate and graduate degree programs are also available to students who identify with their mission and vision.

9. University of Arkansas at Little Rock

Established in 1927, the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UA Little Rock) is a public institution that has awarded degrees to countless undergraduate and graduate students. Over the years, the university has undergone several redevelopments and rebranding. It has flourished into a well-structured school and has become one of the leading universities in the state of Arkansas. UA Little Rock offers a broad spectrum of academic programs, some of which are even recognized at the national level. Pursuing a higher education degree at the university is highly recommendable as it provides its students with countless opportunities and possibilities.

10. University of Central Arkansas

University of Central Arkansas (UCA) was established in 1907. Located in Conway, Arkansas, the university proved to be one of the premier schools in the state. Students have countless options on what degree or certificate to pursue as it offers a wide array of programs from undergraduate, graduate, associate degrees, and professional certifications. Additionally, the university’s quality of education and training is among the best in the region.

11. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is the only health sciences institution in the state. It employs more than 10,000 employees and is affiliated with Arkansas Children’s Hospital and the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System. The university provides research, education, and clinical programs, with medical sciences being offered on 2 campuses: Little Rock and Fayetteville.

12. Henderson State University

Henderson State University is located in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, and was founded in 1890. It first served as a teacher’s college but slowly developed throughout the years until becoming an actual university. Their mission and vision focus on the individual growth of their students and the strengthening of teaching competence in all fields of study, be it in liberal arts or STEM. In the past 4 years, the university has had a steady annual increase in its student population, and they aim to continue this in the incoming years.

13. Alaska Pacific University

Alaska Pacific University was founded in 1957 and is located in Anchorage, Arkansas. It recently had a student population of 555 youths and has six departments that house their students according to their specific programs. Aside from the academic facilities they have, recreational facilities are also present with gymnasiums, pools, weight rooms, climbing walls, soccer fields, forest trails, and a disc golf course on their campus. It is a private university that has roots in Methodist traditions, yet forwarded itself as a diverse, and inclusive educational institution.

14. Harding University

The most extensive private institution in Arkansas is Harding University. It is a Christian university associated with the Churches of Christ. Two junior colleges merged in 1924 to form Harding: Arkansas Christian College and Harper College. Several undergrad majors and grad programs are offered by Harding University, some of which are available in an online or hybrid format.

15. University of the Ozarks

The University of the Ozarks provides you with more than a degree. It helps you find your passion and the foundation to move forward. Students are assured, composed, and supported with the tools and perspective they need to make a difference wherever they go. True to its Christian heritage, it prepares students from diverse religious, cultural, academic, and economic pieces of knowledge to live life thoroughly.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in Arkansas for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Arkansas ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Henderson State University 6,540 USD 42%
John Brown University 6,900 USD - 16,800 USD 39%
Southern Arkansas University 7,170 USD 37%
Ouachita Baptist University 7,500 USD - 13,500 USD 34%
University of Arkansas at Monticello 7,552 USD 33%
Harding University 7,704 USD - 33,200 USD 32%
Alaska Pacific University 7,800 USD 31%
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff 9,720 USD 14%
University of Central Arkansas 9,961 USD 12%
Arkansas Tech University 11,000 USD 3%
Arkansas State University 11,600 USD -2%
Philander Smith College 11,900 USD -5%
University of Arkansas at Little Rock 14,000 USD -24%
University of Arkansas – Fort Smith 15,600 USD -38%
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences 16,600 USD -47%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 11,300 USD for universities in Arkansas.

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1. Henderson State University

Henderson State University is located in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, and was founded in 1890. It first served as a teacher’s college but slowly developed throughout the years until becoming an actual university. Their mission and vision focus on the individual growth of their students and the strengthening of teaching competence in all fields of study, be it in liberal arts or STEM. In the past 4 years, the university has had a steady annual increase in its student population, and they aim to continue this in the incoming years.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Henderson State University should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 6,540 USD annually for their master's degree.

2. John Brown University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is John Brown University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at John Brown University is 6,900 USD to 16,800 USD.

John Brown University (JBU) is a well-established private Christian institution educating students since 1919. Even as a nationally ranked university, its curriculum is not only focused on prioritizing the quality of education. It is also dedicated to aligning its programs with Christian principles and traditions. JBU’s primary goal is to transform the lives of students who will serve the local and international community with passion and integrity.

3. Southern Arkansas University

Southern Arkansas University (SAU) is known for its excellent programs in agriculture and plant and animal sciences. The university also boasts of a small student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring that each pupil is given the chance for an enhanced learning experience. Aside from that, SAU has a dynamic sports culture and a vibrant campus.

The tuition fee at Southern Arkansas University for incoming international master’s students is 7,170 USD. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Ouachita Baptist University

Another affordable university to consider in Arkansas is Ouachita Baptist University.

Ouachita Baptist University is a higher educational institution with over 130 years of teaching experience. The university boasts a 25 percent athlete-to-student population ratio, with over 16 intercollegiate teams, and 12 GAC Championships under their belt. As they have 1,500 students in their latest data check, this means that 375 of them are student-athletes with most of them being regional and national level competitors. The school is also closely associated with a religious institution, namely the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. Tying these two together promotes a healthy body and mindset for their students to receive quality Liberal Arts education.

The tuition fee in Ouachita Baptist University for master’s program for foreign students starts from 7,500 USD.

5. University of Arkansas at Monticello

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, University of Arkansas at Monticello has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 7,552 USD yearly.

The University of Arkansas at Monticello was founded in 1909, originally named Fourth District Agricultural School, and adopted its name in 1971. Different services are available to students from career services, counseling, dining and meal plans, housing, health services, recreational activities in arts and sports, as well as social events for the community. One of the innovations the school has introduced is its own UAM Sports Association (UAMSA), created to build the future of the field of athletics for the University of Arkansas at Monticello.

6. Harding University

The most extensive private institution in Arkansas is Harding University. It is a Christian university associated with the Churches of Christ. Two junior colleges merged in 1924 to form Harding: Arkansas Christian College and Harper College. Several undergrad majors and grad programs are offered by Harding University, some of which are available in an online or hybrid format.

7. Alaska Pacific University

Alaska Pacific University was founded in 1957 and is located in Anchorage, Arkansas. It recently had a student population of 555 youths and has six departments that house their students according to their specific programs. Aside from the academic facilities they have, recreational facilities are also present with gymnasiums, pools, weight rooms, climbing walls, soccer fields, forest trails, and a disc golf course on their campus. It is a private university that has roots in Methodist traditions, yet forwarded itself as a diverse, and inclusive educational institution.

8. University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is a land-grant HBCU with a long and rich history of academic excellence and commitment to serving the social and economic needs of the state. Tuition fees at the university are known to be among the lowest in Arkansas, allowing individuals from different backgrounds and walks of life to gain high-quality education and be equipped for promising careers in the future. It offers its students over 50 innovative programs to choose from, including Aquaculture, Biotechnology, and Addiction Studies.

9. University of Central Arkansas

University of Central Arkansas (UCA) was established in 1907. Located in Conway, Arkansas, the university proved to be one of the premier schools in the state. Students have countless options on what degree or certificate to pursue as it offers a wide array of programs from undergraduate, graduate, associate degrees, and professional certifications. Additionally, the university’s quality of education and training is among the best in the region.

10. Arkansas Tech University

Arkansas Tech University is considered one of the most important and affordable universities in the state. It offers more than 50 bachelor’s degree programs and 25 master’s degree programs across its six colleges. The university has two campuses in Arkansas, a career center, and a virtual campus that offers multiple online undergraduate and graduate programs. Education here focuses on giving real-life experiences through service learning and has a stackable modality, which means that students that certain credits earned during a degree program can count towards a superior program if students graduate and want to continue their education.

11. Arkansas State University

Founded in 1909, Arkansas State University (A-State) was initially established as an agriculture school. It has since expanded to provide higher education in different academic disciplines awarding degrees at undergraduate and graduate levels. The university is located in the northeast of Arkansas, where headquarters of various industry sectors are situated. This will significantly benefit its students because countless opportunities will await them.

12. Philander Smith College

Philander Smith College is a private institution established in 1877 to provide former African-American slaves with something they have been deprived of for a long time – an opportunity to gain and complete their education. Over the years, this historically black college has produced several alumni with significant contributions to society. Philander Smith College continues to provide high-quality liberal arts programs designed to prepare students to become socially responsible leaders and professionals.

13. University of Arkansas at Little Rock

Established in 1927, the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UA Little Rock) is a public institution that has awarded degrees to countless undergraduate and graduate students. Over the years, the university has undergone several redevelopments and rebranding. It has flourished into a well-structured school and has become one of the leading universities in the state of Arkansas. UA Little Rock offers a broad spectrum of academic programs, some of which are even recognized at the national level. Pursuing a higher education degree at the university is highly recommendable as it provides its students with countless opportunities and possibilities.

14. University of Arkansas – Fort Smith

The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith was founded in 1928, with currently over 7000 students in its care. The mascot Numa, the Lion sports its Blue and White colors to depict the “proud, strong, and courageous” identity of the school. Its mission and vision are to create students actively participating in the economic development of the world, and model professionals that will lead or serve the workforce. Undergraduate and graduate degree programs are also available to students who identify with their mission and vision.

15. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is the only health sciences institution in the state. It employs more than 10,000 employees and is affiliated with Arkansas Children’s Hospital and the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System. The university provides research, education, and clinical programs, with medical sciences being offered on 2 campuses: Little Rock and Fayetteville.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get admission to affordable universities in Arkansas?

Applying to cheap universities in Arkansas requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in United States for a more comprehensive guide!

2. What can I study at Best affordable universities in Arkansas?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Arkansas. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Arkansas is the Alaska Pacific University, which offers Alaska Native Governance , Community and Place-Based Education , and Counseling Psychology to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Alaska Pacific University offers Psychology , Creative Writing , and Environmental Science .

It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in Arkansas, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in Arkansas as well if you're looking for affordable education!

We hope that this article on affordable institutions in Arkansas for international students was helpful!