15 Cheapest Universities in California for International Students

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In California, 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 California, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 102 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in California, make sure to read more!

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

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

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Southern States University 8,538 USD 77%
San Diego State University 11,700 USD 68%
Golden Gate University 13,900 USD 62%
Life Pacific University 14,700 USD - 19,600 USD 60%
University of Massachusetts Global 15,000 USD 59%
California State University, Stanislaus 15,300 USD - 15,300 USD 58%
California State University San Marcos 15,300 USD 58%
California State University, Dominguez Hills 15,300 USD 58%
California State University, Long Beach 16,400 USD 55%
California State University, Bakersfield 17,200 USD - 18,100 USD 53%
California State University, Chico 17,400 USD 52%
California State University, Northridge 17,700 USD 51%
California State University, Monterey Bay 17,700 USD 51%
San Francisco State University 17,700 USD 51%
California State University, Fullerton 17,700 USD 51%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 36,000 USD for universities in California.

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1. Southern States University

Southern States University (SSU) is a private American University established over 30 years ago. Our Degree and Certificate Programs have been designed to train you to succeed in the world of business and information technology, and to develop tomorrow’s industry leaders. For many years, Southern States University has attracted international students to come and study at our campuses in California and Nevada. We are proud of having international students (F1/M1) from all over the world. OPT is available in all programs. CPT is available in all degree programs. SSU has campuses in some of the most beautiful locations in the United States: Irvine and San Diego, California, and Las Vegas, Nevada.

2. San Diego State University

San Diego State University is an excellent research university. It has already produced thousands of intelligent graduates who have contributed significantly to the community. The university lived up to its cause of embracing a diverse set of students and highly promotes inclusive education.

3. Golden Gate University

Borne out of a man’s desire to earn a college education, the Golden Gate University offers quality education to more than 3000 students. It focuses on advanced education and professional training in the fields of accounting, business, and law. Golden Gate University enjoys a diverse student population, with a generous number of students coming from different parts of Asia and the world.

4. Life Pacific University

Life Pacific University was a humble two-year college when it opened. Now, it is a religious university with four-year programs and campuses in California and Virginia. Bachelor’s and master’s programs are available, although the master’s courses are in online format only. The selection for bachelor’s programs is quite limited, too, mainly focusing on bible studies and related disciplines.

5. University of Massachusetts Global

The University of Massachusetts Global, previously known as Brandman University, is a private nonprofit university with 25 campuses throughout California and Washington. It is also a virtual campus, allowing people to study even if they are far away from the university. Its people are the true strength of the University of Massachusetts Global. The supervision, faculty, and staff are devoted in nourishing the environment essential for students to succeed. Together, they work continuously to improve educational ventures for their students.

6. California State University, Stanislaus

California State University, Stanislaus is one of the CSU system’s 23 campuses. It is noted as a Hispanic-serving college and the only one in the system to offer an undergraduate degree in cognitive studies. More known as Stan State, it is ranked 501st in the US by Times Higher Education.

7. California State University San Marcos

California State University San Marcos is a university that offers comprehensive training in business, engineering, and mathematics. It has a complete set of equipment needed to aid the students’ productivity. The university makes sure to participate in various research collaborations to expand further its internationalization.

8. California State University, Dominguez Hills

Located in the city of Carson, California State University, Dominguez Hills is one of the 23 campuses that make up the California State University system. It was founded in 1960 and offers a wide range of study programs. Programs at the university are designed to provide a combination of strong theoretical knowledge and practical learning.

9. California State University, Long Beach

Due to its long name, California State University in Long Beach has also been named as CSULB or as the Beach for short. Being one of many public universities in the California State University System, CSULB has one of the highest enrollment numbers in the state of California alone, and when it comes to funding, Beach is probably one of the heaviest-funded art schools in the United States, which shows us the importance of California State University, Long Beach. When it comes to numbers, CSULB accepts many international students, and its student body is mostly made up of international students, which is astounding since this institution receives many applicants per year.

10. California State University, Bakersfield

California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) has been educating students since 1970. The university has over 50 bachelor’s and master’s programs in the following areas of study: arts, humanities, business, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and education. CSUB cultivates responsible and skillful talents. Additionally, students at the university are often called Roadrunners as they are known to be efficient and fast learners.

11. California State University, Chico

Founded in 1887, California State University, Chico (CSU Chico) or Chico State is known to be one of the oldest member institutions of the California State University system. CSU Chico has trained countless students since it started its operations. This public research university provides top-rated educational programs in various areas of study. Moreover, its location is considered one of the country’s most beautiful and serene campuses comprising modern facilities, buildings, and laboratories.

12. California State University, Northridge

California State University, Northridge was founded in 1958 in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles, California. The university is dedicated to helping students attain their academic and professional goals. CSUN is also known for its having several collaborations with university and community stakeholders in conducting research and projects that would serve the people of San Fernando Valley and beyond. 

13. California State University, Monterey Bay

California State University was founded by the “Return of Natives (RON)” who wanted to change the lifeless and cold asphalt spaces of school into vibrant ones. Working in collaboration with the Moss Landing Marine, who was on a mission to restore the local ecology and watershed in the area, RON founded the Watershed Institute. Over the years, the community and volunteers are working together to revive the surrounding area through the program “cycle of restoration”.

14. San Francisco State University

San Francisco State University or SF State is one of the 23 California State University system campuses. From its origins as a teacher training institution, SF State has grown into a thriving, world-class university with high research output and top rankings across various assessments. It now provides more than a hundred programs in sciences, business, journalism, public service, and many other subjects.

15. California State University, Fullerton

The California State University system is comprised of 23 campuses, one of which is California State University, Fullerton (also known as Cal State Fullerton). Cal State Fullerton, which has the largest student population in the system, is a Hispanic-serving institution; thus, nearly half of its population is of Hispanic origins. It is also top-ranked in diversity, innovation, performance, affordability, and social mobility.

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

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

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Point Loma Nazarene University 3,840 USD - 10,700 USD 82%
Southern States University 6,274 USD - 8,501 USD 70%
Loma Linda University 6,960 USD - 38,800 USD 67%
Vanguard University of Southern California 8,190 USD - 11,500 USD 61%
Concordia University Irvine 8,325 USD - 14,300 USD 60%
Hope International University 8,400 USD - 11,600 USD 60%
California Baptist University 8,475 USD - 14,100 USD 59%
Palo Alto University 8,490 USD 59%
La Sierra University 8,550 USD - 13,200 USD 59%
Master’s University 8,925 USD 57%
University of Silicon Valley 8,982 USD 57%
University of La Verne 9,180 USD - 17,400 USD 56%
Life Pacific University 10,100 USD - 17,600 USD 51%
Santa Clara University 10,300 USD - 46,100 USD 51%
California State University Maritime Academy 10,400 USD 50%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 20,600 USD for universities in California.

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1. Point Loma Nazarene University

As a Christian institution associated with the Church of the Nazarene, Point Loma Nazarene University rears students academically and spiritually. It is also centered around the liberal arts; thus, most of its programs are related to the social sciences, humanities, and sciences. PLNU is ranked 327th in the Times Higher Education US College Rankings 2022.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Point Loma Nazarene University should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 3,840 USD to 10,680 USD annually for their master's degree.

2. Southern States University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Southern States University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Southern States University is 6,274 USD to 8,501 USD.

Southern States University (SSU) is a private American University established over 30 years ago. Our Degree and Certificate Programs have been designed to train you to succeed in the world of business and information technology, and to develop tomorrow’s industry leaders. For many years, Southern States University has attracted international students to come and study at our campuses in California and Nevada. We are proud of having international students (F1/M1) from all over the world. OPT is available in all programs. CPT is available in all degree programs. SSU has campuses in some of the most beautiful locations in the United States: Irvine and San Diego, California, and Las Vegas, Nevada.

3. Loma Linda University

Loma Linda University (LLU) is a Seventh-day Adventist health and sciences institution. Programs and learning opportunities at LLU are described to be Christ-centered and mission-focused. Aside from academic excellence, Loma Linda University strives to develop the spirituality of students.

The tuition fee at Loma Linda University for incoming international master’s students is 6,960 USD to 38,790 USD. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Vanguard University of Southern California

Another affordable university to consider in California is Vanguard University of Southern California.

The Vanguard University of Southern California is a private Christian university in Costa Mesa, California. It began as the Southern California Bible School for Christian Workers in 1920. Over 39 undergraduate majors in 15 different fields of study are available at the university. Vanguard has been ranked by the U.S. News and World Report as one of the top ten best baccalaureate colleges in the western United States.

The tuition fee in Vanguard University of Southern California for master’s program for foreign students starts from 8,190 USD.

5. Concordia University Irvine

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Concordia University Irvine 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 8,325 USD yearly.

Concordia University Irvine is dedicated to fostering a love for lifelong learning and shaping a coherent and comprehensive worldview. Its undergraduate programs are distinctive among universities in California because of its nationally recognized core curriculum. Concordia University Irvine is among the country’s finest, distinctively Lutheran liberal arts universities.

6. Hope International University

Hope International University is a Christian university committed to providing transformative education that serves the community and the Church. Its location in Fullerton, California gives students easy access to visit several tourist attractions such as Disneyland and Newport Beach. The university is also recognized for providing financial aid packages and scholarships to the majority of its students.

7. California Baptist University

California Baptist University was founded by Los Angeles Southern Baptist Association in 1950 in association with the California Southern Baptist Convention. It prides itself on its numerous accreditation, athletic competitiveness, infrastructure, and tradition that attracts both local and international students. The university offers a wide array of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, summing up to 155 in total. As a private Christian university, it follows a tradition of spiritual and religious foundation that students must serve as their guideline in their community life. Up to this day, California Baptist University remains competent in the learning opportunities they provide to concurrent and aspiring students.

8. Palo Alto University

Palo Alto University was founded in 1975 but provides top-notch undergraduate and graduate degree programs despite being a fairly young university. For over 45 years, the school has specialized education in psychology and counseling. The core values of equity, inclusion, community, excellence, integrity, compassion and innovation are embedded in their teaching and student culture. The university currently has a 5-year strategic plan with the goal of producing academic excellence, awareness, and financial strength.

9. La Sierra University

La Sierra University is an internationally recognized higher education institute located in Riverside, California. Founded in 1922, the university established itself as a place of religious practice and expression. Their motto, “To Seek, To Know, and To Serve,” is core to their community and aims to extend it to the learning experiences of students from out of the United States. The school currently offers 120 Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral programs divided into five departments found on campus.

10. Master’s University

The Master’s University is higher education institute in Santa Clarita, California, that offers over 150 bachelor’s, master’s, and certificate programs. Founded in 1927, they have eight campuses in Santa Clarita and Sun Valley, California, as well as in the country of Israel. They currently have 2,400 enrolled students who afford financial aid at all educational levels. Core values of commitment to Christ, biblical fidelity, moral integrity, and intellectual growth guide the service education of the school as well as the community life of their students. Their goal is to create individuals capable of producing long-lasting contributions that positively affect their community. As they come close to their 100th year, the Master’s University continues their indiscriminate honing of the youth.

11. University of Silicon Valley

The University of Silicon Valley is uniquely balanced to deliver a significant and beneficial education for 21st-century students. Its location and connection to Silicon Valley partners give its students seeking a career in innovative technology a competitive edge. USV’s expert faculty includes working professionals with deep educational backgrounds from dynamic industries.

12. University of La Verne

The University of La Verne provides a distinct education that challenges students to serve the community and think creatively. It aims to bring students out of their own comfort zones and allow them to maximize their potential. The university is full of supportive advisers and guarantees productive training centers to students.

13. Life Pacific University

Life Pacific University was a humble two-year college when it opened. Now, it is a religious university with four-year programs and campuses in California and Virginia. Bachelor’s and master’s programs are available, although the master’s courses are in online format only. The selection for bachelor’s programs is quite limited, too, mainly focusing on bible studies and related disciplines.

14. Santa Clara University

Established in the late 18th century, Santa Clara University is a private institution with religious ties to the Catholic faith. Due to its historic establishment, Santa Clara is one of the oldest surviving institutions in the United States, and due to its long history, many people have graduated from this famed institution. When it comes to its alumni achievements, Santa Clara University has the right to boast since its alumni have created Javascript (widely-used programming code), Nvidia (tech company), and Farmer’s Insurance (top-tier insurance company). In addition to all of their achievement, alumni from Santa Clara have won many world-class awards such as Oscars, Pulitzer Prizes, Grammy Awards, and even the MVP Award from the NBA.

15. California State University Maritime Academy

California State University Maritime Academy or Cal Maritime is a unique higher education institution in Vallejo, California. This public university offers maritime programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Students will benefit from its small campus as each student’s needs will be individually handled and supported by the faculty. Aside from providing high-quality education, the university also offers affordable tuition costs, making it among the preferred marine institutions in the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Applying to cheap universities in California 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 California?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in California. For example, one of the best affordable schools in California is the California State University San Marcos, which offers Business Analytics , Global Supply Chain Management, and Finance to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the California Baptist University offers Athletic Training, Biomedical Sciences, and Counseling Ministry.

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 California, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

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

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