15 Cheapest Universities in Florida for International Students

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In Florida, 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 Florida, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 52 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Florida, make sure to read more!

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

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

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Seminole State College of Florida 1,915 USD - 7,594 USD 92%
University of West Florida 6,152 USD - 15,500 USD 74%
Florida Institute of Technology 7,500 USD - 42,800 USD 68%
Gulf Coast State College 8,633 USD 64%
Santa Fe College 9,190 USD 61%
St Petersburg College 9,358 USD 61%
College of Central Florida 10,700 USD 55%
State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota 11,600 USD 51%
Indian River State College 12,000 USD 49%
Florida State College at Jacksonville 12,100 USD 49%
Florida Memorial University 12,600 USD 47%
Valencia College 12,900 USD 46%
Miami Dade College 13,500 USD 43%
Bethune-Cookman University 13,900 USD 41%
Polk State College 14,100 USD 40%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 23,500 USD for universities in Florida.

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1. Seminole State College of Florida

Interested individuals can choose from various undergraduate programs at Seminole State College of Florida. These include associate, certificate, and bachelor’s programs. The college is also accessible through its four campuses: Sanford/Lake Mary, Oviedo, The Center for Economic Development at Heathrow, and Altamonte Springs. Based on the US News rankings, Seminole State College is 61st among southern regional colleges.

2. University of West Florida

Founded in 1963, the University of West Florida (UWF) has been cultivating countless students since it started accepting students in 1967. The university has been offering traditional on-campus lectures and online programs as it aims to make education in the US more accessible, especially for students abroad. As a thriving university, it continues to develop and improve to provide first-rate education.

3. Florida Institute of Technology

Focusing heavily on STEM-related fields, the Florida Institute of Technology offers various aeronautics, engineering, and science courses. In addition to these topics, FIT also covers business and psychology, which follows the mold of a liberal arts college. Also known as Florida Tech among many, Florida Institute of Technology has been ranked among the top universities in the United States and even among the world.

4. Gulf Coast State College

With more than 150 undergraduate programs offered to the youth, Gulf Coast State College is easily one of the most accessible and affordable schools in the United States. It was founded in 1957 with an established vision of excellent graduates and a welcoming student community. Arts, culture, and athletics are never neglected even outside the academic field with student clubs, organizations, and activities presenting themselves in and out of campus. Dining services, bookstores, and campus security provide extra comfort that leads to better learning experiences for the students.

5. Santa Fe College

Santa Fe College is one of the 28 Florida College System members. While based in Gainesville, it also has locations in other Florida counties: Alachua and Bradford. Only undergrad programs are available at Santa Fe College, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, non-degree options, and certificate programs. The courses are focused on various fields, including business, communications, construction, engineering, arts, and many more.

6. St Petersburg College

St Petersburg College was Florida’s first junior college and also its first state college. As a state college, it is accredited to and primarily offers bachelor’s programs, but it may also have associate degree courses. However, it does not have graduate programs. SPC started as a private college but has since become a public institution. It is even a member of the Florida College System.

7. College of Central Florida

College of Central Florida, a public college under the Florida College System, provides only undergraduate-level courses. These include associate, bachelor’s, and online degrees. It also offers college credit, career, and advanced technical certificate courses. You can also get an applied technology diploma in dental assisting.

Initially, the institution was a two-year college. Now, it has expanded to offer several programs at different locations: Ocala, Vintage Farm, Citrus, Levy, Hampton Center, and Appleton Museum of Art.

8. State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota

State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) is one of the largest public institutions in Florida. The college offers a broad spectrum of study programs with the option to study on one of its three campuses or take the program online. SCF awards associate degrees, professional certificates, and baccalaureate degrees. These unique programs are offered to students of all ages who want to gain knowledge and develop skills.

9. Indian River State College

Indian River State College was founded in 1958 that currently has five campuses and offers full associate, certificate, and bachelor’s degrees. Almost 90 percent of the graduates from this school are reported to have no debt according to the U.S. News & World Report in 2019. It has also claimed that the annual enrollment in the school is 26000, boasting its higher admission and retainment rate.

10. Florida State College at Jacksonville

Florida State College at Jacksonville offers excellent undergraduate programs. It is known for its active participation in numerous research conventions. The institution aims to continue its legacy as one of the top schools in the state by constantly developing its curriculum and faculty.

11. Florida Memorial University

Florida Memorial University is considered a historically black institution since it served the African-American student population during the times of racial segregation laws in the U.S. Thus, it preserves the same principles that characterized it for so many decades during its beginnings: the search for truth and freedom of opinion and the access to equal opportunities. It currently has a student population of all races and backgrounds that have access to one of the most affordable private institutions in the region. Students not only have access to 27 bachelor’s degree programs and 3 master’s degree programs but also to unique academic spaces like the Cybersecurity Center and the Department of Aviation.

12. Valencia College

Valencia College is a promising institution in Florida that provides affordable and high-quality education. The school aims to produce more intellectual professionals in society to contribute to the economic aspect of the state. Valencia College has defied all odds and continues to keep up with other prominent universities when it comes to research and innovation.

13. Miami Dade College

Miami Dade College is one of the most diverse institutions in Florida. Hispanics, Black non-Hispanics, and international students comprised more than half of the student body. The university offers academic programs at the undergraduate level, entirely focusing on awarding bachelor’s and associate degrees. It provides first-class education, a vibrant learning environment, highly qualified professors, and an overall academic experience that will transform the many lives of its students.

14. Bethune-Cookman University

Bethune-Cookman University is a historic black university that offers inclusive education. Since its establishment, it has inspired and educated many young lives through academics and research. The university strives to contribute to the community by molding intellectual individuals and guiding them in serving society.

15. Polk State College

Polk State University is a public university located in Winter Haven, Florida, that is part of the University of Florida system. Fork State University has two campuses, the main campus in Winter Haven, and the second campus in nearby Lakeland. At present, the university is home to more than 15,000 and offers associate and bachelor’s degree programs.

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

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

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
University of West Florida 5,930 USD - 13,900 USD 59%
Saint Leo University 6,360 USD - 8,640 USD 56%
Florida Southern College 6,675 USD - 15,600 USD 54%
St. Thomas University 7,500 USD - 12,000 USD 48%
Palm Beach Atlantic University 7,725 USD - 10,500 USD 47%
Rollins College 7,845 USD - 10,800 USD 46%
Jacksonville University 7,875 USD - 14,300 USD 46%
Florida Institute of Technology 9,000 USD - 18,700 USD 38%
Edward Waters University 9,248 USD 36%
Southeastern University 9,270 USD - 9,450 USD 36%
University of Tampa 10,300 USD 29%
Florida Memorial University 10,500 USD 28%
Lynn University 11,300 USD 22%
Bethune-Cookman University 11,700 USD - 13,500 USD 20%
Flagler College 11,700 USD 19%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 14,400 USD for universities in Florida.

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1. University of West Florida

Founded in 1963, the University of West Florida (UWF) has been cultivating countless students since it started accepting students in 1967. The university has been offering traditional on-campus lectures and online programs as it aims to make education in the US more accessible, especially for students abroad. As a thriving university, it continues to develop and improve to provide first-rate education.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, University of West Florida should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 5,930 USD to 13,854 USD annually for their master's degree.

2. Saint Leo University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Saint Leo University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Saint Leo University is 6,360 USD to 8,640 USD.

Saint Leo University, a Catholic university, is affiliated with the Order of Saint Benedict through a convent and monastery. It is the first and largest of its kind in Florida. More than 18,000 students are welcomed annually, not just into its campus but also through its online education portals. Around 40 programs are available, most of which are dedicated to the liberal arts.

3. Florida Southern College

Florida Southern College is an educational institution that focuses on liberal arts. It is located in the heart of Florida, attracting many international applicants. The institution has maintained a harmonious environment where students have the opportunity to participate in professional internships and study abroad.

The tuition fee at Florida Southern College for incoming international master’s students is 6,675 USD to 15,525 USD. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. St. Thomas University

Another affordable university to consider in Florida is St. Thomas University.

St. Thomas’ University is a private Catholic university in Miami Gardens, Florida, with about 6,000 students. It is a relatively new university founded in 1961. If you look at the student demographics of St. Thomas’ University, half of them are Hispanic, and then white and black people are similar. Various students from very different countries are attending this school. There is a museum in the school, which is free of charge during the week and open to visitors on weekends.

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

5. Palm Beach Atlantic University

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Palm Beach Atlantic University 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 7,725 USD yearly.

Palm Beach Atlantic University is a coeducational Christian university with nine colleges, founded in 1968 and located in West Palm Beach, Florida. The private university boasts its enrollees coming internationally from over 40 countries such as India, Germany, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Volunteer groups and organizations are also a large part of their school life, with around 30 volunteers, in recreational or athletic organizations. Their men’s and women’s athletics teams also compete regionally at an NCAA Division II level across sports such as Soccer, Basketball, Tennis, and Baseball.

6. Rollins College

Rollins College is known for its innovative curriculum and practical learning and mentorship. Founded in 1885, when Florida needed an institution for higher education, Rollins continues to prepare a generation of leaders provided with learnings for a productive career. It is currently home to more than 3,100 students, with around 8% international enrollment.

7. Jacksonville University

Jacksonville University (JU) was established in 1934 to provide higher education in its local community. Today, JU is one of the leading private universities in Florida. It offers degree programs in aviation, business, health sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, performance arts, and education. The university transforms the lives of students in the best possible way. It aids them in becoming global citizens and successful professionals in their chosen fields. JU continues to improve its educational system by developing new innovative programs and strengthening network connections.

8. Florida Institute of Technology

Focusing heavily on STEM-related fields, the Florida Institute of Technology offers various aeronautics, engineering, and science courses. In addition to these topics, FIT also covers business and psychology, which follows the mold of a liberal arts college. Also known as Florida Tech among many, Florida Institute of Technology has been ranked among the top universities in the United States and even among the world.

9. Edward Waters University

Edward Waters University is a higher learning institution that was established in 1865. Considered one of the historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the United States, the school has its roots in inclusivity and equity deep within its student culture. The vision of the school is to create diverse, innovative, and service-oriented individuals that will lead the world to greater heights. Some of its core values perfectly reflect the mission such as excellence, cooperation, social responsibility, and civic engagement.

10. Southeastern University

Southeastern University is a private institution divided into six colleges that offer over 70 bachelor’s degree programs, 3 on-campus master’s degree programs, and about 20 online master’s degree programs. This is a Christian university that offers multiple religious degrees and integrates the Christian faith into the day-to-day life of students. Actually, those who’d like to study here must submit a Christian Character Reference form, an essay that explains how would their major be integrated with their faith, and, in some cases, a recommendation letter from someone from their church. Students must also comply with the university’s Christian-based guidelines.

11. University of Tampa

The University of Tampa is a residential university that originated as a junior college that has grown throughout the years, with a student body coming from over 100 countries. Its campus is known to have 1550 wireless zones, with its buildings connected and wired using fiber optic cables. In addition, the university has a high acceptance rate of 95% of all student applications.

12. Florida Memorial University

Florida Memorial University is considered a historically black institution since it served the African-American student population during the times of racial segregation laws in the U.S. Thus, it preserves the same principles that characterized it for so many decades during its beginnings: the search for truth and freedom of opinion and the access to equal opportunities. It currently has a student population of all races and backgrounds that have access to one of the most affordable private institutions in the region. Students not only have access to 27 bachelor’s degree programs and 3 master’s degree programs but also to unique academic spaces like the Cybersecurity Center and the Department of Aviation.

13. Lynn University

Lynn University was initially established as a two-year finishing school for women by the religious order of the Sacred Heart of Mary. Then called the College of Boca Raton, it received funding from Eugene M. Lynn. Since then, the university has offered four-year degrees and became renowned in athletics by winning the national championship in soccer 5 times from 1987 – 2014. Finally, the college was awarded its university status in the 1900s and established new colleges, buildings, and centers.

14. Bethune-Cookman University

Bethune-Cookman University is a historic black university that offers inclusive education. Since its establishment, it has inspired and educated many young lives through academics and research. The university strives to contribute to the community by molding intellectual individuals and guiding them in serving society.

15. Flagler College

Flagler College provides exceptional education through an integrated and challenging academic community. It aims to offer a unique experience to students by allowing them to gain actual work experience while still studying. The institution also bears various activities and opportunities that will truly develop the students’ professionalism.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Applying to cheap universities in Florida 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 Florida?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Florida. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Florida is the Bethune-Cookman University, which offers Psychology, Nursing, and Health and Exercise Sciences to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Bethune-Cookman University offers Athletic Training, Criminal Justice Administration, and Organizational Leadership.

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

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

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