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*
Gulf Coast State College 8,633 USD - 10,800 USD 68%
Seminole State College of Florida 9,158 USD - 12,800 USD 66%
Santa Fe College 9,190 USD - 12,900 USD 66%
State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota 9,276 USD 66%
St Petersburg College 9,286 USD - 12,800 USD 66%
Indian River State College 9,372 USD - 12,000 USD 66%
Valencia College 9,383 USD - 12,900 USD 66%
Daytona State College 9,568 USD - 18,700 USD 65%
Florida State College at Jacksonville 9,630 USD - 12,100 USD 65%
Miami Dade College 9,660 USD - 16,100 USD 65%
Polk State College 9,817 USD - 14,100 USD 64%
Florida National University 12,600 USD - 15,800 USD 54%
Palm Beach State College 13,400 USD - 16,800 USD 51%
Bethune-Cookman University 13,900 USD 49%
Broward College 14,200 USD - 17,700 USD 48%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 26,900 USD for universities in Florida.

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1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. Daytona State College

Daytona State College has been educating countless competent students since 1957. This public college offers numerous professional certificate, associate, and bachelor’s programs. Its education and training are considered to be among the best in Florida. Some academic disciplines offered at the institution are education, health science, engineering, and management.

9. 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.

10. 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.

11. 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.

12. Florida National University

Florida National University (FNU) is a private university in Hialeah, Florida. It was established in 1988. The university provides undergraduate and graduate programs in a wide range of disciplines. Students here benefit from small class sizes, personalized attention, and a diverse student body. Nursing, Dental Assisting, Healthcare Management, Accounting, and Business are among the most popular majors at FNU.

13. Palm Beach State College

Palm Beach State College (PBSC) has admitted students since 1933. This public institution offers quality bachelor’s programs, professional certifications, associate degrees, and continuing education programs. PBSC is one of Florida’s largest community colleges, with students coming from Lake Worth, other states, and abroad. In addition, it is also one of the most affordable colleges in the state, and this is without compromising the quality of education it provides.

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. Broward College

Broward College is a public institution that highly promotes diversity on its campus. It welcomes students from across the globe who wishes to pursue a degree in the field of science and applied science. At present, the university offers a wide range of academic programs. Students who have earned an associate degree at the university can continue their studies for another two years to obtain a bachelor’s degree or transfer to another school. It also offers vocational or technical certificates as well.

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*
Southeastern University 4,500 USD - 11,700 USD 65%
Ave Maria University 5,568 USD - 11,800 USD 57%
St. Thomas University 6,000 USD - 14,400 USD 53%
Rollins College 6,336 USD - 22,500 USD 51%
Stetson University 6,672 USD - 19,800 USD 48%
Florida National University 7,800 USD - 11,700 USD 39%
Lynn University 7,800 USD - 13,500 USD 39%
Flagler College 8,184 USD - 12,300 USD 36%
Jacksonville University 9,000 USD - 17,900 USD 30%
Saint Leo University 9,420 USD - 15,300 USD 27%
Florida Memorial University 9,456 USD 26%
Palm Beach Atlantic University 9,990 USD - 16,300 USD 22%
Brenau University 10,400 USD - 16,400 USD 19%
Florida Southern College 10,500 USD - 18,700 USD 18%
Florida Institute of Technology 11,100 USD - 24,300 USD 14%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 12,800 USD for universities in Florida.

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1. 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.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Southeastern University should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 4,500 USD to 11,700 USD annually for their master's degree.

2. Ave Maria University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Ave Maria University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Ave Maria University is 5,568 USD to 11,718 USD.

Ave Maria University shares roots with a former college in Michigan. The university itself was realized in 2003 through a diocesan decree in Florida. The small university has a predominantly Catholic student population. As a Catholic institution, AMU is proud of its evangelical roots. Thus, its courses are related to religion.

AMU is also a liberal arts institution. Several of its undergrad programs are concentrated on the field. Only two grad programs are available, one of which is entirely in online mode.

3. 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 at St. Thomas University for incoming international master’s students is 6,000 USD to 14,400 USD. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Rollins College

Another affordable university to consider in Florida is 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.

The tuition fee in Rollins College for master’s program for foreign students starts from 6,336 USD.

5. Stetson University

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Stetson 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 6,672 USD yearly.

Stetson University offers over 50 undergraduate programs and almost 20 graduate programs in its four colleges and schools. Although its main campus is located in DeLand, it has multiple buildings and centers throughout Florida. One of the most famous buildings is the School of Law along with its Law Center, as it is considered to offer one of the best law programs in the US and it was the first to be available in the state. The university develops hundreds of research projects each year and also has space for many non-academic activities, with 17 sports teams and more than 100 student groups.

6. Florida National University

Florida National University (FNU) is a private university in Hialeah, Florida. It was established in 1988. The university provides undergraduate and graduate programs in a wide range of disciplines. Students here benefit from small class sizes, personalized attention, and a diverse student body. Nursing, Dental Assisting, Healthcare Management, Accounting, and Business are among the most popular majors at FNU.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. Saint Leo University

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.

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. Palm Beach Atlantic University

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.

13. Brenau University

Brenau University is a private institution that offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs. It started as a women-only university, and it has continued that tradition until today because it has a Women’s College that’s exclusive for female students and has both bachelor’s and master’s degree options. However, the other four colleges on the campus are co-educational and warmly welcome male students. Brenau University is famous for its historic buildings and facilities, like the different art galleries and the Historic Center. It’s also known for its study abroad programs, like the one made in partnership with Chinese universities that allow students to spend the first two years of their program in China.

14. 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.

15. 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.

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 Ave Maria University offers Theology.

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!