4 Cheapest Universities in Grand Rapids for International Students

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In Grand Rapids, Michigan, there are a handful 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, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in Grand Rapids, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 4 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Grand Rapids, make sure to read more!

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Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in Grand Rapids for International Students

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

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Cornerstone University 27,600 USD 18%
Davenport University 31,900 USD - 39,900 USD 6%
Aquinas College 36,500 USD -8%
Calvin University 38,400 USD -14%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 33,600 USD for universities in Grand Rapids.

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1. Cornerstone University

Cornerstone University is a private Christian university in Grand Rapids, Michigan. They offer undergraduate, graduate, and seminary degrees. Students can choose from 60 academic programs in arts, sciences, humanities, religious studies, education, technology, business, and journalism.

2. Davenport University

Established in 1866, Davenport University offers countless opportunities for local and international students. This private university offers a traditional and modern way of learning, and students have the option to either study in-person or online, depending on their needs. It is also known to be among the pioneers in Michigan in offering online programs at all levels. Moreover, as the institution thrives to become a leading national university, its top priority is to constantly improve the quality of education and offer more innovative academic programs.

3. Aquinas College

Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a privately funded Catholic institution offering liberal arts programs. The college serves not only its students but also the local and neighboring community, making them nationally recognized for its academics and social and service efforts. Additionally, it promotes sustainability within its campus and has even developed academic program/s for prospective students who want to study climate crisis and related studies. The college is truly a representation of being the leaders of change that would significantly contribute to the betterment of society.

4. Calvin University

Calvin University is a liberal arts institution affiliated with the Christian Reformed Church. It was named after John Calvin, a Protestant reformer, and the university is based on Calvinist tradition. Several undergraduate programs are offered, along with a limited number of graduate programs. Some of these programs are available for online setup. Calvin University is well-ranked, placing 251st in the US by QS rankings.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in Grand Rapids for International Students

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

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Calvin University 8,625 USD - 11,400 USD 27%
Cornerstone University 9,270 USD - 11,000 USD 21%
Aquinas College 11,800 USD - 15,700 USD 1%
Davenport University 17,300 USD - 33,600 USD -47%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 11,800 USD for universities in Grand Rapids.

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1. Calvin University

Calvin University is a liberal arts institution affiliated with the Christian Reformed Church. It was named after John Calvin, a Protestant reformer, and the university is based on Calvinist tradition. Several undergraduate programs are offered, along with a limited number of graduate programs. Some of these programs are available for online setup. Calvin University is well-ranked, placing 251st in the US by QS rankings.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Calvin University should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 8,625 USD to 11,400 USD annually for their master's degree.

2. Cornerstone University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Cornerstone University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Cornerstone University is 9,270 USD to 10,980 USD.

Cornerstone University is a private Christian university in Grand Rapids, Michigan. They offer undergraduate, graduate, and seminary degrees. Students can choose from 60 academic programs in arts, sciences, humanities, religious studies, education, technology, business, and journalism.

3. Aquinas College

Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a privately funded Catholic institution offering liberal arts programs. The college serves not only its students but also the local and neighboring community, making them nationally recognized for its academics and social and service efforts. Additionally, it promotes sustainability within its campus and has even developed academic program/s for prospective students who want to study climate crisis and related studies. The college is truly a representation of being the leaders of change that would significantly contribute to the betterment of society.

The tuition fee at Aquinas College for incoming international master’s students is 11,718 USD to 15,624 USD. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Davenport University

Another affordable university to consider in Grand Rapids is Davenport University.

Established in 1866, Davenport University offers countless opportunities for local and international students. This private university offers a traditional and modern way of learning, and students have the option to either study in-person or online, depending on their needs. It is also known to be among the pioneers in Michigan in offering online programs at all levels. Moreover, as the institution thrives to become a leading national university, its top priority is to constantly improve the quality of education and offer more innovative academic programs.

The tuition fee in Davenport University for master’s program for foreign students starts from 17,262 USD.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get admission to affordable universities in Grand Rapids, Michigan?

Applying to cheap universities in Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Grand Rapids. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Grand Rapids is the Aquinas College, which offers Biology, Computer Information Systems, and Early Childhood Education to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Aquinas College offers Education, Teaching, and Management.


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 United States, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

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

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