15 Cheapest Universities in Kentucky for International Students

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In Kentucky, 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 Kentucky, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 27 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Kentucky, make sure to read more!

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

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

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Berea College 0 USD 100%
Sullivan University 9,840 USD - 17,600 USD 64%
University of the Cumberlands 9,875 USD 63%
Eastern Kentucky University 12,000 USD 56%
Kentucky State University 13,100 USD - 16,300 USD 52%
Simmons College of Kentucky 13,200 USD 51%
Alice Lloyd College 14,100 USD 48%
Northern Kentucky University 15,000 USD 44%
Murray State University 15,700 USD 42%
Morehead State University 23,000 USD 14%
University of Pikeville 24,000 USD 11%
Midway University 27,500 USD -3%
Western Kentucky University 27,700 USD -3%
Lindsey Wilson College 28,100 USD -5%
Campbellsville University 28,700 USD -7%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 26,700 USD for universities in Kentucky.

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1. Berea College

Berea College was founded by Rev. John G. Fee to advocate for equality and excellence in education for men and women of all races. The college was named after a biblical town whose constituents were open and receptive to the gospel. It is also worth noting that Berea College is the only American College, consistently ranked at the top, that doesn’t charge tuition to its students through their No-Tuition Promise.

2. Sullivan University

Sullivan University is an institution of higher learning committed to providing educational enrichment chances for its students’ intellectual, social, and professional growth. The institution offers a career-focused curriculum through diploma, associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. The SU faculty, staff, and administration believe that skillful individuals should have the opportunity to seek proper academic training at their chosen institution.

3. University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands (UC) is a private university in Williamsburg, Kentucky. It was founded in 1888 as Williamsburg Institute by Baptist ministers. UC provides students with a broad liberal arts curriculum that includes Christian teachings. Students at UC are encouraged to put their faith into action through a student-centered community and to think critically in order to grow professionally and intellectually.

4. Eastern Kentucky University

Also known as the EKU, Eastern Kentucky University is a public institution that is located in the central part of Kentucky. In addition to on-campus courses, EKU also specializes in online learning, and currently, they offer over 40 undergraduate and graduate classes for people who wanted to delve into distance learning.

5. Kentucky State University

Kentucky State University was established in 1886, granting itself a status for offering African American teachers an avenue for their profession. Considering its history in its preference and assistance to African Americans, a majority of its constituents are also African Americans with around 50 percent of the students and employees being African Americans and the other half being non-African Americans. Much like most colleges and universities in America, Kentucky State University prides itself in providing quality liberal arts education to students from all places. With its establishment more than 100 years, Kentucky State University is one of the most diverse and competitive educational institutions both regionally and globally.

6. Simmons College of Kentucky

Simmons College of Kentucky was built in 1879 and is considered the first and oldest historically black institution in the state. This fast-growing institution strives to foster a safe and supportive environment for students to explore their interests and expand their cultural perspectives. It offers a range of academic programs designed to equip students for promising careers after graduation.

7. Alice Lloyd College

Alice Lloyd College is a private vocational college located in Kentucky, United States. The university was founded about 100 years ago in 1923 for local education for leaders of Appalachia, and has been a bachelor’s degree recipient since 1980. The university includes 18 major degree programs and eight pre-professional programs, and what’s unusual is that students at the university have to work part-time regardless of their financial situation. University students can work with all the jobs they are given, such as administrative staff, office assistants, teachers, craft manufacturers, residential advisers, and maintenance. College students at the school are obligated to work at least 160 hours per semester through on-campus or outside volunteer work.

8. Northern Kentucky University

Northern Kentucky University is one of the most extensive institutions in the Greater Cincinnati area because of its 16000+ population. Even with such a significant number, the university achieves a 19:1 student-to-faculty ratio. More than 90 undergraduate majors and 22 master’s are offered at NKU. It is well-ranked and consistently part of Row America’s Best Colleges Forbes.

9. Murray State University

In 1922, the state legislature chose Murray as the location of the Kentucky Normal School, now the Murray State University. As a nationally renowned institution, the university provides affordable quality education as well as awards scholarships and financial grants to deserving students of over $115 million each year. Since its inception, the university has grown to expand and build campuses throughout the region, including in Campbell, Henderson, Hopkinsville, Madisonville, and Paducah.

10. Morehead State University

Morehead State University was founded in 1887 initially named Morehead Normal School in 1922, then Morehead State Normal School and Teacher’s College in 1930, and then Morehead State College in 1948, and finally its current name in 1966. It now serves as a public university that offers up to 142 undergraduate and 68 graduate programs to students in and out of America. Its mission engages students in a global level of success, diversity, innovation, and service to the community through their education.  Aside from their promise of quality service and education, they provide affordable and accessible learning opportunities through scholarships and grants funded by their foundation. MSU remains to be an excellent place for schooling.

11. University of Pikeville

The University of Pikeville is one of the top higher educational institutions in Central Appalachia. Established in 1889, UPIKE stays firm in its dedication to preparing students for the future while making intellectual, cultural, and economic possibilities for Appalachia. Keeping its commitment to Christian principles, UPIKE recognizes the infinite value of each person, appreciating a variety of religious expressions.

12. Midway University

On its 200-acre campus, Midway University offers its students top-notch undergraduate education. For graduate-level programs, online teaching is conducted. For over 170 years, the school has enabled its mission and vision to foster a responsible, diverse, and creative student community. The 25 athletic teams that compete at the regional level and are part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), River States Conference and Mid-South Conference, and Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA).

13. Western Kentucky University

Western Kentucky University (WKU) provides educational programs in bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, as well as associate degrees and professional certificate programs. It also offers distance learning programs with over 50 undergraduate and postgraduate degrees available online. Moreover, WKU is a recognized institution in the state of Kentucky, it has a good standing position in the national rankings, and some of its online and study programs are highly recognized by the state.

14. Lindsey Wilson College

Lindsey Wilson College is located on a hilltop in  Columbia, Kentucky, and has close proximity to many local attractions, waterfalls, lakes, and caves, making it an excellent venue for several outdoor and recreational activities. The college shows its dedication to each student’s academic, personal, and spiritual development by providing research-based education and facilitating a supportive and caring environment among its students and faculty. Career services programs are also in place to guide students in defining their career goals and identifying the steps they need to take to achieve them. 

15. Campbellsville University

Campbellsville University (CU) has several campuses in Kentucky and other learning centers across the country. Currently, it also offers select degree programs online. Moreover, CU is a Christian institution that has been regionally recognized for its quality of education. It has generated competent and responsible graduates who have found success in their careers.

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

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

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
University of the Cumberlands 3,780 USD - 6,000 USD 62%
Sullivan University 4,500 USD - 6,750 USD 54%
University of Pikeville 5,175 USD - 7,950 USD 47%
Bellarmine University 5,220 USD - 14,800 USD 47%
Spalding University 5,280 USD - 14,900 USD 46%
Lindsey Wilson College 5,340 USD - 8,010 USD 46%
Campbellsville University 5,520 USD - 9,900 USD 44%
Murray State University 5,658 USD - 12,300 USD 43%
Asbury University 5,700 USD - 10,800 USD 42%
Midway University 5,820 USD - 8,730 USD 41%
Union Commonwealth University 6,600 USD - 9,900 USD 33%
Kentucky State University 7,260 USD - 10,900 USD 26%
Thomas More University 7,980 USD - 13,100 USD 19%
Kentucky Wesleyan College 8,100 USD - 12,200 USD 17%
Eastern Kentucky University 8,112 USD - 15,000 USD 17%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 9,759 USD for universities in Kentucky.

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1. University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands (UC) is a private university in Williamsburg, Kentucky. It was founded in 1888 as Williamsburg Institute by Baptist ministers. UC provides students with a broad liberal arts curriculum that includes Christian teachings. Students at UC are encouraged to put their faith into action through a student-centered community and to think critically in order to grow professionally and intellectually.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, University of the Cumberlands should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 3,780 USD to 6,000 USD annually for their master's degree.

2. Sullivan University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Sullivan University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Sullivan University is 4,500 USD to 6,750 USD.

Sullivan University is an institution of higher learning committed to providing educational enrichment chances for its students’ intellectual, social, and professional growth. The institution offers a career-focused curriculum through diploma, associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. The SU faculty, staff, and administration believe that skillful individuals should have the opportunity to seek proper academic training at their chosen institution.

3. University of Pikeville

The University of Pikeville is one of the top higher educational institutions in Central Appalachia. Established in 1889, UPIKE stays firm in its dedication to preparing students for the future while making intellectual, cultural, and economic possibilities for Appalachia. Keeping its commitment to Christian principles, UPIKE recognizes the infinite value of each person, appreciating a variety of religious expressions.

The tuition fee at University of Pikeville for incoming international master’s students is 5,175 USD to 7,950 USD. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Bellarmine University

Another affordable university to consider in Kentucky is Bellarmine University.

Bellarmine University offers a vibrant learning community and is one of the best Catholic universities in the country. It provides lifelong education and helps students succeed through academic excellence and transformative growth. The university is equipped with a pleasing campus and stunning architectural designs, making it popular among international students.

The tuition fee in Bellarmine University for master’s program for foreign students starts from 5,220 USD.

5. Spalding University

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Spalding 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 5,280 USD yearly.

Spalding University was founded by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth in 1814. The school offers undergraduate and graduate level programs on-campus and online. Certificate and Non-degree programs are also available for taking.  The university also prides itself on having an inclusive community comprised of individuals from various countries, of various races, genders, and age ranges. Their 200 years of education are grounded on religious faith and tradition to provide compassionate, spiritual, and service-oriented education. With 1,596 students currently enrolled, they aim to maintain their prestige and quality learning experience.

6. Lindsey Wilson College

Lindsey Wilson College is located on a hilltop in  Columbia, Kentucky, and has close proximity to many local attractions, waterfalls, lakes, and caves, making it an excellent venue for several outdoor and recreational activities. The college shows its dedication to each student’s academic, personal, and spiritual development by providing research-based education and facilitating a supportive and caring environment among its students and faculty. Career services programs are also in place to guide students in defining their career goals and identifying the steps they need to take to achieve them. 

7. Campbellsville University

Campbellsville University (CU) has several campuses in Kentucky and other learning centers across the country. Currently, it also offers select degree programs online. Moreover, CU is a Christian institution that has been regionally recognized for its quality of education. It has generated competent and responsible graduates who have found success in their careers.

8. Murray State University

In 1922, the state legislature chose Murray as the location of the Kentucky Normal School, now the Murray State University. As a nationally renowned institution, the university provides affordable quality education as well as awards scholarships and financial grants to deserving students of over $115 million each year. Since its inception, the university has grown to expand and build campuses throughout the region, including in Campbell, Henderson, Hopkinsville, Madisonville, and Paducah.

9. Asbury University

Located in Wilmore, Kentucky, Asbury University is a private university for liberal and applied arts. As a Christian university, Asbury believes that academic excellence and spiritual vitality go hand in hand in creating a holistic learning experience for students. The university is widely recognized as a regional leader for higher education in the south for over 10 years. 

10. Midway University

On its 200-acre campus, Midway University offers its students top-notch undergraduate education. For graduate-level programs, online teaching is conducted. For over 170 years, the school has enabled its mission and vision to foster a responsible, diverse, and creative student community. The 25 athletic teams that compete at the regional level and are part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), River States Conference and Mid-South Conference, and Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA).

11. Union Commonwealth University

Union Commonwealth University, formerly Union College, is a private liberal arts university in Barbourville, Kentucky, founded in 1879 and affiliated with the United Methodist Church. It offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, serves students from across the U.S. and abroad, and emphasizes personal attention, community engagement, and leadership development.

12. Kentucky State University

Kentucky State University was established in 1886, granting itself a status for offering African American teachers an avenue for their profession. Considering its history in its preference and assistance to African Americans, a majority of its constituents are also African Americans with around 50 percent of the students and employees being African Americans and the other half being non-African Americans. Much like most colleges and universities in America, Kentucky State University prides itself in providing quality liberal arts education to students from all places. With its establishment more than 100 years, Kentucky State University is one of the most diverse and competitive educational institutions both regionally and globally.

13. Thomas More University

Thomas More University is a Benedictine institution established by the group’s sisters. Thus, this institution, initially known as Villa Madonna College, has its values anchored on the Roman Catholic religion. The university offers programs for undergraduate and master’s students. For the undergrad level, a select number of programs are available in an online or accelerated format. As for master’s courses, only three programs are offered: either online or accelerated.

14. Kentucky Wesleyan College

Kentucky Wesleyan College is a private college founded in 1858, and located in Owensboro, Kentucky. It currently has 21 varsity teams at the NCAA Division II level for both men’s and women’s sections. The school is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and has a mission of molding the intellect, spirit, and physical state of the student community. The tradition of the school called the Wesleyan Way is grounded in four core values which are honor, support, integrity, and love.

15. Eastern Kentucky University

Also known as the EKU, Eastern Kentucky University is a public institution that is located in the central part of Kentucky. In addition to on-campus courses, EKU also specializes in online learning, and currently, they offer over 40 undergraduate and graduate classes for people who wanted to delve into distance learning.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Applying to cheap universities in Kentucky 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 Kentucky?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Kentucky. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Kentucky is the Alice Lloyd College, which offers Sports and Fitness Programs Management, Kinesiology, and English to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Asbury University offers Business Administration, Communication, and Digital Storytelling.

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

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

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