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%
University of the Cumberlands 9,875 USD 62%
Sullivan University 11,300 USD - 12,600 USD 56%
Kentucky State University 11,600 USD 55%
Murray State University 14,400 USD 44%
Campbellsville University 14,800 USD - 25,600 USD 42%
Simmons College of Kentucky 16,000 USD 37%
Eastern Kentucky University 19,800 USD 23%
Northern Kentucky University 20,500 USD 20%
Morehead State University 23,000 USD 10%
University of Pikeville 24,000 USD 6%
Midway University 25,500 USD -0%
Lindsey Wilson College 26,000 USD -2%
Spalding University 26,900 USD -6%
Brescia University 27,000 USD -6%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 25,400 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. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.

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. 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. 

14. Spalding University

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.

15. Brescia University

Brescia University is dedicated to Catholic values, the foundation of its education and training. This religious university was established by sisters from the Order of Saint Ursula as a junior college for women. After the second world war, the institution became coeducational and started offering four-year programs.

The university was named after the Italian city of Brescia. It is where the original Order of Saint Ursula was first established.

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 65%
Union College, Kentucky 4,440 USD 58%
Campbellsville University 4,485 USD - 14,100 USD 58%
University of Pikeville 5,175 USD - 7,950 USD 51%
Lindsey Wilson College 6,180 USD - 14,000 USD 42%
Spalding University 6,225 USD - 12,300 USD 41%
Murray State University 6,285 USD - 12,200 USD 41%
Bellarmine University 6,525 USD - 12,000 USD 39%
Northern Kentucky University 7,200 USD - 18,100 USD 32%
Asbury University 8,550 USD - 10,800 USD 19%
Kentucky State University 9,450 USD 11%
Sullivan University 9,900 USD 7%
Eastern Kentucky University 11,300 USD -6%
Brescia University 11,300 USD - 15,000 USD -6%
Morehead State University 13,000 USD -23%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 10,600 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. Union College, Kentucky

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Union College, Kentucky. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Union College, Kentucky is 4,440 USD.

Union College is a private college in Barbourville, Kentucky. It was the first college founded in the Kentucky mountains in 1879. Appalachian culture, Methodism, and the liberal arts experience serve as the foundation of the college. Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees are available at Union College in a variety of fields.

3. 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.

The tuition fee at Campbellsville University for incoming international master’s students is 4,485 USD to 14,100 USD. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. University of Pikeville

Another affordable university to consider in Kentucky is 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 in University of Pikeville for master’s program for foreign students starts from 5,175 USD.

5. Lindsey Wilson College

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Lindsey Wilson College 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 6,180 USD yearly.

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. 

6. Spalding University

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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. 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. 

11. 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.

12. 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.

13. 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.

14. Brescia University

Brescia University is dedicated to Catholic values, the foundation of its education and training. This religious university was established by sisters from the Order of Saint Ursula as a junior college for women. After the second world war, the institution became coeducational and started offering four-year programs.

The university was named after the Italian city of Brescia. It is where the original Order of Saint Ursula was first established.

15. 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.

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 Berea College, which offers Appalachian Studies, Biology, and Engineering Technologies and Applied Design 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!