15 Cheapest Universities in Michigan for International Students

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In Michigan, 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 Michigan, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 40 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Michigan, make sure to read more!

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

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

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Baker College 10,800 USD - 13,500 USD 67%
Saginaw Valley State University 13,700 USD 58%
Oakland University 14,300 USD - 19,300 USD 56%
Walsh College 14,800 USD - 18,500 USD 55%
Lake Superior State University 15,100 USD 54%
Western Michigan University 16,500 USD - 25,500 USD 50%
Eastern Michigan University 16,700 USD 49%
Northern Michigan University 20,200 USD - 21,200 USD 38%
Central Michigan University 21,000 USD - 22,200 USD 35%
Cornerstone University 22,000 USD 32%
Michigan State University 22,200 USD - 43,600 USD 32%
Grand Valley State University 22,600 USD - 23,300 USD 30%
Ferris State University 23,900 USD - 25,500 USD 26%
Cleary University 25,500 USD 22%
Davenport University 25,700 USD - 32,100 USD 21%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 32,300 USD for universities in Michigan.

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1. Baker College

Baker College is a large private university with a main campus in Michigan and satellite campuses across the Michigan Peninsula. The university grew by establishing new campuses, purchasing and branding existing small-scale schools, and as a result, it is now operating on a very large scale, including 14 ground campuses and online universities. Baker College was founded in 1911 by Eldon Baker under the name Baker Business College, and later merged many universities and built a campus to become what is now Baker College.

2. Saginaw Valley State University

The Saginaw Valley State University was founded in 1963, making it the youngest state-funded university in Michigan. It offers over 100 programs in diverse fields. Programs at the university combine theory and practice and are taught by the best experts in their respective fields. 

3. Oakland University

Oakland University is one of the most prominent and extensive universities in the Detroit area, such that it extends across two cities, Auburn Hills and Rochester Hills. More than 200 programs from the arts to medicine are available for undergrads and grad students. Among its best programs is medicine, which ranks 601st in the QS Subject Rankings. This university, borne out of a couple’s generous donation, has maintained excellence and a credible reputation, as is evident in its rankings.

4. Walsh College

Walsh College is a business school that offers 20 bachelor’s and master’s degrees, as well as double degree programs and joint programs in collaboration with other universities. However, students will only have access to bachelor’s studies in case they have already completed credits at another university or have an associate’s degree. This college prepares students by combining classes, work experience, and experiential learning and has flexible modalities, which include 100% online, on-campus, and hybrid. Its main campus is located in Trenton, but there are other two centers in Michigan.

5. Lake Superior State University

Lake Superior State University (LSSU) is a public institution in Michigan. The university provides study programs in liberal arts and several technical studies. Some of its academic programs include health science, computer science, engineering, and education. The learning approach at the university is a blend of the traditional and modern ways of learning. LSSU may be small, but it has big goals for its students. It provides top-quality education and countless opportunities to equip its students with the necessary knowledge and core capabilities to succeed in their chosen career paths.

6. Western Michigan University

Western Michigan University is one of the most high-regarded universities in the region. It offers an innovative educational approach where students get to have a deeper understanding of themselves and society. The university defines success as being competent in this ever-changing world, which is why it trains students to have the necessary knowledge they need in their field of choice.

7. Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University was one of the first normal or teacher training schools in the United States. It was only in 1959 when it earned its present name and university status. Composed of eight colleges, EMU offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, certificate, and specialist programs in the arts, sciences, education, engineering, technology, health, and human services.

8. Northern Michigan University

Northern Michigan University was primarily an institution for education and teacher training. More than 100 years after its establishment, it now offers diverse programs ranging from undergraduate to postgraduate courses. The university provides a warm learning environment for both domestic and international students.

9. Central Michigan University

Central Michigan University (CMU) is one of the leading public research institutions in the state of Michigan. In fact, the university is home to quite a number of research centers and institutes that have top-notch facilities. CMU also takes pride in its diverse and inclusive community, welcoming students and staff of different backgrounds and cultures.

10. 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.

11. Michigan State University

Michigan State University, also known as Michigan State, is a world-class public research university in East Lansing, Michigan which is known to have one of the largest student bodies in all of the universities in the United States. It was established in 1855 as the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan, the very first agricultural college in the country. The institution is recognized to have a solid research performance and outstanding higher education system allowing students and professionals to gain interdisciplinary knowledge and advanced theoretical and technical skills. Moreover, the university is well-known for pioneering music therapy, packaging, hospitality business, supply chain management, and communication science.

12. Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley State University is one of the United States’ most extensive universities, welcoming tens of thousands of students and employees. Around 140 majors and programs are offered every year to students. It has several campuses and regional centers across Michigan: Allendale, Grand Rapids, Holland (Michigan), Battle Creek, Detroit, Muskegon, and Traverse City. Campus life is also vibrant, with no less than 300 active student organizations in the university.

13. Ferris State University

Located in the upper part of Michigan, Ferris State University (FSU) is a federally-funded institution that was established in the late nineteenth century. Undergoing much change in infrastructure, FSU became one of the largest universities in the nation with 20 campuses nationwide. Following the major academic trend, many courses offered by Ferris have become available online, and even now, various graduate programs and certificates are still offered by its academic colleges and specialized departments.

14. Cleary University

Clearly University was established in 1883, initially offering academic business programs. Today, the university is still offering study programs entirely concentrated on business. Its educational programs have expanded and are now offering interdisciplinary and specialized programs. The university provides these programs in an online setting. This benefits busy students and professionals who prefer a more flexible schedule. Moreover, this learning setup will help various individuals attain their educational goals.

15. 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.

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

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

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Cornerstone University 6,180 USD - 11,000 USD 65%
Spring Arbor University 6,588 USD - 14,400 USD 63%
Baker College 7,200 USD - 10,800 USD 59%
University of Olivet 7,200 USD - 10,800 USD 59%
Calvin University 7,368 USD - 14,400 USD 58%
Siena Heights University 8,496 USD - 12,800 USD 52%
Concordia University Ann Arbor 8,580 USD - 12,900 USD 51%
Aquinas College 8,820 USD - 13,300 USD 50%
Saginaw Valley State University 9,600 USD - 14,400 USD 45%
Grand Valley State University 9,912 USD - 16,300 USD 44%
Northwood University 11,200 USD - 19,400 USD 37%
Walsh College 11,500 USD - 17,200 USD 35%
University of Detroit Mercy 12,000 USD - 38,000 USD 32%
Adrian College 12,300 USD 30%
Central Michigan University 12,400 USD - 18,600 USD 30%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 17,500 USD for universities in Michigan.

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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.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Cornerstone University should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 6,180 USD to 10,980 USD annually for their master's degree.

2. Spring Arbor University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Spring Arbor University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Spring Arbor University is 6,588 USD to 14,346 USD.

Established in 1873, Spring Arbor University (SAU) is a Christ-centered and private institution that educates top-class students to become leaders and experts who will venture into various industry sectors. Some known degree programs include nursing, elementary and secondary education, and social work. To cater to more students from across the globe, SAU also offers several 100 % online programs. Access to good education is one of the university’s top priorities, with both traditional and modern ways of learning having the same top-quality education.

3. Baker College

Baker College is a large private university with a main campus in Michigan and satellite campuses across the Michigan Peninsula. The university grew by establishing new campuses, purchasing and branding existing small-scale schools, and as a result, it is now operating on a very large scale, including 14 ground campuses and online universities. Baker College was founded in 1911 by Eldon Baker under the name Baker Business College, and later merged many universities and built a campus to become what is now Baker College.

The tuition fee at Baker College for incoming international master’s students is 7,200 USD to 10,800 USD. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. University of Olivet

Another affordable university to consider in Michigan is University of Olivet.

University of Olivet’s (formerly Olivet College) mission is to provide an education that enriches student lives intellectually, purely, and spiritually on a diverse campus. At the University of Olivet, they value the individual student. It makes strides to ensure each student builds stable relationships with professors and counterparts, experiences rewarding opportunities, and gains the ability needed to be prosperous in any future career.

The tuition fee in University of Olivet for master’s program for foreign students starts from 7,200 USD.

5. Calvin University

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Calvin 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 7,368 USD yearly.

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.

6. Siena Heights University

Siena Heights University, founded in 1919, is a private university in Michigan, United States. It was initially opened to provide education to women through the efforts of the Adrian Dominican Sisters. Eventually, the university became a Roman Catholic-affiliated institution and offers over 40 programs in Arts, Sciences, and Professional Studies.

7. Concordia University Ann Arbor

Concordia University Ann Arbor is a private university affiliated with the Lutheran Church. With traditions and values centered on Lutheran teachings, the university is known as one of the best Christian universities in Michigan. It offers 60 undergraduate and graduate level programs. Corcordia University is also home to over 1100 students.

8. 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.

9. Saginaw Valley State University

The Saginaw Valley State University was founded in 1963, making it the youngest state-funded university in Michigan. It offers over 100 programs in diverse fields. Programs at the university combine theory and practice and are taught by the best experts in their respective fields. 

10. Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley State University is one of the United States’ most extensive universities, welcoming tens of thousands of students and employees. Around 140 majors and programs are offered every year to students. It has several campuses and regional centers across Michigan: Allendale, Grand Rapids, Holland (Michigan), Battle Creek, Detroit, Muskegon, and Traverse City. Campus life is also vibrant, with no less than 300 active student organizations in the university.

11. Northwood University

Northwood University (NU) is a higher education institution that has cultivated industry leaders and experts in different sectors. It has always remained true to its primary goal to generate global citizens and competent graduates. It aids its students in achieving academic success throughout their studies while also giving the same importance to their well-being. The university has been entirely committed to providing high standards of teaching and research since its inception. And evidently enough, it continues to thrive on developing advanced programs and achieving more important goals to offer to its students.

12. Walsh College

Walsh College is a business school that offers 20 bachelor’s and master’s degrees, as well as double degree programs and joint programs in collaboration with other universities. However, students will only have access to bachelor’s studies in case they have already completed credits at another university or have an associate’s degree. This college prepares students by combining classes, work experience, and experiential learning and has flexible modalities, which include 100% online, on-campus, and hybrid. Its main campus is located in Trenton, but there are other two centers in Michigan.

13. University of Detroit Mercy

The University of Detroit Mercy is affiliated with the Sisters of Mercy and the Society of Jesus, making it a Catholic institution. It is the most extensive Catholic university in Michigan, having four campuses: McNichols, Riverfront, Novi, and Corktown. The university maintains a small student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, allowing for more opportunities and personalized training for each student.

14. Adrian College

Adrian College is a private liberal arts college in Adrian, Michigan. It was founded in 1845 as a theological institute by Wesleyan Methodists. The college provides 50 undergraduate majors as well as traditional Master’s programs in a wide range of fields. Adrian College offers students cutting-edge facilities, small class sizes, and innovative learning methods.

15. Central Michigan University

Central Michigan University (CMU) is one of the leading public research institutions in the state of Michigan. In fact, the university is home to quite a number of research centers and institutes that have top-notch facilities. CMU also takes pride in its diverse and inclusive community, welcoming students and staff of different backgrounds and cultures.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Applying to cheap universities in Michigan 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 Michigan?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Michigan. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Michigan is the Baker College, which offers Nursing, Information Technology and Cybersecurity, and Pre-Occupational Therapy to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Adrian College offers Accountancy, Athletic Training, and Criminal Justice.

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

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

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