15 Cheapest Universities in Ohio for International Students

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In Ohio, 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 Ohio, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 56 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Ohio, make sure to read more!

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

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

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Central State University 8,862 USD 76%
Shawnee State University 9,341 USD 74%
Youngstown State University 11,400 USD 69%
Franklin University 12,700 USD - 15,800 USD 65%
University of Northwestern Ohio 14,100 USD - 14,700 USD 61%
Wilberforce University 14,500 USD 60%
University of Akron 18,500 USD - 23,100 USD 49%
Antioch University 19,300 USD - 24,100 USD 47%
University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College 20,000 USD 45%
University of Toledo 20,300 USD 44%
Kent State University 20,600 USD 43%
Cleveland State University 22,000 USD 39%
Wright State University 22,000 USD 39%
Bowling Green State University 22,400 USD 38%
Ohio Christian University 24,500 USD 32%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 35,900 USD for universities in Ohio.

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1. Central State University

Part of the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU), the Central State University was founded in 1887 that currently offers over 30 bachelor’s degree programs and graduate programs. These programs are available in its four college buildings. Services on various student life activities are also covered by the university, such as career services, counseling services, disability services, and Greek affairs services.

2. Shawnee State University

Shawnee State University, a public university in Portsmouth, Ohio, has over 70 undergraduate, associate, and graduate programs. Nursing, Business, Administration, Sociology, Biology, and Psychology are the most popular majors. The mission and vision of the university are to become a best-value university offering a diverse range of high-quality programs and to prepare today’s students to succeed in their future careers.

3. Youngstown State University

Youngstown State University (YSU) provides some of the best future-oriented study programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. It also offers degree programs that can be obtained online. As a public institution, YSU is determined to develop the talents and skills of its students by providing high-quality education, training, and internships, as well as organizing social events that would be beneficial in building network connections.

4. Franklin University

Franklin University is a private institution that has been in the education industry since 1902. It was primarily established to educate adult learners who wish to obtain a degree. Today, the university offers online study programs to accommodate busy students and working professionals. Additionally, its main campus in Ohio provides on-site programs for students who prefer the traditional learning approach.

5. University of Northwestern Ohio

The University of Northwestern Ohio focuses on providing education for the entrepreneurs and business owners of the future. It is divided into five colleges that mostly offer undergraduate degrees, among which there are 8 bachelor’s programs. Its education model encompasses the development of talent and the support of student projects within a multidisciplinary curriculum. In order to enhance the training experience, the institution has partnerships with local businesses and organizations with which they offer job opportunities and internships.

6. Wilberforce University

Wilberforce University is a private university located in Wilberforce, Ohio. It was founded in 1856 for African-American students and is the nation’s oldest private HBCU. Over 25 academic majors are available at the university, including business, communication, engineering sciences, humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. There are also dual degree programs in architecture and aerospace.

7. University of Akron

The University of Akron is a STEM-focused institution with a strong emphasis on engineering and advanced materials industries. The university is highly competent, thanks to the support of its state-of-the-art equipment and laboratories. Over the years, the university aims to continue its legacy and to produce more intellectual professionals in the academe.

8. Antioch University

Antioch University has a lot of campuses in the country, signifying its advanced edge in the academic field. The university is popular among medical students who want to experience intensive supervision and training. It also has strong relations with hospitals and industries around the globe to intensify the students’ learning experience.

9. University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College

One of Ohio’s most vibrant student communities is within the University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College campuses. These two institutions, both public and private, are considered to be one-of-a-kind in the education system in the country. The university aims to provide top-quality education to diverse students and learners. It currently offers professional certifications and degree programs at all levels.

10. University of Toledo

The University of Toledo (UToledo) offers countless opportunities for its current and prospective students. It has more than 250 study programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, with some of its academic programs offered online. UToledo ensures that all its students will be equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills. In doing so, all its interdisciplinary programs are lectured by highly qualified educators and experts.

11. Kent State University

Kent State University is a prominent public university in Ohio. It started as a teacher-training college before transforming into a world-class institution with eight regional campuses. The university’s regional campuses scattered across Ohio, New York City, and Italy allow students residing away from Kent to experience prestigious training and education from Kent State University. As one of the state’s largest institutions, hundreds of programs and courses are up for grabs yearly.

12. Cleveland State University

Cleveland State University (CSU) is a public university that thrives in giving top-tier academic programs to its students. This flourishing university continues to develop and improve its education system. CSU’s quality of education and training has prepared its students to become competent professionals in their chosen careers. It has also established partnerships with prominent companies and universities to give its students numerous opportunities and relevant network connections.

13. Wright State University

With two campuses in Ohio, Wright State University offers more than 300 degree programs. Besides the academic buildings, this university has multiple science and art centers like the Tom Hanks Center for Motion Pictures, an art gallery, the Women’s center, and the Neuroscience Engineering Collaboration Building. The university also has great athletic facilities, not only for the 15 university sports teams but also for student recreation, which include a climbing gym, racquetball courts, and multiple outdoor fields.

14. Bowling Green State University

Bowling Green State University started as a small institution for training future teachers. Today, it is now equipped with research facilities in education, business, arts, and health, among others. The university also hosts an extensive student life program by partaking in various international research organizations and academic exchanges.

15. Ohio Christian University

Ohio Christian University offers undergraduate and graduate level programs both online and on-campus. It has over 3000 students currently enrolled with a 63:50 female to male ratio. The school was founded in 1948 and is affiliated with the Churches of Christ in Christian Union. As such, the university’s tradition is Christian-centered, student-oriented, and leadership-focused.

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

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

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Cedarville University 5,232 USD - 12,800 USD 61%
University of Findlay 5,940 USD - 16,200 USD 56%
Muskingum University 6,180 USD - 16,600 USD 54%
Bluffton University 6,300 USD - 9,540 USD 53%
Otterbein University 7,080 USD - 12,500 USD 48%
Lourdes University 7,140 USD - 16,800 USD 47%
Baldwin Wallace University 7,164 USD - 16,300 USD 47%
Ohio Dominican University 7,188 USD - 10,800 USD 47%
Marietta College 7,200 USD - 10,500 USD 47%
Franciscan University of Steubenville 7,200 USD - 13,500 USD 47%
Wilmington College 7,500 USD - 11,300 USD 44%
Tiffin University 7,620 USD - 13,600 USD 43%
Xavier University 7,920 USD - 28,200 USD 41%
Franklin University 8,040 USD - 12,100 USD 40%
Northeast Ohio Medical University 8,244 USD - 12,400 USD 39%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 13,400 USD for universities in Ohio.

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1. Cedarville University

Established in 1887, Cedarville University champions in providing top-quality education to its student body. As a Baptist college, proper education is foremost the goal of the university while at the same time instilling its Christian values to cultivate a pool of responsible individuals. The university offers various academic disciplines, including first-rate education in religious and theology studies. Additionally, some of its educational programs popular among students are nursing, management, mechanical engineering, psychology, and education.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Cedarville University should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 5,232 USD to 12,726 USD annually for their master's degree.

2. University of Findlay

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is University of Findlay. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at University of Findlay is 5,940 USD to 16,182 USD.

Located in one of the biggest cities in Ohio, Findlay University offers 86 undergraduate programs and 11 master’s degree programs, but its most popular programs include equestrian studies and health-related studies. It’s divided into six colleges that have modern facilities and unique buildings, like the Mazza Museum, which is dedicated to children’s illustration. Since this is a Christian university, it has multiple religious-related degree programs and student organizations.

3. Muskingum University

Muskingum University offers exceptional degree programs, primarily in liberal arts. The university is known for igniting students’ success through rigorous training and a practical curriculum. Muskingum University continues to serve the state with remarkable research discoveries and academic excellence.

The tuition fee at Muskingum University for incoming international master’s students is 6,180 USD to 16,560 USD. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Bluffton University

Another affordable university to consider in Ohio is Bluffton University.

Bluffton University ensures that all students feel they are being taken care of by giving them the best training possible. Its educational curriculum enables students to discover their passions and create lasting relationships in society. The institution has significantly strengthened its internationalization in recent years.

The tuition fee in Bluffton University for master’s program for foreign students starts from 6,300 USD.

5. Otterbein University

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Otterbein 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 7,080 USD yearly.

Otterbein University is an institution centered on the liberal arts. More than 3,000 students worldwide are welcomed into its location in Westerville, Ohio. It is a Protestant institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Undergrad students choose from 70+ majors, while graduate program selection is limited. Otterbein is ranked 401st in the US by Times Higher Education.

6. Lourdes University

Lourdes University is a private Franciscan university located in Sylvania, Ohio, United States. It was founded in the 1950s and is a fledgling university with a not-so-long history and is sponsored by the Saint Francisco Convent of Sylvania. Students at Lourdes University take liberal arts courses that can be applied to professional research. It is also classified as a master’s university according to the Carnegie Higher Education Institute classification, and students have the option of several pre-professional programs or graduate degrees in addition to their bachelor’s degrees.

7. Baldwin Wallace University

Baldwin Wallace University (BW) is an outstanding liberal arts and sciences institution in Ohio. They continuously challenge students in their journey to pursue personal and professional excellence. Aside from world-class academic programs, BW also strives to provide students with an encouraging campus environment.

8. Ohio Dominican University

As a Catholic liberal arts university, Ohio Dominican University directed its educational mission by the Dominican slogan: to contemplate truth and share the fruits of this contemplation with others. Ohio Dominican enlightens individuals devoted to intellectual, spiritual, and professional development, which grow into lifelong learners, helping others in a global community. In turn, these students become virtuous and effective leaders grounded in the search for truth, justice, and peace.

9. Marietta College

First established in 1797 as Muskingum Academy, the educational institution eventually changed its name and was officially founded as Marietta College in 1835. It houses students from localities in and out of Marietta, such as Cambridge and Clarksburg in Ohio, Vienna, and Fairmont in West Virginia, as well as Washington, D.C. Aside from American students, international students are also welcome which in combination estimates a total of 1,265 students. Marietta College has started itself with a focus on liberal arts and continues to provide quality education in this field of study up to this day.

10. Franciscan University of Steubenville

The Franciscan University of Steubenville, a private Catholic university, is located in Steubenville, Ohio. It was founded in 1946 as the College of Steubenville by Franciscan Friars. Theology, catechetics, and Catholic philosophy are among the subjects covered in the university curriculum. Franciscan students are dedicated to proclaiming the Gospel and discovering their God-given purpose. They have programs in Accounting, Engineering, Evangelization, and Philosophy.

11. Wilmington College

Wilmington College is a private college located in Wilmington, Ohio. Another campus can be found in Cincinnati. It was established by the Religious Society of Friends in 1870. There are 25 majors, 27 minors, and two graduate programs available at the college. Wilmington also promotes a healthy work-life balance through campus involvement, organizations, and sports facilities.

12. Tiffin University

Annually, 3,000 students enter Tiffin University. While relatively small, this allows the institution to maintain an optimal 15:1 student-to-teacher ratio and a personalized education for every student. The programs it offers not only develop students’ potential, but they also do so at their convenience. Many courses are available in an online or hybrid format, which is helpful for individuals with busy schedules who want to pursue their education.

13. Xavier University

Xavier University is one of the oldest Catholic universities in the country. It primarily offers degree programs in humanities and arts. Over the years, it has expanded and now provides more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs.

14. Franklin University

Franklin University is a private institution that has been in the education industry since 1902. It was primarily established to educate adult learners who wish to obtain a degree. Today, the university offers online study programs to accommodate busy students and working professionals. Additionally, its main campus in Ohio provides on-site programs for students who prefer the traditional learning approach.

15. Northeast Ohio Medical University

Northeast Ohio Medical University is dedicated to improving the health, economy, and quality of life in Northeast Ohio via medicine, pharmacy, and health sciences education. Its students and practitioners at all levels gain new knowledge by analyzing biomedical, community health, and behavioral sciences. The university is at the forefront of the region’s social service and fitness education.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Applying to cheap universities in Ohio 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 Ohio?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Ohio. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Ohio is the Antioch University, which offers Applied Studies, Applied Arts and Media, and Addiction Studies to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Baldwin Wallace University offers Accountancy, Business Administration, and Education.

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

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

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