15 Free and Cheap Universities in Pennsylvania for International Students

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In Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 94 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Pennsylvania, make sure to read more!

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

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

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Curtis Institute of Music 0 USD 100%
Millersville University of Pennsylvania 9,570 USD - 19,300 USD 74%
Mansfield University of Pennsylvania 11,600 USD 68%
Pennsylvania Western University California 11,600 USD 68%
Pennsylvania Western University Edinboro 11,600 USD 68%
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania 11,600 USD - 15,500 USD 68%
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania 11,900 USD 67%
Edinboro University of Pennsylvania 13,200 USD 64%
Lincoln University – USA 14,200 USD 61%
Pennsylvania Western University, California 15,100 USD 58%
Pennsylvania Western University Clarion 15,200 USD - 16,100 USD 58%
Central Penn College 15,300 USD 58%
East Stroudsburg University 15,500 USD 57%
Cheyney University of Pennsylvania 15,500 USD 57%
Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania 17,400 USD - 17,400 USD 52%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 35,800 USD for universities in Pennsylvania.

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1. Curtis Institute of Music

Curtis Institute of Music is a private music school that offers tuition-free education to aspiring musicians. It was established in 1924 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Students of the institute learn from several notable artists and music experts. 

2. Millersville University of Pennsylvania

The Millersville University of Pennsylvania is one of the 14 Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education colleges. It is more commonly known as the Ville or MU. Established in 1855, it became the state’s first normal school or teacher training institution. After more than a century of teaching, the university has provided more than teachers. Its programs now include courses in the arts, business, communication, sciences, education, humanities, social work, sports, and tech.

3. Mansfield University of Pennsylvania

Located in a small borough in Pennsylvania, Mansfield University of Pennsylvania offers bachelor’s degrees in over 80 areas of study and one master’s degree in special education. All programs are available on-campus, but there also are many online degree opportunities. This university is known for its breathtaking campus that mixes Victorian architecture with green areas and modern facilities, which include a ration station, a health clinic, outdoor recreational spaces, and a TV studio.

4. Pennsylvania Western University California

For over a decade, Pennsylvania Western University California has earned a prominent reputation in the Northeast region as one of the leading colleges in the area. In addition to affordable and high-quality education, Pennwest California is also dedicated to providing personalized support to each of its students at every step of their academic journey. Its programs focus on hands-on learning and offer several opportunities for students to participate in internships and career development programs.

5. Pennsylvania Western University Edinboro

Pennsylvania Western University Edinboro began its journey in 1857, initially as a college for aspiring educators and teachers. Over the years, Pennwest Edinboro has expanded its program offerings and evolved into the prominent institution that it is today. Taking pride in its state-of-the-art facilities and highly distinguished faculty, Pennwest Edinboro offers various resources and support to help its students in achieving their academic and career goals.

6. Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania

The Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania offers over 170 bachelor’s degree programs and around 30 master’s degree programs. This university is located in a small borough with about 3,000 inhabitants, which turns its students into an important part of the community. Its student body is very active, with dozens of clubs and organizations that constantly organize events. Regarding education, it assists students through coaching and mentorships to make sure that they excel in their career paths, and it encourages participating in volunteering opportunities and study abroad programs.

7. Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

Established in 1866, the Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, known as Kutztown University (KU), is a public institution that offers numerous academic opportunities for local and international students. With more than 100 educational programs, qualified educators, support services, and modern facilities, the university’s educational system are truly exemplary. Additionally, KU has been certified by several higher education accreditation agencies, proving that the university is a highly-qualified institution that provides top-quality education.

8. Edinboro University of Pennsylvania

The Edinboro University of Pennsylvania is a public university that offers over 100 academic programs in business, social sciences, health sciences, humanities, and education. It was originally a private school for teachers when it was established in 1857. Over the years, the university continued to grow and add more disciplines and is now known as the largest university in Pennsylvania. 

9. Lincoln University – USA

Many universities in the United States have the name Lincoln in them, but this Lincoln University in Chester County, Pennsylvania, is a cut above the rest. Lincoln University is considered a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), which not only caters to African-Americans but also further strengthens diversification in the United States as international students are also a large part of their community. Aside from their exemplary service and education, their athletics program is also excellent with NCAA Division II in 11 of their teams in sports and cheerleading. With diversity in population, as well as excellence in both academics and sports, Lincoln University is an exemplary school for everyone.

10. Pennsylvania Western University, California

Pennsylvania Western University, Californiaa, commonly known as Pennwest California, is a public university in California, Pennsylvania, United States. The institution has more than 150 undergraduate programs and numerous master’s programs. It also has three Ph.D. programs in criminal justice, education and administrative leadership, health science, and athletic leadership. They also operate several other certification, certificate, and license programs.

11. Pennsylvania Western University Clarion

Pennsylvania Western University Clarion, more commonly known as PennWest Clarion, has transformed countless students since its inception in 1867. The university is among the leading universities in Pennsylvania that offer innovative study programs in social sciences, health science, management, arts, and education. The university provides these programs in traditional on-campus and online learning as it aims to make higher education easily accessible, especially for students abroad.

12. Central Penn College

13. East Stroudsburg University

East Stroudsburg University is a public university known for its programs in Business Administration and Physical Education. It is one of the universities that make up the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. Originally founded as a private school, its ownership was transferred to the state in 1920 and was awarded its university status in 1983.

14. Cheyney University of Pennsylvania

Cheyney University in Pennsylvania is the oldest public black university in the Pennsylvania State Higher Education System. The university was founded in 1837 as the African Laboratory on land donated by the Cheyney family. The University of Cheyney provided high school-level education until the 1900s but later received a lot of support and began providing university-level education.

15. Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania

The Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania is the first teacher training college in the state. But besides education courses, the university also offers programs in different fields, including criminal justice, business administration, journalism, and more. Some programs are accredited and sought-after, especially since Shippensburg University is among the few to offer them in the state or the country.

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

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

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Curtis Institute of Music 0 USD 100%
King’s College 6,720 USD - 11,700 USD 59%
Eastern University 6,750 USD - 11,900 USD 59%
Pennsylvania Western University, California 7,740 USD - 11,700 USD 53%
Wilkes University 7,830 USD - 15,000 USD 52%
Pennsylvania Western University Clarion 7,890 USD - 12,200 USD 52%
Lancaster Bible College 7,920 USD - 14,400 USD 52%
Westminster College, Pennsylvania 8,400 USD - 15,200 USD 49%
Neumann University 8,400 USD - 12,000 USD 49%
Point Park University 8,505 USD - 11,400 USD 48%
Central Penn College 8,784 USD 46%
Lehigh University 8,850 USD - 68,900 USD 46%
Saint Joseph’s University 9,000 USD - 20,200 USD 45%
Chestnut Hill College 9,000 USD - 13,800 USD 45%
Wilson College 9,270 USD - 9,540 USD 43%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 16,300 USD for universities in Pennsylvania.

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1. Curtis Institute of Music

Curtis Institute of Music is a private music school that offers tuition-free education to aspiring musicians. It was established in 1924 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Students of the institute learn from several notable artists and music experts. 

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Curtis Institute of Music should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 0 USD annually for their master's degree.

2. King’s College

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is King’s College. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at King’s College is 6,720 USD to 11,685 USD.

King’s College in Wilkes-Barre Pennsylvania, not to be confused with the one in New York, is a private Catholic coeducational institution that roots itself in the University of Notre Dame. It focuses on liberal arts tradition and education, offering quality social and academic opportunities to its students.  King’s College also has a non-discriminatory policy, promising its constituents that they will offer full service to students of any race, color, nationality, and ethnicity. With the diverse community and quality learning experience, students of King’s College will find themselves in an institution that manages and promises them a bright future.

3. Eastern University

Eastern University was initially founded as the Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary by six Baptist Ministers on Chestnut Street. After the establishment of the Eastern Baptist College within the seminary, it was recognized as a separate institution, and it was relocated to St. Davids. The college was granted university status in 2001 and has grown to offer various programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

The tuition fee at Eastern University for incoming international master’s students is 6,750 USD to 11,820 USD. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Pennsylvania Western University, California

Another affordable university to consider in Pennsylvania is Pennsylvania Western University, California.

Pennsylvania Western University, Californiaa, commonly known as Pennwest California, is a public university in California, Pennsylvania, United States. The institution has more than 150 undergraduate programs and numerous master’s programs. It also has three Ph.D. programs in criminal justice, education and administrative leadership, health science, and athletic leadership. They also operate several other certification, certificate, and license programs.

The tuition fee in Pennsylvania Western University, California for master’s program for foreign students starts from 7,740 USD.

5. Wilkes University

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Wilkes 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 7,830 USD yearly.

Wilkes University is dedicated to guiding students through academic excellence and giving them a return on their investment. The university promotes equal educational access, allowing students to achieve their dream careers. Wilkes University significantly coordinates with various enterprises to heighten the employment opportunities for its graduates.

6. Pennsylvania Western University Clarion

Pennsylvania Western University Clarion, more commonly known as PennWest Clarion, has transformed countless students since its inception in 1867. The university is among the leading universities in Pennsylvania that offer innovative study programs in social sciences, health science, management, arts, and education. The university provides these programs in traditional on-campus and online learning as it aims to make higher education easily accessible, especially for students abroad.

7. Lancaster Bible College

Lancaster Bible College is a private Bible college located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It was established in 1933 as the Lancaster School of the Bible. The college provides undergraduate, graduate, and seminary degree programs. There are additional campuses in Greenbelt, Maryland, Philadelphia, and Boca Raton that provide accelerated degrees for adults.

8. Westminster College, Pennsylvania

Situated in the heart of New Wilmington is the Westminster College, Pennsylvania. This educational institution shares an affiliation with the Presbyterian Church. In addition, Westminster College, Pennsylvania has been recognized as a competent foundation for women in STEM to succeed; be it in biology, chemistry, engineering, or physics.

9. Neumann University

Neumann University is a Catholic institution that puts great importance on producing academically excellent and socially responsible individuals. Programs at Neumann cover a wide variety of disciplines and allow students to gain clinical or field experience before graduating. Aside from top-notch education, Neumann also offers a nurturing campus life for its students through different clubs and engaging activities.

10. Point Park University

Located in Downtown Pittsburg, Point Park University is a private institution that gives countless opportunities for students of all ages. The university offers a broad spectrum of career-oriented degree programs for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Moreover, it provides training, internships, and other educational opportunities that will aid students in becoming world-class citizens.

11. Central Penn College

12. Lehigh University

Lehigh University is one of Pennsylvania’s most renowned private and research-intensive institutions. Comprised of five colleges, the university offers 111 programs for both undergrads and grad students. Its programs include business administration, engineering, sciences, and health-related courses. The student-to-faculty ratio is only 9:1, ensuring that utmost attention is given to each individual’s education and training.

13. Saint Joseph’s University

Saint Joseph’s University is a private university in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and is one of the region’s leading academic institutions. It was originally a men’s college when it was established back in 1851, but started admitting women students in 1970. The university currently offers over 200 study programs in a wide range of disciplines and is known for the high employability of its graduates.

14. Chestnut Hill College

Chestnut Hill College (CHC) is a private Catholic college in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Sisters of St. Joseph established it as a women’s college in 1924. The college offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in fields such as arts, music, and science. CHC emphasizes the importance of providing students with a well-rounded college experience by providing them with an enjoyable social life, a healthy spiritual life, and a balanced life.

15. Wilson College

Wilson College is a private college in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1869 by Presbyterian ministers and named after Sarah Wilson, a major contributor to the college. Over 40 undergraduate majors and Master’s degrees are available at the college. Agriculture, animal-assisted therapy, biological sciences, nursing, and veterinary are the most popular disciplines at Wilson College.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Applying to cheap universities in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Pennsylvania. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Pennsylvania is the Central Penn College, which offers Accounting, Business Administration, and Criminal Justice Administration to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Central Penn College offers Organizational Leadership.

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

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

We hope that this article on free and affordable institutions in Pennsylvania for international students was helpful!