15 Cheapest Universities in Tennessee for International Students

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In Tennessee, 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 Tennessee, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 33 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Tennessee, make sure to read more!

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

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

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Lane College 10,200 USD 65%
The University of Tennessee Southern 11,300 USD 62%
LeMoyne-Owen College 11,400 USD - 14,200 USD 62%
American Baptist College 12,000 USD - 15,000 USD 59%
Austin Peay State University 13,400 USD 55%
East Tennessee State University 15,200 USD 48%
University of Memphis 16,000 USD 46%
University of Tennessee Health Science Center 17,100 USD - 25,800 USD 42%
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga 18,600 USD 37%
University of Tennessee at Martin 19,900 USD 32%
Bryan College 20,500 USD 30%
Tennessee State University 22,900 USD - 25,000 USD 22%
Fisk University 23,900 USD 19%
Lee University 24,200 USD 18%
Freed-Hardeman University 26,300 USD 10%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 29,200 USD for universities in Tennessee.

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1. Lane College

Lane College was originally founded to serve the Afro-American community after the abolition of slavery, which is why it is considered to be among historically black institutions. It offers about 20 bachelor’s degree programs across its three schools. Since it has religious affiliations, Lane College has different Christian courses and spaces for faith-related activities, including a mandatory number of hours of chapel service.

2. The University of Tennessee Southern

Until 2021, the University of Tennessee Southern was an independent and private institution in the southern side of the US. It became a public college when it joined the University of Tennessee system. Furthermore, the university was previously a long-time junior college, but it has since expanded to offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees. However, its master’s programs are only conducted in a hybrid or online format.

3. LeMoyne-Owen College

LeMoyne-Owen College is a historically black university that offers multiple major and minor bachelor’s programs. It is a liberal arts school in Memphis, Tennessee that envisions a transformative, leading, and serving the student body.  The school’s most recent strategic plan includes recruiting better faculty and maintaining annual enrolment. Campus housing and residence halls are available if students need a place to stay.

4. American Baptist College

One of America’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities, American Baptist College has served as a center for educational, spiritual, and social development to the local community of Nashville. It offers bachelor’s and associate degrees, integrating Christian teachings and values in different areas of liberal arts. Celebrating its centennial anniversary in 2024, American Baptist College takes pride in its students, faculty, and notable alumni as it continues to advocate for social justice, responsibility, diversity, and inclusion.

5. Austin Peay State University

Austin Peay State University provides affordable education and highly promotes inclusivity. It aims to intensify its research by equipping students with adequate resources and training centers. The university is full of dedicated staff that offers hands-on supervision to the students.

6. East Tennessee State University

Located near different national parks, East Tennessee State University is one of the biggest higher education institutions in the state. Although its main campus is located in Johnson City, the university has multiple teaching centers throughout Tennessee, and it also has flexible online learning opportunities. It offers more than 150 undergraduate and graduate programs across its 10 colleges, but it’s mainly famous for its health-related programs. The university is also known for having one-of-a-kind majors related to the culture and history of the US, like the master’s degree in Appalachian Studies.

7. University of Memphis

Named among the most distinguished universities in Tennessee is the University of Memphis. Established in 1912, it offers over 120 degree programs across the fields of science and technology, arts, communication, and more. The University of Memphis is home to active research professors and scholars contributing to some of the world’s best research.

8. University of Tennessee Health Science Center

University of Tennessee Health Science Center aims to improve the well-being of society through clinical care, public service, and inclusive education. It is the best training ground for students who aspire to excel in the medical field. The university is full of equipment and tools that are essential in the students’ learning process, which is why it is one of the leading health sciences universities in the state.

9. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga is one of the four main campuses that make up the University of Tennessee system. It was established in 1886 and has been providing excellent undergraduate and graduate education for students from within and outside the state for over 130 years. The university is also known for its innovative programs and cutting-edge research facilities. 

10. University of Tennessee at Martin

Also popularly known as UT Martin, the University of Tennesse at Martin is a public institution that is situated on the western edge of Tennessee. Established in 1927, the UT Martin first started as a Baptist training camp called Hall-Moody Institute. However, as the Baptist institute closed down, the Tennesse government stepped out to replace the facilities to establish the groundwork for the University of Tennessee. Offering regional accreditations for all of its academic programs, UT Martin is a great place to go if you are looking for high-quality courses in your preferred area of study.

11. Bryan College

Bryan College is a privately funded Christian college in Dayton, Tennessee. This liberal arts college is fully committed to generating competent and Christ-centered professionals. It provides high-quality programs with teachings based on biblical values and Christian traditions. Although it is being identified as a Christian college, the institution admits students from all backgrounds, including religious preferences.

12. Tennessee State University

Tennessee State University was primarily founded in 1910 to serve African-American students. It is located in Tennessee’s capital and is the only one of its kind in the state. TSU is also a part of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, which benefits historically black institutions. The Times Higher Education rankings placed TSU at 801st nationwide last 2019. Meanwhile, US News ranks it at 299th.

13. Fisk University

Established in 1866, Fisk University initially started as a black-serving institution. Today, it warmly welcomes students from all ethnicities across the globe. The university prepares its students to succeed in their chosen careers by providing top-quality education with courses lectured by highly qualified professionals. Additionally, transforming students’ lives into global citizens, leaders, and experts is among the university’s top priorities.

14. Lee University

Lee University is a four-year private liberal Christian university located in Cleveland, Tennessee, United States. The university was founded in 1918 as a small Bible research institute and was later recognized as a four-year liberal arts college by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools with the addition of Bible and short-term universities. The university has been recognized in a variety of disciplines, with music schools accredited by the National Association of Music Schools and national accreditation in business schools, nursing schools, and athletic training programs.

15. Freed-Hardeman University

Freed-Hardeman University was founded in 1869 with a close affiliation to the Religious organization named Church of Christ. The programs offered are divided into 5 undergraduate and 9 graduate fields of study. Aside from the division of fields of study, 6 colleges and schools are also present that house specific degree programs matching their specialization. The current total enrollment of the school is 2,117, with international students coming from 17 other countries. The university’s athletics team also competes at an intercollegiate level in both genders and various sports such as baseball, softball, golf, and volleyball.

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

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

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
King University 4,380 USD - 12,300 USD 71%
Milligan University 4,800 USD - 16,200 USD 69%
Lincoln Memorial University 5,880 USD - 21,600 USD 61%
Bryan College 6,300 USD - 10,600 USD 59%
Lipscomb University 6,480 USD - 17,400 USD 57%
Trevecca Nazarene University 7,020 USD - 13,000 USD 54%
Union University 7,260 USD - 13,500 USD 52%
Southern Adventist University 7,320 USD - 13,900 USD 52%
Freed-Hardeman University 8,160 USD - 12,300 USD 46%
Christian Brothers University 9,000 USD - 16,200 USD 41%
Austin Peay State University 9,600 USD - 14,400 USD 37%
Belmont University 11,800 USD - 37,700 USD 22%
Lee University 12,100 USD - 18,100 USD 20%
Vanderbilt University 14,400 USD - 43,600 USD 5%
Tusculum University 14,400 USD - 18,000 USD 5%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 15,100 USD for universities in Tennessee.

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1. King University

King University is a private Presbyterian university located in Bristol, Tennessee. It was founded in 1866 as a Christian university on land donated by Rev. James King of Bristol. All the important buildings on the campus were built in brick and Georgian form. King University is also a large university with three more campuses in Kingsport and Knoxville and 10 educational institutions across Tennessee and southwest Virginia.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, King University should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 4,380 USD to 12,240 USD annually for their master's degree.

2. Milligan University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Milligan University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Milligan University is 4,800 USD to 16,200 USD.

Milligan University’s Christian roots are well-reflected in its education and goals. It teaches students to “Go with God in Faith and Love,” as per their motto. Being affiliated with the Restoration Movement, a significant number of its students belong to branching congregations of the movement.

Besides being a Christian institution, Milligan is also a liberal arts university. Thus, its programs tackle religious studies, arts, education, culture, business, and the sciences. Besides undergraduate majors and graduate master’s, the institution also offers minors, seminary courses, adult degrees, pre-professional programs, certificate courses, and more.

3. Lincoln Memorial University

Established in 1897, the Lincoln Memorial University has over 125 years of experience in providing quality education to local and international students. It offers degree programs at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels and is popular for its Nursing program. The university is also known for the Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum, an on-campus museum housing an expansive collection of memorabilia related to the former President.

The tuition fee at Lincoln Memorial University for incoming international master’s students is 5,880 USD to 21,600 USD. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Bryan College

Another affordable university to consider in Tennessee is Bryan College.

Bryan College is a privately funded Christian college in Dayton, Tennessee. This liberal arts college is fully committed to generating competent and Christ-centered professionals. It provides high-quality programs with teachings based on biblical values and Christian traditions. Although it is being identified as a Christian college, the institution admits students from all backgrounds, including religious preferences.

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

5. Lipscomb University

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Lipscomb 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 6,480 USD yearly.

Lipscomb University is a private educational institution located in Nashville, a city known for its flourishing entertainment industry, southern hospitality, and being a business, technological, and educational hub in the region. It offers over 200 academic programs in liberal arts. The university is also affiliated with the Churches of Christ, which is why it strives to integrate Christian values and principles in all of its programs and activities.

6. Trevecca Nazarene University

Trevecca Nazarene University was founded in 1901 that now offers over 100 bachelor’s and master’s programs. Not only can students have an on-campus learning experience, but they can also acquire them online. The school has multiple athletic teams that actively take part in intercollegiate and national-level sports. Their community grounds itself in faith and service with establishments such as Christian chapels, ministries, as well as various social activities like camping, retreats, and trips to support their values and tradition.

7. Union University

Union University is a top-ranked Christian university that offers excellent academic programs in various disciplines. It is equipped with facilities and advanced resources to aid the students throughout the years. The university also coordinates with numerous companies to help students acquire actual experience as early as possible.

8. Southern Adventist University

Southern Adventist University was founded in 1892 as Graysville Academy in Graysville town, Rhea County, Tennessee. With its name changing over 90 years, the year 1997 was when Graysville Academy eventually became a university and had its final name change. The institution currently has 26 major buildings with over 2719 combined undergraduate and graduate students. Now, it also offers a total of 105 major and minor undergraduate and graduate degrees. To this day, Southern Adventist University continues to serve quality education to the youth in and out of the United States.

9. Freed-Hardeman University

Freed-Hardeman University was founded in 1869 with a close affiliation to the Religious organization named Church of Christ. The programs offered are divided into 5 undergraduate and 9 graduate fields of study. Aside from the division of fields of study, 6 colleges and schools are also present that house specific degree programs matching their specialization. The current total enrollment of the school is 2,117, with international students coming from 17 other countries. The university’s athletics team also competes at an intercollegiate level in both genders and various sports such as baseball, softball, golf, and volleyball.

10. Christian Brothers University

Christian Brothers University was founded in 1871 in Midtown Memphis, Tennessee. Revolving its teachings and social practices in the Lasallian Tradition, students follow the guide of Catholic belief, academic excellence, volunteering, and social justice with faith, service, and community as their three core values. Applicants from abroad are welcome to the university and are also eligible for scholarships that are offered to their local students.

11. Austin Peay State University

Austin Peay State University provides affordable education and highly promotes inclusivity. It aims to intensify its research by equipping students with adequate resources and training centers. The university is full of dedicated staff that offers hands-on supervision to the students.

12. Belmont University

Belmont University maintains a Christ-centered community where students from all over the world can gain wisdom and knowledge through practical education. The university ensures that students get to heighten their passion by giving them adequate resources and materials for learning. In recent years, Belmont University began hosting more international students and participating in foreign academic competitions.

13. Lee University

Lee University is a four-year private liberal Christian university located in Cleveland, Tennessee, United States. The university was founded in 1918 as a small Bible research institute and was later recognized as a four-year liberal arts college by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools with the addition of Bible and short-term universities. The university has been recognized in a variety of disciplines, with music schools accredited by the National Association of Music Schools and national accreditation in business schools, nursing schools, and athletic training programs.

14. Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt University is established on the values of collaboration and collegiality, allowing it to rise above and beyond most universities. This prestigious institution in Nashville aims to push humanity and the world to its full potential through discoveries and service. It accomplishes this through its top-ranked programs in law, business, education, arts, medicine, and many more.

15. Tusculum University

Tusculum University was established in 1794 with a rich Presbyterian heritage. It is rooted in Christian tradition with distinguished teaching methods. The school focuses on civic engagement, community service, and spiritual learning to create exemplar individuals. It has a 140-acre campus found near the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee. The campus has one of the best varsity teams competing at NCAA Division II level of competition, and various creative avenues such as the Tusculum Arts Outreach.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Applying to cheap universities in Tennessee 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 Tennessee?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Tennessee. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Tennessee is the American Baptist College, which offers Bible and Theology, Behavior Studies, and Entrepreneurial Leadership to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Austin Peay State University offers General Communication, Software Engineering, 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 Tennessee, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

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

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