15 Cheapest Universities in Wisconsin for International Students

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In Wisconsin, 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 Wisconsin, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 32 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Wisconsin, make sure to read more!

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

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

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Herzing University 12,400 USD - 15,900 USD 63%
University of Wisconsin-Parkside 15,800 USD 52%
University of Wisconsin Oshkosh 17,400 USD 47%
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire 17,600 USD 47%
University of Wisconsin – Superior 17,600 USD 47%
University of Wisconsin-River Falls 18,400 USD 44%
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point 18,700 USD 43%
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay 19,100 USD 42%
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater 19,200 USD 42%
University of Wisconsin-Platteville 19,600 USD 41%
University of Wisconsin-Stout 19,600 USD 40%
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse 21,000 USD 36%
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee 21,500 USD 35%
Lakeland University 32,900 USD -0%
Marian University, Wisconsin 34,100 USD -4%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 32,700 USD for universities in Wisconsin.

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1. Herzing University

Herzing University is focused on providing outstanding education to local and international students. With campuses located in several states and online programs, the university aims to make education accessible and help students attain their career goals. Its future-oriented programs have also attracted students as the curriculum are explicitly designed and aligned to meet the demands of various industry sectors.

2. University of Wisconsin-Parkside

Situated among the still prairie lands of Somer is the University of Wisconsin-Parkside. It is recognized as a regional center for performing arts, as well as offering over 40 degree programs in business and the sciences. The University of Wisconsin-Parkside enrolls around 4000 students coming from all parts of the world.

3. University of Wisconsin Oshkosh

Located in a small city in Wisconsin, the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh is divided into 5 colleges. It offers over 150 undergraduate and graduate programs across its 3 campuses, along with opportunities to study abroad. The university is committed to being sustainable, which is why it has environmental-related majors and three research institutes for sustainability. Actually, it is among the top universities in the US regarding green energy use. The university also has almost 200 student organizations and 54 club and intramural sports teams.

4. University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire is one of the 13 University of Wisconsin system campuses. It started as a normal school in 1916 before becoming a state university in 1964. After the Wisconsin State University and University of Wisconsin systems merged in 1971, the university was given its present name. The institution and its programs are accredited by several organizations, such as the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, and the National Association for the Education of Young Children.

5. University of Wisconsin – Superior

University of Wisconsin – Superior was initially founded as a Normal school for the training of teachers and was able to produce three graduates in 1897. From then, the school was awarded college status, then university status in 1964 after the consistent increase in enrollment and additions of program offers. Since then, the university has opened various programs and offered undergraduate and graduate degrees.

6. University of Wisconsin-River Falls

The University of Wisconsin-River Falls commits to providing students with a high-quality education at an affordable cost. It offers a warm learning environment to all students, making them feel like they’re home away from home. The university hopes to strengthen its internationalization by attending numerous research collaborations and opportunities.

7. University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point has set up an educational curriculum that is built on high expectations. It seeks to create a better tomorrow for passionate students by providing them with the necessary support and tools. Over the years, the university has built an excellent reputation for academic excellence.

8. University of Wisconsin-Green Bay

The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay is an advocate for environmental sustainability. It aims to create a better world for future generations to live in. At present, the university already has strong alliances with different organizations.

9. University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

University of Wisconsin-Whitewater (UW-Whitewater) was established in 1868. Throughout its early beginnings, the institution thrived on providing comprehensive programs and good quality education in the state of Wisconsin. The university then joined the University of Wisconsin System in 1971 to offer its students more structured and high standards of teaching and research. Today, UW-Whitewater continues to improve and create innovative and top-rated programs that would reshape the future of its students.

10. University of Wisconsin-Platteville

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville is known for its renowned faculty and challenging academics. It offers rigorous coursework that will truly train the students’ critical thinking abilities. The university hopes to hone intellectual individuals that are willing to contribute to society through research.

11. University of Wisconsin-Stout

The University of Wisconsin-Stout was founded by James Huff Stout, a civic leader, and a state legislator. At its inception, manual and domestic science training started in the institution, followed by the establishment of other training schools. Up to the present, the institution grew to offer programs related to professional industries, including technology, home economics, applied arts, and helping professions.

12. University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UWLC) is dedicated to enabling its students to have a life-long passion for learning. They are known for their courses in business, psychology, and biomedical sciences. UWLC offers a vibrant and engaging environment that encourages students to participate in different community activities and initiatives.

13. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is the largest educational institution in the city. It is located strategically, with students just minutes away from the comfort of Lake Michigan and the metropolitan downtown. The university already has an excellent international reputation when it comes to its research outputs.

14. Lakeland University

Lakeland University is a private university in Plymouth, Wisconsin. There are additional campuses and centers located throughout Wisconsin and Tokyo. It began in 1862 as the Mission House College and Seminary. Business Administration, Accounting, Computer and Information Sciences, Psychology, and Marketing are among the most popular majors at the university.

15. Marian University, Wisconsin

Marian University in Wisconsin is a coeducational Catholic university founded in 1936. It has a student population of around 1300, and a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1. The school offers on-campus undergraduate level programs, as well as online bachelor’s and master’s programs. Various student services are also available such as career counseling, disability services, healthcare insurance, bookstores, and many more.

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

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

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Viterbo University 5,460 USD - 14,400 USD 58%
Marquette University 6,000 USD - 25,400 USD 54%
Edgewood University 6,000 USD - 19,700 USD 54%
Wisconsin Lutheran College 6,960 USD - 10,500 USD 47%
Milwaukee School of Engineering 7,452 USD - 29,900 USD 43%
Herzing University 7,560 USD - 14,300 USD 42%
Carroll University 7,680 USD - 15,500 USD 41%
Lakeland University 8,400 USD - 12,600 USD 36%
University of Wisconsin-Platteville 8,700 USD - 15,800 USD 33%
Concordia University Wisconsin 8,700 USD - 15,700 USD 33%
Carthage College 8,820 USD - 28,000 USD 32%
Alverno College 9,600 USD - 18,800 USD 26%
Mount Mary University 9,720 USD - 17,300 USD 25%
St. Norbert College 10,100 USD - 15,200 USD 23%
University of Wisconsin Oshkosh 11,700 USD - 21,000 USD 10%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 13,000 USD for universities in Wisconsin.

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1. Viterbo University

Viterbo University is both a liberal arts and a Roman Catholic institution. This allows students to explore various disciplines while remaining anchored to values like diversity, equity, and inclusion. Viterbo was established by Franciscan sisters in 1890. It welcomes 2000+ students annually. It is well-ranked in the country, placing 601st in the Times Higher Education US College Rankings 2019.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Viterbo University should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 5,460 USD to 14,400 USD annually for their master's degree.

2. Marquette University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Marquette University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Marquette University is 6,000 USD to 25,344 USD.

Located in the upper central part of the USA, Marquette University is a Jesuit institution that is rooted deeply in the Catholic faith. When first established, Marquette College selected only male applicants from its selection pool. Finally, in 1909, Marquette accepted its first female applicant, which is a significant event that lead to Marquette being the first coeducational Catholic institution in the whole world! Due to its long history in the Wisconsin area, this institution has grown to be the largest private university in the whole state, and in academics, Marquette University offers high-level research and academic fieldwork in liberal arts, business, engineering, education, law, and other STEM disciplines.

3. Edgewood University

Edgewood University is a higher education institution in Wisconsin, United States, with a surprising gender distribution of a 3:7 male-to-female student ratio. Founded in 1927, it has come a long way to create a diverse student community in gender, race, and ethnicity. The school also offers different opportunities that help student life, such as internship programs, financial loans, scholarship programs, and athletic programs. Currently, the area of sports is also strong, with NCAA Division III teams under its care. Edgewood is a university that can hold its ground in both the academic and athletic fields against top universities in the United States.

The tuition fee at Edgewood University for incoming international master’s students is 6,000 USD to 19,656 USD. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Wisconsin Lutheran College

Another affordable university to consider in Wisconsin is Wisconsin Lutheran College.

Wisconsin Lutheran College (WLC) is a private liberal arts college in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. It began in 1973 as a small college with only a few dozen students. The university is a Lutheran liberal arts college for Christian students. WLC is dedicated to providing quality education based on the Holy Scriptures in order to promote the spiritual growth of its students.

The tuition fee in Wisconsin Lutheran College for master’s program for foreign students starts from 6,960 USD.

5. Milwaukee School of Engineering

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Milwaukee School of Engineering 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 7,452 USD yearly.

Milwaukee School of Engineering is a specialized private institution. It offers a limited selection of undergrad and master’s programs; most of these courses focus on engineering. Because of its small population, the community is close-knit and attentive training is given to each student. MSOE is well-ranked, placing 9th among undergrad engineering programs in the US.

6. Herzing University

Herzing University is focused on providing outstanding education to local and international students. With campuses located in several states and online programs, the university aims to make education accessible and help students attain their career goals. Its future-oriented programs have also attracted students as the curriculum are explicitly designed and aligned to meet the demands of various industry sectors.

7. Carroll University

Caroll University, initially established as an academy, became Wisconsin’s pioneer college and was the first established four-year higher education institution in the state. The university became affiliated with the Presbyterian Church and has incorporated its teachings into its curriculum. Since its inception, Caroll university grew in number and academic programs and has made it to the top lists of regional schools in the U.S.

8. Lakeland University

Lakeland University is a private university in Plymouth, Wisconsin. There are additional campuses and centers located throughout Wisconsin and Tokyo. It began in 1862 as the Mission House College and Seminary. Business Administration, Accounting, Computer and Information Sciences, Psychology, and Marketing are among the most popular majors at the university.

9. University of Wisconsin-Platteville

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville is known for its renowned faculty and challenging academics. It offers rigorous coursework that will truly train the students’ critical thinking abilities. The university hopes to hone intellectual individuals that are willing to contribute to society through research.

10. Concordia University Wisconsin

Concordia University of Wisconsin is a member of the Concordia University System operated by the Lutheran Church Missouri-Synod. It has merged with the Ann Arbor campus back in 2013, sharing a new name called CUWA. Concordia University of Wisconsin features nearly 100 degree programs and certificates in arts, sciences, and business alongside community outreach programs.

11. Carthage College

Located along the shore of Lake Michigan, Carthage College is one of the leading colleges in the midwest region. It is a private academic institution founded in 1847 by pioneering members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The college offers interdisciplinary and innovative programs in over 50 fields. 

12. Alverno College

Alverno College is a private Catholic institution that offers liberal arts programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. It is an exclusive higher education school that admits only women into its campus. The college was established in 1887 and has since generated countless competent professionals and experts. Today, it continues to provide top-class education and innovative programs to prospective and current students who will become world citizens and leaders.

13. Mount Mary University

Established by the School Sisters of Notre Dame, Mount Mary University has provided 30 undergraduate majors and 10 graduate programs to the youth since 1913. What makes Mount Mary University is that their undergraduate programs are only open to women, while their graduate programs are open to all genders. Despite this, the school still has 1,200 students enrolled and studying inside its 80-acre campus. Additionally, its recreational department is not lacking with NCAA Division III sports teams and over 35 student organizations. Different services are also available to its community, providing them with meal plans, financial aid, ministry services, and housing just to name a few.

14. St. Norbert College

St. Norbert College is a private Catholic college for liberal arts in De Pere, Wisconsin. Named after Saint Norbert of Xanten, the college was established in 1898 initially to educate future priests. Liberal arts programs were then added for lay students in 1955. St. Norbert College is ranked among the best institutions for higher education in the midwest and is known across the region for its community service and engagement. 

15. University of Wisconsin Oshkosh

Located in a small city in Wisconsin, the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh is divided into 5 colleges. It offers over 150 undergraduate and graduate programs across its 3 campuses, along with opportunities to study abroad. The university is committed to being sustainable, which is why it has environmental-related majors and three research institutes for sustainability. Actually, it is among the top universities in the US regarding green energy use. The university also has almost 200 student organizations and 54 club and intramural sports teams.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Applying to cheap universities in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Wisconsin. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Wisconsin is the Herzing University, which offers Nursing, Technology Management, and Software Development to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Alverno College offers Music and Liturgy, Music Therapy, 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 Wisconsin, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

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

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