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Cheapest Colleges in Texas in 2024 (Online & On-Campus)

January 26, 2024 | Admin

Cheapest Colleges in Texas

If you are looking for the cheapest college in Texas you have come to the right place, with many colleges and universities, both public and private there are many options for residents of Texas seeking higher education.  We have compiled a list of the cheapest colleges in Texas to help you start searching for the best school for your educational and personal goals, all at an affordable average cost.

Affordable or even cheap goes beyond what the institution’s published yearly tuition rate is, it takes into account financial aid packages, grants, scholarships and more.  Affordable or cheap means the net price a student pays for their education, and more importantly the quality of education received. This list provides the cheapest colleges in Texas based on the in-state tuition listed cost by each institution.  It does not take into account the net price after a financial aid package or degree levels students are able to earn at the institutions.

5 Most Affordable Colleges in Texas

Rank School Location
1Brazosport CollegeLake Jackson, Texas
2Midland CollegeMidland, Texas
3South Texas CollegeMcAllen, Texas
4University of Texas Health Science Center at San AntonioSan Antonio, Texas
5University of Texas Rio Grande ValleyBrownsville, Texas

Are you considering attending state college in Texas? Deciding which college to attend is an important decision in shaping your future. Each student and situation is different, so it’s important to be fully informed about your options to make the right decision for you. If you’re a future college student or a parent of a college-aged child on a budget, then you’ve come to the right place.

In this guide, we’ll cover the benefits of attending school in Texas, the cheapest college towns, the average cost of tuition in Texas, as well as discover how you can be a debt-free graduate student. You’ll learn everything you need to know about finding the best colleges in Texas that can provide you with a top-notch higher education.

Benefits of Starting at a College in Texas

Are you thinking of relocating to attend school? If so, there are plenty of reasons to consider attending state college in Texas. Besides the warm weather, excellent sports teams, famous Tex-Mex cuisine, and natural beauty, that is. The number of students in undergraduate enrollment for colleges and universities across the state only continues to grow. Let’s have a look at some of the reasons why people love the Lone Star State.

Quality Higher Education

One of the greatest things about Texas is the higher education system. The state is home to 268 colleges and universities. Of these, 107 are public institutions, 73 non-profit schools, and 88 private institutions.

The system promotes affordability, accessibility, high graduation rates, and helps students earn an associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree without mounds of debt that will take years to pay off. The state has a goal in place in hopes that, by 2030, at least 60 percent of adults age 25-34 will hold some form of postsecondary credential.

The People

Southern hospitality is what draws so many to Texas. The people are known to be incredibly warm and welcoming. The state’s name comes from the word teyshas, which means friends or allies, and the motto is friendship, which the residents most definitely live by.

Cost of Living

When referring to the cost of living, many different factors come into play, such as the cost of housing, food, utilities, and education. The fact of the matter is that Texas is much more affordable than most other states. It was the only state to avoid recession in the Great Recession in 2008.

However, not every city is created equal. So, where should you head for the most inexpensive living? Houston rates as one of the cities with the cheapest cost of living in the entire country. If you currently have your eye on a Houston college, you’re in luck.

The two large cities that are a little more expensive to live in are Frisco and Arlington, so it may be best to avoid them if you’re looking for a cheaper way of life while studying.

Pay Less Tax

Texas is one of the few states where residents don’t pay personal state income tax, only federal tax. Some people are wary about moving to a state with no income tax, but not to worry, it just means that you get to keep a little bit more of your paycheck when compared to other states that do pay state income tax. There have been no other proven drawbacks to living in a state that doesn’t pay personal state income tax.

Choice of Location

One of the greatest things about Texas is the options you have when choosing a location. Do bustling metropolitan areas stand out to you, or have you always wanted to go to college in a quaint little town where everybody knows each other?

If you like city life, there are several large cities that many people gravitate to: Austin is the tech hub of Texas, Dallas is the headquarters for major oil companies, and Houston is known for business and as the energy capital of the world. These are all excellent choices to attend college or university.

When it comes to smaller college towns, if rolling countryside hills and orchards call your name, Fredericksburg has a population of about 11,000 people. Getting even smaller, just 38 miles north of Austin, the beautiful Marble Falls has a population of only 6,100 people.

No matter whether the big or small city life calls your name, you have plenty of options to choose from when you attend a state college in Texas. The wildly different cities combined into one state is just part of the sheer beauty of Texas.


Job Growth

One of the main reasons people relocate to Texas is for job opportunities. There are plenty of well-paying blue-collar jobs, as well as jobs for new graduates. The oil and gas boom has created employment for hundreds of people, as have the business schools in Texas, technology, and manufacturing industries.

Texas also has a large military presence, which has also only grown in the decade following 9/11. Many veterans came to the state on active duty years ago and never left. Military positions continue to attract new residents looking for employment opportunities to this day.

And the job market only continues to grow. In fact, in September 2020, 10 of the 11 major industries added new jobs. Since April of 2020, the total of non-farm related jobs grew by a whopping 786,000.

How to Keep Costs Low by Attending the Least Expensive Schools in Texas


Just because you’re going to college doesn’t mean you have to spend years paying down insurmountable debt. Quite the opposite actually – you can set yourself up with a high-quality education for much less if you know what to do. Let’s get into detail about how you can keep costs low by attending the least expensive schools in Texas.

Transfer Credits

If you attend one of the least expensive community colleges, you then have the option to transfer your credits to a state university to complete a graduate program. This approach can save you thousands of dollars on your education if you’re pursuing a master’s degree and beyond.

Reduce the Cost of Textbooks and Study Materials

Never buy your textbooks and study materials brand new. By renting or buying them from another student or your school’s bookstore, you can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars throughout your program. Once you’ve finished using your textbooks, be sure to sell them to someone else or back to the bookstore to get some of your money back. Another thing to look into is purchasing textbooks online. Sometimes you can locate retailers for much cheaper than buying them from your school.

Consider an Online Degree

Have you ever considered earning an online degree? While this is slowly becoming the new norm, some students are on the fence about whether online studies are right for them. With that said, virtual classes come with certain benefits, such as:

  • The same degrees cost much less money.
  • You’re still eligible for financial assistance with many online colleges.
  • You can study at your own pace and work around your schedule.
  • You’ll have the flexibility to work a part-time job while you’re in school.
  • Potential to save on transportation, dorm costs, and other fees.
  • You’ll likely have a little extra free time than if you were attending classes on campus.


A great example of this is many students opting to earn their online MBA while managing other responsibilities outside of their studies, such as family or a part-time job. All of this is all possible for you too – no matter your field of study.

Debt Reduction and Debt-Free Degree Options

What are some of the things that come to mind when you think about going to college or state university for years? Debt is probably somewhere near the top of the list. But the good news is, it doesn’t have to be that way.

If you want to avoid paying off student loans for the next few decades, fortunately, there are debt-free degree options available for many schools, as well as other ways to reduce debt. Check with your college to see their options for:

  • A work-study program – This federally funded program can provide jobs to students financially in need of part-time work while studying. Some colleges have partnerships with employers and will hire eligible students who apply for the program through their school’s financial aid office.
  • Payment plans – Some schools offer the option to pay tuition through a payment plan for those who can’t take out a student loan or pay upfront. Payment plans can be extremely helpful in not going into debt.
  • Grants – Grants are helpful because you don’t have to pay them back. Is this your first time in college? Pell grants are awarded to students who have significant financial need and have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree. Students are currently eligible for up to $6,345 for the Federal Pell Grant Award, which can change each year. 
  • Scholarships – Scholarships are awarded for academic achievement, sports performance, and a variety of other achievements. Plus, they’re not just for new students. Check with both your school and your employer about available scholarships.
  • Employer tuition reimbursement – Are you currently employed? Some employers will help cover a portion of or the entirety of your courses if your studies help you succeed in your current position within the company.
  • Military services debt reduction – Many schools offer debt reduction to active duty military personnel, but did you know that spouses, dependents, and veterans qualify for discounts at many colleges as well?
  • Accelerated programs – Lastly, consider the option of applying to an accelerated program. The courses are usually shorter in length and faster-paced, but you can finish each semester and graduate in much less time. If you can handle a heavier course load, you can wind up saving a lot of money.

It is possible to graduate from college with very little debt or even debt-free. Check with your school’s financial aid office or employer to find out about your options.

Locations of Colleges in Texas

Benefits of Attending School in a College Town 


While there are plenty of schools across the state, several Texas cities are home to the most colleges. Considering attending school at one of these cities has certain benefits, such as:
 

  • More job opportunities and internships for college students.
  • Employers and landlords cater to students and are often more flexible.
  • Student discounts on public transportation, retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment when you provide your student ID.
  • You’ll have the opportunity to attend events or classes at other nearby colleges.
  • Quite often, these cities have a lower cost of living to cater to college students.

Cities With the Most Colleges

1. Dallas 


Dallas is the third most populated city in Texas and home to the most colleges in the state. With a total of 105 schools in the metropolitan area, this is a great city to consider attending college. Some of the institutes right in the center of the city include El Centro College, and Southern Methodist University.

2. Houston

Houston is a close second with over 100 state universities, community colleges, technical institutes, and trade schools. One of the largest institutions in the area is the University of Houston Downtown. Another great choice is Houston Community College, which serves more than 63,000 students and in terms of enrollment, is one of the largest public colleges in the whole country. 

3. Austin

Austin is the state capital of Texas and has a total of 18 full-fledged colleges and universities. The University of Texas at Austin is one of the largest yet least expensive universities in the country. If you’re thinking more along the lines of an affordable community college in the area, then Austin Community College is worth looking into.

Most Affordable Texas Cities to Attend College

As mentioned, the city of Houston is one of the cheapest in the country as far as cost of living. Here are a few other cities you may want to consider when choosing a college to attend:

1. El Paso

Located along the New Mexico and Mexico borders, El Paso is one of the largest cities in the state. It’s a very family-friendly place to live and attend school due to the low crime rate and abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy. El Paso Community College is an inexpensive college in the area with over 74% of students receiving financial aid when applying to one of their 130+ programs.

Median household income: $45,031

Median property value: $130,900

Median monthly rent: $790

2. Galveston

This beautiful resort town is located on the Gulf of Mexico and is perfect for students who love the ocean. One of the most well-known schools in the city is Texas A&M University at Galveston. It’s quite an affordable university for local students, so it may be something to consider if you are located nearby.


Median household income: $42,500

Median property value: $163,300

Median monthly rent: $1,102

3. Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a small town located in North Texas. Despite having a population of fewer than 6,000 people, it’s a great place for both employment opportunities and high-quality education. The town provides a good quality of life, with the cost of living currently 26.9% less than the national average. Breckenridge is home to Texas State Technical College, where you get a much better student-to-teacher ratio for more hands-on learning.

Median household income: $41,867

Median property value: $62,700

Median monthly rent: $668


It’s important to consider all aspects when choosing a college to attend, including program options, total state tuition cost, and cost of living in each city.


Average Cost of Texas Colleges

Comparing Fees With Other Colleges

For the academic year 2019-2020, the average annual cost for total in-state tuition and fees in Texas was $5,957 and $16,384 for out-of-state students. This amount is lower than the national average, which is $6,768 for in-state students and $17,692 for out-of-state students.

How Texas Colleges Keep Their Costs Down

You may be wondering how Texas colleges remain cheaper than many states across the nation. State tuition costs are kept low for Texas residents to attend school in the state for less than out-of-state students. This lower cost to Texas residents is known as in-state tuition.

The costs also remain lower than average because of the Texas Education Code, which applies to most schools funded by state tax funds. The goal is to make education attainable for all students, including those from families with high financial need. Students from low-income families tend to pay the least of all because many schools subsidize the cost of in-state tuition.

Factors That Can Drive Up the Cost of College in Texas

Although Texas colleges are more affordable than other states, rising college costs continue to grow due to inflation in the education system. Over the years, this has been slowly driving up the cost of tuition and other expenses.

The University of Texas System, for example, increased total costs by 2.6% in the year 2020. What appears to be a small increase like this can mean students spend thousands of dollars more in-state tuition each year. Most state university officials agree that this increase in cost is necessary to match the inflation, as well as retain and recruit employees.

Financial Assistance Options for Texas Colleges

Federal Financial Aid

Federal financial aid is available from the United States federal government. There is over $120 billion in aid given out to students in need across the nation each year. The two federal loan programs available are the Direct Loan Program and the Perkins Loan Program. These loans generally have more flexibility to be paid back, and they also usually have lower fixed interest rates.

Despite the lower interest rates, they stress the importance of planning how you’re going to pay for college as early as possible. Once you have an action plan in place, the next step in applying for aid is filling out a FAFSA form.  Once approved, the aid is sent to your student account to pay for your college fees.

State Financial Aid

State financial aid is awarded to in-state students based on financial need. There are some instances where international students and non-residents are eligible for state financial aid. To check your eligibility as a Texas resident or a non-resident, be sure to fill out a Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA) form, including your and your parents’ tax return transcripts.


Grants and Scholarships

Grants and scholarships help students and families of students pay for college. However, grants are no longer strictly for students in financial need, and scholarships aren’t solely for perfect students. If you’re interested in saving on state tuition, it’s worth it to apply for both grants and scholarships regardless. You might be surprised. There are plenty of scholarships available for students who take the time to apply for them.

To apply for a grant in Texas, first, see if you meet the requirements. The financial aid department at your college determines your eligibility. Next, you should fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Be sure to check back with your school’s financial aid office to confirm they’ve received your application.

If you’re interested in applying for financial aid, there are plenty of scholarships available for Texas students. It’s a relatively simple process – just select the scholarship you’re interested in and see if you qualify online. We recommend applying for as many scholarships as you’re eligible for to ease the financial burden when attending college.

Least Expensive Colleges in Texas

Just because a college is among the least expensive in the state doesn’t mean that it isn’t a high-quality school, which is part of the reason why Texas is so desirable for higher education – the quality is among the best. With that said, let’s take a look at five of the most affordable Texas colleges.

Here are the 28 Cheapest Colleges in Texas

1

Brazosport College

  • Lake Jackson, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 17%

A public institution, Brazosport College is a community college that offers many two year degrees and a few four year degrees, as well as transfer degrees. Brazosport has been the choice for many students of Brazoria County. The four year programs include Industrial Management and Health Services Management. Students seeking to enter the field of nursing can earn the LVN or ADN at Brazosport as well. Partnership programs between the college and industry leaders to provide students with the most up to date knowledge and hands-on experience needed for their fields.

School Overview

Tuition: $3,297
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 13 to 1
Visit School Website
2

Midland College

  • Midland, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 11%

Midland College is “Your College” with a focus on providing higher education, community services and cultural enrichment. Offering many programs and opportunities for learning that are both affordable and comfortable for students for students of the Midland Community. Educating students since 1972 as an independent college, Midland College is among the cheapest institutions in the state offering a variety of programs. A sample of the programs students have access to include computer information technology, business, communications, humanities, public services,s and more.

School Overview

Tuition: $4,290
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 31 to 1
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3

South Texas College

  • McAllen, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 24%

A community college, South Texas College is unique in that it offers 120 degrees and certificates as well at 5 bachelor’s degrees. Students can attend one of five campuses or enroll in one of their many online programs at their virtual campus. South Texas College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

School Overview

Tuition: $4,440
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 22 to 1
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4

University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio

  • San Antonio, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 92%

Students seeking a degree in the medical field will find more affordable programs at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. With five schools and nearly 70 degree specialties UTHSCSA students can explore undergraduate through post graduate degrees in medical fields. Medical fields include dentistry, biomedical sciences, medicine, nursing, health professions, and affiliated medical fields. Students study in state of the art facilities with expert faculty and staff that are experts in their specialized fields.

School Overview

In-state Tuition: $5,875 (undergraduate), $3,114 (graduate)
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 7 to 1
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5

University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

  • Brownsville, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 40%

University of Texas Rio Grande Valley has multiple campuses throughout the region to provide quality education to the surrounding area. The Brownsville Campus remains one of the more affordable institutions in Texas. UTRGV is one of the largest institutions serving the Hipsanic population. Students have access to a unique opportunity to attend bilingual classes, bicultural and biliterate events throughout their educational experience. Students receive mentorships form expert faculty as well as have access to state of the art facilities and technology in their courses.

School Overview

Tuition: $5,352
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 19 to 1
Visit School Website
6

Baptist University of the Americas

  • San Antonio, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 27%

Previously known as the Mexican Baptist Training School, The Baptist University of the Americas is a unique institution with a unique purpose; to develop cross culturally competent leaders that can change the world. Students desiring to study to become Baptist pastors will find a well-rounded four year degree program that offers a superb scholastic environment and excellent faculty. Most Hispanic Baptist Pastors graduated from BUA, but BUA offers other affordable undergraduate degrees as well including, business, music, human behavior and more.

School Overview

Tuition: $6,480
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 13 to 1
Visit School Website
7

University of Texas Permian Basin

  • Odessa, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 49%
The-University-of-Texas-Permian-Basin-2

The University of Texas Permian Basin is one of the cheapest institutions for higher learning in Texas. A fully accredited institution that offers over 50 undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs students have many fields of study to choose from. This institution has a lot to offer in pre-professional degrees as well as unique fields of study such as petroleum engineering, rural living, agricultural fields and more. Those seeking programs in engineering, nursing, law, and other professional degrees will find excellent programs at the University of Texas Permian Basin. With the boom in oil drilling in the Permian Basin, new opportunities and hands-on experience have developed in recent years. Online programs are also offered to residents of Texas.

School Overview

Tuition: $6,666
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 22 to 1
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8

University of Houston Victoria

  • Victoria, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 52%

As one of the best-value colleges in Texas, University of Houston Victoria provides affordable education in each degree level offered at the institution. With a wide array of undergraduate degree programs available to choose from students will find what they are looking for. Graduate and doctoral degree programs are also available for students seeking to advance their education and careers. Fields of study include business, arts, sciences, human resources, health professions, education, and more. Students attending on campus will find no shortage of activities both on campus and off, with a variety of outdoor activities to participate in when students are not in classes.

School Overview

Tuition: $6,781
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 15 to 1
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9

University of Houston Downtown

  • Houston, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 44%

A member of the University of Houston system, The University of Houston Downtown has an enrollment of 14,000 students each year and is one of the largest institutions for higher learning in Houston. Students seeking affordable degrees in Texas will find 44 undergraduate degrees and eight master’s degrees at UHD. With the University College and four other colleges, including Business, Sciences and Technology, Public Services, and Humanities and Social Sciences students have a wide array of programs to study and career paths to start on. With a low faculty to student ratio, professors know their students by name and are mentors to them throughout their time at UHD.

School Overview

Tuition: $6,788
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 19 to 1
Visit School Website
10

Texas A&M International University

  • Laredo, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 41%

Texas A&M International University is just that an International institution that serves as a cultural and intellectual hub of a multilingual and multicultural community. At the Gateway to Mexico, Texas A&M International is located in a premium area to provide higher education to people around the world regardless of language or country. Students receive the same rigorous education and opportunities that Texas A&M is known for and taught by expert faculty that utilize the most innovative and effective teaching methods available. Degrees at the bachelorette, master’s and doctoral levels are offered with a progressive international agenda.

School Overview

Tuition: $7,348
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 22 to 1
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11

Texas A&M Texarkana

  • Texarkana, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 64%

A member of the Texas A&M system, Texas A&M University Texarkana is the agricultural and mechanical institution of Texas. As one of the cheapest colleges in Texas, it also offers unique degree programs that are only found at Texarkana. Many of the programs are career oriented with hands-on experience, study abroad programs, and collaborative research. Undergraduate degrees include education, mathematics, engineering, agriculture, business, technology and the arts and sciences. Situated on a large campus, students have numerous extracurricular activities and programs to be part of.

School Overview

Tuition: $7,536
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 12 to 1
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12

Angelo State University

  • San Angelo, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 36%

A designated Hispanic serving institution, Angelo State University has been educating students since 1928 in the area of San Angelo. As a member of the Texas Tech University System, it is the second largest institution and serves over 10K students per year. Areas of study students can choose from include business, humanities, health and human services, human resource, science and engineering and many more. Angelo State University offers degrees at the undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate levels. Students learn from award winning faculty tht mentor and guide them through their education and future careers.

School Overview

Tuition: $7,637
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 19 to 1
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13

Texas Woman’s University

  • Denton, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 64%

Aside from what the name implies, Texas Woman’s University is a coeducational institution that has been educating students since 1901 and has been coeducational since 1994. As the largest state supported institution for higher learning that is geared toward women, Texas Woman’s University offers 0ver 70 different programs. With 91 undergraduate and graduate degrees students can explore their interests and find their career path or advance their career. A sample of degree programs include business, arts and sciences, nutrition, healthcare, education, nursing, and more. There is also a large offering of extra curricular activities ranging from sports, to the arts, to clubs and organizations.

School Overview

Tuition: $7,926
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 16 to 1
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14

West Texas A&M University

  • Canyon, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 43%

A member of the Texas A&M system, West Texas A&M University was established in1910 as a teacher’s college that was state-funded. Recently ranked as the safest university in Texas and among the ten safest universities in the nation, West Texas A&M is a place where students can focus on their education and enjoy the vibrant student life. Students can explore the many undergraduate and graduate programs offered including degrees in agriculture, business, science, engineering, humanities, nursing, healthcare and more. Most students qualify for financial aid in the form of scholarships, grants or other aid to make West Texas A&M more affordable.

School Overview

Tuition: $8,135
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 18 to 1
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15

The University of Texas San Antonio

  • San Antonio, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 35%

The largest institution for higher learning in San Antonio, The University of Texas San Antonio enrolls over 30,000 students each year. Students have a wide array of degree programs to study in undergraduate, graduate and doctoral levels. Some of those programs include business, nursing, healthcare, arts and sciences, technology, and so much more. With unique partnerships and programs students receive hands-on experience through internships, practicums, and volunteer opportunities. Students also receive unique mentorship opportunities through the Roadrunners Mentoring Roadrunners Program.

School Overview

Tuition: $8,262
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 25 to 1
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16

Lamar University

  • Beaumont, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 32%

A member of the Texas State University system, Lamar University has been nationally recognized for its quality curriculum and being one of the cheapest colleges in Texas. Every degree level is available for students starting or advancing their career. The institution is broken into five undergraduate colleges, one graduate college, and one honors college. Areas of study include engineering, arts and sciences, business, education and human development, and fine arts and communication. The institution emphasizes hands-on learning at every level though internships, practicum, and community involvement. Lamar University is an inclusive institution that represents 62 countries.

School Overview

Tuition: $8,494
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 19 to 1
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17

Sam Houston State University

  • Huntsville, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 67%

Established in 1879 as an institution to train teachers, Sam Houston State University has grown and expanded to enrolling over 21,000 students in a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. SHSU has three campuses across Texas as well an an accredited online presence that has been recognized as one of the top online colleges in the nation. This allows you to receive an online degree. Programs include business, fine arts, mathematics, education, and criminal justice. These programs are offered both on campus and online with many more. Students attending on campus will enjoy a vibrant student life with over 250 clubs and organizations as well as intramural sports programs.

School Overview

Tuition: $8,536
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 23 to 1
Visit School Website
18

University of Texas at Tyler

  • Tyler, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 58%

A member of the University of Texas system, The University of Texas at Tyler provides students with the same high-quality education that UT is known for in a more intimate environment where student success is the focus. Students can choose to study in a variety of programs including nursing, healthcare, business, engineering, pre-medicine, arts and sciences, education, pharmacy, and many more. With programs at each degree level students can begin and advance their education as well as their careers at UT Tyler. Students can also enroll in online courses and programs if that fits their schedule better than traditional on-campus courses.

School Overview

Tuition: $8,742
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 19 to 1
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19

Sul Ross State University

  • Alpine, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 22%

Established as a teaching institution in 1917, Sul Ross State University was established to prepare teachers and has since expanded to four academic colleges. Sul Ross confers affordable certificates, associate, bachelor and master’s degrees. The four academic colleges are Rio Grande College, College of Arts and Sciences, College of Agricultural and Natural Resource Management, and the College of Professional Studies. Students can explore a variety of common and unique degree options through these colleges. Students also benefit from the many partnerships, grants, and other academic opportunities available.

School Overview

Tuition: $8,806
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 13 to 1
Visit School Website
20

Stephen F Austin State University

  • Nacogdoches, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 42%

Stephen F Austin State University has ranked among the top institutions in Texas is a variety of areas such as having the number 1 ROTC Ranger Team in the state, the number 2 debate team in the nation and more. What’s more is that the world class education students receive is affordable and high quality. Students can enroll in undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as agriculture, business, finance, arts, sciences, mathematics, computer science, history, graphic arts and many more. With a breathtaking campus on the east of Texas near the historic Nacogdoches.

School Overview

Tuition: $8,844
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 20 to 1
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21

Texas A&M University Commerce

  • Commerce, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 67%

As a member of the Texas A&M system, Texas A&M University Commerce offers the same quality education with over 100 programs to choose from students will receive a quality education at an affordable cost. Students have over 100 undergraduate degrees to choose form as well as a large array of graduate and postgraduate programs. Students also have unique opportunities with study abroad opportunities, internships, and research. With expert faculty and a vibrant student life, Commerce is an institution that builds memories for a life time as well as provides career boosting degrees.

School Overview

Tuition: $8,952
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 22 to 1
Visit School Website
22

Paul Quinn College

  • Dallas, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 11%

A private institution, Paul Quinn College is affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal Church and is the nation’s first urban work college. The mission of Paul Quinn College is to provide a faith based education that meets students academic, social, and Chirstian goals through higher education. Established by African Methodist preachers, Paul Quinn College educated freed slaves and their posterity, an institution that invites all races and faiths to attend to create a better future for tomorrow. As an urban work college students are able to keep the cost of higher education to a minimum and provide hands-on learning experiences for students throughout their time earning their degree.

School Overview

Tuition: $9,125
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 25 to 1
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23

Texas A&M University Kingsville

  • Kingsville, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 28%

As a member of the Texas A&M system, Texas A&M University Kingsville is a globally recognized institution and one of the most affordable in the state of Texas. There are over 100 programs for students to choose from. With degrees at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral levels students can advance their careers at Texas A&M Kingsville. The award winning engineering program draws students from all over the state due to the expert faculty who lead the programs and how affordable it is. Review all of the high quality programs to find yours today.

School Overview

Tuition: $9,136
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 16 to 1
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24

The University of Texas at El Paso

  • El Paso, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 37%

A member of the University of Texas system, The University of Texas at El Paso is becoming a top tier research university with a Mexican American majority student population. With highly competitive academic programs that meet the needs of the 21st century student, UTEP is dedicated to student excellence. Aside from offering cutting edge research opportunities for students UTEP also provides a vibrant student life with athletics, cultural activities, numerous clubs and organizations and more. Students can begin or expand their education at UTEP with the many bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs that are offered.

School Overview

Tuition: $9,161
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 25 to 1
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25

Texas A&M University Corpus Christi

  • Corpus Christi, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 34%

The only university in the United States on its own island, Texas A&M University Corpus Christi is a member of the Texas A&M system. With palm tree lined pathways and ocean front views, students always have plenty to do when they are not studying. With over 85 popular degree options available from expert faculty, students often receive one on one instruction and hands one experience in their fields. Texas A&M Corpus Christi stands out in areas such as its federal testing sight for unmanned aircraft systems and its nursing and health sciences college. It also leads out in research to maintain long term sustainable use and conservation of the Gulf of Mexico.

School Overview

Tuition: $9,272
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 18 to 1
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26

Texas Tech University

  • Lubbock, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 60%

Established as the Texas Technological College nearly a century ago, Texas Tech University is now the flagship institution for the four campus Texas Tech University system. Students from all across the nation and world enroll in the many programs offered by Texas Tech including engineering, science, business, agriculture, architecture and more. With over 60 research institutions students have opportunities to participate in collaborative research in areas such as wind energy, atmospheric sciences, nanophotonics, grid computing and more. The campus life always has something to offer form sports to clubs to community involvement, students receive a rich education beyond the classroom at Texas Tech.

School Overview

Tuition: $9,300
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 20 to 1
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27

Midwestern State University

  • Wichita Falls, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 41%

As the only liberal arts focused institution in Texas, Midwestern State University stands apart from the rest, it also happens to be one of the cheapest colleges in Texas. Providing affordable undergraduate and graduate degrees, Midwestern offers programs in over 60 areas of study. MSU has been recognized by the U.S. News and World Report as one of the top institutions in the nation for its affordable out of state tuition. It’s location between Dallas and Oklahoma City provides students with many opportunities for internships, volunteer opportunities, research, and community involvement. Students also enjoy a rich student life with many extra curricular activities and local offerings between the two big cities.

School Overview

Tuition: $9,601
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: 17 to 1
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28

Texas A&M University Galveston

  • Galveston, Texas
  • Graduation Rate: 30%

As a member of the Texas A&M System, Texas A&M University Galveston is a unique institution all on its own specializing in programs such as marine and maritime science and all those entail. Programs that include research, science, engineering, and public service related to gener field of marine studies. This institution is fully accredited. The location of the campus by the sea provides very unique hands-on experiences and learning that complement the rigorous classroom studies. Students are able to gain skills on ocean voyages, sailing and more. Ocean-related programs are four year degree granting programs that also include computer science and technical writing as foundational courses.

School Overview

Tuition: $12,088
Financial Aid: Yes
Faculty to Student Ratio: N/A
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Texas is known for many things and now quality education at an affordable price is one of them.  With some of the cheapest colleges in Texas also being some of the best institutions for research, campus safety, and maritime studies students don’t need to break the bank to pursue higher education and a brighter future.  Many of these institutions also offer online courses for very affordable rates for residents of Texas.  Now is the time to pursue your dreams, apply today. Please contact us if you have any questions about the information listed above!

Schools were ranked according to listed tuition rate for residents before financial aid.

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