Most Affordable Colleges in Idaho 2024

Badge for MOST AFFORDABLE COLLEGES IN IDAHO
By Dr. James Barham
Published:
Updated:

Here are the most affordable colleges and universities in Idaho. Our list will help you find the right kind of school for you, at a price you can afford.

Most Affordable Colleges in Idaho 2024

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  1. University of Idaho
  2. Boise State University
  3. Idaho State University
  4. Brigham Young University–Idaho
  5. New Saint Andrews College
  6. Lewis–Clark State College
  1. University of Idaho
  2. Boise State University
  3. Idaho State University
  4. Brigham Young University–Idaho
  5. New Saint Andrews College
  6. Lewis–Clark State College
  1. Brigham Young University–Idaho 96%
  2. Lewis–Clark State College 87%
  3. Boise State University 84%
  4. New Saint Andrews College 83%
  5. University of Idaho 74%
  1. Boise State University 20 to 1
  2. Brigham Young University–Idaho 19 to 1
  3. University of Idaho 16 to 1
  4. Lewis–Clark State College 15 to 1
  5. New Saint Andrews College 14 to 1
  6. Idaho State University 13 to 1
  1. New Saint Andrews College $14,500
  2. Lewis–Clark State College $6,996
  3. University of Idaho $6,182
  4. Idaho State University $5,928
  5. Boise State University $5,532
  6. Brigham Young University–Idaho $4,536
  1. New Saint Andrews College $9,680
  2. Idaho State University $8,601
  3. University of Idaho $7,754
  4. Boise State University $7,236
  5. Lewis–Clark State College $4,703
  1. Lewis–Clark State College
  2. New Saint Andrews College
  3. Brigham Young University–Idaho
  4. Idaho State University
  5. Boise State University
  6. University of Idaho
  1. Lewis–Clark State College
  2. New Saint Andrews College
  3. Brigham Young University–Idaho
  4. Idaho State University
  5. Boise State University
  6. University of Idaho
  1. University of Idaho 74%
  2. New Saint Andrews College 83%
  3. Boise State University 84%
  4. Lewis–Clark State College 87%
  5. Brigham Young University–Idaho 96%
  1. Idaho State University 13 to 1
  2. New Saint Andrews College 14 to 1
  3. Lewis–Clark State College 15 to 1
  4. University of Idaho 16 to 1
  5. Brigham Young University–Idaho 19 to 1
  6. Boise State University 20 to 1
  1. Brigham Young University–Idaho $4,536
  2. Boise State University $5,532
  3. Idaho State University $5,928
  4. University of Idaho $6,182
  5. Lewis–Clark State College $6,996
  6. New Saint Andrews College $14,500
  1. Lewis–Clark State College $4,703
  2. Boise State University $7,236
  3. University of Idaho $7,754
  4. Idaho State University $8,601
  5. New Saint Andrews College $9,680

Colleges and Universities in Idaho

While there are only a few major colleges in Idaho, prospective students do have some excellent public options. In fact, just over half of the 13 colleges and universities in Idaho are public school options.

Boise State University, Idaho’s largest public university, serves roughly 17,000 students through both on-campus and online degree programs. Students at Boise State University can pursue both traditional and online degrees in fields like communications, earth sciences, and engineering.

Other major public universities in Idaho include Idaho State University and Lewis-Clark State College. This is noteworthy because Idaho residents who attend public online colleges in Idaho will still have access to in-state tuition discounts. Out of state students will pay more.

Idaho is also home to five private schools, including the state’s largest school, Brigham Young University Idaho, which has a student population of nearly 49,000 students.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.

While students at BYU school can expect to pay around $4,000 in tuition, well below the national average, tuition for Idaho’s other private colleges costs between $13,000 and $30,000 per year.

The majority of Idaho’s colleges and universities can be considered small schools, serving student populations of 4,000 or less. However, the state’s largest schools offer the most affordable tuition fees, with both traditional and online students having access to tuition for as little as $4,000 per year.

Students who pursue their degrees in Idaho can study fields like chemistry, law, and anthropology at the University of Idaho; or religious studies, psychology, and literature at New Saint Andrews College. Additionally, Idaho offers a loan forgiveness-based financial program of up to $100,000 to physicians who work in the state’s rural areas.

French fries, mashed potatoes, tater tots, and even potato-inspired ice cream - Idaho is, as per its reputation, a potato lover’s dream. But it’s not all spuds in this state. Along with countless hiking trails, rivers perfect for rafting trips, and 72 types of gemstones, this state offers both on-campus and online degree programs with competitive tuition fees and excellent professors.

For more information, explore some of Idaho’s top programs and future career possibilities.


What are Idaho’s Colleges & Universities?

Idaho’s Best Overall

Idaho's Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Badge
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There are 6 colleges and universities in Idaho with stated tuitions and fees under $20,000/year. The following list of the most affordable colleges and universities in Idaho is composed entirely of schools offering bachelor’s degree programs, have stated tuition and fees near or under the national average of $16,000/year, and are fully accredited colleges.

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Most Affordable Colleges in Idaho 2023

These schools are ranked by academic excellence, and all under $20,000/year.

  1. #1

    University of Idaho

    Moscow , ID
    #1 Best Grad Schools in Idaho 2024 #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #1 Best Research Universities in Idaho 2024 #1 Best Public Colleges in Idaho 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    13K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1120/23

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Idaho

    Cost of Degree: $8,396
    Expenses: $14,450
    Starting Salary: $47,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Idaho known for?

    University of Idaho’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Idaho’s Online Degrees

    BS in Organizational Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BGS in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  2. #2

    Boise State University

    Boise , ID
    #2 Best Grad Schools in Idaho 2024 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #2 Best Research Universities in Idaho 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in Idaho 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    32K

    Career Outlook for degree at Boise State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,364
    Expenses: $20,352
    Starting Salary: $43,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Boise State University known for?

    Boise State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Boise State University’s Online Degrees

    BBA in Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Cyber Operations And Resilience
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Multidisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Public Relations
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing Rn To Bsn
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Public Health
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Respiratory Care
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Applied Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  3. #3

    Idaho State University

    Pocatello , ID
    #3 Best Grad Schools in Idaho 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in Idaho 2024 #3 Best Public Colleges in Idaho 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Idaho 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Graduation

    37%

    Student body

    15K

    Career Outlook for degree at Idaho State University

    Cost of Degree: $7,958
    Expenses: $14,556
    Starting Salary: $43,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Idaho State University known for?

    Idaho State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Idaho State University’s Online Degrees

    BBA in Finance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in General Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Workplace Training And Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Fire Services Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Homeland Security And Emergency Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Secondary Education
    Degree Concentrations
    • Business Education
    • Business Technology
    • Family And Consumer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Secondary Education
    Degree Concentrations
    • Business Education
    • Business Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Anthropology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in General Family Consumer Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Sociology
    Degree Concentrations
    • Criminology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Healthcare Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  4. #4

    Brigham Young University–Idaho

    Rexburg , ID
    #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Idaho 2025 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Idaho 2024 #1 Best Private Colleges in Idaho 2024 #4 Best Colleges in Idaho 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $5K

    Acceptance

    96%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    59K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1095/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Brigham Young University–Idaho

    Cost of Degree: $4,536
    Expenses: $8,882
    Starting Salary: $49,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Brigham Young University–Idaho known for?

    Brigham Young University–Idaho’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Brigham Young University–Idaho’s Online Degrees

    BS in Applied Business Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Applied Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Professional Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Applied Health Informatics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  5. #5

    New Saint Andrews College

    Moscow , ID
    #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #3 Best Christian Colleges in Idaho 2024 #3 Best Small Colleges in Idaho 2024 #4 Best Private Colleges in Idaho 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    82%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1230/27

    What is New Saint Andrews College known for?

    New Saint Andrews College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Compare school
  7. #6

    Lewis–Clark State College

    Lewiston , ID
    #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Idaho 2025 #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #4 Best Small Colleges in Idaho 2024 #4 Best Public Colleges in Idaho 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    35%

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for degree at Lewis–Clark State College

    Cost of Degree: $6,996
    Expenses: $13,360
    Starting Salary: $38,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Lewis–Clark State College known for?

    Lewis–Clark State College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Lewis–Clark State College’s Online Degrees

    BA in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business And Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business And Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sport Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Sport Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Justice Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Justice Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BTC in Early Childhood Development
    • Required Credits: 10
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 83
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communication Arts
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Communication Arts
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in General Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Education
    • Humanities
    • Natural Sciences And Mathematics
    • Social Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in General Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Social Science
    Degree Concentrations
    • Anthropology
    • History-Secondary Education
    • Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Social Science
    Degree Concentrations
    • Political Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSW in Social Work
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Computed Tomography
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computed Tomography
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing Lpn To Bsn
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing Rn To Bsn
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Radiographic Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
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Idaho’s Most Affordable Colleges in Your Area of Interest

Anthropology Biology Business Chemistry Commun­ications Computer Science Criminal Justice Earth Sciences Economics Education Engineering History Law Literature Mathematics Medical Nursing Philosophy Physics Political Science Psychology Religious Studies Social Work Sociology
2021 Ranking Archive
  1. Brigham Young University–Idaho
  2. Lewis–Clark State College
  3. Idaho State University
  4. Boise State University
  5. University of Idaho
  6. New Saint Andrews College
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