4 Inexpensive Colleges in Florida for International Students

4 Inexpensive Colleges in Florida for International Students
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Dr. Jed Macosko
Published:
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • The University of Central Florida is the most affordable school in Florida.
  • Inexpensive online colleges in Florida help students to lower expenses on commute, accommodation, and traditional textbooks.
  • Online degree programs offer the same support systems as on-campus programs, including career services and academic advising.

Top Inexpensive Florida Colleges for International Students in 2025

  1. University of Florida
    +3
  2. Florida International University
  3. University of Central Florida
    –2
  4. Florida Atlantic University
    –1

Ranking Update 2025

The University of Florida climbed 3 positions to land the #1 spot in this ranking for 2025. This can likely be attributed to the UF’s strengthening its relationships with partnered universities worldwide. This initiative allows foreign exchange students to pay tuition directly to their home university rather than UF. This arrangement waives UF tuition for these students, making studying at UF more affordable, while still giving them access to UF’s world-class resources and academic programs.

Florida’s sunny beaches, vibrant cultural diversity, and nearness to Latin America have long beckoned aspirational international students pursuing the American Dream. However, as American universities increasingly depend on higher international tuition rates to make up budget gaps from shrinking public funding, the costs of an American degree are drifting farther out of reach.

Yet hidden below the rankings of America’s most expensive destinations for international students sits Florida, where worldwide learners can still find affordable higher-level education in the Sunshine State.

Exterior building of a college in Florida

Cheap Colleges in Florida for International Students

We’re sharing some of the least expensive colleges in Florida that international students can attend. Not only is this a great location to earn a degree in, but it has a solid job market for international students to find potential careers after college.

    University of Florida

    Gainesville , FL
    #2 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #2 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2025 #3 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #6 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers
    Other Rankings

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Florida

    Cost of Degree: $6,381
    Expenses: $16,220
    Starting Salary: $65,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The University of Florida (UF) is an excellent choice for international students looking for a prestigious and affordable education in the United States. As Florida’s largest and oldest university, UF consistently ranks within the top 100 universities worldwide.

    It hosts over 6,000 international students, ensuring a globally recognized fully accredited education. The university is a center for education, medicine, cultural events, and athletics in the state, offering students unrivaled access to world-class facilities and a vibrant, diverse campus community.

    UF’s commitment to international students is evident in its holistic admission review process, which treats international applicants equally to domestic students. The university provides specific guidelines for international students regarding secondary school transcripts, English proficiency, and standardized test scores.

    Additionally, UF’s Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, with a significant number of international students, emphasizes diversity and welcomes international students at all levels.

    Key Features

    • Join a diverse community of over 47,000 students, fostering a global perspective in your educational experience.
    • UF’s global ranking and its diverse international student body from over 95 nations contribute to a rich cultural and educational experience on campus.
    • Benefit from personalized academic guidance, career services, and a supportive online community, enhancing your learning journey.

    Tuition Fees

    International students planning to attend UF will pay around $25,600 for tuition, along with another $14,700 for housing, books and supplies, and other fees each year.

    Compare school

    Florida International University

    Miami , FL
    #6 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025 #4 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2025 #5 Best Colleges in Florida 2024
    Other Rankings

    Career Outlook for degree at Florida International University

    Cost of Degree: $6,565
    Expenses: $19,406
    Starting Salary: $52,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Florida International University

    Florida International University (FIU) is an outstanding choice for international students seeking a quality and affordable education in the United States. Located in Miami, a city known for its cultural diversity and vibrant international community, FIU offers a dynamic learning environment that is particularly welcoming to students from abroad.

    With over 3,700 international students from more than 140 countries, FIU boasts a truly global campus, fostering a multicultural and inclusive atmosphere.

    The Office of International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) at FIU is committed to assisting international students in their transition to life in the U.S. and at the university. This office provides vital information and support on practical matters to ensure a smooth and comfortable transition for international students.

    Additionally, FIU offers a range of academic programs and pathways to admission, including options for international freshmen, transfer students, and graduate students, ensuring that students from diverse educational backgrounds can find a program that suits their needs. There are over 200 degree programs for students to select from, allowing everyone to find a major they’re interested in.

    For international students looking to pursue a master’s degree, FIU is a great cheap grad school to attend.

    Key Features

    • With students from over 140 countries, FIU’s multicultural environment is ideal for international students looking to immerse themselves in a diverse educational setting.
    • Experience academic excellence, especially in fields like business, global policy, and international law.
    • FIU offers FIU Online, which allows students to begin their studies remotely.

    Tuition Fees

    Undergrads are charged $618 per credit, and with various fees, international students can expect to pay about $18,964 for tuition. This does not include additional expenses such as food or room and board.

    Financial accessibility is a priority, with 82% of students awarded financial aid averaging $10,629 per student. FIU’s commitment to affordability opens doors to quality education for all.

    Florida International University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Theatre
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BFA in Theatre
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Finance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Hospitality Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Beverage Management
    • Culinary Management
    • Event Management
    • Hotel/Lodging Management
    • Restaurant/Food Service Management
    • Travel And Tourism Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Human Resource Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in International Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Logistics And Supply Chain Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Relations Advertising And Applied Communications
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Real Estate
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Recreation And Sport Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Parks Management
    • Recreation And Sport Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Information Technology
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Internet Of Things
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Crime Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood Education Bs
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Anthropology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Asian Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in International Relations
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Latin American and Caribbean Studies Ba
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Organizational Communication Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Political Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BPA in Public Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Religious Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Social Welfare
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Women's And Gender Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BHSA in Health Services Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Engineering
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Electrical Engineering
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Statistics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    Students studying on a college library

    University of Central Florida

    Orlando , FL
    #7 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #7 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #19 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #4 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024
    Other Rankings

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Central Florida

    Cost of Degree: $6,368
    Expenses: $18,300
    Starting Salary: $51,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    University of Central Florida has over 3,400 international students attending, and they’re from over 135 countries.

    The university is known for its diverse and inclusive environment, which is evident in its substantial international student population. UCF is particularly recognized for its excellence in various academic fields, including its undergraduate engineering program.

    For international students, UCF provides a supportive and engaging environment. The university’s global community is nurtured by UCF Global, which serves as the primary hub for international students, faculty, and staff.

    This hub offers an array of programs and services, including English language programs, Pathway Programs, and support for maintaining visa status. Additionally, UCF’s commitment to providing high-impact, international experiences is evident in its numerous partnerships and initiatives that enhance global competency.

    Key Features

    • UCF scored top 20 among the most innovative colleges in the US for 2024
    • The university’s location offers a blend of educational excellence and access to a wide array of recreational and professional opportunities in one of the most popular cities in the world.
    • UCF offers a wide range of scholarships and financial aid options tailored to international students.

    Tuition Fees

    International undergraduates’ estimated expenses are $37,286, and graduate students invest $40,806. This price includes tuition and fees, living expenses, and mandatory health insurance.

    University of Central Florida’s Online Degrees

    BS in Hospitality Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Restaurant and Foodservice Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Senior Living Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Legal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Technical Education And Industry Training
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Anthropology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communication And Conflict
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Diversity Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in English
    Degree Concentrations
    • Creative Writing
    • Literature
    • Technical Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BGS in Integrative General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in International And Global Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Latin American Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Political Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Religion And Cultural Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Social Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Informatics And Information Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Services Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    Exterior building of a university in Florida

    Florida Atlantic University

    Boca Raton , FL
    #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025 #6 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2025 #7 Best Colleges in Florida 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024
    Other Rankings

    Career Outlook for degree at Florida Atlantic University

    Cost of Degree: $4,879
    Expenses: $19,966
    Starting Salary: $48,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Florida Atlantic University

    Florida Atlantic University (FAU) is an excellent choice for international students seeking a quality education in the United States. Located in Boca Raton, Florida, FAU is part of the State University System of Florida and offers a wide range of academic programs across its multiple campuses.

    The university is known for its diverse and inclusive environment, hosting students from approximately 100 countries, making it a microcosm of global cultures and perspectives. FAU’s commitment to international students is evident through its International Student Services (ISS), which is part of the Center for Global Engagement.

    The university’s academic structure and admission process are tailored to accommodate international students. With over 220 areas of study, this institution provides a comprehensive list of programs that international students can choose from.

    Key Features

    • It is ranked #1 most diverse college in Florida with students from over 100 countries
    • The International Student Services ensures that international students receive the necessary support for both their academic and personal needs
    • Leverage transfer credits for prior college experience, streamlining your path to graduation.

    Tuition Fees

    International undergraduates’ FAU expenses are estimated to be $44,226, which includes 24 credit hours and 12 months of living expenses.

    Florida Atlantic University’s Online Degrees

    BBA in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Hospitality And Tourism Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Leadership And Applied Managerial Skills
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Bachelor Of Public Safety Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 32
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Geosciences
    Degree Concentrations
    • Geography
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    Compare school
Three international students with piles of books in front of them
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What’s the Cheapest College in Florida?

In the area of affordability, the University of Central Florida sticks out. With a range of affordable online programs and a dedication to assisting college students, UCF gives quality education without breaking the bank.

What College in Florida Has a 100% Acceptance Rate?

While it’s accurate that no reputable college claims a 100% acceptance rate, Florida International University stands out with a reasonable acceptance rate of 64%. FIU seamlessly integrates research excellence with an inclusive environment, ensuring accessibility for many aspiring students.

What Florida College Is the Easiest to Get Into?

Ease of acceptance varies, though Florida Atlantic University (FAU) has a 78% acceptance rate and offers accessible pathways to higher education. FAU caters to diverse learners and provides online programs in Florida and on-campus options.

Conclusion

International students seeking renowned degrees that don’t break the bank will see that Florida offers some viable options. When applying, remember to look at potential financial aid and scholarship opportunities to help reduce costs even more.

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