5 Cheapest Colleges in Ohio for Out of State Students
Key Takeaways
- Inexpensive colleges in Ohio help students to lower expenses on the commute, accommodation, and traditional textbooks.
- Starting at a community college and living off-campus can be great ways to reduce your costs even further.
- It is important to complete the FAFSA application as early as possible to take advantage of federal financial aid.
For many students who dream of pursuing higher education, the high cost of fees and tuition can be a major roadblock. Luckily, some public schools and colleges in Ohio offer affordable tuition for in-state students and out-of-state students.
Want to attend a low-cost school in the Buckeye State? We’ve rounded up the list of cheapest colleges in Ohio out-of-state students can attend so that you can sift through and choose what best suits you.
Top 5 Cheapest Colleges in Ohio for Out-Of-State Students
Students searching for an inexpensive college outside their home state should look at the following colleges in Ohio. Our list will help out-of-state students find a school at a price that perfectly fits their budget.
Allegheny Wesleyan College
Located in Salem, Allegheny Wesleyan College is a private liberal arts institution that offers four-year degree programs. It was founded as a Methodist school in 1943. While the college prioritizes spiritual development, it also provides students with a well-rounded education combining academics and biblical studies.
With an annual enrollment of 70 students or less, AWC offers various opportunities for individualized studies, close relationships, and mentorship between students and faculty. The college provides a wide variety of affordable degree programs for out-of-state students, from music ministry to elementary education.
At AWC, students focus on their chosen majors and benefit from diverse learning opportunities to prepare them for effective and successful ministry. Allegheny Wesleyan College is a good choice for those seeking a high-value, low-cost college experience in Ohio.
- Tuition Out-of-state: $6,400 per semester
- Location: Salem
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 64%
- Enrollment: 62-70
- Accreditation: Association for Biblical Higher Education Commission on Accreditation
Central State University
Career Outlook for degree at Central State University
According to the U.S. News & World Report, Central State University is one of America’s top ten public schools. Being one of the oldest ‘historically black’ universities, it was established in 1887 with land grants.
Originally, the university offered 2-year programs for industrial and teacher training. However, it now provides students with top-value classical academic education. It comprises four Colleges: Business; Engineering, Science, Technology, and Agriculture; Education; and Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences.
The university’s “Center for Instructional Technology Innovation (CITI)” also offers low-cost online associate degrees for in-state and out-of-state students pursuing higher education and their goals, such as a PhD in information technology and doctorate in social work. CSU provides students with a complete educational, cultural, and social experience, offering extracurricular activities and leadership opportunities.
- Tuition Out-of-state: $11,801 per semester
- Location: Wilberforce
- Acceptance Rate: 59%
- Graduation Rate: 23%
- Enrollment: 6,044
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Wright State University
Career Outlook for degree at Wright State University
Wright State University – named after Ohio’s renowned Wright brothers – provides a high-quality and inclusive education across nine schools and colleges. Situated in Dayton, Ohio, WSU offers affordable graduate and undergraduate degrees to over 11,000 students annually.
With over 140 bachelor’s programs, out-of-state students can easily find a budget-friendly degree that aligns with their professional goals and academic needs. Some popular fields include business, psychology, nursing, biology, mechanical engineering, and finance.
Beyond academics, you can engage in various activities like exploring art galleries, joining cultural groups, and enjoying events at the Nutter Center, which has featured performances by Jay-Z, KISS and Bob Dylan. Students can also participate in intramural sports, access an Olympic-sized swimming pool, and try rock climbing.
- Tuition Out-of-state: $4,709 per semester
- Location: Celina
- Acceptance Rate: 96%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Enrollment: 11,000
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Ohio State University
Career Outlook for degree at Ohio State University
Established in 1870, Ohio State University (OSU) has evolved into a top-tier research institution that ranks among the top 20 public universities. Originally a land-grant college, OSU initially focused on agricultural and mechanical disciplines.
Today, with 200+ majors, the college is an affordable choice for students, providing access to renowned instructors. You can study various inexpensive degrees such as communications, psychology, marketing, biology, finance, accounting, computer hardware engineering, and economics.
Ohio State University – recognized for its value – offers a vibrant student life with 1,000+ organizations, three student governments, sororities, fraternities, student media, and recreational sports programs.
- Tuition Out-of-state: $16,568 per semester
- Location: Columbus
- Acceptance Rate: 57%
- Graduation Rate: 88%
- Enrollment: 66,444
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
How can students make college education more affordable?
No matter how inexpensive colleges you choose in Ohio, there are more effective ways to save and make school education cheaper. Here are a few ways to make college more affordable:
- Start At A Community College: Where you go to college can impact the overall cost. Consider starting your college journey at a community college and then transferring to a four-year institution to finish your degree. Community college courses are often much cheaper than undergraduate or graduate college.
- Live Off-Campus: On-campus living has benefits such as proximity to classes and activities, but it can be expensive. Depending on your school’s location and housing market, living off-campus may be more cost-effective. Some schools require on-campus living for first-year students; others may not.
- Apply For Early Financial Aid: Federal financial aid – including scholarships and student loans – is available to students. Some aid is given on a first-come, first-served basis, so applying early increases your chances of receiving more aid. Make sure to fill out the application for “Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)” annually so schools can select you for scholarship awards.
- Look For Low-Cost Textbooks: Regardless of your major, textbooks can significantly contribute to college costs. Choose used textbooks, available at or off-campus bookstores in many college towns. Buying last year’s edition can save you money compared to the current edition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I go to college in Ohio for free?
Of course! You can attend college or university inexpensively, or free in Ohio with the help of various financial aid programs offered by the “Ohio Department of Higher Education.” In addition, programs such as the ‘Ohio AFL-CIO Free College Benefit’ allow you to earn online degrees for free.
How do out-of-state students apply to the low-cost colleges in Ohio?
Out-of-state students can apply to their cheapest colleges as in-state students do. You’ll need to complete an application form, pay the required fee, and submit documents like standardized test scores and official academic transcripts. Some additional admission requirements may include essays, recommendation letters, and interviews.
Are cheaper colleges worth it?
Yes, going to an affordable college is a smart choice as it offers a cost-effective way to earn an undergrad or graduate degree. These colleges are regionally accredited and hold a good reputation. Plus, they provide top-notch online master’s programs in Ohio and in-person degree programs across various fields.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for cheaper undergrad or higher education, the low-cost colleges in Ohio state might just be what you want. The national average out-of-state tuition of a four-year university program is around $27,560. However, many Ohio colleges provide graduate and undergraduate education at cheaper tuition costs. So, use our list to find a college that best suits your budget.
