Choose one of the cheap colleges in Texas to save money on your college education! Students today are caught between the necessity of obtaining a college diploma and the high tuition rates of both in-state and out-of-state colleges and universities.
And, based on the fact that many students who do find jobs after college struggle to make their monthly loan payments, tuition costs appear to frequently outweigh the benefits of a college degree.
However, if you’re wise enough to compare your options of various cheap colleges in Texas, you could end up saving thousands of dollars in the long run.
Texas is a great state for students to attend college. It’s home to some of the best universities in the country, and many of them are also some of the most affordable. The following universities are among those that offer top-notch education at bargain prices:
1. Texas A&M University Texarkana
Texas A&M University Texarkana is a public university located in Texarkana, Texas, United States. It was founded in 1973 and has an enrollment of approximately 3,500 students. The school was created as part of a plan to help improve the educational opportunities for residents of the rural South Arkansas-Texas region.
The university offers bachelor’s degrees in a wide variety of subjects, including arts and sciences, business administration, and education. Many programs also offer master’s degrees or certificates of specialized study.
Texas A&M University Texarkana has several unique features that set it apart from other universities in Texas. First is its location—the campus is located within walking distance of downtown Texarkana and the surrounding community. Second is its commitment to diversity: more than 88% percent of students identify themselves as non-white or multi-racial (2016). Third is its focus on providing affordable higher education opportunities for working adults who need flexible schedules to accommodate their busy lives.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $20,000.
2. Stephen F. Austin State University
Stephen F. Austin State University (SFASU) is a public university in Nacogdoches, Texas, United States. Founded in 1921 as the East Texas Male College, it is the institution of higher education in Texas to have been founded by Stephen F. Austin, known as the Father of Texas. The university’s current enrollment is more than 25,000 students, making it the largest university in East Texas and the second largest institution of higher education in the state (after Southern Methodist University).
SFASU has a distinctive academic profile that centers on its high research activity and its broad range of academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. It offers more than 100 undergraduate majors and concentrations, 39 master’s degree programs and 27 doctoral degrees through its seven colleges: Arts and Sciences, Business Administration, Education and Human Development (formerly School of Education), Health Professions & Nursing (formerly School of Nursing), Humanities & Social Sciences, Music & Entertainment Industry Studies (MEIS), Natural Sciences & Mathematics.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $13,758/yr.
3. University of Texas Arlington
Even by Texas standards, the University of Texas at Arlington is an impressive institution – because, as they say, “everything is bigger in Texas.
With over 50,000 students and 180 academic programs, life at UT Arlington can be whatever you want it to be. Of course, study time is important, but this prestigious Texas college also encourages students to think outside the book.
Because the resident population is large – 10,000 students live on campus or within five miles of it – making friends and participating in activities is as simple as walking out the door.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $11,662/yr.
4. Texas Woman’s University
It’s clear right away why Texas Woman’s University is a one-of-a-kind place to study. It is not only a women’s college, but it is also the largest all-school women’s in the country.
TWU attracts 15,000 students for the same reason: to develop into capable leaders and critical thinkers in a nurturing, supportive environment.
Another advantage of attending TWU is the calibre of its athletic teams. Because there are no men’s teams on campus, women’s sports receive all of the attention.
Volleyball, basketball, soccer, gymnastics, and soccer teams serve as the foundation of TWU’s competitive spirit, providing women with yet another reason to cheer on their classmates and lift each other, both on and off the field.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $8,596/yr.
5. St. Mary’s University
St. Mary’s University is one of only three Catholic Marianist schools in the United States, with a distinct approach to religious education.
The Marianist viewpoint values service, peace, justice, and the family spirit, and it promotes an academic environment that fosters not only learning but also a strong foundation in faith and the ability to adapt to new situations.
Undergraduate programs emphasize problem solving and collaboration, which are skills that are equally important whether you are studying Anthropology, International Relations, Electrical Engineering, or Forensic Science.
STEM majors have access to a variety of exciting outreach opportunities, such as assisting in the hosting of elementary school students during the annual “Fiesta of Physics” or volunteering at the exciting MATHCOUNTS competition each winter.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $17,229/yr.
6. Baylor University
Religious schools in the form of small liberal arts colleges are fairly common. Baylor, on the other hand, is a private, Christian university that is also nationally ranked in research and academic engagement. And, despite being a little pricey, Baylor outperforms in almost every other metric we looked at.
It has a 55 per cent acceptance rate and a 72 per cent graduation rate, as well as a net ROI of more than $250,000 over 20 years.
Campus life is vibrant and teeming with things to do. Its picturesque location near the Brazos River, stately brick buildings, and European-inspired architecture provides the ideal backdrop for your collegiate journey.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $34,900/yr.
7. Dallas Christian College
Dallas Christian College is more than just a religious school. It is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation or Biblical Higher Education and offers a variety of degree programs based on spiritual principles, such as Bible Studies, Practical Ministry, and Worship Arts. On the other hand, if you’re considering a more secular career, DCC has plenty of options for you as well.
Dallas Christian University has something for everyone, with traditional arts and science degrees as well as specialized coursework in business, education, and psychology.
DCC is also one of the more competitive schools in the area; with a 38 per cent acceptance rate, you’ll have to work extra hard if you want to call yourself a Crusader.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $15,496/yr
8. Austin College
At Austin College, an affordable Texas college with the resources to both support and challenge you, active learning is the name of the game.
Because 85 per cent of the student body is residential, the school is perfectly set up to encourage your participation in all campus activities (lives on campus).
Nearly 80% of students participate in at least one campus organization, so you won’t be left on the outside looking in.
Nonetheless, many students venture off campus to broaden their horizons. Four out of every five students gain some sort of internship experience, whether in Sherman or Dallas.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $21,875/yr
9. Texas State University
Texas State University is a rising academic and research powerhouse, and students who attend during this period of expansion will be a part of it. Despite being a relatively inexpensive college in Texas, the quality of its academics is anything but.
The sprawling campus, which houses 36,000 students at a time, is located in the city of San Marcos, which is part of the greater Austin metropolitan area and home to nearly 60,000 people. You can study with a lovely view of the sparkling San Marcos River and then go into town on weekends to unwind to live music.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $11,871/yr.
10. University of Texas-Pan American
Careers. Innovation. Opportunity. Purpose. That is the mission of the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. UTRGV empowers successful futures, improves daily life, and positions our region as a global innovator in higher education, bilingual education, health education, biomedical research, and emerging technology that inspires positive change.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $3,006/yr
11. Southwestern University
Many people are familiar with Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., but few are aware of another great university in Georgetown, Texas.
Southwestern may be small, but its distinguished 175-year history of educating students has led it to greatness. The prestigious school boasts 20 NCAA Division II teams, more than 90 student organizations, and a plethora of academic programs.
And, with only about 1,500 people enrolled at any given time, there are always plenty of activities to go around. This top university in Texas also excels in terms of student success: with a 91 per cent job placement rate, it’s no surprise that SU grads are still doing well after several years.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $220,000
12. Sam Houston State University
Sam Houston State students, success is defined by more than just the size of their bank account. There’s no doubt that alumni do very well for themselves, as evidenced by a net ROI that nearly reaches $300,000 per year. Regardless of monetary gain, SHSU encourages students to pursue “meaningful lives of achievement.”
The school emphasizes service-learning, volunteerism, and creative acts as the best ways to give back to the community. You could go on an Alternative Spring Break trip to help preserve wildlife habitats, sign up for the Emerging Leaders Program, or attend the annual Volunteer Opportunities Fair to connect with local agencies in need of assistance.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $11,260/yr
13. Houston Baptist University
You’d think that the vastness of southwest Houston would overwhelm this small college, but Houston Baptist University stands out. Houston Baptist, a charming 160-acre campus with a faith-based mission, provides a welcome respite from the never-ending hustle and bustle of the surrounding metropolitan area.
Many students value their spiritual lives, and you will have the opportunity to participate in Bible studies and community outreach programs to strengthen your faith.
Honours societies, professional clubs, and Greek organizations make up the majority of campus organizations, but some “special interest” groups will pique your interest.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $19,962/yr
14. Texas A&M University College Station
College Station is the central campus of the Texas A&M University system, housing 55,000+ students in an ideal location that is easily accessible from both Dallas and Austin.
Because of its massive size and impressive reach, TAMU can support nearly any academic interest you might have, from Aerospace Engineering to Dance Science to Geophysics to “Visualization” (an art degree, we presume, but you’ll have to find out for yourself!).
And, despite being one of the best universities in Texas, TAMU does not use its standing as an excuse to leave you with a mountain of student debt; with an annual net price of around $12,000, you can afford to go to school, stay in school – and be one of the best.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $11,725/yr.
15. Dallas Baptist University
Dallas Baptist University is yet another religious college on this list, but that doesn’t mean it’s cut from the same cloth as the others. This university uses Christ-centered principles to inspire students to pursue transformative, service-based careers.
This means that programs like Environmental Science, Psychology, and, of course, Christian Ministries all focus on how you can make a difference in the world.
Co-curricular activities reflect this dedication. And the vast majority of student clubs, including the skeet-shooting club and the Mountain Top Productions music group, prioritize the development of spiritual camaraderie.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $23,796/yr.
16. Tarleton State University
Why bother considering TSU in a state already brimming with excellent institutions? Because, despite joining the A&M system less than a century ago, Tarleton State has quickly risen through the ranks to become one of Texas’ most affordable universities.
Every college within the university has its claim to fame. If you are a student at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, consider volunteering with the TREAT equine-assisted therapy program.
If you’re an education student, you’ll appreciate knowing that your school has a 98 per cent pass rate on the certification exam! Tarleton Observatory (the nation’s largest undergraduate observatory) is available to help science students reach for the stars.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $11,926/yr.
17. Texas Christian University
Texas Christian University is a private co-educational university located in Fort Worth, Texas. TCU was established in 1873 and is affiliated with the Disciples of Christ. The school has an enrollment of more than 10,000 students and offers more than 100 undergraduate majors and 70 graduate programs. TCU’s mascot is the horned frog.
TCU has been ranked among the top 50 national universities by Forbes magazine for several years running. In 2011, U.S. News & World Report ranked the school 66th on its list of “Best National Universities.”
TCU is one of only seven schools nationwide to rank in the top 25 for both undergraduate business education and undergraduate engineering programs in U.S. News & World Report’s 2014 rankings for best colleges in America.
The university also offers a competitive Honors Program and research opportunities through its Center for Science & Technology Commercialization (CSTC). The CSTC works with faculty members from across campus to help them commercialize inventions through licensing or start-up companies while they’re still working at TCU under grants from the National Science Foundation or other federal agencies.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $31,087/yr
18. LeTourneau University
LeTourneau University was established by a businessman who was an inventor, innovator, and devout Christian who had a noble vision for educating veterans.
The school has just over 2,000 students and an impressive acceptance rate of 49 per cent. Since its humble beginnings as an all-male technical institute, LeTourneau has come a long way.
This top Texas college has begun to expand its global reach. Its study abroad programs offer once-in-a-lifetime trips to South Korea, Australia, Scotland, and Germany, as well as a TESOL internship in Mongolia!
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $21,434/yr.
19. University of North Texas
While the University of North Texas does not receive the same attention for its academics as the prestigious Ivy Leagues, there are some areas where UNT outperforms the competition. Indeed, some of its top programs are among the most distinctive in the region.
It is without a doubt the best university in Texas for a graduate degree in rehabilitation counselling, urban policy, or medical librarianship, and its environmental philosophy program is the best in the world.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $10,827/yr.
20. Texas Tech University
There are numerous opportunities to get involved at Texas Tech University. TTU has everything you need if you enjoy skydiving, horseback riding, or spending all of your free time building robots. The university also devotes a significant amount of time and energy to fostering students’ creative endeavours.
Texas Tech Innovation Mentorship and Entrepreneurship Program (TTIME), for example, exists solely to support innovative ideas and fund research for promising students.
And, as a hub for jobs in healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing, nearby Lubbock is an excellent place for graduates to begin their careers.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $13,901/yr.
21. University of Houston
Students from all over the world come to study at the University of Houston. So, what makes this school worth the extra effort? It could be the stunning 670-acre campus, which boasts millions of dollars in high-tech amenities.
It could be that Houston is known as the “energy capital of the world,” and that a degree in Geology or Industrial Engineering can lead to highly sought-after internships.
Perhaps it’s the incredible research that the faculty is doing, particularly in areas that combine technology and medicine.
Regardless of the reason, Houston students fare exceptionally well; graduates can expect to earn more than $485k in net earnings over 20 years.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $12,618/yr.
22. Midwestern State University
Midwestern State University, located halfway between Oklahoma City, is a low-cost Texas college with a priceless location. MSU’s proximity to major metropolitan areas makes it ideal for those looking for internships, but that’s not all you’ll get.
Start with more than 65 majors and minors, then add special initiatives like the Intensive English Language Institute and the Air Force ROTC program, and you’ve got yourself a clear recipe for success. And, with a 62 per cent acceptance rate and a 20-year ROI of $300,000 or more, MSU is a place where a large group of students can earn equally large benefits.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $10,172/yr.
23. Southern Methodist University
Southern Methodist University is a private research university in Dallas, Texas. The school was founded in 1911 by the United Methodist Church and now has an enrollment of over 11,000 students, including more than 6,000 students at its campus in Plano. SMU’s athletic teams are called the Mustangs and compete in NCAA Division I.
SMU was one of the first coeducational universities in Texas, admitting its first class of women in 1915. It offers more than 100 undergraduate majors across 21 academic schools and colleges. The university offers professional degrees through the Cox School of Business, Dedman School of Law and Meadows School of the Arts.
The university’s most popular majors include accounting, finance and economics; communication studies; political science; psychology; sociology; computer science; biology; business administration (MBA); engineering (BS); English (MA); mathematics (BS); music (MMus); theatre arts & dance (BA).
SMU boasts a number of notable alumni including Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, former U.S Secretary of State John Kerry and NFL player Emmitt Smith.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $34,189/yr
24. Trinity University
Trinity University is designed for a specific type of student: one who values small class sizes, individualized attention, and one-on-one research opportunities.
And who isn’t that kind of student? Of course, it takes a lot to even get into Trinity’s serene, academically conscious community of learners.
The acceptance rate is only 48%, and more than 60% of those admitted graduated in the top 20% of their high school class (the average GPA of admitted applicants is 3.5!). And it’s easy to see the university’s commitment to intellectual pursuits simply by looking at the majors available; Biochemistry, Mathematical Finance, Philosophy, and other demanding degree programs will all push you to your limits as you strive to be your best self.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $27,851/yr.
25. Texas A&M International University
Texas A&M International is another worthy of mention; with a moderately selective acceptance rate of 47 per cent and an almost impossible to beat the net price, TAMIU is one of the go-to colleges for smart students on a budget.
The desire to educate students for an “increasingly complex, culturally diverse state, nation, and global society” is central to its mission. TAMIU’s study abroad programs, foreign language courses, cultural student organizations, and academic programs such as Spanish-English linguistics truly put the “international” in TAMIU.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $4,639/yr.
26. Texas A&M University Commerce
If you can’t decide between a rural and a metropolitan campus, attending Texas A&M Commerce may mean you don’t have to! It’s only an hour outside of Dallas, bringing with it all the internships and nightlife that come with living in a big city.
However, in Commerce, a town of only 8,000 people, agricultural life predominates, along with other farmer-friendly activities such as festivals and local music.
On-campus, Texas A&M Commerce provides a similar “best of both worlds” experience, combining small class sizes and a small student body with the diversity, research resources, and global reach of a much larger institution.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $8,625/yr.
27. Prairie View A&M University
The Prairie View A&M University is a public, coeducational university located in Prairie View, Texas. It was established in 1876 as the Prairie View Normal School for Colored Teachers and became the first state-supported HBCU in Texas in 1883.
Prairie View A&M University is a member of the Texas A&M University System, which is one of two systems that comprise the Texas A&M University (the other being the University of Texas System). The university offers over 100 undergraduate degrees and more than 40 graduate degrees across its eight colleges: Arts and Sciences; Business Administration; Education; Engineering; Nursing; Physics; Social Work; and Veterinary Medicine.
In addition to its main campus in Prairie View, PVAMU also has branch campuses in Houston and Dallas. It has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools since 1925.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $8,628/yr.
28. Midland College
Midland College is unique in its approach to student education. It is a very locally-driven organization that provides community services to Midland.
The college provides its students with the training that local businesses require to meet the industry’s current needs. It will change its course as needed to reflect this.
The costs of attending this college make it a very appealing and affordable option, particularly for students living in the surrounding area. Its costs are roughly one-third of those of other Texas institutions.
Although its out-of-state and international tuition rates are extremely low, the nature of the college’s courses is more geared toward the local community. As a result, this low-cost university in Texas may not be the best option for those looking to further their education.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $14,047.
29. Rice University
Rice University is a private research university located in Houston, Texas, United States. The university is situated near the Museum District and adjacent to the Texas Medical Center; both are located approximately 6 miles (10 km) southwest of Downtown Houston.
Rice is consistently ranked among the top 20 universities in the world by both the Academic Ranking of World Universities and U.S. News & World Report. Rice is considered a “Public Ivy,” meaning that it is privately-funded but operates like a public institution, with substantial public funding.
Rice has over 4,000 full-time faculty members, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1. Its undergraduate program offers 38 majors and 57 minors and has a low student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1 with an average class size of 17 students, which allows for close interaction between students and teachers.
Rice’s campus is a beautiful place to make lifelong friends, steeped in tradition and focused on the future (and of course learn some stuff, too). Rice’s academic programs range from Classical Studies to Evolutionary Biology, Mathematical Economic Analysis to Visual and Dramatic Arts, so there’s no excuse not to find your passion.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $20,512/yr.
30. University of Texas Austin
The University of Texas, Austin is the flagship institution of the University of Texas system and one of the largest and most prestigious public universities in the country. It was founded in 1883 and has an enrollment of over 51,000 students.
The school’s main campus is located about two miles west of downtown Austin, in a neighborhood known as West Campus.
The university offers more than 300 degree programs through its nine academic colleges, including bachelor’s degrees in liberal arts, business administration, engineering and architecture; master’s degrees in business administration, education, public affairs and law; and doctoral degrees in medicine, pharmacy and nursing science.
The average cost of enrolling in the institution is $16,832/yr
FAQs about cheap colleges in Texas
What are the Benefits of Studying In A Cheap College?
Studying in a cheap college can be a great way to save money, but there are other benefits as well.
The first benefit of studying in a cheap college is saving money. It is very important for students to be able to pay their tuition fees as well as living expenses. So, if they cannot find scholarships or grants from the government then they need to look for another way to finance their education such as getting student loans or working part-time jobs during school days. There are many cheap colleges that offer good quality education at affordable prices. You just need to search for them on the internet and compare their prices before making your decision about which one will suit your needs best.
The second benefit of studying in a cheap college is getting more attention from teachers because there are fewer students compared to expensive colleges with hundreds of students per classroom. This means that each teacher can focus on every student individually and teach them properly without any distractions coming from other classmates around them.
Another benefit that comes from studying in a cheap college is that it offers students more time for themselves. This means that they do not have to worry about their bills or any other responsibilities at home because they do not have any such responsibilities there either. They can focus on their studies without having to worry about anything else.
Does Texas offer free education for college students?
No, Texas does not offer free education for college students. However, there are some affordable options available for those who want to pursue higher education in the Lone Star State.
The average cost of attending public universities in Texas is $7,500 per year for in-state residents and $10,000 for out-of-state students. The average cost of private schools is $25,000 per year.
The University of Texas at Austin is one of the most expensive public universities in the state with an annual tuition rate of $8,696 for in-state residents and $27,922 for out-of-state students. The University offers a variety of merit scholarships that can help reduce the cost of college by up to 50 percent.
Texas A&M University charges $7,400 per year for in-state residents and $20,800 annually for out-of-state students. The university offers several scholarships as well as grants to help cover some or all of your expenses while attending school there.
Does Texas have financial aid for students?
Texas does offer financial aid for students. The state provides a number of grants and scholarships for eligible students. The TEXAS Grant is the largest grant program in Texas, awarding more than $1 billion each year. Other state-funded grants include the CAP Grants, which are available to students attending private colleges, universities and junior colleges in Texas.
The state also offers scholarships through its foundations, such as the Texas Education Agency’s Foundation, which awards scholarships to Texas students who have overcome challenges to attend college or graduate school.
How much does a year of college cost in Texas?
The cost of going to college is rising. But it’s not just the tuition that matters — there are other factors like books, housing and food.
The average cost of a year at a public four-year university in Texas is $16,988. That’s up from $12,883 in 2021-2023, according to data from the College Board.
But as with everything else in life, there are ways to lower your costs. If you’re looking for ways to make college more affordable, check out our guide on how to pay for college without student loans.
Tuition fees in Texas can vary just as much as they do in any other state. The average, on the other hand, is much lower.
Does this imply that educational quality is also below average?
In a nutshell, the answer is no. Texas is home to a plethora of academic universities that can provide an excellent education in a wide range of industries.
As previously stated, the costs associated with college life can be exorbitant. Lowering tuition fees can make a significant difference in dealing with overall costs.
I hope you found this article on cheap colleges in Texas useful!
