College in the United States can be expensive, especially when tuition, housing, meals, and day-to-day expenses are considered.
When considering college or university applications, the cost of tuition can play an integral part in the decision-making process. Texas tuition varies widely by institution, residency category, and program, so comparing current published rates is an important part of finding an affordable option. In this article, we will look at some of the cheapest universities and colleges in Texas, so read carefully to learn which school you should consider.
Affordable Schools in Texas for International Students
1. Midwestern State University
- Admissions | Tuition Fees | Scholarships
- Tuition Fees: $5,050.95/semester (Texas resident, 15 credit hours) | $11,470.95/semester (Nonresident and International, 15 credit hours)
Midwestern State University is a public liberal arts university based on a 255-acre campus in Wichita Falls. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs across the arts, sciences, business, health sciences, education, and related fields.
Although its total cost depends on credit hours and fees, MSU Texas remains worth considering for students comparing public university options in Texas. Nonresident and international students should use the current rate tables because mandatory fees can make the final semester cost higher than the base per-credit tuition.
2. South Texas College
- Admissions | Tuition Fees | Scholarships
- Tuition Fees: $164/credit hour (In-District) | $174/credit hour (Out-of-District Texas Residents) | $254/credit hour (Out-of-State and International)
South Texas College has a strong focus on teaching, workforce preparation, and regional economic development. It takes a practical approach to student development and focuses on career goals.
In-district and out-of-district Texas tuition is low, and the nonresident rate remains relatively affordable compared with many four-year universities. Students in health science programs should check whether additional program charges apply.
3. Midland College
- Admissions | Tuition Fees | Scholarships
- Tuition Fees: $3,180 – $4,470/year (In-District) | $4,920 – $6,030/year (Out-of-District Texas Residents) | $6,180 – $7,350/year (Out-of-State and International)
Midland College is locally driven and provides community services to Midland. The higher education institution offers training connected to regional business and industry needs.
The costs of attending this college make it a desirable and affordable option, especially for students residing in the local area. Its lower-level and upper-level tuition amounts depend on residency classification and program level. Although out-of-state and international costs are higher than in-district rates, they remain competitive among public options in Texas.
4. Tarleton State University
- Admissions | Tuition Fees | Scholarships
- Tuition Fees: $183.71 – $241.90/credit hour (Texas Resident) | $611.71 – $669.90/credit hour (Nonresident and International), before college differentials and mandatory fees
Tarleton State University provides a traditional college experience in Stephenville, with opportunities for field learning and internships with local businesses. The university is focused on hands-on experiences in and beyond the classroom.
Texas resident rates are lower than nonresident rates, and students should review the current catalog for differential tuition and mandatory fees. Although out-of-state and international costs are higher than resident rates, Tarleton can still be a tempting choice due to its location, programs, and reputation.
5. Texas A&M International University
Due to its location in Laredo, near the U.S.-Mexico border, Texas A&M International University offers a culturally diverse environment. The university is also home to the Lamar Bruni Vergara Planetarium, officially described as one of the state’s most sophisticated planetariums.
Although this may not be a deciding factor when considering this cheap university in Texas, it is an interesting fact. It is still an affordable option for Texas residents because it aims to improve the quality of life for citizens on the border. However, out-of-state and international fees are considerably higher.
Therefore, it is essential to consider the institution’s academic profile and its standing as a member of the Texas A&M University System.
6. Angelo State University
- Admissions | Tuition Fees | Scholarships
- Tuition Fees: $7,577.20 – $9,662/year (Texas Resident) | $15,281.20 – $22,502/year (Nonresident) | International students must also carry annual insurance estimated at $3,123
Angelo State University has solid academic value among Texas public universities. The Princeton Review included Angelo State in its 2026 “Best Colleges” list for the 17th consecutive year. Its ASU Distinguished Scholarship Program provides scholarships for one in every three ASU students and has awarded more than $87 million since its inception.
Its in-state fees are attractive considering the university’s academic profile. Although its out-of-state and international fees are higher, its scholarship programs may be able to assist with this.
7. Texas A&M University at Galveston
- Admissions | Tuition Fees | Scholarships
- Tuition Fees: $6,237.35 – $7,204.85/semester (Resident undergraduate, 15 credit hours) | $19,673 – $20,568.80/semester (Nonresident and International undergraduate, 15 credit hours)
Texas A&M University has a campus in Galveston, a highly specialized institution offering marine and maritime education. Students who attend this campus should have a strong interest in ocean-oriented fields, maritime industries, or related sciences.
Starting in fall 2025, incoming U.S. undergraduate students in select U.S. Coast Guard license programs at Galveston may qualify for in-state tuition. However, nonresident and international tuition and fees can be much higher, so students should use the official tuition calculator for their program and residency status.
Overall, tuition fees in Texas can vary as much as in any other state. Fortunately, Texas includes several public universities and colleges with comparatively low published tuition for eligible residents and, in some cases, nonresidents. Lower tuition fees can help international students manage overall expenses, especially the living and studying costs in the United States.
We hope this article on the cheapest universities in Texas was helpful. Make sure also to check out the Study in the USA page and Available Courses for International Students for more information about studying in the U.S.!
