Cheap Universities in New York for International Students 2024-2025
New York offers several affordable universities that provide excellent educational opportunities for international students in 2024. The city is renowned for its diverse academic options and vibrant cultural scene, making it a popular choice for students worldwide. One of the standout options is the City University of New York (CUNY) system, which includes 25 campuses offering various programs in various fields. CUNY offers affordable tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state students, providing international students with access to a diverse learning environment, top-notch faculty, and the chance to explore the dynamic city of New York..
International students on a budget can consider the State University of New York (SUNY) system as a wallet-friendly choice. SUNY has 64 campuses across the state and offers various educational opportunities in various fields of study. Compared to many private universities in New York, SUNY generally charges lower tuition fees, which makes it a more appealing option for international students who are conscious of their budget. Moreover, SUNY campuses offer diverse academic resources, extracurricular activities, research opportunities, and internships. This enables students to enrich their learning experience while immersing themselves in the diverse landscapes and cultures of New York State.
What are the Benefits of Studying at Cheap Universities in New York
New York’s universities have established themselves as some of the world’s most extensive and connected academic institutions, spanning national borders and academic fields. As an international student, attending one of the affordable universities in New York offers access to global platforms for learning, research, knowledge-building, and innovation that benefit humanity. Some of the advantages of studying in New York include:
Student Hub: With more than 200 universities, including highly regarded ones like Cornell, Columbia, and New York University, New York is a magnet for students. Affordable New York institutions that provide a well-rounded education for all interests might also be found among them. Over 142,800 international students chose New York universities in 2021, or nearly 12% of all students studying abroad in the USA.
Diverse: New York’s affordable colleges attract students from over 110 nations from various cultural and racial backgrounds. As one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world, New York provides an opportunity to observe people from various cultures going about their daily lives, offering visitors a truly global experience.
Land of opportunities: New York is home to 50 Fortune 500 companies, providing numerous opportunities for students to gain practical experience in the workplace. These businesses frequently offer internships to university students, allowing them to work with multibillion-dollar ventures and acquire knowledge and experience. Leading tech firms and pharmaceutical companies are among the many industries represented here.
Salary: In New York, the average yearly salary for a worker is 88,030 USD, which is higher than the national average. This is due to the $54,500 median household income in the US. Therefore, obtaining a degree from one of the best affordable universities in New York can give you a competitive edge in the job market and potentially even double your pay with a few years of experience.
List of Top 10 Cheap Universities in New York For International Students
New York boasts a plethora of colleges and universities for international students. While many are known for their impressive infrastructure, only a few have a reputation for providing quality education. Moreover, some of New York’s more affordable universities offer excellent programs without breaking the bank. To assist you in making a decision, we have curated a list of the best budget-friendly universities in New York for international students, including information on their annual costs, programs, and more.
- Stony Brook University
- University at Buffalo
- City College of New York
- Brooklyn College
- Binghamton University
- Hunter College
- State University of New York, Albany
- Baruch College
- Queens College
- State University of New York, Plattsburgh
- Below, we’ll go over each university and college:
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook University is one of the most vibrant public universities in the USA. It is also regarded as a flagship university because it is a hub of academic excellence and a renowned research institution that provides students with a top-notch education. The university is ranked among the top 10 domestic universities for its internationalization and diversity. More than 250 career development programs are available, assisting professionals from all fields in learning and boosting their earning potential.
| QS World University Rankings 2024 | 416 |
| University Type | Public |
| Intakes | Fall Spring |
| Admission Scores | GPA: 3.0 SAT: 1150 ACT: 25 TOEFL: 80 IELTS: 6.5 PTE: 53 |
| Average Annual Fees | Bachelor’s: 24,990 USD Master’s: 19,949 USD |
| Courses Offered | Arts and Sciences Business Engineering and Applied Sciences Medicine Communication and Journalism Health Professions Nursing |
University at Buffalo
The University at Buffalo is one of the best universities in the world, offering a wide range of academic programs at reasonable prices. As a flagship institution in New York, it provides over 140 undergraduate, 55 combined, 220 master’s, and 95+ doctoral degree programs, making it the most affordable university in New York. With its combined degree programs, students can obtain both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just five years instead of six.
| QS World University Rankings 2024 | 425 |
| University Type | Public |
| Intakes | Fall Spring |
| Admission Scores | GPA: 3.0 SAT: 1150 ACT: 25 TOEFL: 70 IELTS: 6.0 PTE: 55 |
| Average Annual Fees | Bachelor’s: 14,350 USD Master’s: 13,089 USD |
| Courses Offered | Architecture & Planning Arts & Sciences Dental Medicine Engineering & Applied Sciences Law Management Nursing Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences |
City College of New York
The City College of New York is a leading institution in promoting social change while keeping its tuition fees affordable. It provides a high-quality education to students across diverse academic disciplines. The college has eight professional schools and divisions that offer undergraduate and graduate programs. With substantial research, creativity, and scholarship funding, the college currently has over 16,000 students enrolled.
| QS World University Rankings 2024 | 1001-1200 |
| University Type | Public |
| Intakes | Fall Spring |
| Admission Scores | GPA: 3.0 TOEFL: 70 IELTS: 6.0 PTE: 55 |
| Average Annual Fees | Bachelor’s: 17,500 USD Master’s: 15,500 USD |
| Courses Offered | Medicine Humanities and Arts Science Engineering Education Architecture |
Brooklyn College
Brooklyn College offers a unique educational experience to students from all over the world. With 175 undergraduate, graduate, diploma, and certificate degree programs, the college provides various specializations, including business, humanities, social sciences, education, natural and behavioral sciences, visual, media, and performing arts. The college has more than 15,938 students from over 136 countries, who benefit from the college’s use of the entire city as a classroom, which offers a deeper understanding of civic, urban, and artistic life in New York.
| QS World University Rankings 2024 | NA |
| University Type | Public |
| Intakes | Fall Spring Summer |
| Admission Scores | GPA: 3.0 SAT: 1150 ACT: 25 TOEFL: 70 IELTS: 6.0 PTE: 55 |
| Average Annual Fees | Bachelor’s: 15,390 USD Master’s: 20,952 USD |
| Courses Offered | Business Science Mathematics Education Humanities and Social Sciences Natural and Behavioural Sciences Visual, Media and Performing Arts |
Binghamton University
Binghamton University is a top-tier institution that provides its students with an extensive, interdisciplinary education that has a global perspective. It has one of the most active research programs in the country, offering excellent undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Additionally, the university’s accounting school is ranked as the second-best in New York. Binghamton University offers a great opportunity for you to progress, which will put you in a favorable position to succeed in postgraduate studies and maintain good health.
| QS World University Rankings 2024 | 1001-1200 |
| University Type | Public |
| Intakes | Fall Spring |
| Admission Scores | GPA: 3.0 SAT: 1150 ACT: 25 TOEFL: 80 IELTS: 6.5 Duolingo: 110 |
| Average Annual Fees | Bachelor’s: 24,910 USD Master’s: 23,100 USD |
| Courses Offered | Arts and Sciences Engineering and Applied Sciences Management Nursing and Health Sciences Public Affairs Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences |
Hunter College
Hunter College, a prestigious public university under the City University of New York (CUNY), places great importance on liberal arts and sciences education as a fundamental aspect of personal growth. The academic program emphasizes the significance of human diversity, highlights research and artistic creation, and encourages students to expand their education beyond the conventional classroom setting. With over 170 academic programs available, Hunter College gives its students a global perspective and the necessary expertise to succeed in their respective fields.
| QS World University Rankings 2024 | NA |
| University Type | Public |
| Intakes | Fall Spring |
| Admission Scores | GPA: 3.0 TOEFL: 70 IELTS: 6.0 PTE: 53 |
| Average Annual Fees | Bachelor’s: 18,600 USD Master’s: 25,650 USD |
| Courses Offered | Arts and Sciences Education Health Professions Nursing Social Work Public Health Mathematics Economics and Accounting |
State University of New York, Albany
SUNY Albany offers over 50 undergraduate majors and 150 graduate degree programs that equip students with the necessary skills to succeed in various fields. Students can learn from top-tier academics and instructors who actively research to enhance the quality of education. The university also provides early assurance options through Albany Medical Center and access to internships and career preparation in Fortune 500 companies across all industries.
| QS World University Rankings 2024 | 801-1000 |
| University Type | Public |
| Intakes | Fall Spring |
| Admission Scores | GPA: 3.0 TOEFL: 79 IELTS: 6.5 PTE: 53 |
| Average Annual Fees | Bachelor’s: 31,145 USD Master’s: 28,312 USD |
| Courses Offered | Arts & Sciences Business Criminal Justice Education Cybersecurity Engineering & Applied Sciences Public Affairs & Policy Public Health |
Baruch College
Baruch College provides students in New York with an inclusive and transformational education in various fields, such as arts, sciences, business, public and international affairs. The college offers more than 29 undergraduate majors, 60 minors, 56 graduate-level programs, and two doctoral-level programs, all available for admission. The college provides a rich academic experience to students, which helps foster their ability to attain professional success, engage in intellectual inquiry, and grow personally.
| QS World University Rankings 2024 | NA |
| University Type | Public |
| Intakes | Fall Spring |
| Admission Scores | GPA: 3.0 SAT: 1150 ACT: 27 TOEFL: 70 IELTS: 6.0 PTE: 53 |
| Average Annual Fees | Bachelor’s: 15,414 USD Master’s: 20,882 USD |
| Courses Offered | Arts & Science Public and International Affairs Business Finance Management |
Queens College
Queens College strongly emphasizes preparing undergraduate and graduate students to complete their programs of study and find the right career after graduation. Its academic program is demanding, and it offers various support services to help students broaden their knowledge and equip them with practical skills to succeed in their chosen profession and in life. The college uses a pragmatic approach to professional and liberal arts education that involves learning, knowledge creation, and co-curricular activities.
| QS World University Rankings 2024 | NA |
| University Type | Public |
| Intakes | Fall Spring |
| Admission Scores | GPA: 3.0 SAT: 1100 ACT: 27 TOEFL: 61 IELTS: 6.0 PTE: 53 |
| Average Annual Fees | Bachelor’s: 15,488 USD Master’s: 20,520 USD |
| Courses Offered | Arts & Humanities Maths & Natural Sciences Education Social Science Business |
State University of New York, Plattsburgh
SUNY Plattsburgh is home to a thriving community of nationally recognized and renowned faculties. They are dedicated to inspiring and supporting students in achieving success in their careers. In 2021, the university was ranked among the Top 100 Best Colleges for International Students. Its exceptional honors programs offer students access to specialized research projects and facilities in exchange for demonstrating a high level of academic achievement.
| QS World University Rankings 2024 | NA |
| University Type | Private |
| Intakes | Fall Spring |
| Admission Scores | GPA: 2.5 SAT: 1100 ACT: 27 TOEFL: 76 IELTS: 6.0 PTE: 50 |
| Average Annual Fees | Bachelor’s: 18,841 USD Master’s: 24,941 USD |
| Courses Offered | Arts & Sciences Business & Economics Education, Health & Human Services Humanities Mathematics Science Social Sciences |
Frequently Asked Questions: Cheap Universities in New York
Many international students choose New York due to the city’s diverse culture and top-notch universities. Over 19,000 international students from different backgrounds attend New York University.
Jefferson Community College is a highly affordable option for international students studying in New York. The college offers a range of high-demand majors, including engineering, computer science, nursing, business, and specialized human services and technology programs. The tuition fees are reasonable, making it an excellent choice for students on a budget.
The average annual tuition for international students at affordable universities in New York ranges from 12,850 USD to 38,500 USD.
Yes. International students can easily secure a spot in New York’s best affordable universities. Providing they meet the prerequisite academic standards and eligibility requirements.
The following is a list of the mandatory documents you must submit to universities:
Academic Diplomas
recommendation letter
Scores from the English Language Test
Scorecards for admissions tests
Purpose Statement
Student passport and US visa
CUNY is known for being cost-effective, with comparatively lower tuition fees than many private universities in New York. As a public university system, CUNY offers quality education across its 25 campuses at affordable rates. This makes it an ideal choice for students who want to make economic decisions without compromising academic quality.
Many affordable universities in New York provide scholarships or financial aid options exclusively for international students. The availability of scholarships may differ, so international students must conduct thorough research and explore the financial aid options offered by universities they are interested in.
In addition to CUNY and SUNY, other private or public universities in New York might offer competitive tuition rates for international students. Researching and comparing various institutions’ costs and offerings can help students identify additional affordable options.
It is not always true that affordable universities provide poor-quality education or fewer resources. In New York, many affordable institutions offer an excellent standard of education, experienced faculty members, and diverse academic and extracurricular opportunities. So, if you are looking for an affordable option, you can still find a high-quality education without compromising on the quality of resources and opportunities provided.
To apply to affordable universities in New York as an international student, you need to follow the standard application process outlined by each institution. This process usually involves providing academic transcripts, standardized test scores (if required), letters of recommendation, essays, and proof of English language proficiency for non-native English speakers.
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