Cheap university in new york for international students

The cheapest colleges in New York provide undergraduate and graduate degree programs in many fields of study. They are also approved by accredited bodies, which ensure that low-tuition colleges meet high educational standards. The cheapest universities in New York fall under the City University of New York (CUNY) and the State University of New York (SUNY) systems.

In this article, we will review the most affordable colleges in New York, we have included tuition costs, affordable degrees, accessible scholarships, and information on whether or not attending a cheap college in New York is worth it.

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How Much Does College Cost in New York?

The average annual in-state tuition in New York for the 2020 and 2021 academic years was $20,204, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This is $5,283 more than the national average and puts New York as the seventh most costly and the 46th most inexpensive state or district for college attendance.

Most Affordable Colleges in New York: The Basics

Cheapest Universities in New York: A Closer Look

In the table above, we’ve compiled a list of the most affordable universities in New York, including information on their undergraduate and graduate tuition and locations. In the following sections, we will cover the cheapest colleges in New York in more depth.

CUNY Brooklyn College | Tuition and Fees: $7,440

This institution is part of the public City University of New York university system. CUNY Brooklyn College is among the best public universities and best colleges overall in the Northern United States. The institution provides undergraduate degrees, certificates, and advanced certificates in various fields of study.

CUNY Brooklyn College Overview

• Undergraduate Tuition: $3,465/semester (in-state), $620/credit hour (out-of-state)
• Graduate Tuition: $5,545/semester (in-state), $855/semester (out-of-state)
• Acceptance Rate: 51%
• Graduation Rate: 56%
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

CUNY Brooklyn College NCES Cost Estimates

• Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $7,440
• Books and Supplies: $1,364
• On-Campus Room and Board: $17,188

Popular CUNY Brooklyn College Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Business Management. This program prepares students for leadership positions in business and industry, as well as the public and non-profit sectors. Students will also be prepared for graduate studies in a variety of relevant subjects.
• Bachelor of Arts in Economics. This program prepares students for careers in the private and public sectors through the development of critical thinking, communication, and hands-on learning.
• Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. This program trains students in social sciences to undertake empirical research based on their knowledge of sociological theories and fundamental research techniques.

CUNY City College | Tuition and Fees: $7,340

CUNY City College is an affordable college located in New York City. The institution supports research, creativity, and innovation across academic fields for student success. It offers undergraduate majors and certificate programs to in-state and international students.

CUNY City College Overview

• Undergraduate Tuition: $3,465/semester (in-state), $620/credit (out-of-state)
• Graduate Tuition: $6,485/semester (in-state), $945/credit (out-of-state)
• Acceptance Rate: 64%
• Graduation Rate: 57%
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

CUNY City College NCES Cost Estimates

• Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $7,340
• Books and Supplies: $1,364
• On-Campus Room and Board: $16,492

Popular CUNY City College Programs

• Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering. This program prepares students to be well-rounded, proficient electrical engineers with the potential to become industry leaders. Students will learn to perform fundamental and applied research in electrical engineering and related multidisciplinary areas.
• Bachelor of Arts in English. This program covers the creation and interpretation of English-language texts, such as literature and film, as well as English language instruction and linguistics.
• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. This program teaches students basic and advanced psychological theories, principles, and concepts in fields such as human development and social interaction.

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice | Tuition and Fees: $7,470

The CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice is a famous liberal arts college that offers 109 academic programs. It enrolls more than 15,000 students and has more than 1,300 full-time and part-time faculty, including three Pulitzer Prize winners, eight outstanding professors, and three professional scholars.

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice Overview

• Undergraduate Tuition: $3,465/semester (in-state), 620/credit (out-of-state)
• Graduate Tuition: $5,545/semester (in-state), $855/credit (out-of-state)
• Acceptance Rate: 45%
• Graduation Rate: 58%
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice NCES Cost Estimates

• Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $7,470
• Books and Supplies: $1,364
• On-Campus Room and Board: $17,188

Popular CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice Programs

• Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice. This program teaches crime as a social problem and strives to cultivate in its students the ability to evaluate the social structure of the current criminal justice system in order to improve its condition and operation.
• Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science. This program is intended to provide academic and professional training to students who plan to work in forensic science laboratories. Students will get hands-on learning to pursue careers as research scientists, instructors, or physicians.
• Bachelor of Science in Public Administration. This program prepares students for management and leadership positions in government agencies. It enables students to examine, comprehend, and solve problems using public administration methods.

CUNY Lehman College| Tuition and Fees: $7,410

CUNY Lehman College is the only four-year college in the Bronx, functioning as an intellectual, economic, and cultural hub for the borough and its surrounding region. Lehman College offers undergraduate and graduate programs in the liberal arts and sciences, as well as professional education. It has a vibrant research environment and a diverse student population of over 14,000 students.

CUNY Lehman College Overview

• Undergraduate Tuition: $3,465/semester (in-state), $620/semester (out-of-state)
• Graduate Tuition: $5,545/semester (in-state), $855/credit (out-of-state)
• Acceptance Rate: 58%
• Graduation Rate: 53%
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

CUNY Lehman College NCES Cost Estimates

• Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $7,410
• Books and Supplies: $1,364
• On-Campus Room and Board: $16,505

Popular CUNY Lehman College Programs

• Bachelor of Business Administration. This program offers students with the managerial abilities necessary to succeed in today's fast-changing business environment. In addition, it helps students build the necessary technical, intellectual, and interpersonal skills to handle this task.
• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. The psychology department encourages student participation in faculty research projects. Students will be prepared for employment in mental health services, including clinical and community psychology.
• Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. This program prepares students for employment in social research by providing training in research methods, data analysis, and computer applications. The degree also leads to employment in education, business, journalism, and politics.

CUNY Queens College | Tuition and Fees: $7,538

CUNY Queens College is a well-known liberal arts college that offers science and pre-professional programs. Queens College teaches students to be leaders in today's global community, and it currently has 19,000 enrolled in one of its college education programs.

CUNY Queens College Overview

• Undergraduate Tuition: $3,465/semester (in-state), $620/semester (out-of-state)
• Graduate Tuition: $5,545/semester (in-state), $855/credit (out-of-state)
• Acceptance Rate: 61%
• Graduation Rate: 55%
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

CUNY Queens College NCES Cost Estimates

• Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $7,538
• Books and Supplies: $1,364
• On-Campus Room and Board: $14,788

Popular CUNY Queens College Programs

• Bachelor of Arts in Accounting. Students in this program are prepared for positions in business, government, or non-profit accounting. It is also a pre-requisite program for undergraduate majors interested in pursuing a master's degree and becoming certified public accountants.
• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. This program teaches students the difference between normal and abnormal psychology. It provides critical training for students interested in professions in clinical or experimental psychology.
• Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. This program prepares students for graduate studies in sociology and other social and behavioral sciences. Related fields include professional studies in social work, law, urban planning, and journalism. Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in fields such as healthcare, human services, and social services.

CUNY York College | Tuition and Fees: $7,358

CUNY York College’s liberal arts and sciences department is known as a center of excellence, drawing and graduating highly-motivated students. With a low cost of tuition, this college also provides several opportunities for student participation in on-campus activities, scholarship-based inquiry and research, and experiential learning.

CUNY York College Overview

• Undergraduate Tuition: $3,465/semester (in-state), $620/semester (out-of-state)
• Graduate Tuition: $5,545/semester (in-state), $855/credit (out-of-state)
• Acceptance Rate: 67%
• Graduation Rate: 33%
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

CUNY York College NCES Cost Estimates

• Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $7,258
• Books and Supplies: $1,364
• On-Campus Room and Board: $17,188

Popular CUNY York College Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Accounting. This program intends to equip students with both theoretical and practical knowledge in accounting, business, and economics. In addition, students are prepared for the Certified Public Accountant Examination to become qualified accountants.
• Bachelor of Science in Health Science. This interdisciplinary program prepares students to understand, manage, and adapt to the changing health care environment in hospitals or nursing home administration. Students will learn skills to manage situations in health insurance, health informatics, or health marketing.
• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. This program teaches the information, skills, and principles that students must learn to start careers in psychology and related fields. Students will learn broad theoretical and empirical foundations of psychology.

SUNY Empire State College | Tuition and Fees: $7,630

SUNY Empire State College is known for its flexible and accessible education, which includes online programs for students who are unable to attend classes in person. Individual, academic, career, and personal goals can be met by tailoring degrees given both online and in person.

SUNY Empire State College Overview

• Undergraduate Tuition: $3,535/term (in-state), $8,490/term (out-of-state)
• Graduate Tuition: $5,655/term (in-state), $11,550/term (out-of-state)
• Acceptance Rate: Open admissions policy
• Graduation Rate: 24%
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

SUNY Empire State College NCES Cost Estimates

• Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $7,630
• Books and Supplies: $1,528
• On-Campus Room and Board: $11,600

Popular SUNY Empire State College Programs

• Bachelor of Arts in Business Management and Economics. This program teaches students key skills and knowledge in the fields of accounting, business administration, economics, finance, human resources, information systems, international business, and public administration.
• Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies. This program allows students to analyze the teaching and learning process through various courses on learning theories. The social context of learning and practical applications include technology in the classroom and curriculum development.
• Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts. This program builds upon a solid academic basis in areas such as critical thinking, numeric literacy, social responsibility, information literacy, and communication.

SUNY Polytechnic Institute | Tuition and Fees: $8,548

SUNY Polytechnic Institute is a worldwide recognized leader in innovation, research, and development in higher education and technology. The average class size at this school is 18, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 13-to-one. Students from over 15 countries are enrolled in its popular programs.

SUNY Polytechnic Institute Overview

• Undergraduate Tuition: $3,535/semester (in-state), $8,915/semester (out-of-state)
• Graduate Tuition: $5,655/semester (in-state), $11,550/semester (out-of-state)
• Acceptance Rate: 77%
• Graduation Rate: 65%
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

SUNY Polytechnic Institute NCES Cost Estimates

• Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $8,548
• Books and Supplies: $1,400
• On-Campus Room and Board: $13,404

Popular SUNY Polytechnic Institute Programs

• Bachelor/Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioners. This program allows certified registered nurses to combine aspects of the bachelor's and master's programs and streamline the bachelor’s degree by replacing certain accelerated courses with many regular nursing courses.
• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Through engineering design and analytical training, this engineering program teaches students the fundamental principles of mechanical engineering.
• Bachelor of Art in Psychology. This undergraduate program allows students to participate in hands-on research with faculty members as well as clinical fieldwork in the community.

CUNY Baruch College | Tuition and Fees: $7,464

CUNY Baruch College is a senior college of the City University of New York system with an enrollment of over 18,000 students from 169 countries The institution is ranked inside the top 15 percent of US institutions and among the top four public universities for its tradition of academic distinction.

CUNY Baruch College Overview

• Undergraduate Tuition: $6,930/year (in-state), $18,600/year (out-of-state)
• Graduate Tuition: $5,545/per year (in-state), $855/credit hour (out-of-state)
• Acceptance Rate: 51%
• Graduation Rate: 74%
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

CUNY Baruch College NCES Cost Estimations

• Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $7,464
• Books and Supplies: $1,364
• On-Campus Room and Board: $19,447

Popular CUNY Baruch College Program Names

• Business Administration in Computer Information Systems. This degree offers a solid grounding in both the technical and managerial aspects of information technology. The program includes a vast array of technology-related topics, such as data analytics, cyber security, software development, and IT strategy.
• Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing Management. This program is designed to suit the specific professional goals of marketing department students by teaching them how to manage and establish relationships with consumers while providing value and satisfaction.
• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. This program introduces students to the psychological aspects of the mind and behavior. It employs techniques ranging from casual observation to rigorous experimentation. Its topics include education and human development.

CUNY Hunter College | Tuition and Fees: $7,382

Hunter College of the City University of New York is a prestigious public institution with over 23,000 students enrolled in more than 170 academic departments. The institution is ranked number 18 in Regional Universities North by the US News & World Report.

CUNY Hunter College Overview

• Undergraduate Tuition: $6,930/year (in-state), $18,600/year (out-of-state)
• Graduate Tuition: $11,090/year (in-state), $25,650/year (out-of-state)
• Acceptance Rate: 46%
• Graduation Rate: 58%
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

CUNY Hunter College NCES Cost Estimates

• Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $7,382
• Books and Supplies: $1,364
• On-Campus Room and Board: $10,429

Popular CUNY Hunter College Programs

• Bachelor of Art in Biology. This program of study is designed for students preparing for graduate school, medicine, and dentistry. It also provides incoming students with a strong foundation to pursue a career in biotechnology.
• Bachelor of Art in Psychology. This program prepares students for jobs in psychology, education, social and welfare services, and health services. It also fulfills the prerequisite course requirements for the majority of graduate psychology programs for students interested in doctoral programs.
• Bachelor of Art in Sociology. This program offers students the chance to discover a distinct intellectual perspective and method of research, which fosters the development of critical judgment.

Cheapest Online Colleges in New York

Cheapest Colleges in New York by In-State Tuition

1. CUNY Brooklyn College | $3,465/semester
2. CUNY Lehman College | $3,465/semester
3. CUNY Queens College | $3,465/semester
4. SUNY Empire State College | $3,535/term
5. SUNY Polytechnic Institute | $3,535/semester

Cheapest Colleges in New York by Out-of-State Tuition

1. CUNY Brooklyn College | $620/credit
2. CUNY City College | $620/credit
3. CUNY Lehman College | $620/credit
4. CUNY Queens College | $620/credit
5. CUNY York College | $620/credit

Why Is College So Expensive?

College is so expensive for a variety of reasons, including expanding demand, increasing financial aid, and decreased state funding. The cost of college is further affected by factors such as housing and food, tuition rates, and transportation. These factors will be discussed further below.

Housing and Food

The average monthly cost of an on-campus meal plan is $563, according to the Education Data Initiative. Although meal plans aren’t required, the monthly cost of groceries in states like New York can be almost as high. When added to other factors like tuition, these costs make colleges expensive. Students can create a budget to help limit excess spending and maintain a weekly allowance.

Books and Supplies

A full-time undergraduate student today may expect to spend up to $1,400 on textbooks, according to the Education Data Initiative. When combined with other college expenditures such as tuition and fees, transportation, and housing, the price of college becomes more costly.

Tuition

According to US News & World Report, private college tuition and fees average $38,185 per year, while public out-of-state tuition and fees average $22,698, and public in-state tuition and fees average $10,338. Students can offset this cost by applying for financial aid, student grants, and scholarships.

Best Universities by State

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How to Save Money in College

• Work while in school. Working while in college allows you to make extra money, limiting your financial struggle and allowing you to save after sorting expenses. Additionally, it provides you with valuable professional experience and life skills for the future.
• Do not be late on a loan payment. Being late on a payment incurs extra charges, which adds extra costs to a payment. To avoid this, set a reminder or make a note on a calendar to stay up to date and ahead on payments.
• Fill out the FAFSA every year. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is what schools and the government use to determine how much financial aid you get each year. If qualified, FAFSA may take care of all of your school expenses through scholarships ad grants which will allow you to save the money you earn from working.
• Budget your student loan privilege. If you must take out student loans, you must be careful about how much you borrow. To manage your total loans you can create a budget sheet of monthly spending and set yourself a limit to not overspend.
• Sell your used textbooks. Many colleges accept used textbooks from students and pay a sum in return. This makes textbooks less expensive for you and for future students who can save money on used books. It is a good strategy to save money while in college.

How to Apply for Financial Aid in New York

1. Apply for a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This is the first step to applying for financial aid. Apply for an FSA ID to complete your application and then complete the online form.
2. Apply for the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) if you are a New York State resident attending college in New York.
3. The colleges you list on the FAFSA will receive a copy of your information, which they will use to assess if you are qualified for institutional aid. Once accepted, the college will send you a letter describing the financial aid you are eligible to receive.
4. Review the offer from the FAFSA with your financial aid options and choose an option that best suits your financial situation.

Scholarships for Students in New York

How to Choose a Cheap College in New York

There are several factors that influence how to choose a cheap college in New York. These factors include considering colleges that offer scholarships, colleges in your city or borough, and comparing other college costs. In the section that follows, we’ll go through these factors in further detail.

Consider Colleges That Offer Scholarships

Many colleges provide merit-based scholarships to students who fulfill particular grade point averages, SAT scores, or other academic requirements. Some colleges are more liberal with scholarships than others. To know if you are eligible for scholarships, contact the school’s financial aid office.

Consider Colleges Within Your Location

Choosing to attend a college within your city or borough is a good bet for cheaper tuition. In-state tuition is always lower than out-of-state tuition which is three times the cost. Staying in state or living at home also reduces expenses like transportation and room and board.

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Consider Comparing Other College Costs

Apart from tuition, fees, books and supplies, and room and board, other college expenses include transportation, housing, food, and personal expenses. You must examine these costs to determine whether they are within your budget for attending a low-cost institution. Some schools may offer fewer costs than others.

Best Community Colleges by State

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Highest-Paying Jobs for College Graduates in New York

Best Jobs for College Grads in New York: Explained

Pediatric Surgeon

• Average Salary: $208,000
• Average Salary in New York: $286,460
• Overall Job Outlook: 3% from 2020 to 2030

Pediatric Surgeons diagnose and perform surgery on fetuses, premature babies, newborn infants, children, and adolescents to treat fetal abnormalities, birth defects, diseases, and injuries. To become a pediatric surgeon you must have a bachelor's degree and a medical degree, which takes four to seven years.

Financial Manager

• Average Salary: $131,710
• Average Salary in New York: $206,990
• Overall Job Outlook: 17% from 2020 to 2030

Financial managers are accountable for an organization's financial health. They prepare financial reports, direct investment activities, and formulate plans for their organization's long-term financial objectives. Typically, to become a financial manager you need a bachelor's degree and at least five years of experience in a business or finance-related career.

Computer and Information Systems Manager

• Average Salary: $159,010
• Average Salary in New York: $195,900
• Overall Job Outlook: 11% from 2020 to 2030

Computer information and systems managers organize, coordinate, and direct computer-related activities in an organization. They implement computer systems to accomplish goals. A Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or Information Technology is required for this job, along with relevant professional experience.

Sales Manager

• Average Salary: $127,490
• Average Salary in New York: $195,580
• Overall Job Outlook: 7% from 2020 to 2030

Sales managers direct sales teams within an organization. They establish sales objectives, evaluate data, and design training programs for sales staff. The majority of sales managers have a bachelor's degree and sales representative experience.

Advertising and Promotion Manager

• Average Salary: $133,380
• Average Salary in New York: $179,540
• Overall Job Outlook: 10% from 2020 to 2030

Advertising and promotion managers develop interest among potential consumers and direct programs that combine advertising with buying incentives to improve sales. Most advertising and promotion management jobs require a bachelor's degree. These managers have advertising, marketing, promotions, or sales experience.

Training and Development Manager

• Average Salary: $120,130
• Average Salary in New York: $175,990
• Overall Job Outlook: 11% from 2020 to 2030

Training and development managers are in charge of staffing, budgeting, and training programs. They are in charge of developing or selecting training program content and resources. Candidates often need a combination of education and relevant work experience. Although many positions require a bachelor’s degree, some jobs require a master’s degree.

Medical and Health Services Manager

• Average Salary: $101,340
• Average Salary in New York: $155,430
• Overall Job Outlook: 32% from 2020 to 2030

Medical and health services managers organize, direct, and coordinate medical and health services. They may oversee a full hospital, a single clinical area or department, or a group of physicians' medical practices. For careers in healthcare services, you need to have at least a bachelor’s degree. A master’s degree is an added advantage.

Actuary

• Average Salary: $105,900
• Average Salary in New York: $147,420
• Overall Job Outlook: 24% from 2020 to 2030

Actuaries assess the financial consequences of risk and uncertainty. They estimate the risk of prospective events using mathematics, statistics, and financial theory. They assist businesses and clients in developing policies that reduce the cost of that risk. Candidates must have an academic record that includes a bachelor's degree in any analytical field.

Information Security Analyst

• Average Salary: $102,600
• Average Salary in New York: $133,210
• Overall Job Outlook: 33% from 2020 to 2030

Information security analysts devise and implement security solutions to safeguard a company's computer networks and systems. A Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, as well as relevant work experience, is often required for information security analysts.

Management Analyst

• Average Salary: $93,000
• Average Salary in New York: $114,950
• Overall Job Outlook: 14% from 2020 to 2030

Management analysts make recommendations on how to increase an organization's efficiency. They advise managers on ways to boost the profitability of enterprises by reducing expenses and increasing revenues. Typically, candidates must have a bachelor's degree and several years of comparable job experience as accountants or auditors.

Accredited Online Colleges by State

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Is a Cheap College in New York Worth It?

Yes, a cheap college in New York is worth it. Even though these colleges are less expensive, they still provide high-quality education, dedicated staff, and plenty of on-campus opportunities for research. Many public and private schools in New York offer a low cost of attendance with federal student loans and grants for full-time students.

Cheapest Colleges in New York FAQ

Is New York University cheap?

How do I get into CUNY for free?

To get into a City University of New York for free, you need to reside in New York, earn excellent grades, complete a total of 30 credits each year, and fill out the FAFSA and Tuition Assistance Program.

What is the cheapest community college in New York City?

There are a variety of community colleges in New York City that are cheap such as Suffolk County Community College, Ulster County Community College, and CUNY Bronx Community College.

Which is cheaper, CUNY or SUNY?

SUNY is cheaper than CUNY. Although tuition at CUNY and SUNY schools is comparable for in-state students, the tuition at SUNY schools is slightly lower for out-of-state students.

What is the cheapest university in New York for international students?

What is the cheapest university in NYC?

Which university in USA has the lowest tuition fee for international students?

Which is the cheapest university in USA for international students for Masters?