Studying online is becoming a great option for students who want quality education at a lower cost. Whether you are working, managing family responsibilities, or simply looking for an affordable way to earn a degree, online universities can be the perfect choice.
studying abroad can be expensive. However online education allows you to study from top universities without paying high tuition fees or living costs. This means you can get a degree from the UK, USA, or India without leaving your home. In this guide, we will explore the cheapest online universities for students who are planning to pursue their higher education from these prestigious institutions.
Table of contents
- Top 10 Cheapest Online Universities in the World
- University of the People, USA
- Open University, UK
- Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), USA
- Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), India
- University of London Online, UK
- Anadolu University, Turkey
- Athabasca University, Canada
- Open Polytechnic of New Zealand, New Zealand
- Universitas Terbuka, Indonesia
- University of South Africa (UNISA), South Africa
- Cheapest Online University in India
- Cheapest Online University in the USA
- Cheapest Online University in the UK
- Cheapest Online University in Canada
- Cheapest Online University in Australia
- Cheapest Online University in Ireland
- How to Apply for an Online University?
- Challenges of Studying at an Online University
- FAQs on Cheapest Online Universities
Top 10 Cheapest Online Universities in the World
Studying online is a great way to save money and get a degree from a good university. Many universities offer affordable courses for students who want flexibility in their studies. If you are looking for the cheapest online university, this guide will help you. Here are the top 10 universities that offer quality education at low tuition fees.
| University | Country |
| University of the People | USA |
| Open University | UK |
| Southern New Hampshire University | USA |
| IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University) | India |
| University of London Online | UK |
| Anadolu University | Turkey |
| Athabasca University | Canada |
| Open Polytechnic of New Zealand | New Zealand |
| Universitas Terbuka | Indonesia |
| University of South Africa (UNISA) | South Africa |
University of the People, USA
The University of the People is the cheapest online university with tuition-free degree programs. It is based in the USA and offers online courses in business, IT, and health sciences. Students only pay small fees for exams and course materials.
The university provides flexible learning, allowing students to study from anywhere. It is a great option for those who want an affordable and accredited education. Many students choose UoPeople because of its low cost and good quality education. If you are looking for an online degree without spending much, this is one of the best choices.
| University Name | University of the People |
| Location | USA |
| Average Tuition Fees | USD 0 – USD 2,000 |
| Top Programs Offered | Business, IT, Health Science |
| QS World Ranking 2025 | Not Ranked |
Open University, UK
Open University (OU) in the UK is the cheapest online university for students who want flexible learning. It offers programs in arts, business, and science. Tuition fees are lower than traditional universities, making it a good choice for budget-conscious students.
The university provides online resources, study materials, and tutor support. Students can study part-time or full-time, depending on their schedule. Many students from different countries enrol in OU because of its affordable fees and recognized degrees. If you are looking for a trusted online university with a variety of courses, Open University is a great option.
| University Name | Open University |
| Location | UK |
| Average Tuition Fees | USD 3,500 – USD 7,000 |
| Top Programs Offered | Arts, Business, Science |
| QS World Ranking 2025 | 601-650 |
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), USA
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is one of the cheapest online universities in the USA. It offers affordable and flexible online programs in business, IT, and education. The university is known for its student support and career-focused education. Tuition fees are lower than many traditional universities, making it a great choice for students who want quality education at a low cost.
NHU provides online learning tools, interactive sessions, and flexible schedules. Many international students prefer SNHU because of its affordability and recognized degrees. If you want a good online university with affordable fees, SNHU is a strong option.
| University Name | Southern New Hampshire University |
| Location | USA |
| Average Tuition Fees | USD 3,000 – USD 9,600 |
| Top Programs Offered | Business, IT, Education |
| QS World Ranking 2025 | 801-1000 |
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), India
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is the cheapest online university in India. It offers online programs in humanities, management, and science. The tuition fees are very low, making it one of the most affordable universities in the world.
Students can study from anywhere and complete their courses at their own pace. IGNOU provides study materials, online classes, and tutor support. Many students in India and abroad choose IGNOU for its affordability and flexibility. If you are looking for a low-cost university with a wide range of programs, IGNOU is a great choice.
| University Name | Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) |
| Location | India |
| Average Tuition Fees | USD 500 – USD 2,000 |
| Top Programs Offered | Humanities, Management, Science |
| QS World Ranking 2025 | Not Ranked |
University of London Online, UK
The University of London Online is the cheapest online university for students who want high-quality education at an affordable price. It offers online programs in law, business, and data science. The university partners with top institutions like the London School of Economics (LSE) to provide excellent education.
Tuition fees are lower than traditional universities, making it a cost-effective choice. Students can study from anywhere and get a degree recognized worldwide. The university provides online lectures, study materials, and tutor support. If you want a prestigious online degree without spending too much, this is a great option.
| University Name | University of London Online |
| Location | UK |
| Average Tuition Fees | USD 5,000 – USD 12,000 |
| Top Programs Offered | Law, Business, Data Science |
| QS World Ranking 2025 | 400-500 |
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Anadolu University, Turkey
Anadolu University in Turkey is one of the cheapest online universities for international students. It offers affordable online programs in business, IT, and social sciences. The university has a strong reputation for distance learning. Tuition fees are very low, making it an excellent choice for students on a budget.
Anadolu University provides flexible learning options, online study materials, and tutor support. Many students from different countries choose this university because of its affordability and recognized degrees. If you are looking for an online university that offers quality education at a low cost, Anadolu University is a good option.
| University Name | Anadolu University |
| Location | Turkey |
| Average Tuition Fees | USD 500 – USD 1,500 |
| Top Programs Offered | Business, IT, Social Science |
| QS World Ranking 2025 | Not Ranked |
Athabasca University, Canada
Athabasca University in Canada is the cheapest online university that offers flexible and affordable degree programs. It provides online courses in business, healthcare, and arts. The university allows students to study at their own pace, making it a great choice for working professionals and international students.
Tuition fees are lower than many Canadian universities, making it an affordable option. Athabasca University provides online study materials, virtual classrooms, and student support services. Many students prefer this university because of its flexible learning system. If you want to earn a recognized degree at a low cost, Athabasca University is a good choice.
| University Name | Athabasca University |
| Location | Canada |
| Average Tuition Fees | USD 5,000 – USD 9,000 |
| Top Programs Offered | Business, Healthcare, Arts |
| QS World Ranking 2025 | 1001-1200 |
Open Polytechnic of New Zealand, New Zealand
Open Polytechnic of New Zealand is one of the cheapest online universities for students looking for budget-friendly education. It offers online programs in business, IT, and education. The tuition fees are low, making it a good choice for international students. The university provides flexible learning options, online resources, and tutor support.
Students can study from anywhere and complete their courses at their own pace. Many students choose this university because of its affordability and practical courses. If you want an online degree that fits your budget, Open Polytechnic of New Zealand is a great option.
| University Name | Open Polytechnic of New Zealand |
| Location | New Zealand |
| Average Tuition Fees | USD 1,000 – USD 5,000 |
| Top Programs Offered | Business, IT, Education |
| QS World Ranking 2025 | Not Ranked |
Universitas Terbuka, Indonesia
Universitas Terbuka in Indonesia is the cheapest online university for students who want affordable higher education. It offers low-cost online programs in social sciences and management. The university provides flexible learning, allowing students to study from anywhere.
Tuition fees are very low, making it one of the best options for students on a budget. Universitas Terbuka provides online study materials, virtual classes, and academic support. Many students choose this university because of its affordability and flexible learning system.
| University Name | Universitas Terbuka |
| Location | Indonesia |
| Average Tuition Fees | USD 300 – USD 1,500 |
| Top Programs Offered | Social Science, Management |
| QS World Ranking 2025 | Not Ranked |
University of South Africa (UNISA), South Africa
University of South Africa (UNISA) is the cheapest online university in Africa. It offers affordable online programs in law, IT, and business. The university has a strong reputation for distance learning and serves students worldwide.
Tuition fees are much lower than traditional universities, making it a good choice for students who want low-cost education. UNISA provides online study materials, academic support, and flexible learning schedules. Many international students prefer UNISA because of its affordability and recognized degrees.
| University Name | University of South Africa (UNISA) |
| Location | South Africa |
| Average Tuition Fees | USD 1,500 – USD 3,500 |
| Top Programs Offered | Law, IT, Business |
| QS World Ranking 2025 | Not Ranked |
Cheapest Online University in India
Higher education can be expensive, but online universities in India offer affordable options for students. If you want a recognized degree without spending too much, many universities provide quality online programs at low fees.
These universities offer flexibility, allowing students to study from home while balancing work or other commitments. Whether you are looking for an MBA, IT, or humanities degree, there is an affordable option for you. Below are some of the cheapest online universities in India that provide excellent education at budget-friendly rates.
| University | Popular Programs | Average Tuition Fees (INR/year) |
| IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University) | MBA, BCA, BA, BSc | INR 10,000 – INR 50,000 |
| Amity Online University | MBA, BBA, MCA, MCom | INR 50,000 – INR 1,50,000 |
| Sikkim Manipal University | Business, IT, Science | INR 20,000 – INR 80,000 |
| NMIMS Global Access | MBA, Data Science, IT | INR 80,000 – INR 2,00,000 |
| University of Madras (IDE) | Humanities, Science, Law | INR 10,000 – INR 70,000 |
Cheapest Online University in the USA
Higher education in the USA can be expensive, but many universities offer affordable online programs. These universities provide flexible learning options, quality education, and various student support services.
Whether you want to study business, healthcare, IT, or social sciences, these institutions offer budget-friendly programs without compromising on quality. Below is a list of some of the cheapest online universities in the USA in 2025, along with their top programs and average tuition fees.
| University | Top Programs Offered | Average Tuition Fees (Per Year) |
| Florida International University (FIU) | Business, IT, Health Sciences | In-state: USD 6,168, Out-of-state: USD 18,566 |
| University of Arizona | Nursing, Health & Human Services, Project Management | In-state & Out-of-state: USD 11,210 |
| Arizona State University (ASU) | Business, IT, Engineering, Social Sciences | In-state: USD 10,978, Out-of-state: USD 13,248 |
| New Mexico State University (NMSU) | Psychology, Sociology, Human Development, Communication | In-state: USD 6,728, Out-of-state: USD 25,055 |
| Louisiana State University (LSU) | Business, Emergency Management, Financial Analysis, Health Sciences | In-state: USD 8,038, Out-of-state: USD 24,731 |
Cheapest Online University in the UK
Studying in the UK is a dream for many students, but high tuition fees can be a challenge. Fortunately, several cheapest online universities in the UK offer quality education at an affordable cost. These universities provide flexible online courses, recognized degrees, and opportunities to study from anywhere in the world.
Whether you are looking for business, management, or undergraduate programs, these institutions offer budget-friendly options without compromising on quality. Below is a list of some of the most affordable online universities in the UK, along with their top programs and estimated tuition fees.
| University | Top Programs Offered | Average Tuition Fees (Per Year) |
| Wrexham Glyndwr University | Business, IT, Arts, Engineering | GBP 7,500 – GBP 9,000 |
| York St John University | Business, Health, Social Sciences | GBP 9,250 |
| University of Bolton | Business, Engineering, Healthcare | GBP 9,000 |
| London School of International Business (LSIB) | Business, Management, Finance | GBP 5,000 – GBP 8,000 |
| York University | Free MOOCs (various subjects) | Free |
Cheapest Online University in Canada
Studying online is becoming a popular choice for students looking for affordable and flexible education options. Canada offers several online universities that provide quality education at a fraction of the cost of traditional on-campus institutions.
Whether you want to pursue an undergraduate degree or a graduate program, these universities offer a wide range of affordable options to help you achieve your academic goals without breaking the bank. Here are some of the cheapest online universities in Canada:
| University | Top Programs Offered | Average Tuition Fees (CAD/year) |
| Athabasca University | Arts, Education, Business, Science | CAD 5,000 – CAD 7,000 |
| Thompson Rivers University | Business Administration, Education, Arts | CAD 6,000 – CAD 8,000 |
| Royal Roads University | Leadership, Business Administration, Psychology | CAD 7,000 – CAD 10,000 |
| University of New Brunswick | Education, Arts, Business, Science | CAD 6,500 – CAD 9,000 |
Cheapest Online University in Australia
Australia offers a variety of affordable online education options, making it an ideal choice for students. Online learning in Australia provides flexibility and convenience, allowing students to balance work and study. Here are some of the cheapest online universities in Australia that offer quality education at affordable tuition fees.
| University | Top Programmes Offered | Average Tuition Fees (per year) |
| University of New England (UNE) | Education, Business, Psychology, Arts | AUD 24,000 – AUD 28,000 |
| Southern Cross University (SCU) | Education, Nursing, Social Science, Environmental Science | AUD 23,000 – AUD 27,000 |
| University of Tasmania (UTAS) | Education, Arts, Law, Science, Business | AUD 22,000 – AUD 26,000 |
| Charles Sturt University (CSU) | Information Technology, Education, Criminal Justice | AUD 23,000 – AUD 27,000 |
| Open Universities Australia (OUA) | Arts, Business, Science, Health | AUD 21,000 – AUD 25,000 |
Cheapest Online University in Ireland
Studying online offers flexibility, allowing students to balance studies with other responsibilities. Ireland is home to several universities offering online degrees at affordable rates. These institutions provide a variety of programs, from business and technology to arts and sciences.
If you’re considering an online degree in Ireland, it’s essential to explore affordable options that offer quality education while keeping costs low. Let’s take a look at some of the cheapest online universities in Ireland and their top programs.
| University | Top Programmes Offered | Average Tuition Fees (EUR/year) |
| University College Dublin (UCD) | Business, Engineering, Social Sciences, Law | EUR 10,000 – EUR 18,000 |
| Dublin City University (DCU) | Data Analytics, Business, Education, Marketing | EUR 9,000 – EUR 15,000 |
| National University of Ireland, Galway (NUI Galway) | Psychology, IT, Business Administration | EUR 8,000 – EUR 16,000 |
| University of Limerick (UL) | Health Science, Engineering, IT, Business | EUR 8,500 – EUR 15,500 |
| Trinity College Dublin (TCD) | Business, Law, Computer Science, Engineering | EUR 10,000 – EUR 20,000 |
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- Public vs Private University: Key Difference Between Universities
How to Apply for an Online University?
Applying for an online university is a straightforward process. Unlike traditional universities, you don’t need to visit a campus or attend interviews. Everything happens online, making it convenient and flexible. However, it’s important to follow the steps carefully to avoid delays. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you apply for an online university:
1. Choose Your University: Start by researching different online universities. Look for one that:
- Offers your desired program (MBA, IT, Law, etc.).
- Has affordable tuition fees that fit your budget.
- Is accredited and recognized globally.
- Provides good student support and flexible study options.
2. Check Eligibility: Before applying, make sure you meet the university’s admission requirements. Each university has different criteria, so check their official website for details. These may include:
- Educational qualifications (Bachelor’s degree for a Master’s program).
- English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL scores for international students).
- Work experience (for some professional courses).
- Technical requirements (a laptop and a stable internet connection).
3. Fill Out the Application: Once you’ve chosen a university and confirmed your eligibility, complete the online application form. Take your time to fill out the form correctly to avoid errors.
You will need to:
- Enter your personal details (name, contact information).
- Select your desired course and specialization.
- Provide academic background details.
- Upload required documents.
4. Submit Documents: Most universities require you to upload scanned copies of:
- Previous academic certificates (school or university degrees).
- Identity proof (passport, Aadhar card, etc.).
- English proficiency test results (if required).
- Work experience certificates (for professional courses).
Make sure your documents are clear and in the correct format (PDF, JPEG, etc.).
5. Pay Fees: Some online universities charge an application fee, while others don’t. You may also need to pay an initial tuition deposit before final acceptance. Payment methods usually include:
- Credit/Debit Card
- Bank Transfer
- Online Payment Portals
6. Start Your Course: Once your application is approved and fees are paid, you will receive:
- A welcome email with login details.
- Access to study materials and online classes.
- Information on assignments and exams.
Challenges of Studying at an Online University
Studying at an online university offers great flexibility, but it’s not without its challenges. You will experience a few differences compared to attending a traditional, on-campus university. While these challenges can be managed, it’s important to be aware of them before you begin your online learning journey. Here are some challenges of studying at an online university:
1. Lack of Face-to-Face Interaction: One of the biggest challenges is the absence of in-person interactions. You won’t have physical classes where you can meet your professors and classmates. This might make it harder to ask questions, engage in group activities, or develop personal relationships.
2. Self-Discipline Required: Online learning requires a high level of self-discipline. Without regular class times or face-to-face supervision, it can be easy to procrastinate. You must stay motivated to complete your assignments on time, attend virtual lectures, and manage your schedule effectively.
3. Internet & Technical Issues: A stable internet connection and access to technology are crucial. Technical issues like poor internet or malfunctioning devices can disrupt your learning experience. Make sure you have a reliable internet connection and the necessary tools, such as a computer, headset, and software, to avoid any interruptions.
4. Limited Networking Opportunities: In a traditional university, students have many opportunities to network with classmates, professors, and industry professionals. With online learning, you might miss out on all these. To overcome this, you can actively participate in online discussions, join student groups, and attend virtual webinars or conferences.
5. Lack of Practical Hands-On Experience: Some fields of study, like engineering or healthcare, may require practical, hands-on experience that is difficult to replicate online. While virtual simulations and lab sessions are becoming more common, they can’t completely replace in-person experience.
Choosing the cheapest online university is a great way to earn a degree without spending too much. Whether you want to study in India, the UK, or anywhere in the world, there are many affordable options available.
Make sure to choose an accredited university, apply carefully, and stay motivated. An online degree can open doors to better job opportunities while saving you money.
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FAQs on Cheapest Online Universities
The University of the People (USA) is one of the cheapest online universities. It offers tuition-free programs, but you may have to pay small fees for exams. This makes it an affordable option for students worldwide.
IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University) is the most affordable option in India. The fees start from INR 10,000 per year, making it ideal for students on a budget.
Yes, some universities offer tuition-free degrees, like the University of the People. However, you may need to pay small fees for exams or administrative costs.
Yes, online degrees are valid as long as the university is accredited. Employers worldwide accept degrees from accredited online universities, making them just as valuable as traditional degrees.
Yes, online education is flexible, allowing you to work while studying. You can set your own schedule and balance both work and study responsibilities.
Yes, many online universities offer financial aid, including scholarships and grants. Check the university’s website for specific financial support options available to students.
To verify if an online university is accredited, visit the university’s official website. You can also check with government education bodies to confirm its accreditation status.
Yes, online education is generally cheaper than traditional education. You save on-campus fees, housing, and transportation, making it a more affordable option.
Yes, many universities offer accelerated online programs that allow you to complete your degree faster than traditional programs. This is ideal if you want to finish your studies quickly.
Some of the top online programs include MBA, IT, Data Science, Law, and Healthcare. These programs are offered by many universities and are in high demand.
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