11 min read
Cheapest Engineering Universities in the USA for International Students
to perform this action
Engineering has always been at the heart of all modern technological wonders. The USA is one of the most industrialized and technologically sophisticated nations to study engineering! Although there are numerous American engineering schools, affordability is an important consideration. To find the cheapest engineering universities in the USA for international students, you need to understand how tuition and fees work for out-of-state residents and students. The best engineering universities in America for you will be those which offer a high-quality education with minimal costs attached.
10 Cheapest Engineering Universities in the USA for International Students
Engineering is one of the oldest and most respected academic disciplines. It has a long development history, evolving into a broad spectrum of disciplines. Many US universities offer an affordable engineering education for international students.
The best thing about these universities is the world-class degree you get without breaking the bank. Engineering universities in the USA are among the best options for international students pursuing a profession in this field.
We have compiled a list of top engineering universities that are relatively cheap to attend. You can save money on your education as an international student and still pursue your dreams of becoming an engineer.
Cost of Engineering Degrees in the USA for International Students
When looking at how much an engineering program will cost, there are a few things you need to consider.
- The tuition fee for each academic year is usually the most significant part of your total costs. The average tuition fee ranges from USD 7,000 -60,000 per year. The tuition fee depends on the program, university, and the student's nationality
- International student fees will be a couple of times higher than domestic student fees. Make sure you're considering out-of-state resident fees or international student fees when comparing programs in your budget
- You can reduce the expense with financial aid or scholarships. Keep an eye on universities with scholarship programs for international students, e.g. those set aside for engineering students or for students from your part of the world
- Most engineering programs require textbooks or course materials that cost between USD 1,000-$3,000 per year, depending on whether you buy used or new ones online or at brick-and-mortar stores!
- Theliving expenses vary based on the state your university is in. The average cost of living is between $4.5k -11k per month, which includes rent, bills, utilities, and food. There can be a lot of variability, depending on the city, your location within the city, whether you're living on- or off-campus, your lifestyle, and more
Things to Consider Before Selecting a University
When choosing the cheapest engineering universities in the USA for international students, it is important to focus on a few factors:
- Find out about tuition fees for international students and the funding options available to help you pay these fees
- Take advantage of scholarship opportunities from your chosen school and other external sources that can significantly reduce your tuition fees
- Identify which schools offer the most (and best) financial aid for international students and which schools have industry connections that can make it easier for you to advance professionally after graduating
Most Affordable Engineering Universities in the USA
The USA has over 3,000 engineering programs at over 1,000 universities. These universities offer computer science, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering degrees. If you want to study engineering but have budget restrictions, you may consider attending a less expensive university that doesn't skimp on education quality.
Here are the best cheapest engineering universities in the USA for international students:
| University | Tuition Fee (USD) | Departments |
| California State University - Los Angeles | Undergraduate -$17,720/year Graduate - $16,549/year |
|
| Kent State University | Undergraduate -$20,799/year Graduate - $17,982/year |
|
| Iowa State University College of Engineering | Undergraduate -$15,184/year Graduate - $15,990/year |
|
| Texas Tech University | Undergraduate -$17,388/year Graduate - $14,410/year |
|
| University of Central Florida (UCF) | Undergraduate -$22,467/year Graduate - $28,657/year |
|
| University of Montana | Undergraduate -$27,238 /year Graduate - $25,000/year |
|
| University of South Florida | Undergraduate -$17,324/year Graduate - $21,126/year |
|
| Washington State University (WSU) | Undergraduate -$28,385/year Graduate - $28,860/year |
|
| The Ohio State University, Columbus (OSU) | Undergraduate -$19,113/year Graduate - $18,591/year |
|
| Texas A&M University | Undergraduate -$8,000-20,000/year Graduate - $18,000/year |
|
1. California State University - Los Angeles (CSULA)
The five departments that make up CSULA's engineering school are technology, computer science, electrical and computer engineering, mechanical engineering, and civil engineering. These departments provide two teaching qualifications, five graduate degrees, and nine undergraduate programs.
International students can expect to pay USD 15,000 - 16,000 per year for tuition. The university also offers excellent scholarships and financial aid opportunities to help you pay college fees.
Students interested in attending this university should also be aware that they will need to budget for additional costs associated with room and board, books, and supplies. The average student spends approximately USD 11,000 per year on those items alone! Living expenses vary depending on where you live off campus, but the average cost of living in Los Angeles is USD 13,000 per year.
2. Kent State University at Kent
KSUK is among the best cheapest engineering universities in the USA for international students. The university offers various engineering programs, including mechanical engineering, biomedical technology, electrical and computer systems engineering, industrial & systems engineering, and aerospace studies. The school also has an excellent alumni network.
Tuition fees for international students range from USD 15k-25k per year, depending on your program. Room and board at KSUK are around USD 8,000 - 12,000 per semester, depending on whether you opt into a meal plan (you can choose between vegetarian or vegan options).
Living costs depend on where you live off campus. Still, general estimates put it somewhere around USD 10,000-20,000 per year depending on the housing options available near campus, such as apartments.
3. Iowa State University
The university offers 116 majors leading to bachelor's and master's, and doctoral degrees in more than 200 departments. This affordable engineering school in the USA provides industrial engineering, materials science and engineering, and civil, construction, and environmental engineering programs.
Tuition fees for international students range between USD 14,000-17,000 per year. Books and supplies can cost between USD 1,500-2,000 depending on the course curriculum chosen by you when applying for admission into the respective program.
4. Texas Tech University
There are over 70 different engineering programs available at Texas Tech University. Your options include everything from civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical and computer science, and aerospace science, to biomedical devices, manufacturing systems, and more.
Tuition fees for international students range from USD 14,000-18,000 per year, depending on your program. Books and other costs for international students include USD 3,000-4,000 worth of books each semester and transportation expenses.
The average student pays about USD7,000-8,000 per year for housing, depending on whether you live off-campus or in one of the university's housing options.
5. The Ohio State University, Columbus (OSU)
The Ohio State University, Columbus (OSU) is one of the best engineering schools in the US. It offers bachelor's, master's and PhD courses in:
- Mechanical Engineering & Aerospace Engineering
- Computer Science & Software Engineering
- Electrical & Computer Engineering
- Materials Science & Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Biomedical Engineering
The tuition fees for international students are USD 26,510 per year for undergraduate programs or USD 30,500 for postgraduate programs. International students can apply for scholarships offered by OSU that cover part or all of their tuition fees, depending on their financial situation in their home country, so they don't have to worry about paying anything out of pocket!
6. University of Central Florida
The University of Central Florida (UCF) is a public research university in Orlando, Florida. UCF is the second-largest university in the United States, with over 59,000 students and a low cost of living.
It has grown into one of America's best universities with many accolades for its world-class education. It is among one of the cheapest engineering universities in the USA for international students.
Tuition fees for international students are USD 29,850 per year. Books and other costs for international students are about USD 10,000-15,000 per year, depending on your program choice and whether or not you have a scholarship available at UCF.
7. University of Montana
The University of Montana is one of the cheapest engineering universities in the USA for international students. The tuition fee of this university is pretty low compared to other options. The admissions procedure is also rather straightforward.
The university's engineering programs are also first-class. Students can expect an experience emphasising hands-on learning through their respective departments.
Tuition fees for international students are between USD 20,000-26,000 per year. Books and other costs are about USD 1,100 per year, depending on your program choice.
8. University of South Florida
The University of South Florida checks off our criteria as one of the best cheapest universities for engineering in the USA for international students, with some great engineering programs and affordable fees. It has more than 300 programs of study and 150 majors. It is one of the best institutions in the US for research and innovation.
The tuition fees for international students can vary depending on your country, but you'll usually pay at least USD 20,000 per year.
You'll also need to consider living expenses like housing costs and meal plans while studying abroad. These vary but are typically between USD 1,500-3,000 per month. Finally, keep an eye out for books and other travel expenses.
9. Washington State University (WSU)
Washington State University (WSU) is one of the cheapest engineering universities in the US. The school offers bachelor's and master's degrees in over 100 disciplines, including engineering, science and technology, business administration, and liberal arts.
International applicants who want to study engineering programs such as civil engineering or chemical engineering are welcome to apply to WSU. In addition, tuition fees per year range from USD 20,000-28,000 per year. You will also have to pay living expenses like meals/accommodation during your stay here, which could range between USD 5,000-10,000 per month depending on where you live.
10. Texas A&M University
The university offers an array of engineering programs for international students and has a strong reputation for its mechanical engineering degree. Tuition fees for international students are USD 8,000-20,000 USD per academic year, which includes all books required for the course and other costs such as transportation and lodging accommodations.
The cost of living can be expensive if you live off campus, but there are plenty of options available if you choose to live off campus or in an apartment complex within walking distance of your location, you might have to pay between USD 1,000-1,500/month rent plus utilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it hard to get into an engineering university in the USA?
Getting into an engineering university is not necessarily tricky as long as you have good high school grades, take many math classes, and apply early enough during your senior year. Some universities require you to submit essays or personal statements explaining your aspirations and future goals. Others may only require a transcript showing your grades and test scores. In general, qualifying for an engineering university depends in large part on a solid application.
What are the benefits of studying in an engineering school in the USA?
The US has been a global power since the 17th century. In the 18th century, it was the world's most influential and prosperous country. Many engineering universities in the USA offer lower tuition fees for international students than other universities worldwide.
These universities have an excellent reputation among international students who want to study in the US. Therefore, they can offer you quality education at an affordable cost without worrying about your financial situation when you get there.
Our Concluding Thoughts
Choosing a university is no small decision, but it's also one that you shouldn't take lightly. While the USA can be very expensive for many people, especially international students, it is possible to make ends meet. Among the best cheapest engineering universities in the USA for international students, you might find the right choice for you! Evaluate each institute's academics and programs, visit each campus's official website, and find out what kind of student life you can expect.
