Are you interested in attending one of the cheapest colleges in Texas? Pursuing higher education can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. If you’re looking for the most affordable colleges in Texas, you’re in luck. There are plenty of low-tuition colleges that offer high-quality education at a fraction of the cost of other universities.
Prospective students looking to study in Texas are covered in this guide on the cheapest programs at Texas schools. We also look at the cheapest online colleges in Texas. If you’re on a tight budget, check out these low-cost options and read on to learn about post-grad career opportunities.
How Much Does College Cost in Texas?
The cost of tuition and fees in Texas for undergraduate degrees typically ranges from around $2,000 per year to $10,000 per year for in-state students. The cost of college tuition and fees in Texas for graduate programs generally range from $4,000 per year to $8,000 per year for in-state students. Of course, these are just averages, and the actual cost of tuition and fees will vary depending on the specific college or university you attend.
Most Affordable Colleges in Texas: The Basics
| School | Location | Undergraduate Tuition | Graduate Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lamar State College-Port Arthur | Port Arthur | $80/credit hour (in state), $488/credit hour (out of state) | N/A |
| Lamar Institute of Technology | Beaumont | $80/credit (in state), $488/credit (out of state) | N/A |
| Galveston College | Galveston | $300/credit (in state), $792/credit (out of state) | N/A |
| Alvin Community College | Alvin | $306/credit (in state), $355/credit (out of state) | N/A |
| College of the Mainland | Texas City | $2,973/year (in state), $3873/year (out of state) | N/A |
| Texas A&M University – Central Texas | Killeen | $418/credit (in state), $826/credit (out of state) | $455/credit (in state), $863/credit (out of state) |
| Angelo State University | San Angelo | $9,310/year (in state), $21,550/year (out of state) | $7,247/year (in state), $14,590/year (out of state) |
| Texas A&M International University | Laredo | $9,448/year (in state), $23,882/year (out of state) | $4,582/year (in state), $10,468/year (out of state) |
| Tarleton State University | Stephenville | $9,808/year (in state), $22,110/year (out of state) | $7,467/year (in state), $14,829/year (out of state) |
| Lamar University | Beaumont | $5,293/semester (in state), $11,428/semester (out of state) | $5,490/semester (in state), $10,386/semester (out of state) |
Cheapest Universities in Texas: A Closer Look
The cheapest universities in Texas offer high quality education at an affordable price. Some of these low-tuition colleges in Texas include Lamar State College-Port Arthur, Lamar Institute of Technology, Galveston College, Texas A&M University, Angelo State University, and Tarleton State University. Keep reading to learn more about these schools and what they have to offer.
Cheapest Online Colleges in Texas
| School | Online Tuition | Programs Available Online |
|---|---|---|
| Lamar Institute of Technology | $80/credit | Certificate, Associate |
| Galveston College | $300/credit | Certificate, Associate, Bachelor’s |
| Texas A & M University-Central Texas | $418/credit | Bachelor’s, Master’s |
| Texas A & M International University | $8,900 – $11,500 (Full program tuition for in-state students) | Bachelor’s, Master’s |
| Angelo State University | $9,310/year | Certificate, Bachelor’s, Master’s |
Cheapest Colleges in Texas by In-State Tuition
- Lamar Institute of Technology | $80/credit
- Galveston College | $300/credit
- Texas A&M University-Central Texas | $418/credit
- Texas A&M International University | $8,900 – 11,500 (Full program tuition)
- Angelo State College | $9,310/year
Cheapest Colleges in Texas by Out-of-State Tuition
- Lamar Institute of Technology | $488/credit
- Galveston College | $792/credit
- Texas A&M University-Central Texas | $826/credit
- Angelo State University | $21,550/year
- Texas A&M International University | $30,000 – $32,000/program tuition
Why Is College So Expensive?
The cost of college has been rising for years, and there is no sign of it slowing down. The main factors that contribute to college expenses are tuition costs, housing, and personal expenses. Keep reading to learn how to keep these costs low.
Tuition
Tuition is the largest expense associated with attending college. Colleges and universities charge tuition for the use of their facilities and to cover the cost of their instructors’ salaries. The best way to reduce or even completely avoid this expense is to apply for scholarships and grants. Prospective students should make sure to compare tuition rates at different schools they’re interested in.
Housing and Food
The second largest expense associated with attending college is housing and food. Most colleges and universities require students to live on campus, and the cost of room and board can be quite high. The best way to reduce this expense is to find a roommate and live off-campus.
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses can also be difficult to offset while you’re in school. Personal expenses can include things like clothes, supplies, entertainment, or travel expenses. You can reduce your personal expenses by living a simple lifestyle and avoiding unnecessary purchases.
Best Universities by State
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How to Save Money in College
- Scholarships and grants. The best way to reduce or completely waive the cost of college is to apply for scholarships and grants. There are numerous scholarships and grants available to students. For example, the Pell Grant from the federal government can be particularly helpful for eligible students as it doesn’t have to be repaid.
- Freelancing. Freelancing is a great way to pay for tuition costs and other expenses yourself. If you have a skill that you can offer to others, you can start earning money online while you’re still in college.
- Live off-campus. Another way to reduce your housing expenses is to live off-campus. This can be a great option if you want more independence and it’s also much cheaper than living on campus.
- Buy used textbooks. Used textbooks cost almost half as much as new textbooks. You can find used textbooks online or at your local old bookstore. You can also find some good deals on websites like Amazon and eBay.
- Student pass for reduced public transportation fares. If you live in a city with public transportation, consider getting a student pass.
How to Apply for Financial Aid in Texas
- To apply for financial aid in Texas, you first need to check if you are eligible to apply for federal aid. If not, then you should apply for a free application through Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA).
- To apply for TASFA, you will need to fill out an online application and submit it to the financial aid office at your college or university. The procedure may vary from college to college.
- You are required to provide your personal information, information about your parents, your dependency status, marital status, income, assets information, and tax information in the TASFA form.
- Once you complete the form, thoroughly check all the information and correct any mistakes.
- The TASFA information will be used to determine your financial need and eligibility for state and institutional financial aid.
- If you’re qualified, your school may give you various scholarship offers. Select the type of financial assistance that is suitable for you. The funds will then be released to you by your institution.
Scholarships for Students in Texas
| Scholarship Title | Provider | Amount | Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toward Excellence, Access, and Success Grant Program (TEXAS Grant) | Texas State Government | Up to $5,195 per semester | Texas resident enrolled in a baccalaureate degree program |
| Tuition Equalization Grant Program (TEG) | Texas State Government | $3,497 to $5,246 per year | Students of private, non-profit colleges and universities in Texas |
| Education and Training Vouchers for Youths Aging Out of Foster Care in Texas | Texas Department of Family and Protective Services | Up to $5,000 per year | Texas residents between 16 and 23 who are in or have been in the foster system. Must be enrolled in a baccalaureate degree program |
| Diversity in Architecture Scholarship | Architecture and Design Foundation | $2,000 | Graduates of a north Texas high school pursuing a degree in architecture. For students who identify as having minority status |
| Texas Armed Services Scholarship Program (TASSP) | Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board | $10,000 or cost of attendance | Students enrolled in any Texas college or university (private or public) undergraduate program |
| Texas Educational Opportunity Grant Program (TEOG) | Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board | $1,707 to $3,979 | Texas residents enrolled in a public two-year college in Texas. Must not complete their associate or bachelor’s degree yet |
| Texas Public Educational Grant Program (TPEG) | Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board | Amount will be according to the student’s financial need determined by the college or university. | In-state Texas college and university students |
| George and Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation Scholarship | Hamman Foundation | $20,000 | Houston area high school graduates pursuing undergraduate degrees |
| Galveston College Scholarships | Galveston College | $500 – $2,500/per year | Galveston students who demonstrate financial need and have a strong academic record |
| Angelo State University Distinguished Scholarships | Angelo State University | $1,500 – $10,000 | Angelo State students. Award based on GPA, SAT, or ACT scores |
How to Choose a Cheap College in Texas
When it comes to choosing a cheap college in Texas, an important first step is to ensure that the institution is certified. This means it adheres to government-mandated criteria that ensure students are getting a good education. You should also consider the cost of tuition and fees, the average cost of living in the region, and available financial aid options.
Accreditation
An accreditation ensures that the institution is of high quality and will provide you with a good education. Only accredited colleges and universities are eligible for federal and state scholarships, grants, loans, and other financial aid.
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Tuition and Cost of Living
The cost of tuition and fees can vary widely from one college to another. You can use the net price calculator on each college’s website to get an estimate of what your costs would be. The cost of housing, food, and other necessities can add up quickly.
Financial Aid Opportunities
Many colleges and universities offer institutional grants, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid to help students pay for their education. Be sure to contact the college’s financial aid office and fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if you qualify for any type of financial aid package.
Best Community Colleges by State
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Highest-Paying Jobs for College Graduates in Texas
| Job Title | Average Salary in Texas | Minimum Education |
|---|---|---|
| Airline Pilots | $210,160 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Petroleum Engineers | $151,420 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | $146,180 | Master’s Degree |
| Marketing Managers | $141,550 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Sales Engineers | $118,490 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Nurse Practitioners | $117,890 | Master’s Degree |
| Personal Finance Advisors | $110,450 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Economics Teacher, Postsecondary | $108,980 | Master’s or PhD Degree |
| Database Administrators | $98,910 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Hydrologic Technicians | $94,740 | Associate Degree |
Best Jobs for College Grads in Texas: Explained
Accredited Online Colleges by State
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Is a Cheap College in Texas Worth It?
Yes, a cheap college in Texas is definitely worth it. There are many accredited colleges and universities in Texas that offer low tuition rates and financial aid opportunities. Keep in mind that online programs are often even cheaper and offer more flexibility. So, if you are looking for an affordable college education, Texas is a great state to consider.
Cheapest Colleges in Texas FAQ
No, there is no free college in Texas. However, there are many affordable colleges and universities that offer quite low tuition rates. Some colleges and universities have tuition waiver programs for students in need. There are also many federal, state, and private scholarships, grants, and loan opportunities for students who need financial assistance.
No, Texas is not an expensive state to live in. The cost of living in Texas is quite low as compared to other states in the US. You can easily find affordable housing and food options in Texas. Moreover, Texas is one of the nine states in the US that have no income tax.
To qualify for in-state tuition, a student must meet the residency requirements set by the state of Texas. These requirements include living in Texas for at least 12 months prior to enrolling in a college or university and getting a Texas state domicile. Students must also show that they have been accepted to a college or university in Texas.
The 5 most in-demand professional degrees in Texas are business, engineering, nursing, education, and psychology. These are the most popular majors among students who attend college in Texas.
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