Cheapest Colleges in Alabama for 2025
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Looking for a great education in Alabama without the hefty price tag? You’re in the right place! Whether you’re just starting college or going back to finish your degree, Alabama has some amazing schools that are both affordable and high-quality.
From the historic halls of Alabama State University to the flexible online programs at Columbia Southern University, and from University of West Alabama’s cozy campus to Oakwood University’s faith-based focus — there’s something here for every student and every budget. We’ve rounded up the top cheapest colleges in Alabama for 2025 so you can find the perfect place to grow, learn, and save. Let’s dive into the schools that make college possible and affordable — without compromising on quality!
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Cheapest Colleges in Alabama
Alabama State University
Alabama State University (ASU), located in Montgomery, is a historically Black university (HBCU) with a proud history dating back to 1867. With just over 3,300 undergraduate students, it offers a personal, close-knit campus feel — while still providing big-university opportunities. Students can choose from 47 undergraduate and more than 20 graduate programs across fields like business, education, health sciences, and liberal arts. ASU also offers a vibrant student life, with NCAA Division I sports, more than 70 clubs, and regular cultural events. Below are the key details of Alabama State University (ASU):
| Category | Details |
| Location | Montgomery, Alabama |
| Established | 1867 |
| Institution Type | Public Historically Black University (HBCU) |
| Student Enrollment | ~3,322 undergraduate students (Fall 2023) |
| Programs Offered | 47 undergraduate and 20+ graduate programs |
| Tuition & Fees (2025) | In-state: ~$11,068/year; Out-of-state: ~$19,936/year |
| Room & Board | ~$6,050/year (on-campus housing and dining estimate) |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 18:1 |
| Acceptance Rate | ~97% (accessible admissions) |
| Graduation Rate | ~28% (6-year average; varies by major) |
| Campus Life | NCAA Division I sports, cultural festivals, clubs, Greek life |
| Financial Aid | 97% of students receive aid (scholarships, grants, work-study) |
University of West Alabama
The University of West Alabama (UWA) is one of Alabama’s most affordable public universities, located in the quiet, friendly town of Livingston. Founded in 1835, UWA is known for its hands-on learning and supportive campus community. With around 2,400 undergraduate students, it offers small class sizes, personal attention from faculty, and a strong focus on career readiness.
Students can choose from over 90 undergraduate and graduate programs in areas like education, business, psychology, and STEM fields. UWA also offers flexible online programs for those who want to study remotely. Below are the key highlights of University of West Alabama (UWA):
| Category | Details |
| Location | Livingston, Alabama |
| Established | 1835 |
| Institution Type | Public University |
| Student Enrollment | ~2,427 undergraduate students (Fall 2023) |
| Programs Offered | 90+ undergraduate and graduate programs (on-campus & online) |
| Tuition & Fees (2025) | In-state: ~$10,990/year; Out-of-state: ~$20,090/year |
| Room & Board | ~$6,200/year (estimated for on-campus housing & meals) |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 17:1 (small class sizes, more personal attention) |
| Graduation Rate | ~37% (within 6 years, varies by program) |
| Campus Life | Student clubs, athletics, Greek life, volunteer opportunities |
| Online Options | Yes – popular for working professionals and adult learners |
| Financial Aid | 97% of students receive aid (scholarships, grants, work-study) |
Troy University
Troy University, located in Troy, Alabama, is a well-established public university that has been serving students since 1887. Troy provides a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs that prepare students for real-world careers. With an undergraduate population of over 11,000 and a total enrollment nearing 15,000 students (Fall 2023), Troy combines the feel of a vibrant campus with a personalized educational experience.
Its 16:1 student-faculty ratio ensures students can build strong connections with professors. Plus, with in-state tuition just over $10,000 a year and many financial aid options, it’s one of Alabama’s most budget-friendly choices for a college degree. Below are the key details of Troy University:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Troy, Alabama |
| Established | 1887 |
| Institution Type | Public University |
| Student Enrollment | ~14,679 students (Fall 2023) |
| Undergraduate Enrollment | ~11,202 students |
| Programs Offered | Broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 16:1 |
| Tuition & Fees (2025) | In-state: ~$10,176/year; Out-of-state: ~$20,352/year |
| Room & Board | ~$9,500/year (varies by housing/meal plan) |
| Acceptance Rate | Data not publicly available |
| Graduation Rate | Data not publicly available |
| Campus Life | 150+ student organizations, study abroad, NCAA Division I sports |
| Financial Aid | Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs available |
Athens State University
Athens State University, located in Athens, Alabama, is a public institution established in 1822. It specializes in serving junior and senior-level students by offering upper-division courses leading to bachelor’s degrees. With an enrollment of approximately 2,894 students in 2022, Athens State provides a personalized educational experience with a student-faculty ratio of 15:1. Athens State is also committed to affordability, with in-state tuition set at $256 per credit hour and out-of-state tuition at $512 per credit hour for the 2024-2025 academic year. Below are the key details of Athens State University:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Athens, Alabama |
| Established | 1822 |
| Institution Type | Public University |
| Student Enrollment | Approximately 2,531 undergraduate students (Fall 2023) |
| Tuition & Fees (2024-2025) | In-state: $9,840/year; Out-of-state: $17,370/year |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 15:1 |
| Campus Life | Flexible class schedules, online course offerings, and student support services |
Columbia Southern University
Columbia Southern University (CSU), based in Orange Beach, Alabama, is a private online institution established in 1993. CSU specializes in providing flexible, online degree programs tailored for adult learners seeking to advance their education while balancing work and personal commitments. With a diverse student body of approximately 20,000, CSU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across various fields, including business, criminal justice, and health care administration. Below are the key details of Columbia Southern University:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Orange Beach, Alabama (Online) |
| Established | 1993 |
| Institution Type | Private Online University |
| Student Enrollment | Approximately 20,000 students |
| Programs Offered | Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral programs in fields such as Business, Criminal Justice, Health Care Administration, and more |
| Tuition & Fees (2025) | Undergraduate: $278 per credit hour; Graduate: $359 per credit hour; Doctoral: $561 per credit hour. Active-duty military members using tuition assistance: $250 per credit hour for associate, bachelor’s, and master’s courses. |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 35:1 |
| Campus Life | Online student communities, virtual events, career services, and access to a variety of student support resources |
| Financial Aid | Various options available, including scholarships, military tuition assistance, and Learning Partnerships |
Oakwood University
Oakwood University, located in Huntsville, Alabama, is a private, historically Black Seventh-day Adventist institution founded in 1896. The university offers a range of undergraduate programs aimed at providing a holistic education that integrates faith and learning. With a close-knit community of approximately 1,500 undergraduate students, Oakwood emphasizes personalized instruction and spiritual development. Below are the key details of Oakwood University:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Huntsville, Alabama |
| Established | 1896 |
| Institution Type | Private Historically Black University (HBCU) affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church |
| Student Enrollment | Approximately 1,500 undergraduate students |
| Programs Offered | Various undergraduate programs across disciplines such as Arts & Sciences, Business & Information Systems, Education & Social Sciences, Nursing & Health Professions, and Theology |
| Tuition & Fees (2024-2025) | Tuition Package per semester: $10,672; Room and Board per semester: varies based on accommodation and meal plan selected. |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 10:1 |
| Campus Life | Spiritual life programs, diverse student organizations, cultural events, and a commitment to community service |
| Financial Aid | Available through scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs to assist students in funding their education |
Conclusion
So, there you have it — a lineup of Alabama colleges that deliver a solid education without breaking the bank! Whether you prefer a traditional campus like Troy University, a flexible online format like CSU, or a faith-based community like Oakwood, there’s a place here for you.
Each school on this list offers financial aid, low tuition rates, and valuable degrees that can help you launch your future. So, if you’re ready to start your college journey on a smart budget, Alabama just might be the perfect place to begin. Now it’s your turn: compare your options, explore your passions, and take that first step toward an affordable college experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top cheapest colleges in Alabama for 2025?
The top cheapest colleges in Alabama for 2025 include Troy University, University of West Alabama, Alabama State University, Athens State University, Columbia Southern University, and Oakwood University. These schools offer affordable tuition rates, strong academic programs, and generous financial aid options.
Can I find online affordable colleges in Alabama?
Yes! Columbia Southern University is a top online affordable college in Alabama offering fully online degrees at $278 per credit hour for undergraduates. It’s ideal for adult learners, military students, and working professionals.
What’s the average tuition for a cheap college in Alabama?
For in-state students, most affordable Alabama colleges charge between $9,000 and $11,000 per year in tuition. Out-of-state rates are slightly higher, but many schools offer waivers or flat-rate online tuition options.
Are there affordable colleges in Alabama for healthcare or nursing?
Yes! University of South Alabama, UWA, and Oakwood University offer strong, affordable programs in nursing and healthcare, with pathways into medical, clinical, and community health careers.
What’s the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition at Alabama colleges?
In-state tuition is offered to Alabama residents and is much lower than out-of-state tuition. For example, Troy University charges ~$10,176/year in-state vs. ~$20,352/year out-of-state. Establishing residency or attending an online program can help reduce costs for out-of-state students.
