Out-of-state tuition can make education unaffordable for many prospective students. However, Florida provides cheap options for out-of-state students seeking to enjoy warm weather and gorgeous beaches while pursuing a degree.
In this article, we highlight the cheap colleges in Florida Out of State for prospective students. Also, we stated the fee for both in-state and out-of-state tuition for Florida colleges. Keep reading to learn more.
10 Cheap Colleges in Florida Out of State
Finding the right cheap colleges in Florida out of state is a game changer. We’ve compiled a list of the finest cheap colleges in Florida.
Florida’s higher education landscape is peppered with institutions that offer both affordability and intellectual rigor. These colleges provide affordable tuition rates, a strong curriculum, competent teachers and numerous chances for personal and professional development.
1. University of Florida
The University of Florida is well-known for its comprehensive academic offerings, which include a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees.
These include 30 certificates, 100 undergraduate majors, and 200 graduate degree programs. UF offers a diversified learning environment. Tuition and expenses for in-state undergraduates are $6,380, while out-of-state students will pay $28,658.
UF’s commitment to excellence and accessibility makes it an appealing alternative for students looking for a quality education in Florida.
2. Gulf Coast State College
Gulf Coast State College provides an inexpensive education with various perks. GCSC’s hourly tuition rate is the lowest among Florida’s 40 public colleges and universities.
In-state citizens can expect to spend $98.75 per credit hour for AA, AS, College Prep and some credential courses, putting higher education within reach.
Out-of-state tuition varies, with AA, AS, College Prep, and some certificate courses priced at $359.71 per credit hour. The college also provides financial aid to students who want to pursue their educational aspirations.
3. Santa Fe College
Santa Fe College, known for its veteran-friendly campus, provides several financial possibilities to make higher education accessible.
Tuition, books and living expenses are all included in the cost of attendance. For off-campus living, in-state undergraduates pay around $17,465 per year, while out-of-state students pay approximately $24,092.
For upper-division courses, in-state undergraduates may expect a COA of $17,934, while out-of-state students will pay $25,194.
SF offers high-quality education at a reasonable cost, allowing students to achieve their aspirations without incurring severe financial burdens.
4. Florida State University
Florida State University is one of the top 25 public colleges according to U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges 2023-2024.
It provides exceptional value for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduates, with annual tuition of $25,682 and $39,612, respectively.
Graduates pay $31,922 per year for in-state students and $45,362 for out-of-state students. With over 280 academic and professional degree programs, the institution maintains an excellent 96% first-year retention rate, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 17:1.
5. Pensacola State College
Pensacola State College provides reasonable tuition rates for a variety of course types. The cost of an AA, AS, College Prep, Some Certificate, or EPI course is $104.58 per credit hour.
Vocational courses cost $85.74 per credit hour. Bachelor-level courses cost $120.89 per credit hour, which includes tuition, fees and technology costs.
Additional lab expenses may apply, as indicated in the course schedule. Web courses incur an Online Learning Fee of $12.00 per credit hour.
6. Florida Southwestern State College
Tuition at Florida SouthWestern State College varies by program and resident status. Resident students in credit programs such as A&P and PSV pay $113.36 per credit hour, for a total of $3,400.80 per academic year. Non-residents pay $432.63 for each credit hour, which amounts to $12,978.90 per year.
Bachelor’s degree students in Florida pay $125.71 for each credit hour, totaling $3,771.30 for the academic year, whereas non-residents spend $795.34 per credit hour, totaling $23,860.20.
7. Florida State College in Jacksonville
Tuition fees at Florida State College at Jacksonville vary according to residency and course type. In-state residents pay $104.88 per credit hour for lower-division college credit courses, while non-residents pay $401.27. Non-residents and qualifying Georgia citizens can take online courses for $218.55 per credit hour.
Upper-division bachelor’s degree courses cost $116.52 per credit hour for in-state residents and $401.27 per credit hour for non-residents and qualifying Georgia residents. Online classes cost $227.09 per credit hour.
8. Florida Gateway College
Florida Gateway College is an economic educational institution. In-state students spend $13,756 a year for campus living, which includes tuition, housing, food, and other expenditures, while out-of-state students pay $23,403.
Off-campus students could anticipate paying $22,160 (in-state) and $30,807 (out-of-state). Students living at home in-state pay $14,155, while out-of-state students pay $22,802. Baccalaureate students spend $22,670 (in-state) and $32,583 (out-of-state).
Second Chance Pell students pay $6,400. These values show the projected costs for the academic year.
9. Florida Atlantic University
Non-residents pay $432.63 for each credit hour, which amounts to $12,978.90 per year. Bachelor’s degree students in Florida pay $125.71 for each credit hour, totaling $3,771.30 for the academic year, whereas non-residents spend $795.34 per credit hour, totaling $23,860.20.
10. Florida State College in Jacksonville
Tuition fees at Florida State College at Jacksonville vary according to residency and course type. In-state residents pay $104.88 per credit hour for lower-division college credit courses, while non-residents pay $401.27.
Non-residents and qualifying Georgia citizens can take online courses for $218.55 per credit hour. Upper-division bachelor’s degree courses cost $116.52 per credit hour for in-state residents and $401.27 per credit hour for non-residents and qualifying Georgia residents. Online classes cost $227.09 per credit hour.
In-state undergraduate tuition is $105.07. Non-resident undergraduates pay an extra $510.00. Graduate students pay a tuition of $385.00 (resident) or $608.00 (non-resident) with associated costs.
How Much Will A College Degree Cost?
The cost of a college degree in Florida varies depending on numerous criteria, such as the type of institution (public or private), the topic of study and the length of the program.
A bachelor’s degree at a public institution typically costs between $10,000 and $25,000 a year, however, private universities may charge more. Master’s programs are often more expensive, depending on the expertise and prestige of the college.
It’s important to consider other fees like textbooks, lodging, and living costs, which can greatly affect the overall cost of education.
How To Make College Affordable in Florida
A cheap college in Florida does not imply that it applies to everyone. Here are some additional strategies to make your cheap college more affordable:
- Scholarships and Grants: Applying for scholarships and grants can greatly alleviate financial burdens. Many colleges provide merit-based scholarships, whilst others provide need-based grants.
- In-State Tuition Benefits: If you live in Florida, you can save a lot of money by paying in-state tuition.
- Work-Study Programs: By participating in work-study programs, students can earn money while also obtaining useful experience.
- Community College Transfer: Beginning in a community college and transferring to a four-year university can save money.
- Financial Aid Negotiation: Don’t be afraid to negotiate your package with the college’s financial aid office.
Do Cheap Colleges in Florida Provide High-Quality Education?
The assumption that lower cost indicates worse quality is not true for Florida’s colleges. Regardless of tuition, the state’s educational institutions maintain strong academic standards.
These colleges feature skilled faculty, extensive curricula, and outstanding facilities. Many have significant industry contacts, which provide students with valuable internships and job chances.
Florida Tuition Rates: In-State versus Out-of-State
Tuition rates at Florida colleges differ greatly for in-state and out-of-state students.
For example, the University of Florida costs $6,380 for in-state undergraduates and $28,658 for out-of-state students.
Similarly, the in-state tuition at Florida State University is $25,682, while out-of-state students pay $39,612. This discrepancy is due to state subsidies, which reduce prices for citizens who pay state taxes.
Out-of-state students who do not participate in these tax pools are charged more to compensate for the shortfall. Students must consider tuition discrepancies when planning their college education.
Tips for Selecting a Cheap Institute in Florida
Here are some practical factors for choosing a cheap college in the Sunshine State (Florida).
- Look beyond the tuition costs: Consider all study-related expenses, such as books, meals, and housing costs. This holistic approach guarantees that you are fully informed of your financial commitment.
- Location matters: Choose a university that is close to your residence. This lowers transportation expenses while providing a sense of familiarity and convenience.
- Unlock scholarships and financial aid: Look into the many financial assistance alternatives accessible.
- Choose institutes that actively provide scholarships, grants and employment opportunities. Many institutions offer work-study programs or brand ambassador positions to help students financially.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the cheapest college in Florida?
Florida State University is one of the most affordable institutions in Florida, with an annual tuition charge of around $21,683 for out-of-state students. The tuition costs at the University of Central Florida and Florida Atlantic University are also quite comparable.
How much does it cost to attend college in Florida for out-of-state residents?
Out-of-state tuition is often more expensive than in-state tuition. The average out-of-state tuition and fees in Florida are $18,322 for a public four-year degree and $28,860 for a private four-year degree.
Are Florida residents able to attend state colleges for free?
While Florida does not provide free tuition, in-state citizens pay much less than non-Florida residents. In-state citizens of Florida often pay less than $5,000 per year to attend a public four-year school.
Conclusion
Studying in Florida is one of the best experiences one can ever have. With one of the cheapest out of state tuition rates in the country and various cost-saving state grant opportunities, Florida provides economical education options even for non-resident students on a tight budget.
