Students need not spend an astronomical amount of money just to pursue an MBA programme to scale up their career. For several applicants, especially international applicants, who desire to pursue an MBA in USA, affordability is a major concern. So, let us get right to the point. A majority of the MBA programmes in the top US universities or top US business schools are quite costly. On the other hand, for that amount, students get an incomparable quality education, access to a wide network of industry professionals, crucial practical experience, and even job placements. While some students are able to pay high tuition fees to gain all these advantages, on the other hand, many students seek low-budget yet good business programmes that can offer the same features at low cost.
Furthermore, since MBA programmes in the USA are typically two years long (as opposed to one year in Europe), both the time and financial commitment soon add up. International students, who may or may not be able to get loans to cover tuition and fees, may find it particularly difficult to pay for an MBA. One way to cover such expenses is to get a scholarship, however, even here the competition is tough and scholarships are limited.
This is where a little research on US business schools with low-tuition fees can help you. There are various reasonably priced MBA programmes offered by reputed US universities which offer quality education, peer networking, and career opportunities. Some US business schools offer internationally accredited MBA programmes at a low cost without compromising on academics and employment opportunities.
10 Most Affordable US Universities for MBA
Nowadays, pursuing an MBA is the next step for any business or management aspirant looking to build a strong profile for the job market. As the demand for MBA graduates is increasing among popular employers, more students are choosing to pursue an MBA degree from a reputed institution. As a result, this increases competition among MBA aspirants as they compete with each other to find a place in top US business schools.
For international students, tuition fees are generally much higher than for domestic students. So, international students have to carefully budget everything for their study abroad process. Universities with low tuition fees yet quality teaching help such students realise their dreams and career goals.
An MBA from USA is regarded as a valuable addition to one's curriculum vitae (CV). The teaching techniques employed at the institutions listed below are identical to those used at the country's top-ranked MBA institutions. Let us take a closer look at these low-cost MBA programmes in US:
University Name |
Tuition Fees (in USD) |
Per semester hour - 628 |
|
Per credit hour - 850 |
|
Annual - 8,474 |
|
Per unit - 626 |
|
Annual - 25,000 |
|
Annual - 12,530 |
|
Annual - 11,592 |
|
Per three-credit course: 966 |
|
Annual - 24,000-26,000 |
|
Annual - 10,880 |
We have a specialised team of study abroad experts to assist you to shortlist the best MBA universities in the USA at an affordable cost.
Planning Your MBA in USA? Start Your Journey With Us!
Let us begin by addressing the most central question:
Why Study MBA in USA?
The United States is popular for being a hub of the world's most prestigious business schools. These b-schools offer cutting-edge facilities, academic excellence, and excellent job opportunities to help students get the most out of their MBA curriculum. The following are some of the most compelling reasons to get an MBA in USA:
Excellent Job Prospects
The bulk of Fortune 500 companies are headquartered in the United States, which increases your chances of being employed by a renowned company. Furthermore, a majority of universities and b-schools now offer career services or placement opportunities. This allows students to find a sure footing in their respective fields.
Industry Exposure
Internships/co-ops and other training programmes that allow students to contact industry specialists are highly valued at USA institutions. These programmes prepare them for future industry challenges and the job market.
Networking Opportunity
According to the US Department of Education, the United States has the world's largest MBA market, with over 1,25,000 MBA applicants graduating each year. This allows students to connect with alumni or like-minded peers while interning and create a wide network of professional connections.
Learning From The Best
US B-schools not only have top-rated MBA programmes but also reputed faculty. MBA aspirants get the opportunity to learn from experienced professors and industry personas. This encourages an active classroom where the teachers and students are interactive. Students get to learn from industry professionals and their experiences.
Globally Recognised Degree
An MBA degree from a US university or school is globally recognised and accredited by some of the major international institutions. MBA graduates have the freedom to work anywhere in the world. Students also get the opportunity to draw a good salary package with an MBA degree from a US B-school.
Types of MBA in USA
After discussing the top ten most affordable MBA universities, let us look at the many sorts of MBA programmes available in the USA. Although in India, the most popular and only MBA is a full-time two-year MBA, whilst US universitiesoffer the following types of courses:
Part-Time MBA
Part-time MBA sessions are only held on weekends thus the duration is double that of a full-time MBA. It is best suited for working professionals who want to get a degree alongside their employment. However, because the curriculum is identical to that of a full-time MBA, the time frame can be extended from two to four years.
Full-Time MBA
It takes two years to complete a full-time MBA in any US university or college. Students are introduced to core business subjects in the first year and then in the second year, students choose a specialisation. A full-time MBA curriculum may also involve practical projects or internships.
Accelerated MBA
Accelerated MBA only covers the most important core subjects and the specialisation topic. It is a rushed MBA programme, as the name suggests, that can take a year to 18 months to complete. It is best suited for people with prior business experience and skills.
Executive MBA
Executive MBA is mostly for business professionals or professionals with 5-10 years of experience. Professionals in higher positions in the organisations, such as managers or directors, usually take up this course. This MBA is meant to develop executive management abilities such as communication, leadership, and teamwork.
Can I Pursue MBA in USA For Free?
Studying MBA in USA for free is difficult as there are only a few schools that provide tuition-free programmes. However, several universities in the USA offer full scholarships to international MBA applicants. Indian aspirants can also avail themselves of such scholarships.
What is the Lowest and Highest Tuition Fee for MBA in USA?
The total cost of pursuing an MBA in USA usually includes tuition, accommodation and living expenses. Thus, a students total cost of attendance can vary as per their preference and lifestyle choices. However, if you just factor in the tuition fee amount, then the highest MBA tuition fee one can expect is around USD 65,000 per year. The lowest annual tuition fee for MBA at US colleges is USD 19,700. However, it is important to note that this amount can vary as per academic year and intake.
Is a Job Guaranteed After MBA in USA?
An MBA in USA gives students a boost in the competition for high-paying jobs. This does not, however, ensure career success. Nothing can guarantee a job as it all depends on the individual and situation of the job market. Survival is about adaptability, inventiveness, and skills that are not taught or tested in any MBA curriculum all around the world. However, many universities and colleges offer placement services and employment opportunities. So, students are encouraged to take advantage of their institutions career services to build their careers.
Pro Tip: While you are looking for MBA schools on a budget, you should also look for scholarships to help you stretch your dollar even further. Getting a scholarship can help you save money while pursuing an MBA at one of the top universities in the USA.
Want to know your chances of getting into one of the MBA colleges in the USA? Feel free to reach out to us at abroad@collegedekho.com and let your queries be resolved by our experts.
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