For professionals looking to level up their careers with the flexibility of online learning, an affordable MBA program can significantly improve your return on investment. These programs provide you with the skills needed for higher salaries and leadership roles, such as HR managers, who earn a median salary of $136,350, or marketing managers, with a median salary of $157,620.
Choosing a budget-friendly MBA option will help you keep debt to a minimum while preparing for lucrative positions, ensuring you get the most value from your degree.
Why Trust Us
The Intelligent.com Higher Education Team is dedicated to providing students with independent, equitable school and program rankings and well-researched resources. Our expert-driven articles cover topics related to online colleges and programs, paying for school, and career outlooks. We use data from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, the National Center for Education Statistics, and other reputable educational and professional organizations. Our academic advisory team reviews content and verifies accuracy throughout the year for the most current information. Partnerships do not influence rankings or editorial decisions.
- Analyzed over 2,000 national, accredited, and nonprofit colleges and universities
- 800+ rankings pages are reviewed and updated yearly
- Content is informed by reputable sources, surveys, and interviews with academic advisors and other experts
- Over 100 data points are reviewed for accuracy and quality throughout the year, including sources
How we rank schools
Our list features the Cheapest online MBA degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Most Affordable Online MBA Programs
intelligent score 99.61
Award
Rankings
#1 The Gradcafe
#2 Online MBA Coach
#2 OnlineU
#2 Research.com
#20 Academic Influence
School Information
Americus, GA
Graduation Rate: 44%
Admission Rate: 86%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$257
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
229-928-1273
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 98.21
Award
Rankings
#1 Online MBA Coach
School Information
Augusta, GA
Graduation Rate: 46%
Admission Rate: 73%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$739
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
706-737-1418
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 97.59
Award
Rankings
#1 College Educated
#3 Online MBA Coach
#13 The Gradcafe
School Information
Ruston, LA
Graduation Rate: 53%
Admission Rate: 66%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$475
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
318-257-4528
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 96.49
Award
Rankings
#3 Academic Influence
#5 Online MBA Coach
#32 Research.com
School Information
Fayetteville, NC
Graduation Rate: 43%
Admission Rate: 82%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $224
Non-Resident: $887
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
910-672-1371
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 96.32
Award
Rankings
#4 Online MBA Coach
#29 Research.com
School Information
Texarkana, TX
Graduation Rate: 52%
Admission Rate: 96%
Urbanicity: Rural
School Size: Small
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $334
Non-Resident: $869
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
903-334-6601
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 96.25
Award
Rankings
#5 The Gradcafe
#6 Online MBA Coach
#14 College Educated
#15 Academic Influence
School Information
Odessa, TX
Graduation Rate: 51%
Admission Rate: 65%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$390
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
866-701-7515
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-36
intelligent score 96.06
Award
Rankings
#7 Academic Influence
#7 Online MBA Coach
School Information
San Angelo, TX
Graduation Rate: 40%
Admission Rate: 70%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online, Hybrid
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $232
Non-Resident: $652
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
325-942-2169
Delivery Format
Online, Hybrid
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 95.33
Award
Rankings
#6 College Educated
#8 Online MBA Coach
#20 Research.com
School Information
Canyon, TX
Graduation Rate: 54%
Admission Rate: 97%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
37
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$500
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
806-651-2500
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
37
intelligent score 94.87
Award
Rankings
#4 The Gradcafe
#8 Research.com
#12 Online MBA Coach
#19 Academic Influence
School Information
Conway, AR
Graduation Rate: 45%
Admission Rate: 92%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$336
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
501-450-3411
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 94.70
Award
Rankings
#9 Online MBA Coach
#26 Research.com
School Information
Magnolia, AR
Graduation Rate: 43%
Admission Rate: 63%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus, Hybrid
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $312
Out-of-State: $490
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
870-235-4150
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus, Hybrid
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 94.48
Award
Rankings
School Information
Russellville, AR
Graduation Rate: 47%
Admission Rate: 94%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$315
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
479-968-0343
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-33
intelligent score 94.33
Award
Rankings
School Information
Pembroke, NC
Graduation Rate: 46%
Admission Rate: 92%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$237
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
844-302-7886
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 93.92
Award
Rankings
School Information
Springfield, MO
Graduation Rate: 57%
Admission Rate: 94%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
34
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$348
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
417-836-5000
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
34
intelligent score 93.91
Award
Rankings
School Information
Prairie View, TX
Graduation Rate: 45%
Admission Rate: 77%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,167
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
936-261-9215
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 93.62
Award
Rankings
School Information
Kearney, NE
Graduation Rate: 57%
Admission Rate: 90%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus, Blended
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $326
Non-Resident: $522
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
308-865-8346
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus, Blended
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
intelligent score 93.57
Award
Rankings
School Information
Laredo, TX
Graduation Rate: 54%
Admission Rate: 54%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$367
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
844-872-8712
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 93.56
Award
Rankings
School Information
Durham, NC
Graduation Rate: 50%
Admission Rate: 76%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $298
Out-of-State: $1,038
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
919-530-6324
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 93.44
Award
Rankings
School Information
Huntsville, TX
Graduation Rate: 61%
Admission Rate: 97%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $320
Non-Resident: $728
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
936-294-1971
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 91.53
Award
Rankings
School Information
Macomb, IL
Graduation Rate: 58%
Admission Rate: 72%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $374
Out-of-State: $562
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
309-298-2442
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
intelligent score 90.30
Award
Rankings
School Information
Pittsburg, KS
Graduation Rate: 55%
Admission Rate: 94%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$395
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
888-712-3017
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 90.18
Award
Rankings
School Information
Emporia, KS
Graduation Rate: 50%
Admission Rate: 88%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$363
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-721-2248
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
intelligent score 90.05
Award
Rankings
School Information
Durant, OK
Graduation Rate: 41%
Admission Rate: 74%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$345
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
844-515-9100
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 88.35
Award
Rankings
School Information
Arkadelphia, AR
Graduation Rate: 39%
Admission Rate: 75%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$350
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
877-266-0012
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
intelligent score 87.98
Award
Rankings
School Information
Jacksonville, AL
Graduation Rate: 49%
Admission Rate: 76%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$422
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
256-782-5781
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 87.82
Award
Rankings
School Information
Farmville, VA
Graduation Rate: 68%
Admission Rate: 90%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
31
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$431
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
833-960-0138
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
31
intelligent score 87.64
Award
Rankings
School Information
Fitchburg, MA
Graduation Rate: 59%
Admission Rate: 85%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$436
accreditation
International Accreditation Council for Business Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
844-351-9393
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 86.73
Award
Rankings
School Information
Fort Myers, FL
Graduation Rate: 62%
Admission Rate: 89%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$373
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
239-590-1000
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
intelligent score 85.90
Award
Rankings
School Information
Tahlequah, OK
Graduation Rate: 45%
Admission Rate: 99%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$343
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
918-444-2900
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 85.50
Award
Rankings
School Information
Thibodaux, LA
Graduation Rate: 47%
Admission Rate: 97%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$385 - $412
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
985-448-4241
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 84.74
Award
Rankings
School Information
Lawton, OK
Graduation Rate: 24%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33-45
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $338
Non-Resident: $443
accreditation
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
580-581-2842
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33-45
intelligent score 84.49
Award
Rankings
School Information
Cape Girardeau, MO
Graduation Rate: 49%
Admission Rate: 79%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$364
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
573-651-5116
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
intelligent score 83.66
Award
Rankings
School Information
Baton Rouge, LA
Graduation Rate: 69%
Admission Rate: 71%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$479
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
833-280-5634
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 82.78
Award
Rankings
School Information
Little Rock, AR
Graduation Rate: 41%
Admission Rate: 58%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $345
Non-Resident: $740
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
501-916-6778
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-36
intelligent score 81.74
Award
Rankings
School Information
Hays, KS
Graduation Rate: 57%
Admission Rate: 90%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$319
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
785-628-4236
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
intelligent score 81.29
Award
Rankings
School Information
Portales, NM
Graduation Rate: 47%
Admission Rate: 28%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$320
accreditation
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
575-562-1011
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 80.94
Award
Rankings
School Information
Chadron, NE
Graduation Rate: 45%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Small
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$392
accreditation
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-242-3766
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 80.87
Award
Rankings
School Information
Williamsburg, KY
Graduation Rate: 57%
Admission Rate: 85%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
31
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$355
accreditation
International Accreditation Council for Business Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-343-1609
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
31
intelligent score 80.15
Award
Rankings
School Information
Lubbock, TX
Graduation Rate: 63%
Admission Rate: 68%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
42
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $383
Non-Resident: $640
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
806-742-3184
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
42
intelligent score 79.26
Award
Rankings
School Information
Albany, GA
Graduation Rate: 29%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$300
accreditation
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
229-500-2000
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-33
intelligent score 78.77
Award
Rankings
School Information
Kennesaw, GA
Graduation Rate: 49%
Admission Rate: 82%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$383
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
470-578-6673
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 77.76
Award
Rankings
School Information
Sioux Falls, SD
Graduation Rate: 58%
Admission Rate: 77%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Small
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$430
accreditation
International Accreditation Council for Business Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
605-331-6600
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 77.28
Award
Rankings
School Information
Beaumont, TX
Graduation Rate: 41%
Admission Rate: 88%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$438
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
866-223-7675
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 76.48
Award
Rankings
School Information
Maryville, MO
Graduation Rate: 52%
Admission Rate: 86%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$428
accreditation
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
844-890-9304
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 76.03
Award
Rankings
School Information
Salt Lake City, UT
Graduation Rate: 54%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
34
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$528
accreditation
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
866-225-5948
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
34
intelligent score 75.16
Award
Rankings
School Information
Evansville, IN
Graduation Rate: 50%
Admission Rate: 96%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$430
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
844-515-9104
Delivery Format
Online, On Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 73.90
Award
Rankings
School Information
Detroit, MI
Graduation Rate: 47%
Admission Rate: 63%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $885
Non-Resident: $1,774
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
313-577-4511
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 72.60
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Rankings
School Information
Saint Davids, PA
Graduation Rate: 62%
Admission Rate: 69%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Small
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Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$330
accreditation
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-732-7669
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 71.87
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Rankings
School Information
Ashland, OR
Graduation Rate: 48%
Admission Rate: 90%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
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Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
45
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$430
accreditation
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-490-7974
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
45
intelligent score 71.46
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Rankings
School Information
Las Cruces, NM
Graduation Rate: 53%
Admission Rate: 57%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
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Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$444
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
575-646-8003
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 71.09
Award
Rankings
School Information
Cedar City, UT
Graduation Rate: 53%
Admission Rate: 89%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$485
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
833-994-0043
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
Cost Breakdown for an Online MBA Program
If you’re seeking an affordable MBA, it’s essential to understand the full cost breakdown to make informed decisions about where to cut costs.
- Tuition: Most MBA programs assess tuition fees per credit, usually from $500 to $1,200. Some programs may charge per term for full-time students.
- Fees: Additional fees related to tech support, academic resources, and library access are standard, generally adding a few hundred dollars per semester.
- Personal technology: As an online student, you’ll need a reliable computer, essential software, and a stable internet connection. These costs can vary significantly, often between $500 and $1,500 upfront.
- Books and other learning materials: Textbooks and course materials can also increase the overall expense, ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 annually.
While these costs can seem significant, you’ll likely save on commuting and housing expenses. This makes online learning a more affordable option for many.
Factors Influencing the Cost of an Online MBA Program
- Public vs. private institution: Public universities generally have lower tuition rates than private institutions. However, private schools may offer more robust financial aid packages, including scholarships and grants.
- Nonprofit vs. for-profit: Nonprofit institutions focus on educational quality and student outcomes, often keeping tuition more affordable, whereas for-profit institutions may have higher tuition due to a profit-driven model.
- Student residency status: Many public universities offer reduced tuition rates for in-state residents, while out-of-state students typically pay more. Online programs sometimes have flat rates regardless of residency.
Student military status: Active military personnel, veterans, and their families may be eligible for considerable discounts or tuition assistance, making the program more affordable.
How to Pay for an Online MBA
If you’re exploring ways to finance your degree, it’s essential to consider all available options, from scholarships and grants to work-study programs and employer tuition assistance. Completing the FAFSA is the crucial first step for those seeking federal aid. To learn more about how the FAFSA can help you access federal loans, grants, and work-study opportunities, check out our Ultimate FAFSA Guide.
Out-of-pocket
Paying for your degree out-of-pocket is a straightforward way to avoid loans. While paying the full tuition upfront may be impossible, many schools offer payment plans that allow students to break the total cost into smaller, more manageable installments. These plans help spread expenses across the duration of the program, making it easier to budget and avoid the dreaded debt snowball.
Federal student loans
Federal loans are often widely available for MBA students, offering accessible funding through programs like Direct Unsubsidized and Grad PLUS Loans.
While these loans provide immediate financial relief, borrowing only what you need is important. Overborrowing is a common mistake that can lead to substantial debt after graduation.
Private education loans
Private education loans can technically help finance an online MBA, but they should be a last resort or avoided entirely. These loans often come with significantly higher interest rates and rigid repayment terms than federal loans. Additionally, private loans are ineligible for federal forgiveness programs, making them an expensive and unyielding payment method.
Scholarships
Scholarships are preferable for financing your degree because they don’t need to be repaid, making them essentially free money. Scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of tuition and other education-related expenses, helping you focus on your studies without creating a debt burden.
Many scholarships are available based on merit, need, or specific demographic factors, so you should actively research and apply for opportunities that align with your background and achievements.
Grants
Grants can be a great way to finance your education, as they — like scholarships — provide funds that don’t need to be repaid. While many federal grants are reserved for undergraduate students, graduate students still have opportunities to receive funding. These may include grants related to your field of study or for students from underrepresented groups.
Work-study
You can also utilize work-study programs, like graduate assistantships, to help pay for your degree. These programs often involve working part-time for the university, providing administrative support, or assisting with faculty needs. In return, you may receive a tuition discount or stipend.
Employer tuition assistance
Many employers offer tuition assistance programs to help employees finance their education. These programs can cover a portion of even the total cost of tuition, reducing the need for loans or out-of-pocket payments.
It is an excellent way to finance your MBA while continuing to work, as it’ll allow you to improve your skills without significant financial strain. Be sure to check with your HR department to understand eligibility and program specifics, as some employers may require a commitment to remain with the company for a certain period post-graduation.
Scholarship Database
Intelligent Scholarship Finder Tool
"A Helping Hand" Scholarship
Award Amount: $500
Due Date: January 31, 2025
Degree Type:High School Senior College Graduate Student
Major:All
Minimum GPA:Not listed
Essay Required:Yes
Provided by:Scholarships360
Location:Nationwide
Recommendations Required:Not listed
Degree Type:High School Senior College Graduate Student
Major:All
Minimum GPA:Not listed
Essay Required:Yes
Provided by:Scholarships360
Recommendations Required:Not listed
Location:Nationwide
"Follow Your Own Path" Essay Scholarship
Award Amount: $500
Due Date: January 31, 2025
Degree Type:College Graduate Students
Major:All
Minimum GPA:Not listed
Essay Required:Yes
Provided by:Scholarships360
Location:Nationwide
Recommendations Required:Not listed
Degree Type:College Graduate Students
Major:All
Minimum GPA:Not listed
Essay Required:Yes
Provided by:Scholarships360
Recommendations Required:Not listed
Location:Nationwide
"Tuition Solution" Scholarship for STEM Students
Award Amount: $500
Due Date: January 31, 2025
Degree Type:High School Seniors College Graduate Students
Major:STEM major
Minimum GPA:Not listed
Essay Required:Yes
Provided by:Scholarships360
Location:Nationwide
Recommendations Required:Not listed
Degree Type:High School Seniors College Graduate Students
Major:STEM major
Minimum GPA:Not listed
Essay Required:Yes
Provided by:Scholarships360
Recommendations Required:Not listed
Location:Nationwide
$25k "Be Bold" No-Essay Scholarship
Award Amount: $25,000
Due Date: Closed for 2024
Degree Type:All
Major:All
Minimum GPA:Not listed
Essay Required:No
Provided by:Bold
Location:Nationwide
Recommendations Required:Not listed
Degree Type:All
Major:All
Minimum GPA:Not listed
Essay Required:No
Provided by:Bold
Recommendations Required:Not listed
Location:Nationwide
(ISC) Graduate Cybersecurity Scholarship
Award Amount: $5,000
Due Date: Closed for 2024
Degree Type:Graduate (Masters & Doctoral)
Major:Cybersecurity or iInformation Assurance
Minimum GPA:3.5
Essay Required:Yes
Provided by:Center for Cyber Safety and Education
Location:Nationwide
Recommendations Required:Yes
Degree Type:Graduate (Masters & Doctoral)
Major:Cybersecurity or iInformation Assurance
Minimum GPA:3.5
Essay Required:Yes
Provided by:Center for Cyber Safety and Education
Recommendations Required:Yes
Location:Nationwide
(ISC) Women in Information Security Scholarship
Award Amount: $5,000
Due Date: Closed for 2024
Degree Type:High School Seniors Undergraduate Graduate
Major:Cybersecurity, Information Assurance or similar field
Minimum GPA:3.3
Essay Required:Yes
Provided by:Center for Cyber Safety and Education
Location:Nationwide
Recommendations Required:Yes
Degree Type:High School Seniors Undergraduate Graduate
Major:Cybersecurity, Information Assurance or similar field
Minimum GPA:3.3
Essay Required:Yes
Provided by:Center for Cyber Safety and Education
Recommendations Required:Yes
Location:Nationwide
A.C. "Kate" & Leo Joseph Merlone St. Dominic Catholic Church of Saginaw Member Scholarship
Award Amount: Varies
Due Date: Closed for 2024
Degree Type:High School Seniors Undergraduate Graduate
Major:Not listed
Minimum GPA:3
Essay Required:Yes
Provided by:Saginaw Community Foundation
Location:Nationwide
Recommendations Required:Yes
Degree Type:High School Seniors Undergraduate Graduate
Major:Not listed
Minimum GPA:3
Essay Required:Yes
Provided by:Saginaw Community Foundation
Recommendations Required:Yes
Location:Nationwide
A.C. "Kate" & Leo Joseph Merlone Teaching Scholarship
Award Amount: Varies
Due Date: Closed for 2024
Degree Type:High School Seniors Undergraduate Graduate
Major:Education
Minimum GPA:3
Essay Required:Yes
Provided by:Saginaw Community Foundation
Location:Nationwide
Recommendations Required:Yes
Degree Type:High School Seniors Undergraduate Graduate
Major:Education
Minimum GPA:3
Essay Required:Yes
Provided by:Saginaw Community Foundation
Recommendations Required:Yes
Location:Nationwide
a/e ProNet David W. Lakamp Scholarship
Award Amount: $5,000
Due Date: Closed for 2024
Degree Type:Undergraduate Graduate
Major:Architecture
Minimum GPA:3.0 or Higher
Essay Required:Yes
Provided by:a/e ProNet
Location:Nationwide
Recommendations Required:Yes
Degree Type:Undergraduate Graduate
Major:Architecture
Minimum GPA:3.0 or Higher
Essay Required:Yes
Provided by:a/e ProNet
Recommendations Required:Yes
Location:Nationwide
AAAE Native American Scholarship
Award Amount: $1,500
Due Date: March 15, 2025
Degree Type:Undergraduate (Junior or Senior) Graduate
Major:Aviation Program
Minimum GPA:3
Essay Required:Not listed
Provided by:American Association of Airport Executives
Location:Nationwide
Recommendations Required:Yes
Degree Type:Undergraduate (Junior or Senior) Graduate
Major:Aviation Program
Minimum GPA:3
Essay Required:Not listed
Provided by:American Association of Airport Executives
Recommendations Required:Yes
Location:Nationwide
How to Choose the Online MBA that’s Right for You
Clarify your needs and goals
Choosing the right program starts with clarifying your needs and goals. Consider asking yourself:
- What specialization aligns with your career objectives?
- Do you prefer a synchronous or asynchronous learning format?
- Can you commit to a full-time schedule, or do you need part-time flexibility?
- How does the program’s duration fit with your timeline?
A full-time, synchronous program offers immersive learning and faster completion but requires a greater time commitment. In contrast, a part-time, asynchronous program provides flexibility to balance other responsibilities, though it will take longer to complete and require more self-discipline.
Research schools and programs
When researching schools for an affordable online MBA, asking the right questions is essential. Some questions may include:
- Do recognized bodies — like AACSB, ACBSP, or IACBE — accredit the institution and program?
- What is the total cost of the program, including tuition and fees?
- Are scholarships, grants, or payment plans available?
- What is the average time to completion for part-time and full-time students?
You can find this information on program websites, by speaking with an admissions counselor, or by attending a virtual open house.
Review application and eligibility requirements
With your shortlist of programs in hand, you can begin preparing for tests and applications. While some requirements may vary, many programs share some standard criteria — including:
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field
- Official academic transcripts
- Personal statement
- Resume or CV
- Letters of recommendation
- GMAT scores, if required
For students needing to take the GMAT, test prep programs can be especially helpful for boosting scores. These programs offer practice exams, strategy types, and structured study schedules, which can help you perform better and become a more competitive applicant in the admissions process.