In the business world, an MBA can help to show prospective employers that you have what it takes to be a leader at their company. However, getting an MBA can put a major strain on your time and money, especially if you have to take time off work and drive to campus for classes. Affordable online MBA programs offer a flexible option that allows you to advance in your career by completing your degree at home. This guide is a great starting point for finding accredited schools offering budget-friendly online MBAs. It tells you about the 50 most affordable online MBA programs as well as the best ways to fund your degree.
50 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs in 2021
Any online MBA program must offer the right courses, networking opportunities, and resources to help you reach your professional goals. The biggest factor for most students, though, is affordability. In fact, financing often determines if earning your MBA is even possible. To help you find a budget-friendly, high-quality program, we ranked the most affordable MBA programs in the U.S. Data on quality and affordability from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) informed these rankings. Learn more about this data by clicking the “about the ranking” button below.
Georgia Southwestern State University’s Online Master of Business Administration offers a rigorous business curriculum in a budget-friendly, flexible program designed to fit into a working professional’s schedule. Its faculty possess real-world business experience, often as industry leaders, and the program is highly focused on applicable, hands-on coursework. Unlike most MBAs, the program only offers one concentration, general management. This versatile, affordable MBA program is mostly asynchronous, though there are specific times when courses meet.
You need an undergraduate degree with at least a 2.7 GPA to apply, but it doesn’t have to be in business. The GMAT is required, and the average GMAT for successful applicants is 537.35.
Program Highlights:
Master of Business Administration
- Credits: 30
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $257/credit
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | No |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Texas A & M International University helps students become industry leaders through its affordable online MBA program. This program is accessible both to those with business experience and those new to the business world, offering a robust curriculum that creates strategic and innovative leaders across industries. In addition to core classes for all MBA students, Texas A & M offers concentrations that include marketing, accounting, finance, and real estate. The program also offers hands-on experience and networking opportunities to its MBA students. Online courses do meet at specific times, but they typically work around regular business hours.
Applicants need undergraduate degrees with at least a 3.0 GPA. Your undergraduate doesn’t have to be in business, but there are prerequisite courses for those coming from majors outside business disciplines. GRE test scores are also required.
Program Highlights:
Master in Business Administration
- Credits: 30 to 33
- Length: One to two years
- Cost: $783/semester (resident); $1,191/semester (non-resident)
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: AACSB
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Fitchburg State University’s MBA enables students to advance their careers through developing the skills needed to become forward-thinking industry leaders. Fitchburg offers a variety of MBA programs, including ones in accounting, business analytics, finance, healthcare management, human resources, general management, marketing, and supply chain management. In addition to the one-year accelerated MBA, they also have a two-year, dual concentration option. These MBA programs have small class sizes and give hands-on experiences and flexible, synchronous course schedules for working professionals.
To apply, you need a bachelor’s degree with a 2.8 GPA or higher. You do not need to submit GRE scores, but there is a heavy emphasis on quality letters of recommendation and personal statements when deciding who to admit to this MBA program.
Program Highlights:
Master of Business Administration
- Credits: 30
- Length: One year
- Cost: $436/credit
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: IACBE
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | NECHE |
The University of Texas Permian Basin designed its MBA program to offer a high-quality education at a price that suits most budgets. The program is 100% online and designed to fit around a working professional’s schedule, though class times are synchronous. In addition to core courses, the program offers electives in different business fields, such as marketing, finance, and supply chain operations.
To apply, you need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with a minimum GPA of 3.0 for your last 60 hours of coursework. GMAT score, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement are also required. While you don’t have to have an educational or professional background in business, you should be able to clearly explain your purpose for wanting an MBA.
Program Highlights:
Master of Business Administration
- Credits: 30-36
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $275/credit hour
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Texas A & M University Kingsville designed its MBA program as a great starting point for those entering business or management positions. At the same time, its rigorous coursework also challenges more experienced business professionals. There are four MBA certificates offered: business analytics, health informatics, taxation, and collaboration and team dynamics. Classes are synchronous, but students can also watch recordings of classes on their own schedules.
To be a competitive applicant, you need a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Texas A & M also requires the GRE, though applicants with a 3.5 GPA or higher in previous coursework can waive that requirement. If students do not have a business background, they must complete a series of prerequisite foundation courses before starting the program.
Program Highlights:
Master of Business Administration
- Credits: 30
- Length: One year
- Cost: $6,157/semester (resident); $14,345/semester (non-resident)
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: AACSB
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | No |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | ACICS |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | No |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | No |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | NWCCU |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | MSCHE |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Funding Your Online MBA: 5 Ways to Save
In addition to tuition costs, factors such as scholarships or employer tuition reimbursement programs can determine if an MBA program fits within your budget. To make your MBA more affordable, check out these effective ways to fund your online MBA.
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Apply to scholarships, grants, and fellowships created for MBA students.
Scholarships, grants, and fellowships can help offset costs for MBA students. There are even scholarships and fellowships developed specifically for MBA students, such as the Orbis Fellowship program or the Morning Brew Tech & Business News Scholarship. To find more scholarships along with tips and tricks to make your scholarship application stand out, check out OMD’s scholarships and resources guide.
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Work-Study or Assistantships
Some MBA programs offer work-study or assistantships to offset the costs. Assistantships involve helping faculty with research or teaching responsibilities by being a TA or helping a professor out with their research. A work-study position offers tuition reduction in exchange for working a job on campus. Look at specific programs for details on assistantships, and check out this U.S. government page for Federal work-study information.
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Employer Tuition Reimbursement Programs
Many employers reimburse part or all of the tuition for employees who plan to stay with the company. In fact, MBAs are the degrees most likely to be reimbursed by employers. Reimbursement amounts and program requirements differ among employers. Apple and Deloitte, for example, are known for having some of the most comprehensive tuition reimbursement programs for employees getting MBAs.
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Payment Plans
Many universities offer payment plans to suit your budget. A payment plan makes it easier to pay your tuition without emptying your emergency fund or taking out loans. Check with a specific program to see what the payment plan options look like.
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Paid Internships
Whether getting an MBA to transition careers or right after your undergraduate degree, a paid internship cannot only help offset costs but also give real-world experience in your new professional field. Employers like Google and TikTok, for example, offer hands-on and well-compensated MBA internship programs. When considering paid internships, look for ones that directly correlate with your career goals at companies whose values align with your own.
FAQs about Affordable MBA Programs
Q. What impacts the affordability of an online MBA Program?
A variety of factors impact the affordability of an MBA program. Usually, online programs have lower overall costs than in-person ones, and public universities typically cost less than private universities because they receive government funding. However, affordability also depends on scholarships, work-study, paid internships, and assistantship opportunities.
Q. What is the ROI of an online MBA program?
The ROI of an MBA program can differ based on the career track, but the average salary after completing an MBA often makes up for the cost of tuition. For example, an MBA program costs around $40,000 a year while, according to U.S. News, the average salary for MBA graduates was about $95,300 in 2021. Fields like consulting and finance saw starting salaries as high as $120,000 for MBA holders. Those with MBAs also see more promotions and bigger raises, so the ROI continues throughout one’s professional career.
Q. How can I ensure that an affordable MBA program is high-quality?
Most high-quality programs are accredited, offer career development and networking opportunities, and have a large number of students who finish and find jobs in their field after graduating. When judging the quality of a program, find a program that provides the opportunities that are most important to you, as this is the best way to ensure the program will meet your needs.
Q. Is an online MBA more affordable than an in-person MBA?
Online MBAs are almost always more affordable than in-person programs because online programs don’t have the additional costs of finding classroom space and physical resources. Online MBAs also offer budget-friendly perks such as spending less money on transportation and food and flexible learning options that limit the time you might have to take off work.
Q. Can job experience count towards an MBA and help cut costs
Whether or not job experience count towards an MBA depends on the school and program. Some universities offer credits towards your MBA for professional experiences, but others do not. Some programs even have an internship or work requirement as part of their program. The best way to know is to research the schools you are interested in and see if your job experience will count as part of the admissions process.
Q. How can I know if an affordable MBA program is right for me?
Start by considering what you want to get out of your MBA experience. Do you want a program you can finish within a couple of years, one with more networking opportunities, or a fully-online program? Once you have a list of the program qualities that matter most to you, you can better decide which programs match your budget and educational goals.