Did you know that there are colleges and universities in the USA that offer FREE tuition?
Yes, that’s right! Most of these colleges and universities offer free tuition to admitted students based on financial need.
Some even cover the cost of room and board, and other school fees! But there’s a caveat.
All these schools are highly selective admitting only a percentage of applicants every year.
This is a great opportunity for high-achieving students who may not be able to afford college otherwise.
Tuition Free Colleges
The following list is comprised of Ivy League schools, work colleges, and high-ranking universities committed to access and affordability.
These colleges offer free tuition for medium-income and low-income students and families.
Since MacQuil.com always tries to be globally inclusive, preference has been given to those colleges and universities that offer free college tuition to domestic and international students.
So if you’re a highly motivated student, and your family doesn’t have the resources to cover university costs, take a look at this list of top tuition-free colleges.
One of these schools could be the perfect fit for you.
1. Berea College
Did you know that Berea College is one of the few colleges in the United States that offers free tuition to every student, including international students? That’s right, no student pays for tuition at Berea College!
The school pays for tuition, which is approximately $39,400 per student per year, within the school’s own financial resources.
Thanks to a generous endowment and grant money, students with limited financial resources can receive the equivalent of a four-year scholarship.
Not only that, but Berea is one of 10 Work Colleges where every student works a minimum of 10 hours per week on campus.
This practice allows students to obtain work experience, professional skills, and earnings that can be used to cover living expenses.
As one of the top tuition-free colleges in the United States, Berea boasts an impressive graduation rate.
This free college also encourages a pay-it-forward attitude through its scholarship program.
Berea College was also the first interracial and coeducational college in the South, founded back in 1855.
So if you’re looking for a college that values inclusivity and affordability, Berea College might just be the right school for you.
Berea College Location and Accreditation
Berea, Kentucky. Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Berea College Academics Programs
Berea College offers Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degrees in different areas including Agriculture, Art History, Biology, Business, Chemistry, Economy, English, Math, Nursing, Psychology, Sustainability Studies, Theater, and other areas.
Berea College Admissions Rate and Facts
- Berea College is selective with an acceptance rate of 33%.
- 50% of admitted applicants have SAT scores between 1118 and 1268 or ACT scores of 23 and 28.
- 1 Personal Statement and 2 Teacher Recommendations are required.
Berea College International Students Facts
- International students will need to submit a report from one of the following exams: IELTS, Duolingo, TOEFL, SAT, or ACT.
Berea College Free Tuition
All Berea students have been awarded free tuition since 1892
Application Deadline
Early Action: October 15. Regular Deadline for August enrollment: January 15
You may also like: How to Craft a Winning Scholarship Application
2. Harvard University
Did you know that Harvard University offers free tuition plus room and board to admitted undergraduate students (including international students) whose families make less than $75,000 annually?
That’s right! Starting in 2023, eligible students will have access to Harvard’s full financial aid program that covers 100% of tuition fees.
If you’re a highly motivated student, you now have an opportunity to attend one of the most prestigious universities in the world, without having to worry about the financial burden that comes with it.
Additionally, Harvard College practices need-blind universal admissions.
This means that Harvard admits domestic and international students based on their merits, irrespective of their ability to pay for college or afford Harvard tuition.
As one of the best tuition-free colleges in the world, Harvard is committed to providing equal education opportunities for all admitted students, including international students.
This initiative is just one of the many ways the university is fulfilling that promise.
Harvard College Location and Accreditation
Cambridge, Massachusetts. New England Commission of Higher Education
Harvard College Academic Programs
Harvard University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs. Some of its famous schools include:
- Harvard College (undergraduate college offering degrees in arts (AB) and science (SB)).
- Harvard Law School
- Harvard Medical School
- Kennedy School of Government
- Harvard Graduate School of Education
- Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
Harvard College Undergraduate Admissions Rate and Facts
- Out of 61,221 college applicants, 1,984 students were admitted. That’s a 3.2% admissions rate for the class of 2026.
- Standardized test scores are optional and not required.
- Admitted students usually have SAT scores between 1460 and 1580 or ACT scores of 33 and 35.
Harvard College International Students Facts
- Students who submit English proficiency tests have TOEFL iBT scores of 80+, and IELTS scores of 6.5+.
- International students make up 15% of the class of 2026.
Harvard College Tuition
Harvard College tuition is $54,269 for the academic year 2023-2024
Application Deadline
Early Action: November 1. Regular Deadline: January 1
3. Yale University
Just like Harvard, Yale University practices need-blind admissions for both U.S. and international undergraduate students. This means that Yale admits students based on their academic promise without regard to their ability to pay.
Admitted students whose families make less than $75,000 receive a financial package that covers full tuition plus room and board.
Also, Yale’s undergraduate financial aid program is awarded solely on the basis of financial need and includes the Yale Scholarship.
High school students are encouraged to apply early for Yale’s well-regarded undergraduate programs.
As a highly ranked college, Yale is committed to making its undergraduate education accessible to all qualified candidates regardless of their financial background.
In fact, approximately 80% of Yale University graduates for the class of 2021 had zero student debt.
Yale also offers a wide range of financial aid programs for students interested in attending graduate school. So, college students aiming for their master’s or Ph.D. can apply for Yale scholarships and assistantships.
Plus, Yale is known for excellent online courses, meaningful for students seeking online college courses and credit from online universities.
Yale University Location and Accreditation
New Haven, Connecticut. New England Commission of Higher Education
Yale University Academics Programs
Yale University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs. Some of its famous schools include:
- Yale College (undergraduate college offering degrees in arts (BA) and science (BS)).
- Yale Law School
- Yale School of Medicine
- Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
- Yale School of Management
Yale Undergraduate Admissions Rate and Facts
- Out of 50,060 college applicants, 2,289 students were admitted. That’s a 4.6% admissions rate for the class of 2026.
- Standardized test scores are optional and not required.
- Admitted students usually have SAT-Evidence-Based Reading and Writing scores of 720-770, SAT-Math scores of 740-790, and ACT scores of 33-35.
Yale International Students Facts
- Students who submitted English proficiency tests have TOEFL iBT scores of 100+, and IELTS scores of 7+.
- International students make up 14.4% of the class of 2026.
Yale College Tuition
Yale College tuition is $64,700 for the academic year 2023-2024
Application Deadline
Early Action: November 1. Regular Deadline: January 2
You may also like: How to Successfully Apply to College in the USA
4. Dartmouth
Did you know that Dartmouth, a top 10 liberal arts college, offers full scholarships providing free tuition?
These scholarships are available to all undergraduate students from families with total incomes of $125,000 or less.
If your family’s income is below $65,000, you won’t have to contribute anything and won’t need to take out any college loans either.
This amazing financial aid package also extends to international students, which includes travel expenses to the U.S.
Additionally, Dartmouth College practices need-blind universal admissions. This means a student’s ability to pay will not be a factor in the college admissions decision, regardless of nationality.
And to top it all off, Dartmouth guarantees meeting 100% of every student’s demonstrated need, regardless of citizenship.
Dartmouth’s rankings among universities and colleges in the USA are unparalleled, a fact that attracts students from all over the world.
As one of the top free tuition schools, Dartmouth offers students the privilege of a debt-free, Ivy League, top-tier college education.
So, if you’re thinking of applying to Dartmouth College, check out the details below.
Dartmouth Location and Accreditation
Hanover, New Hampshire. New England Commission of Higher Education
Dartmouth Academic Options
Dartmouth offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs. Some of its famous schools include:
- Undergraduate Faculty of Arts and Sciences
- Thayer School of Engineering
- Geisel School of Medicine
- Tuck School of Business
- Guarini School of Graduate and Advanced Studies
Dartmouth Undergraduate Admissions Rate and Facts
- Out of 28,336 applicants, 1,808 students were admitted. Dartmouth College has a 6.4% admissions rate.
- Standardized test scores are optional and not required.
- Admitted college students usually have SAT scores between 1440-1560, and ACT scores of 32-35.
Dartmouth International Students Facts
- Students who submitted English proficiency tests had TOEFL iBT scores of 100+, and IELTS scores of 7+.
- International students make up 15% of the class of 2026.
Dartmouth College Tuition
Dartmouth tuition is $63,684 for the academic year 2023-24
Application Deadline
Early Action: November 1. Regular Deadline: January 3
You may also like: Discover the 7 Cheapest States for College Students
5. Princeton University
Did you know Princeton University was the first university in the U.S. to eliminate student loans from its financial aid package?
That’s right, Princeton University offers free tuition for undergraduate students with families earning less than $100,000 per year.
And the best part is, this financial aid program is also available for international students.
In fact, college admission is need-blind for domestic and international students.
Founded in 1746, Princeton is a top-ranked university that has always been dedicated to making higher education more accessible to everyone. Its free tuition initiative is just another example of that.
With its commitment to cover 100% of tuition, room, and board, it’s no surprise that Princeton is consistently regarded as one of the top schools in the world.
Take a look at the guide below to start planning your college application to this world-renowned research university.
Princeton Location and Accreditation
Princeton, New Jersey. Middle States Commission of Higher Education
Princeton Academic Programs
Princeton University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs.
- College applicants apply to Princeton University, not individual colleges or schools.
- Students choose from 37 concentrations to pursue a Bachelor of Arts (A.B.) or Bachelor of Science in Engineering (B.S.E.)
- Princeton offers 18 Master’s degree programs.
- Princeton has 42 doctoral departments and programs.
Princeton Undergraduate Admissions Rate and Facts
- Princeton University has a 4.4% college admissions rate.
- Standardized test scores are optional and not required.
- Admitted college students usually have SAT scores between 1490 – 1580, and ACT scores of 33 and 35.
Princeton International Students Facts
- Students who submitted English proficiency tests had TOEFL iBT scores of 100+, and IELTS scores of 7+.
- International students make up 15% of the class of 2025.
Princeton University Tuition
Princeton University tuition is $59,710 for the 2023-24 academic year
Application Deadline
Early Action: November 1. Regular Deadline: January 1
You may also like: Universities in Europe Offering Free Tuition
The Black Book contains 600+ detailed, systematic, easy-to-follow walkthroughs for real SAT questions from the College Board, so you know that what you're learning actually works.
6. Columbia University
If your dream is to study at one of the best research universities in the heart of New York City, then you’re in luck.
Columbia University offers free tuition programs to admitted domestic students whose families make less than $150,000 annually.
Generous financial aid packages at this university usually include grants, scholarships, and student employment.
Plus, students or their families are not expected to take out any loans as part of the initial package.
Columbia College practices need-aware international admissions. This means that international college applicants will be evaluated based on their academic profile and their ability to cover tuition costs.
Nonetheless, a few selected international students will receive financial aid to cover tuition costs and attend this top Ivy League school.
In fact, the average international financial package is $66,350, which includes grants and work-study jobs.
So, if you want to get an excellent education in one of the most popular cities in the United States, take a look at the facts below to guide you during the pre-admissions process.
Review Columbia’s admissions website and get started on your college application.
You may also like: How to Study Medicine in the United States
Columbia Location and Accreditation
New York, New York. Middle States Commission of Higher Education
Columbia Academic Programs
Columbia University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs. Some of its famous schools include:
- Columbia College (undergraduate college offering degrees in liberal arts (BA) and science (BS)).
- Columbia Engineering (undergraduate college offering degrees in engineering (BS)).
- Columbia Law School
- Vagelos College – Columbia Medical School
- Columbia Business School
Columbia Undergraduate Admissions Rate and Facts
- Out of 60,377 applicants, 2,252 students were admitted. That’s a 3.73% admissions rate for the class of 2026.
- Standardized test scores are optional and not required.
- Admitted students usually have SAT scores between 1490 – 1560, and ACT scores of 34 and 35.
Columbia International Students Facts
- Students who submitted English proficiency tests had minimum TOEFL iBT scores of 105, and IELTS scores of 7.5.
- International students make up 13% of the class of 2025.
Columbia College Tuition
Columbia College tuition is $32,670 per term ($65,340 for the fall 2023 and spring 2024 terms)
Application Deadline
Early Action: November 1. Regular Deadline: January 1
https://undergrad.admissions.columbia.edu/
7. Stanford University
Did you know that Stanford University, a top research university founded in 1885, is now offering free tuition to U.S. families making under $100,000 per year?
With this new financial aid initiative, you and your family can now focus on your college journey without having to worry about the financial burden of tuition costs.
As one of the top-ranked schools in California, Stanford University offers some scholarships to international students. However, the ability to pay for school will be evaluated as part of the international admissions decision.
For domestic college applicants (U.S. citizens, residents, DACA), the school practices need-blind admissions, so their ability to pay is not a factor.
Through grants, full scholarships, and student loans, Stanford is committed to making your college education affordable and accessible.
Additionally, Stanford offers free online courses and research-intensive curricula that provide an incredible view into the college world.
Stanford’s rankings among universities and colleges in the USA are unparalleled, a fact that attracts students nationwide.
So, if you’re concerned about paying for college, look no further and apply to Stanford University where the institution values the well-being of its students and supports them financially to achieve their dreams.
Stanford Location and Accreditation
Stanford, California. Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Stanford Academic Programs
Stanford University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs. Some of its famous schools include:
- School of Humanities and Sciences (awarding 75% of undergraduate degrees)
- Stanford School of Engineering
- Stanford School of Law
- Stanford School of Medicine
- Graduate School of Business
Stanford Undergraduate Admissions Rate and Facts
- Out of 56,378 applicants, 2,075 college students were admitted. That’s a 3.68% admissions rate for the class of 2026.
- Admitted students usually have SAT scores between 1440 – 1570, and ACT scores of 33 and 35.
Stanford International Students Facts
- International students are not required to submit English proficiency tests.
- Admitted students who submitted English proficiency tests had TOEFL iBT scores of 100 and IELTS scores of 7.
- International students make up 14% of the class of 2026.
Stanford College Tuition
Stanford University tuition is $20,577 quarterly for the year 2023-2024. The university operates on a quarterly calendar: Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer.
Application Deadline
Early Action: November 1. Regular Deadline: January 5
Preparing for the TOEFL exam? Why not study with the only guide on the market that contains real TOEFL questions pulled from recent exams? The Official Guide to the TOEFL iBT Test is the most complete and reliable guide to the test that is used to meet English-language proficiency requirements at more than 10,000 institutions worldwide.
8. College of the Ozarks
At the College of the Ozarks, all students have the opportunity to receive a tuition-free education and graduate without any debt.
Known fondly as “Hard Work U”, the college gives students full credit for on-campus jobs as a financial scholarship.
On this picturesque 1,000-acre college campus near Branson, Missouri, freshmen will join a community of students who value hard work and academic knowledge.
As one of 10 federally recognized Work Colleges, all students work an average of 15 hours per week on campus.
College jobs range from working in the computer center to milking cows, so there’s something for everyone.
The student work requirement is a great way to gain valuable work experience while offsetting the cost of attendance.
And you can rest assured that you’ll receive a quality college education. This tuition-free college is fully accredited and has been providing Christian liberal arts education since its founding in 1906.
Overall, the College of the Ozarks offers a one-of-a-kind educational experience that combines work and academics in a beautiful setting.
College of the Ozarks Location and Accreditation
Point Lookout, Missouri. Higher Learning Commission
College of the Ozarks Academic Programs
With over 30 academic majors to choose from, you’ll have plenty of options to pursue your passions and interests. College of the Ozarks offers Bachelor’s degrees in different subjects including Agriculture, Biblical Studies, Biology, Computer Science, Engineering, Hospitality, Nursing, Psychology, Nutrition, and more.
College of the Ozarks Admissions Rate and Key Facts
- College of the Ozarks is selective with an acceptance rate of 12%.
- 50% of admitted applicants have SAT scores between 1030 and 1213 or ACT scores of 20 and 25.
- 90% of each entering class must demonstrate financial need.
College of the Ozarks International Students Facts
- There are 3-6 vacancies for international students each year.
College of the Ozarks Free Tuition
College of the Ozarks tuition costs are covered by the student work program, full scholarships and/or financial aid.
Application Deadline
Early Consideration: December 31 (for next year’s fall class). Regular Deadline: July prior to your senior year
You may also like: How to Write a Winning Admissions Essay for Your College Application
9. Cornell University
Did you know Cornell University, one of the top Ivy League schools, offers financial aid packages to all domestic undergraduate students?
For U.S. citizens and residents whose families make less than $60,000 per year, Cornell offers a financial aid package that covers college tuition and living expenses without any student loans.
The package consists of full and partial scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities.
For students whose families make above $60,000/year, college loan offers may be included in the initial financial aid package.
Keep in mind that Cornell University practices need-aware international college admissions. This means that Cornell admits international students based on several factors including their ability to pay.
International students are encouraged not to apply for financial aid if they have the funds to cover their college tuition.
Nonetheless, Cornell has a few need-based scholarships for high-achieving international students who are admitted.
Additionally, take a look at some of Cornell’s world-class free online courses. These courses cater to a wide range of interests while ensuring free college access and welcoming students from all walks of life.
Cornell Location and Accreditation
Ithaca, New York. Middle States Commission of Higher Education
Cornell Academic Programs
Cornell University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs. Some of its famous schools include:
- College of Arts and Sciences (undergraduate college offering degrees in liberal arts (BA) and science (BS)).
- S.C. Johnson College of Business
- Cornell Law School
- Weill Cornell Medical School
- Cornell Tech
Cornell Undergraduate Admissions Rate and Facts
- Out of 71,164 college applicants, 5,168 students were admitted. That’s a 7.2% admissions rate for the class of 2026.
- Standardized test scores are optional and not required.
- Admitted students usually have SAT scores between 1400 – 1560, and ACT scores of 33 and 35.
Cornell International Students Facts
- Students who submitted English proficiency tests have TOEFL iBT scores of 100+, and IELTS scores of 7.5+.
- International college students make up 10% of the class of 2026.
Cornell Tuition Costs
Tuition for the Cornell College of Arts and Sciences is $65,204 for the academic year 2023-2024.
Application Deadline
Early Action: November 1. Regular Deadline: January 2
10. Deep Springs College
Located on an isolated cattle ranch near Bishop, California, Deep Springs College offers full scholarships (valued at $50,000) to all admitted students.
The college covers tuition costs, as well as room and board for all current students.
In exchange, every student must work approximately 20 hours per week on campus. Some jobs include working on the farm, cooking, cleaning, or maintaining facilities.
Also, this tuition free college offers smaller class sizes than you’ll find anywhere else.
With a comprehensive college program that emphasizes not just academics but also self-governance and manual labor, Deep Springs is a place where you can truly immerse yourself in learning and personal growth.
As a 2-year college, graduates usually transfer to 4-year colleges and universities to obtain a bachelor’s degree.
Some graduates have been able to transfer to prestigious colleges and universities, such as Stanford, Yale, Brown, and others.
Additionally, college alumni have found success in many fields including politics, science, agriculture, medicine, law, and business.
Deep Springs College Location and Accreditation
Deep Springs, California. ACCJC of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Deep Springs College Academic Programs
Deep Springs College does not offer majors or degrees. Most students take 2 to 3 classes per semester in several fields including humanities, liberal arts, social sciences, natural sciences, and the arts. Many classes are discussion-based, and most classes average 8 students per class.
Since Deep Springs is a 2-year college, most students transfer their courses to 4-year colleges and universities where they complete their bachelor’s degrees. The college offers full support and guidance to students planning to transfer.
Deep Springs College Admissions Rate and Facts
- Out of 300 applicants, only 14 students are admitted to Deep Springs College each year.
- No standardized tests are required. However, essay questions are deemed “unusual” and might require some time to complete.
Deep Springs College International Students Facts
- International students who have not attended English-speaking schools or colleges must submit TOEFL (above 100) or IELTS (above 6) scores.
Deep Springs College Free Tuition
All Deep Springs students receive a full scholarship valued at $50,000 to cover college tuition and costs.
Application Deadline
Application Due: November 6
You may also like: Find Scholarships to Study in the USA, UK, Europe and Latin America
How to Get Free College Tuition
U.S. Military Academies
American students searching for free college tuition and top-ranking universities could also consider applying to a U.S. military academy. These highly selective military schools offer an excellent university education for free.
You will receive top-notch military and academic training to become a successful leader. The top U.S. service academies include:
- United States Military Academy (also known as West Point)
- United States Naval Academy
- United States Air Force Academy
- United States Coast Guard Academy
- United States Merchant Marine Academy
State Universities
Some state universities in New York, Indiana, and Washington also offer full scholarship programs to their residents.
For example, the Excelsior Scholarship Program covers college tuition for NY students attending one of the state universities.
This program includes all colleges from the State University of New York (SUNY) system and City University of New York (CUNY) system. To qualify for this program, the student or the student’s family must have an income below $125,000.
Community Colleges
You could also explore community colleges that cover full tuition.
Several states, such as California, Delaware, Hawaii, Maryland, New Jersey, and others offer free tuition programs for residents planning on attending community colleges in those states.
Free Tuition Universities for International Students
If you are an international student or an American student interested in attending college abroad, then you have some additional choices.
Some European universities offer free tuition to all students, regardless of citizenship. Austria, Germany, and France are particularly well-regarded for their free colleges and universities.
Also, some American Universities in Europe offer college scholarships for high-achieving students from low-income families. These colleges also tend to have lower tuition fees than schools in the States.
Plus, most American colleges in Europe offer international programs, which allow students to travel to other countries and switch university campuses.
Ultimately, there is no denying that paying for college is challenging for most students and their families.
However, I hope you were able to learn through this article that there are several tuition solutions you can explore.
By properly planning and preparing yourself, you can also obtain full scholarships and get a free college education.
From award-winning higher education journalist and New York Times bestselling author Jeffrey Selingo comes a revealing look from inside the admissions office—one that identifies surprising strategies that will aid in the college search.
Denisse Romero
Denisse is a global education and communications consultant, as well as the main person behind MacQuil. As an international mentor and frequent traveler, she enjoys sharing information to help anyone travel, study or work abroad.
Denisse holds a Master's in Management from GWU, a Master's in Education from Harvard University and an Executive Coaching Certificate from the University of Cambridge.
