Prospective MBA students may consider tuition costs, which can exceed $80,000 per year, as a serious barrier of entry to pursuing their degrees. However, select schools offer lower-cost options, providing MBAs for as low as $12,000 annually. Attendees may find an MBA worth the price to develop business, finance, and marketing skills.
Graduates can pursue advanced roles in various industries. Almost every sector needs graduates with knowledge provided by MBA programs. Students can enroll in specialized MBAs to increase their chances of finding careers that align with their interests.
MBA degrees can offer a return on investment through career trajectory and earnings increase. According to the Graduate Management Admission Council, MBA degree-holders earned an average of $50,000 more than bachelor's degree-holders in 2023.
Individuals interested in these programs can review the most affordable online MBA programs below. This guide also discusses MBA courses, specializations, and costs.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Most Affordable MBAs
#1 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs 2025
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Chapel Hill, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
The sticker price for UNC's online MBA might look intimidating at first glance: total tuition is over $125,000. But the top-ranked business school automatically considers all online MBA applicants for a fellowship, and financial aid drops the net price to one of the lowest on our list.
MBA students choose from six concentrations, incorporating 36 electives into their course of study. Immersive summits build strong relationships with faculty and classmates while also deepening business skills. Graduates leave the program with data-driven expertise, with options to finish in as little as 18 months. UNC Kenan-Flagler is accredited by AACSB.
Highlights
- Graduates report a salary and bonus of over $185,000 five months after graduation
- Four start dates each year
- GMAT/GRE waiver with five years of professional experience
Considerations
- In-person requirements in Chapel Hill and globally
- Requires two years of professional experience
- Must complete the program in a maximum of 36 months
Percent Online Enrollment
25%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs 2025
Texas A&M International University
- Laredo, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
TAMIU's online MBA program allows Texas residents to earn their MBA for just $11,000 in tuition, making it the most affordable program on our list. Even those who live outside of Texas will pay less than many other programs in our ranking.
Degree-seekers can complete the 30-credit program in as little as 12 months. TAMIU offers concentrations in criminal justice, healthcare administration, international banking and finance, international business, international trade and logistics, and management.
MBA students strengthen strategic decision-making and leadership skills throughout the core curriculum and in their concentration courses. The A.R. Sanchez, Jr. School of Business holds accreditation from AACSB.
Highlights
- Lowest net price for online MBA programs on our list
- Six start dates each year
- Only requires GMAT or GRE with GPA lower than 3.0
Considerations
- Out-of-state students pay around $31,000 in tuition
- Those without a business degree take additional prep modules
- Seven-week terms
Percent Online Enrollment
61%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs 2025
University of Florida
- Gainesville, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
UF's online MBA program offers an affordable, accelerated option. With the 16-month accelerated MBA, students pay under $50,000 for their degree. UF also offers a two-year option that costs around $60,000. This track, designed for working professionals, uses recorded lectures and limits the weekly time commitment so that learners can balance an MBA program with their careers. Students also benefit from financial aid support.
MBA students develop their leadership skills through career transformation weekends, networking opportunities, and workshops focused on career skills. The program's career services also include webinars, career assessments, and a job board. The Warrington College of Business has AACSB accreditation.
Highlights
- AACSB accredited
- Financial aid resources to help students identify aid opportunities
- Optional global immersion experience
Considerations
- Required in-person orientation
- Eligibility requirements for accelerated program
- Two years of work experience required for two-year program
Percent Online Enrollment
57%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs 2025
University of South Florida
- Tampa, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
USF's online MBA program uses an asynchronous format with no live sessions, which can make it easier for students to work while advancing their education. MBA students can graduate in as little as three semesters or in around three years with part-time enrollment.
The 33-credit MBA program incorporates 15 credits of electives, allowing students to individualize their course of study. Learners can either design their own focus or choose from optional concentrations such as blue economy, data analytics, or finance. The program concludes with a capstone where knowledge is applied to real-world case studies. MBA students pay a lower tuition rate for business foundation courses.
Highlights
- AACSB accredited
- Offers foundational courses for students without an undergraduate background in business
- Immersion electives and study abroad options
Considerations
- Required on-campus residencies in Tampa
- Requires GMAT or GRE scores
- Most students have 2-3 years of professional experience
Percent Online Enrollment
67%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs 2025
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- Champaign, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
With a total cost of under $25,000 in tuition and fees, the online MBA at Illinois is one of the most affordable options on our list. MBA students also benefit from a customizable curriculum and options to graduate in 24-60 months. Learners also begin to see a return on their investment quickly, with 65% of online MBA students receiving a promotion, job offer, or new position during their program.
Courses blend self-directed, asynchronous learning through pre-recorded videos with high-engagement components. During weekly live sessions, learners interact with faculty and classmates to analyze materials, present work, and deepen their knowledge. The Gies College of Business holds AACSB accreditation.
Highlights
- Admits 73% of applicants
- 25% average pay increase during the program
- No on-campus requirements
Considerations
- Minimum 3.0 GPA for admission
- Requires at least three years of work experience
- Admitted students average over 11 years of work experience
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs 2025
The University of Texas at Dallas
- Richardson, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
Texas residents pay about $58,000 in tuition for UT Dallas' online MBA program with the variable tuition plan. Designed as a part-time professional program for working adults, the MBA offers nine concentrations with no on-campus requirements, which can save students money. Online learners who live outside of Texas pay around $95,000 in tuition.
During the program, learners choose from dozens of electives to customize their degree. UT Dallas also offers double degrees, including five STEM-designated options. MBA students work with the career management center to develop marketable skills and connect with potential employers.
Highlights
- AACSB accredited
- Offers a guaranteed tuition plan to lock in your rate
Considerations
- Not all MBA electives are offered online
- Average 3.6 GPA for online MBA students
- Students have an average of eight years of work experience
Percent Online Enrollment
36%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs 2025
Eastern New Mexico University
- Portales, NM
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
Thanks to the program's accelerated format, you can graduate with an online MBA from ENMU in as little as 12 months. Designed for working adults, the program uses web-based instruction to deliver 10 courses. Degree-seekers can customize their course of study by choosing a general MBA, an accounting concentration, or a finance concentration.
The program also stands out for its affordability. New Mexico residents pay under $3,000 per semester in tuition for a full-time course load, and out-of-state students taking six credits or fewer pay the lower in-state tuition rate of $317 per credit. (Full-time out-of-state students pay $416 per credit). MBA students also qualify for scholarships and financial aid.
Highlights
- ACBSP accredited
- ENMU Foundation scholarships available
Considerations
- Minimum 3.0 GPA for admission
- Minimum 450 GMAT score
- Prerequisite undergraduate business courses required
Percent Online Enrollment
84%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs 2025
North Carolina State University
- Raleigh, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
NC State's online MBA program prioritizes flexibility and affordability. With accelerated and part-time tracks, learners can graduate in as little as 21 months or up to six years. Learners can also blend asynchronous courses with in-person learning in Raleigh.
MBA students learn through videos, podcasts, and online presentations, with group projects to develop collaboration skills. The core curriculum emphasizes technology, business processes, and practical applications. Students also complete residencies to develop leadership skills. Active duty military can substitute an MBA elective for the residency requirement.
The 40-credit MBA program costs $57,000 in tuition for North Carolina residents and holds AACSB accreditation.
Highlights
- Option to include hybrid courses
- Tuition discount for North Carolina residents
- No required entrance exams
Considerations
- Two in-person residencies in Raleigh
- Out-of-state learners pay higher tuition rate of $1,701 per credit
- Two years of professional experience required
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs 2025
William & Mary
- Williamsburg, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
Offered through the Raymond A. Mason School of Business, William & Mary's online MBA program emphasizes creative problem-solving. With class sizes capped at 22 students per course, learners receive personalized attention.
Distance learners pay $1,425 per credit in the program. While the net price ranks higher than other programs on our list, 80% of graduates receive a raise during or after completing the program, with an average raise of 18%. William & Mary also offers financial aid, including a scholarship for active-duty military and veterans.
MBA students complete the 49-credit program in as little as 24 months, with an option to complete a business analytics certificate or additional analytics coursework.
Highlights
- Alumni report an average salary of nearly $136,000
- Over 93% of online MBA alumni have high or very high satisfaction with the program
- Extensive financial aid resources
Considerations
- Highest net price of programs on our list
- One in-person weekend residency
- Students have an average of nine years of work experience
Percent Online Enrollment
15%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs 2025
California State University, Monterey Bay
- Seaside, CA
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
The affordable online MBA program at CSUMB boasts a strong return on investment. Degree-seekers pay $36,000 in tuition for the 30-credit program, and recent graduates from 2019-2022 report an average salary increase of 23%.
With a curriculum focused on responsible business, learners leave the program understanding the impact of their decision. The program caps its online class size at 30 students to encourage personalized engagement and support. A unique international consulting project prepares graduates for global business challenges. Students complete the fully online program in 16 months.
Highlights
- AACSB accredited
- Designed for working professionals
- Tuition includes the price of textbooks
Considerations
- No part-time option
- Minimum 2.9 GPA for admission
- Requires at least one year of professional work experience
Percent Online Enrollment
44%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
How We Choose Programs
At OnlineMBA.com, we rely on reputable sources to rank the best MBA programs. We use trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to find standout programs. We consider four metrics: affordability, reputation, academics, and program availability.
This ranking is from 2025. Visit our rankings methodology page to learn more about how we rank programs.
Why Get an Affordable Online MBA?
Affordable MBA programs offer more than just cost savings. Many of these programs feature convenient online delivery formats. Distance learning can provide additional flexibility and make it easier for learners to work while they study, further improving their economic outcomes.
Other benefits of pursuing affordable online MBA programs include:
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Access to More Options
Before the online age, students who wanted to continue working while studying were limited to pursuing only nearby programs. The internet and the mass adoption of remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic increased access to schools, concentrations, and specializations.
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Graduating With Less Debt
Business schools often have a reputation for high tuition rates. Affordable online MBA programs reduce costs, enabling students to graduate with lower debt and see a strong return on their educational investment through increased salaries.
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Engaging With Emerging Technology
Some business schools use cutting-edge technologies to deliver lectures and course materials to online students. Companies use many of the same resources when engaging remotely with clients and stakeholders
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Viewpoint Diversity
Online MBA programs often attract students with diverse backgrounds and viewpoints, bringing a deeper, more enriched pool of ideas to the virtual classroom.
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International Opportunity
As affordable online MBA programs become more popular and prestigious, they draw more interest from the international student and business communities. Online MBA programs can help enrollees network globally.
The Cost of Online MBA Programs
Multiple factors affect program costs. Affordable online MBAs include programs with relatively low tuition costs, strong financial aid support, or both. Business schools with strong job placement rates and high average salaries also merit consideration.
Online MBA programs may also be cheaper due to lower transportation costs and an enrollee's ability to study at home and continue working while in school, offsetting tuition costs.
Students do not need to sacrifice educational quality to achieve savings. Prioritize the following factors as you seek affordable MBA options:
Accreditation
Students seeking affordable online MBA programs should ensure each school's accreditation status. Independent evaluators assess schools and the programs within them. Programmatic accreditors include the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, and the International Accreditation Council for Business Education.
Affordability
Top programs ensure that students can graduate without overwhelming debt or personal hardship. They may offer low tuition rates or reduced rates for online students. Some schools bridge the affordability gap by offering financial aid to online MBA students.
Post-Graduation Success
MBA programs often advertise alumni salaries, promotions, employment rates, and impressive employers and/or job titles. Prospective students should research each program's graduation rate — schools with rates of 70% or higher tend to reflect a positive student experience.
Online Resources
The best affordable online MBA programs ensure that distance learners benefit from access to university resources, like career centers, libraries, tutoring, and networking opportunities. Programs with large percentages of online students often prioritize distance learners and devote significant resources to their experience.
Robust Curricula
Prospective students should seek programs offering rigorous coursework and ample opportunities for program and community involvement. Whether pursuing affordable online MBA programs or on-campus experiences, learners should compare degrees to ensure they can graduate with the expertise to succeed in the job market.
Course offerings vary, but the best MBA programs provide foundational business knowledge and in-depth coverage of any concentration topics. Prospective students should consider their individual situations, including their educational background and career goals. Some factors, like accreditation, always matter.
Learners aiming for high-level executive positions at major companies may focus more on student outcome data and alumni networks. Those with business backgrounds can prioritize curricula focusing more on specializations than on MBA core courses.
What to Expect from Affordable Online MBA Programs
Affordable online MBA programs instill managerial, business, and finance skills — often entirely from a distance. Graduates can apply their knowledge to evaluate opportunities, generate business solutions, and communicate effectively. Assignments hone these skills through 36-60 required credits. Attendees can complete their credit requirements within 1-3 years, depending on program pace and requirements.
MBAs typically require students to complete most credits within the program. Attendees with relevant experience may receive permission to replace specific core courses with additional electives. Transfer-friendly institutions may allow 6-12 transfer credits toward MBA programs. The list below highlights common prerequisites for incoming transfer credits.
- Credits must come from a graduate program
- Course grade must be "B" or higher
- Credits must have been completed within the last four years
- Another degree does not encompass the credit
Specialized MBAs
MBA programs may allow or require attendees to choose concentrations. Focus courses develop expertise within specific fields. Degrees may provide concentrations in business analytics, entrepreneurship, finance, and more. Schools may offer between no specializations or upward of a dozen or more.
Candidates with specific tracks in mind should ensure that their prospective programs offer relevant specializations for their needs. They can also identify popular industries and pursue MBA concentrations that lead to high-paying roles.
Enrollees may declare one or more concentrations, depending on the curriculum. These specializations usually require a minimum of 12 relevant credits, and institutions may count concentration courses as elective credits.
Popular Online MBA Courses
MBA curricula usually cover the same core topics, including leadership, economics, and statistics. However, institutions differ in the time spent on each subject and the availability of elective options. Some programs may also require MBA capstones or thesis projects. The following list discusses popular classes offered by most MBA programs.
- Microeconomics: This MBA course covers microeconomic topics like consumer behavior, market price, supply, and demand. Courses may discuss advanced topics, including decision-making with imperfect information and complex pricing models.
- Leadership: Leadership courses teach methods to lead and communicate with individuals, groups, and organizations. Attendees study how to identify organizational issues, resolve conflicts, and influence others through soft power. Students may receive hands-on leadership experience through group simulations and projects.
- Valuations: This course covers theoretical frameworks that professionals use to appraise a company's worth. Students learn the underlying accounting and financial knowledge to implement discounted cash flow models and calculate price multiples. The course may discuss advanced valuation methods, including leveraged buyouts.
- Capstone Course: Enrollees can create theoretical business ventures through capstone classes. They often need to choose a feasible idea, test the project's potential, and discuss how to market the product. The project should demonstrate demand and avenues to profitability. Enrollees typically present their businesses to peers and professors.
Making Affordable Online MBA Degrees Even Cheaper
Affordable MBA enrollees must pay for tuition and create a personal budget to cover studying and the cost of living. Students can obtain financial aid to help pay for tuition and related expenses. The following list discusses popular financial aid options.
- Scholarships: This form of funding may have various need-based or identity-related requirements, but recipients do not need to repay funds.
- Grants: Grants usually have financial need prerequisites; funds do not need to be repaid.
- Loans: Private and public sources may offer loans, which require repayment with interest.
Other ways to save money can include:
- Accelerated Programs: MBA programs may offer a per-credit or per-semester payment option. Attendees in programs that charge per semester can take accelerated programs to reduce the total number of required semesters. Accelerated MBA programs can be completed within one year, leading to a 1-2 semester tuition savings.
- Not Moving: Traditionally, students would need to attend in-person courses and live near campus. Affordable online MBA program attendees can save money by taking courses online and living at home. Enrollees can also save money by avoiding costs relating to travel and relocation.
- Review Tuition Rates: MBA tuition can range from $12,000-$168,000 for entire programs. Applicants can review programs online and compare costs. Students may face a tradeoff between price and school desirability — programs with strong reputations and diverse curricula may demand a higher tuition rate.
- Reduce Unnecessary Costs: Students may need to spend money on books and computer applications during their studies. They can save money by renting books and finding student software discounts through their school or third parties. Enrollees may also reduce costs by avoiding optional MBA experiences, including study-abroad or global immersion programs.
Online MBA Programs Without the GMAT
MBA applicants may need to take the GMAT, which requires a $275-$300 registration fee, depending on the testing location. Students who wish to retake the exam must pay the registration fee again. GMAT enrollees may incur other costs, including rescheduling, cancellation, and score report fees.
Individuals taking the GMAT can prepare through self-study or formal courses. Prospective test-takers looking to save money can buy a set of books for $50-$150. Applicants who learn better from online assessments, guides, and practice tests may prefer GMAT courses, which cost $300-$900.
Many MBA programs do not require GMAT scores for admission. Candidates who wish to avoid the time and hassle of taking the GMAT can prioritize test-optional MBAs.
Common Questions About MBA Costs
MBA enrollees can save money by applying for accelerated programs, living at home, and renting textbooks. Students can also pursue financial aid opportunities to lower their overall costs.
Start by comparing prices among the most affordable online MBA programs. Degrees offered by public institutions offering flat-rate tuition for distance learners may provide the cheapest pathways.
MBA programs can cost $12,000-$168,000. Attendees can consider these programs a lifelong investment as they experience career advancement and salary increase opportunities after graduation.
Yes — an affordable online MBA program can be worth the time and effort. Enrollees receive the same education as in-person students while saving on transportation, housing, and extracurricular costs.
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