Out-of-state tuition at public universities can cost two to three times more than in-state rates. But a growing number of colleges treat all students equally, charging one flat tuition rate regardless of where you live.
Types of No Out-of-State Tuition Policies
- Flat-rate tuition — Same tuition for all students, in-state and out-of-state
- Reciprocity agreements — Regional compacts that waive out-of-state surcharges
- Online rate — Single distance-learning rate that applies to all remote students
Top Colleges With No Out-of-State Tuition
University of the People — Entirely tuition-free; all students pay only assessment fees regardless of location.
Western Governors University — Competency-based online university with one flat tuition rate for all students nationwide.
Southern New Hampshire University — Online programs charge a single per-course rate to all students regardless of residency.
Arizona State University (Online) — ASU Online charges the same tuition to in-state and out-of-state students.
University of Wisconsin System — Select UW campuses offer flat-rate tuition through the UW Flexible Option.
University of Maine at Augusta — One of the few residential campuses with identical in-state and out-of-state tuition.
National University — Nonprofit with a single tuition rate regardless of student location.
Regional Reciprocity Programs
If you live in a participating state, these programs can dramatically reduce out-of-state costs:
- Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) — 150+ participating schools in 16 western states
- Midwest Student Exchange Program (MSEP) — Reduced tuition at 150+ midwestern institutions
- Academic Common Market (SREB) — In-state tuition for specific programs at southern universities
- New England Regional Student Program — Discounted tuition at New England public universities
