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Mississippi has lower tuition rates than many states in the U.S., and many people are finding they can lower their degree costs by attending college online.
While tuition isn't necessarily less expensive online, the money saved by avoiding campus fees or commuting makes an online degree a huge money-saver for some.
While no colleges in Mississippi offer completely free tuition, there are many low-cost programs. Some schools also offer additional financial aid to help cover tuition costs.
List of Free and Cheap Colleges with Online Degree Programs
1. Jackson State University
Jackson State University is a public research university in Jackson, MS. It's one of the largest Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the country.
JSU offers a handful of online undergraduate programs, including Bachelor of Science degrees in childcare and family education, criminal justice, and healthcare administration.
The university offers even more online graduate programs, such as Master of Science degrees in reading, special education, sports science, and social work.
In-state residents pay $345 per undergrad credit and $460 per graduate credit. Out-of-state residents pay significantly more, with a cost of $845 and $960 per undergrad and graduate credit respectively.
2. Mississippi State University
Mississippi State University is a public university near Starkville, MS. They offer about half of their on-campus degree options online.
Undergraduate students can choose from bachelor's degree options that include history, business administration, elementary education, and more.
Master's degrees offered online include multiple options for teaching and engineering. Students can also earn a doctorate online.
All online students pay tuition at in-state rates. Undergrad credits are $385 each, while graduate credits are $514 each.
3. Mississippi University for Women
The Mississippi University for Women is a public university in Columbus, MS. Despite its name, the university has been accepting students regardless of gender since 1982.
This university offers several online bachelor's degree programs, such as early childhood development, general business, and nursing. Online graduate degree programs that are offered include education, public health, and women's leadership.
Out-of-state students are not charged extra. Tuition for full-time undergraduates taking 12-19 credits or graduate students taking 9-12 credits is $3,933 per semester.
How Can I Get an Online College Degree for Free in Mississippi?
Not many colleges offer tuition waivers in Mississippi. If you don't qualify for an online degree, there are several financial aid options that can help reduce your tuition expenses.
Federal Student Aid
Federal Student Aid is the office of the U.S. Department of Education that provides federal financial aid to students.
Through Federal Student Aid, you can receive student aid in the form of grants, loans, and work-study programs.
To determine what types of aid you qualify for and how much you qualify for, you'll need to fill out the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA).
FAFSA
The FAFSA, or the Free Application for Student Aid, is a form that all students should fill out every year. This form determines your eligibility for federal student aid.
Even if you weren't planning on applying for federal student aid, you should still fill out the FAFSA. You may be surprised at what you receive.
You can fill out the FAFSA at StudentAid.gov. You'll need information like your social security number and tax and financial history. If you're a dependent, you'll need your parents' information as well.
Pell Grant
The Pell Grant is a federal grant given to undergraduate students with the most financial need. Your FAFSA will determine if you're eligible.
The amount that you receive from the Pell Grant depends on several factors. For the 2023-2024 school year, the highest amount you can receive is $7,395.
You can take out a new Pell Grant for four years as long as you qualify. Because it's a grant, you don't have to pay it back.
Scholarships in Mississippi
A scholarship is money offered by an institution for students to use for their education.
Scholarships can be given for a variety of reasons, including academics, athletics, family background, medical conditions, and more.
There are many scholarship options for Mississippi residents. To find a comprehensive list, visit the Department of Labor's Scholarship Finder at CareerOneStop.com.
How Can I Cover Additional Online Degree Costs in Mississippi?
One excellent option for Mississippi residents to reduce their tuition costs is to apply for the Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant (MTAG).
The MTAG is awarded to eligible students and awards between $500-$1000 per student each year.
For students who aren't able to completely reduce their costs through grants and scholarships, student loans are another option.
There are many student loan carriers, including the federal government. Make sure to read all the terms and conditions so you can choose a loan that's right for you.
FAQs Regarding Free Online College Degrees in Mississippi
Does Mississippi Have Free Tuition?
Mississippi does not offer completely free online college, however, some universities will offer tuition waivers for students from certain backgrounds.
You may also be able to completely eliminate the cost of your tuition through financial aid.
How Do You Qualify for the Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant?
The MTAG offers additional financial aid to students who qualify for the Pell Grant but don't qualify for the full amount of aid possible.
Freshman and sophomores are eligible for up to $500 while juniors and seniors are eligible for up to $1000.
To qualify for the MTAG as a freshman, you must:
- Be a resident of Mississippi for at least a year before applying
- Have a high school GPA of at least 2.5
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent certificate
- Score a minimum of 15 on the National ACT
- Enroll full-time at an approved postsecondary institution in Mississippi
Learn more on the Mississippi Financial Aid website.
Does FAFSA Cover Online College in Mississippi?
FAFSA will cover online college in any state, so long as the school you are attending accepts FAFSA.
Not all colleges and universities accept FAFSA. If you know you'll need to use federal funds to pay for your education, check to make sure your school accepts FAFSA before enrolling.
Find a Free or Low-Cost Degree Online in Mississippi Today
There are many ways to get a free or low-cost degree online in Mississippi, whether you choose a low-tuition university or take advantage of financial aid.
Reach out to Best Accredited Colleges for more information about online degrees in Mississippi.
