Medical school can be expensive, and many aspiring doctors are looking for ways to keep their education costs low.
While tuition fees at most medical schools are high, there are several schools in the U.S. that offer the most affordable medical school options for students.
Choosing the right school can save you thousands of dollars in tuition fees, allowing you to focus on your education without worrying about massive student loans.
In this blog, we will find some of the cheapest medical schools in the United States, helping you make an informed decision.
Keep reading to find out which schools offer the best value for your medical degree!
The Rising Cost of Medical Education
Over the years, the price of medical education has steadily increased. In addition to high tuition fees, students also have to pay for textbooks, lab materials, and living expenses.
These costs can quickly add up and put a heavy financial strain on students.
Public medical schools are generally less expensive for students who live in the same state, but out-of-state tuition can still be costly.
Private schools, on the other hand, tend to have higher tuition rates for everyone, regardless of where they live.
As a result, many students rely on loans to cover their expenses, which can lead to significant debt after graduation.
This is why it is essential to look for the least expensive medical schools to help reduce the overall financial burden and keep costs manageable.
Criteria for Ranking the Cheapest Medical Schools
To help you find the most affordable options, we have listed the main factors that determine the cost of medical school:
| Criteria | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | The most important factor. We consider the cost of tuition for both in-state and out-of-state students. |
| Additional Costs | Includes books, lab fees, and other fees that add to the total cost of education. |
| Financial Aid | Schools that offer scholarships, grants, or low-interest loans to help students cover costs. |
| Living Expenses | Costs of living in the area, including housing, food, and transportation. Lower living costs help reduce overall expenses. |
| Accreditation | Ensures that the school meets required educational standards and provides a quality education, despite lower tuition fees. |
| Program Length | Some schools offer shorter programs or accelerated paths, which can help reduce overall costs by shortening the time spent in school. |
Most Affordable Medical Schools
Now, let us take a look at the top-most affordable medical schools in the U.S. that offer quality education at a lower cost:
1. University of New Mexico School of Medicine
Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Tuition fee (In-State, 2024-25): $19,576
Known for supporting students interested in primary care and rural medicine, this public school features early clinical exposure and a diverse patient base.
The school helps reduce costs with scholarships, aid for DACA students, and research or dual degree options.
Graduates are well-prepared to serve underserved communities in New Mexico and beyond, making this one of the nation’s most affordable medical schools.
Website: University of New Mexico School of Medicine
2. Baylor College of Medicine
Location: Houston, Texas
Tuition fee (2024-25): $19,425
A top-ranked private medical school, Baylor offers a strong mix of low Tuition fees, clinical training, and research opportunities.
Students train in Houston’s prestigious Texas Medical Center, with small class sizes and access to elite faculty mentors. The school awards many merit and need-based scholarships, and dual-degree programs are available.
Baylor’s affordability, excellent outcomes, and resource-rich setting make it an appealing choice for future doctors.
Website:Baylor College of Medicine
3. Texas A&M University College of Medicine
Location: Bryan, Texas
Tuition fee (2024-25, International): $19,521
A public school dedicated to training mission-driven doctors, Texas A&M offers affordable tuition, especially for international and in-state students.
Students learn in a blend of rural and urban environments, focusing on community engagement, hands-on skills, and innovative healthcare delivery.
Scholarships and financial aid programs support students’ diverse goals. This school is perfect for those looking for strong mentorship and a sense of community.
Website: Texas A&M University College of Medicine
4. University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
Location: San Antonio, Texas
Tuition fee (In-State, 2024-25): $18,267
A public institution with some of the lowest in-state tuition in the country, this school emphasizes patient-centered care, advanced simulation labs, and early clinical training.
Diverse clinical settings offer a wide variety of hands-on experiences. Numerous scholarships and need-based aid make it even more affordable.
Students graduate well-prepared for residencies across the U.S., including primary care and competitive specialties.
Website: University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
5. University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine
Location: Edinburg, Texas
Tuition fee (In-State, 2024-25): $21,532
This newer public school specializes in community-based training with a focus on meeting the health needs of South Texas.
The curriculum includes early clinical experiences, modern facilities, and a strong emphasis on primary care and bilingual education.
Scholarships targeted at local residents make attending UTRGV especially affordable. Graduates are encouraged to serve diverse and underserved populations in the region.
Website: University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine
6. East Carolina University Brody School of Medicine
Location: Greenville, North Carolina
Tuition fee (In-State, 2024-25): $22,252
Brody School of Medicine, a public institution, aims to produce primary care doctors for North Carolina’s rural communities.
Students receive hands-on training, small class sizes, and personal faculty attention.
The school offers numerous scholarships for in-state students who wish to practice in underserved areas.
Its community engagement programs and affordability make Brody a top choice for service-minded future doctors.
Website: East Carolina University Brody School of Medicine
7. University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School
Location: Austin, Texas
Tuition fee (In-State, 2024-25): $22,613
Dell Medical School is a public institution focused on health care innovation and community engagement.
Students gain early clinical experience and enjoy Austin’s supportive medical community. Opportunities exist for interdisciplinary projects, leadership programs, and research.
Scholarships are available for students from diverse backgrounds.
Dell’s affordable tuition and modern approach to medicine make it an excellent choice for Texas residents.
Website: University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School
8. Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine
Location: Huntington, West Virginia
Tuition fee (In-State, 2024-25): $24,988
Marshall’s public medical school specializes in rural and community health, training doctors to serve West Virginia and surrounding areas.
Students receive strong personalized attention, early clinical exposure, and rural rotations. Several scholarship programs help make the already low tuition even more affordable.
The school prides itself on its tight-knit community and high placement in primary care residencies.
Website: Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine
9. University of Central Florida College of Medicine
Location: Orlando, Florida
Tuition fee (In-State, 2024-25): $29,680
This public school in Orlando offers a technology-focused curriculum, advanced labs, and early patient care training. Students benefit from research opportunities and mentorship programs.
Tuition is affordable for Florida residents, and various merit-based and need-based scholarships are available.
UCF is ideal for students interested in innovative medicine, community health, and gaining skills in the latest medical technology.
Website: University of Central Florida College of Medicine
10. Florida State University College of Medicine
Location: Tallahassee, Florida
Tuition fee (In-State, 2024-25): $28,987
FSU’s public medical school stands out for its commitment to training doctors for Florida’s rural and underserved areas.
The curriculum involves early clinical exposure, small class sizes, and personal attention from faculty.
FSU offers several scholarships, especially for students committed to working in local primary care.
Its affordable tuition and supportive learning environment make it a popular choice among Florida residents.
Website: Florida State University College of Medicine
Advantages of Choosing an Affordable Medical School
Choosing an affordable medical school comes with several benefits that can help ease your financial burden while still providing a quality education:
- Lower Debt: Attending an affordable medical school reduces tuition and debt, making life after graduation easier by minimizing loan repayment.
- Quality Education: Just because a school is affordable doesn’t mean it lacks quality.
Many affordable medical schools offer excellent programs with strong clinical training and a good reputation in the medical field. - Scholarships & Financial Aid: Many affordable schools offer scholarships, grants, or financial aid options that can further reduce your costs.
- Less Financial Stress: With lower tuition and fewer loans to pay off, you can focus on your studies and future career without the constant worry about finances.
Other Strategies for Reducing Medical School Costs
Aside from choosing an affordable school, there are several other strategies to help reduce the overall cost of medical education:
- In-State vs. Out-of-State Tuition:
If you’re attending a public medical school, in-state tuition is usually much cheaper than out-of-state tuition. - Look for Dual Degree Programs:
Some medical schools offer dual degree programs (like MD/PhD) that can help you save money or earn a stipend while studying. - Live Off-Campus or with Roommates:
Living off-campus or sharing housing with roommates can lower your living expenses.
This can make a big difference in how much you spend during medical school. - Use Textbook Alternatives:
Instead of buying expensive textbooks, look for free online resources, second-hand books, or digital copies. - Apply for Scholarships and Grants:
Search for these opportunities early and apply to as many scholarships as you can to reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
Conclusion
Choosing an affordable medical school can make a big difference in your financial future.
By finding schools with lower tuition, applying for scholarships, and using other cost-saving strategies, you can reduce the amount of debt you take on.
Remember, the goal is to get a quality education without worrying too much about money.
With careful planning, you can focus on becoming the doctor you want to be while keeping costs manageable.
Take the time to research and explore your options so that you can make the best choice for your education and your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Medical Schools Offer Part-Time or Online Programs?
Most medical schools require full-time attendance, and few offer online programs. However, some schools may have part-time options for certain types of training.
How Can I Reduce Living Expenses During Medical School?
You can reduce living expenses by living with roommates, staying off-campus, or choosing a location with a lower cost of living. Cooking at home instead of eating out can also save money.
