Affordability is a big question when you’re thinking about going to colleges and picking the best one for you, so it’s only right to search for affordable colleges in Alabama if you’re a resident. You might be wondering who has the best in-state tuition or the best merit aid, and these are all good questions! Fortunately, this guide can help you answer some of them, at least for the state of Alabama.
For in-state students
University of Alabama in Huntsville
According to Payscale Inc., this university ranked #1 in 2024 as the best school for return on investment in Alabama. This is likely because the University of Alabama offers over two thirds of students financial assistance.
University of Alabama at Birmingham
At the University of Alabama at Birmingham, cost of attendance for undergraduate students is determined by which school or major of study you’re in. Fortunately, each school’s tuition, excluding those in health professions, is just above $10,000. UAB also connects its students to outside scholarship opportunities to help cut the cost of attendance, such as veterans and first professional students.
Best merit aid
Samford University
Samford University guarantees freshmen that their scholarship awards will be available for 8 semesters. Aid packages are especially helpful since Samford is about $40,000, which could make this school potentially your most affordable option.
Fortunately, this university has over 10 merit scholarships that students can qualify for. For example, the Crosland Scholarship offers on average $17,500 to students that had ACT scores of 26 or above along with a GPA of 3.5 or above. They also offer the $2,000 Davis Scholarship for students servicing their communities.
There are even scholarships according to major of study, like band, business or history, but be sure to check requirements for applications since some require letters of recommendation or an audition. Samford also offers competitive scholars programs that can include stipends for things like research or study abroad stipends.
State grants
Alabama Student Grant Program (ASGP)
The Alabama Student Grant Program is a grant offered to students at eligible independent Alabama colleges and universities. This grant is merit-based rather than need, so all students are encouraged to apply. Students can qualify for up to $3,000 per academic year if they attend any of the below institutions:
- Amridge University
- Birmingham Southern University
- Faulkner University
- Huntingdon College
- Miles College
- Oakwood University
- Samford University
- Spring Hill College
- South University – Montgomery
- Stillman College
- U.S. Sports Academy
- University of Mobile
Alabama Student Assistance Program (ASAP)
ASAP is a need-based grant that can offer in-state students between $300-$5,000 in funding per academic year. In order to qualify, you must be an Alabama resident enrolling in an undergraduate degree in the state. You will need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year.
