The 9 Best Free Master’s Degree Online Programs in 2024

Even though plenty of higher education programs offer financial aid, a graduate degree still saddles graduate students with loads of debt – and that’s after gaining a bachelor’s degree! Thankfully, many institutions provide options for a free master’s degree online!

To take control of your education, I’m walking you through everything you need to know about tuition-free online master’s degrees!

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9 Free Master’s Degree Online Programs in 2024

While the programs listed here are tuition-free graduate programs, you’ll need to consider other expenses (like books, rent, and various fees). Some tuition-free master’s programs here, however, provide scholarship options to cover these costs.

1. University of the People, School of Education

To make quality, graduate-level education accessible to everyone, the University of the People offers a range of programs with zero tuition. The application process involves a $60 fee and a $300 assessment fee (due at the end of each course).

The accredited institution collaborates with the International Baccalaureate (IB) to offer its M.Ed. program in Advanced Teaching. Those studying this free online master’s can choose from two specializations: Elementary/Middle School Education and Secondary Education.

Courses: Human development, teaching and learning theory, behavior management, and assessment of learning.
Credits: 39
Duration: 1.5 to 3 years
Acceptance rate: 100%

Related: Easiest Master’s Programs

2. University of the People, School of Computer Science

The University of the People also offers a free online master’s in information technology that covers the connections between information technology, communication, and business. The program equips students with the skills and knowledge to solve the modern world’s challenges.

Eligible students must have a basic knowledge of databases, algorithms, and operating systems. Like other master’s programs offered by the University of the People, you must pay an initial $60 application fee and a $300 assessment fee at the end of each course.

Courses: Databases, operating systems, and algorithms.
Credits: 36
Duration: Between 1 and 5 years
Acceptance rate: 100%

3. The University of Texas at Dallas, Naveen Jindal School of Management

The University of Texas’ Naveen Jindal School of Management was founded in 1975, thanks to a generous contribution from its namesake (Naveen Jindal).

This program in business analytics focuses on data science and covers cutting-edge technologies such as Python, R, Hadoop, SAS, SAP, Spark, and AI.

The program offers scholarships of up to $15,000 (which covers almost all tuition fees). Best of all, a business analytics degree offers one of the highest-paying jobs for MBA graduates. That makes an excellent return on your investment!

Courses: Database foundations, predictive analytics, prescriptive analytics, programming for data science, and advanced statistics.
Credit hours: 36
Financial aid: Scholarships cover almost 100% of tuition.
Acceptance rate: 78.6%

Related: Need to improve your GRE score? Magoosh is your secret weapon!

4. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MITx)

MIT’s micro master’s program helps professionals advance their careers in the manufacturing sector. The Mechanical Engineering department offers this program (ranked first in the world), and program credits can be applied toward a Master of Engineering in Advanced Manufacturing and Design at MIT.

These graduate-level courses are delivered through the online learning platform edX, and the entire course is free. However, students must pay a course fee ($1,260 at the time of writing) to verify and receive a certificate. However, some students may be eligible for a 90% discount).

Courses: Manufacturing process control, the supply chain for manufacturing, manufacturing systems, and management in manufacturing.
Courses: 8
Duration: One semester
Acceptance rate: 7.3%

Related: Discover the 10 Best Online Engineering Degree Programs

5. IICSE University

IICSE is a fully digital university that offers free online master’s programs to international students. Tuition, lectures, and study resources are provided at no cost, though there’s a one-time application fee of $45, as well as a $50 fee per exam.

This free master’s degree online in English encourages students to explore the connections between language and literature. It covers various periods in English literature, theoretical approaches, and research methodologies.

Courses: History of literature, poetry, Shakespeare studies, and drama.
Duration: 2 years
Costs: Up to $1,200
Acceptance rate: 100%

6. The University of Southern California, Rossier School of Education

The University of Southern California MA in Teaching program is designed for aspiring K-12 teachers. The program builds foundational knowledge on both the theoretical and practical aspects of teaching, helping students master valuable instructional strategies. Single-subject teaching and multiple-subject teaching tracks are available.

While this program is not tuition-free, various scholarship options are available. For example, the James Madison Graduate Fellowship of $24,000 covers full tuition for aspiring secondary school educators.

Courses: Applications of curriculum and pedagogy, educational equity, and literacy development.
Credits: 28
Duration: 1 to 3 years
Acceptance rate: 16.1%
Financial aid: Scholarships

7. University of Illinois

While the University of Illinois doesn’t provide free online master’s degrees, you can access multiple free (or low-cost) UofI graduate courses through Coursera. This Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC) format allows students to study advanced courses while paying a low fee for the certificates.

Current University of Illinois students and faculty can access free courses through the Coursera for Illinois page. While you can’t get a master’s degree directly through this format, you can earn credits for various graduate schools. You’ll also get an Illinois/Coursera course completion certificate to enhance your resume.

Courses: Master of Science in Management, Master of Computer Science, Master of Science in Accountancy, and Master of Business Administration.
Credits: Vary, depending on the course
Duration: Vary, depending on the course
Acceptance rate: 100%

8. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University’s mission is to provide affordable education to all. Although not entirely tuition-free, the school’s programs have some of the country’s lowest tuition rates. Its Master of Professional Studies helps students develop advanced professional skill sets through coursework and a major project.

Their Human Resource Management program is just one of several concentrations you can choose from, along with criminal justice, cybersecurity, organizational leadership, and social entrepreneurship. These can be completed remotely through FHSU Online.

Courses: Research and practice in global HR, organizational leadership, employment law, and conflict management through communication.
Credit hours: 30
Acceptance rate: 91.1%

9. University of West Georgia

Though not entirely tuition-free, the University of West Georgia’s low tuition rates make this one of the most affordable master’s programs in the US. Its Master of Science in Digital and Social Media Communication is delivered digitally, helping online learners develop critical thinking and strategic skills. It covers the strategies, analytics, and laws related to digital communications and social media.

Courses: Content creation, analytics, and strategic communication.
Credit hours: 30
Duration: 1 to 2 years
Acceptance rate: 59.5%

Factors Affecting Free Tuition Master’s Programs

Whether it’s free or thousands of dollars per semester, tuition is influenced by a wide range of factors:

School reputation and rankings
Course accreditations
Opportunities for financial aid and/or scholarship
Reputation and experience of faculty members
Student-to-teacher ratio
Size of the student body
Whether the course is offered online on campus

The 6 Types of Free Master’s Students Programs

Even with rising higher education costs, there are multiple types of affordable graduate programs to consider. Some programs don’t charge college tuition, while others may have tuition fees covered by scholarships.

Whatever the case, the majority of tuition-free master’s programs are made possible through endowments, donations from philanthropists, state grants, and scholarships.

1. Free Online University Programs

As we mentioned in this article, some universities offer free online programs.

2. Tuition-Less Programs

100% tuition-free master’s degree programs are available but limited.

3. Scholarship-Based

For eligible students, some scholarships can completely cover their tuition fees.

4. Employer-Sponsored

Some companies (e.g., Bank of America, BP, Intel, and P&G) run partner programs that cover master’s program tuition fees for employees.

5. Military-Related Subsidies

VA education and training benefits can substantially lower costs for current/serving military members. In some cases, family members will also receive these benefits.

6. Foreign University Programs

For international students, some public universities in European countries (like Norway, France, and Germany) offer education for free or a nominal fee.

Questions to Ask Before Applying to Free Online Master’s Courses

When looking to apply to free online master’s degree programs, there are a few factors to keep in mind:

1. Is Tuition Free for Everyone?

Does the institution offer free tuition for everyone? Is tuition only waived under certain circumstances? If so, what do you need to do to meet eligibility requirements? You may need to meet financial hardship criteria or show that you belong to a particularly disadvantaged group.

2. What Other Costs Will You Need to Pay?

Even if an online grad school offers free tuition, there are other expenses that you’ll need to pay (like application fees, assessment fees, and books). Determine whether you can afford the course by thoroughly researching – and budgeting for – these costs.

3. What Financial Aid and Scholarships Are Available?

Even if the program doesn’t offer free tuition, scholarships that cover tuition may be available. However, you’ll usually need to demonstrate excellence in a certain area (e.g., academia, sports, music). Some institutions also offer other types of financial assistance that cover mandatory fees.

4. Is the Program Worthwhile?

Finding tuition-free graduate programs is great, but cost isn’t the only important factor. Make sure that this institution is worth your time. To determine how valuable the qualification is, consider the school’s reputation and its faculty members, student-to-faculty ratio, and the type of accreditation.

5. What Do I Need to Do to Keep My Tuition-Free?

For some free online master’s programs, you may need to reapply for financial aid or renew your scholarship every year. You’ll need to keep on top of this to avoid paying tuition. There is, however, a risk that your free tuition status may not continue in subsequent years.

Related: If you want to continue your studies after completing your master’s (without accumulating student loan debt), you might consider applying to a fully-funded Ph.D. program.

When Is the Best Time to Pursue a Master’s Degree?

There isn’t an answer that applies to everyone. I recommend considering the following factors before applying to schools:

What are you planning to use your degree for? Do you need it for your career further down the road or sooner?
Does your program of choice require work experience first?
Can you afford a master’s degree? Even if you don’t need to pay tuition, you’ll need to cover living expenses, books, and more.
Are you in the right headspace to take on a graduate degree? Should you consider a part-time or full-time position?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Get a Free Master’s Degree Online?

Several higher education institutions aim to provide free online master’s degrees. Either look for universities offering tuition-free master’s programs or those that give out scholarships that cover 100% of tuition.

Are There Any Free Master’s Programs?

Various universities provide many free master’s degree programs. However, the term “free” typically refers to “zero tuition.” You’ll probably need to cover other study expenses like books and assessment/technology fees.

How Can I Get a Free Master’s Degree?

There are two main ways you can get a free degree:

Gaining admission to a tuition-free program/free online course
Receiving a scholarship or financial aid that will cover 100% of your tuition

Getting a free degree online is generally easier, especially because you won’t need to worry about expenses like transportation and accommodation. Some companies also have programs that cover the cost of employees’ further education (including master’s programs).

How Can I Get a Free Master’s Degree in the USA?

Several US universities provide free master’s degrees (especially online programs) for graduates who meet their eligibility criteria. Some free courses aren’t complete graduate programs, though students might be able to apply their credits toward a full master’s degree.

Related Reading: Cheapest Online Master’s Degrees in the US

How Can I Get a Tuition-Free Degree?

Just like any other master’s degree, once you’ve decided which program you want to pursue, you’ll need to turn in an application. The exact requirements vary, but you’ll likely need to complete an online application form and submit supporting documents (such as academic transcripts, an academic resume, and letters of recommendation).

Free online master’s programs can be pretty competitive, so take your time to prepare the strongest application possible.

Are Free Degrees Completely Free? Will I Need Financial Aid?

A “free master’s degree” means the program doesn’t charge any tuition. However, some so-called “tuition-free online master’s degrees” are only free if you obtain a scholarship or other financial aid to cover costs. Even if you don’t need to pay tuition, you may need financial aid to help you pay for study expenses, especially for on-campus programs.

Are Free Master’s Degree Online Programs Valued by Employers?

Your free master’s degree doesn’t guarantee that potential future employers will value it. This depends on the school’s reputation, accreditation, faculty, and other factors. That said, many free online master’s degrees are offered by reputable institutions and are just as valuable to employers.

What Are the Admission Requirements for Tuition-Free Online Master’s Degree Programs?

Every free master’s degree online has its own admissions requirements. You’ll typically need to have completed an undergraduate degree in a related field and – depending on how competitive the admission process is – may also need to meet other criteria.

If free tuition is available through financial aid or a scholarship, you must demonstrate financial hardship or merit in a particular area. Carefully check the admission requirements before applying, and contact the school’s admissions office with any questions.

Final Thoughts

As I’ve shown you, there are plenty of free master’s degrees online that will encourage you to further your education and build a successful career – without incurring serious debt! However, it’s important to remember that the number of free programs can be pretty competitive.

You can also consider signing up for free courses through educational platforms like Coursera and edX. While they might not provide a master’s qualification, they’re still a great way to:

build your skills in new sectors
further your education
demonstrate a desire to learn
Decide whether to pursue a degree in the field
generate credits that can be put towards certain master’s courses

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About the Author

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.