Table of Contents
- 6 Types of Free College Education for Master’s Students
- 9 Free Master’s Degree Online Programs in 2023
- 1. University of the People, School of Education
- 2. University of the People, School of Computer Science
- 3. The University of Texas at Dallas, Naveen Jindal School of Management
- 4. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MITx)
- 5. IICSE University
- 6. The University of Southern California, Rossier School of Education
- 7. University of Illinois
- 8. Fort Hays State University
- 9. University of West Georgia
- Factors Affecting Free Tuition
- Checklist for Free Tuition Seekers
- FAQs about Free Online Master’s Degrees
- How Can I Get a Free Master’s Degree Online?
- Are There Any Free Master’s Programs?
- How Can I Get a Free Degree?
- How Can I Get a Free Master’s Degree in the USA?
- How to Get a Tuition-Free Degree
- Are Free Degrees Completely Free or Will I Need Financial Aid?
- Are Free Master’s Degree Online Programs Valued by Employers?
- What Are the Admission Requirements for Tuition-Free Online Master’s Degree Programs?
- Final Thoughts
Many students struggle to afford to pay tuition and the many other expenses associated with a master’s degree. Even though many schools offer financial aid, a graduate degree can still land you with crippling student debt. Thankfully, some institutions actually provide options for a free master’s degree online!
To take control of your education, keep reading to learn about tuition-free online master’s degrees!
6 Types of Free College Education for Master’s Students
Even in the context of rising higher education costs, you can still find a few different types of free graduate programs. Not all are entirely free, but – in some cases – tuition is reduced to a minimum.
Some programs don’t charge college tuition; others may have tuition fees covered by scholarships. Free master’s degrees are generally made possible through endowments, donations from philanthropists, state grants, and scholarships.
1. Tuition-Less Programs
These are free-tuition master’s degree programs. However, options for 100% tuition-less master’s programs are limited.
2. Free Online University Programs
Some universities offer free online programs, while on-campus alternatives may involve costs.
3. Scholarship-Based
For eligible students, some scholarships can completely cover their tuition fees.
4. Employer-Sponsored
Some companies (such as Bank of America, BP, Intel, and P&G) run programs that cover the tuition for their employees to study master’s programs.
5. Military-Related Subsidies
VA education and training benefits can substantially lower costs for current/serving members of the military. In some cases, family members will also receive these benefits.
6. Foreign University Programs
Public universities in European countries like Norway, France, and Germany offer education for free (or a nominal fee) to international students.
Related: Check out the 10 Best Online Master’s Programs
9 Free Master’s Degree Online Programs in 2023
Most of the programs listed here are tuition-free online master’s programs. However, you’ll need to consider other expenses like books, rent, and various fees. Some tuition-free universities also provide scholarship options to cover these study expenses.
Related: The Easiest Master’s Programs
1. University of the People, School of Education
Online Master of Education in Advanced Teaching
The University of the People aims to make quality education accessible to all, offering a range of programs with zero tuition. The application process involves a $60 fee and a $300 assessment fee at the end of each course.
The university collaborates with the International Baccalaureate (IB) to offer the M.Ed. program in Advanced Teaching. Those studying this free master’s degree online 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%
2. University of the People, School of Computer Science
Online Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT)
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 commerce world’s challenges.
Eligible students must have a basic knowledge of databases, algorithms, and operating systems. Like other master’s programs offered by University of the People, you must pay a $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
Online Master’s in Business Analytics (focused on Data Science)
The University of Texas’ Naveen Jindal School of Management was founded in 1975, thanks to a generous contribution from its namesake, MBA graduate Naveen Jindal. This master’s 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), helping you land 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%
4. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MITx)
MicroMaster’s in Principles of Manufacturing
This micro master’s program from MIT helps professionals advance their careers in the manufacturing sector. This program is offered by the Mechanical Engineering department, which is ranked first in the world. You can also apply your program credits toward a Master of Engineering in Advanced Manufacturing and Design at MIT.
These graduate-level courses are delivered through the online educational platform edX – and the entire course is free. However, students need to pay a course fee ($1,260 at the time of writing) to verify and receive a certificate (though 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
MA in English Language and Literature
IICSE is a fully digital university that offers free online master’s programs to students worldwide. Tuition, lectures, and study resources are provided at no cost though there is a one-time application fee of $45 and a $50 fee per exam.
This free master’s degree online in English allows 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
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Online
The University of Southern California’s 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. 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, an online educational platform. This Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC) format makes it possible for students to study advanced courses while only paying a fee for the certificates.
Current University of Illinois students and faculty can access free courses through the Coursera for Illinois page. You can’t get a master’s degree directly through this format, but you can earn credits for various graduate programs. 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
Master of Professional Studies – Human Resource Management
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 in their specialty, involving both coursework and a major project.
Human Resource Management is 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
Master of Science in Digital and Social Media Communication
Though not entirely tuition-free, the University of West Georgia is another institution that offers low tuition rates, making this one of the most affordable master’s programs in the country. Its Master of Science in Digital and Social Media Communication is delivered fully online and helps students 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
Whether it’s free or thousands of dollars per semester, tuition is influenced by a wide range of factors, including:
- School reputation and rankings
- Course accreditations
- Opportunities for financial aid and/or scholarships
- Reputation and experience of faculty members
- Student-to-teacher ratio
- Size of the student body
- Whether the course is offered online on campus
- If offered online, whether it’s through an advertising-supported site
Checklist for Free Tuition Seekers
When looking to apply to free online master’s degree programs, here are some factors to keep in mind:
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Is Tuition Free for Everyone?
Does the institution offer free tuition? Is tuition only waived under certain circumstances? If so, what do you need to do to meet eligibility requirements? In some cases, you may need to meet financial hardship criteria or show that you belong to a particularly disadvantaged group.
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What Other Costs Will You Need to Pay?
Even if a school offers free college tuition, there are other expenses that you’ll need to pay, such as application fees, assessment fees, and occasionally books. Determine whether you can afford the course by thoroughly researching and budgeting these costs.
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What Financial Aid and Scholarships are Available?
Even if the program doesn’t have free tuition, scholarships covering tuition may be available. However, you’ll usually need to demonstrate excellence in a certain area, such as academia, sports, or music. Some institutions also offer other types of financial assistance that cover mandatory fees.
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Is the Program Worthwhile?
Finding a program that offers free classes is great, but the cost isn’t the only important factor. Even if it’s a free online master’s degree, you’ll be investing time. Make sure that this institution is worth your while. To determine how valuable the qualification might be, consider the school’s reputation and its faculty members, student-to-faculty ratio, and what type of accreditation the program has.
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What Do I Need to Do to Keep My Tuition Free?
For certain free online master’s programs, you may need to reapply for financial aid or renew your scholarship every year. This not only means you’ll need to keep on top of this to avoid paying tuition – but there’s a risk that your free tuition status may not continue in subsequent years.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I 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 likely need to cover other study expenses like books and assessment/technology fees.
How Can I Get a Free Degree?
There are two main ways you can get a free degree:
- Gaining admission to a tuition-free program or a free online course
- Receiving a scholarship or financial aid that will cover 100% of your tuition
It’s generally easier to get a free degree online (and 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 are not complete graduate programs, but 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 to 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 put in an application. The exact requirements vary between programs, 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 make sure you take your time to prepare the strongest application possible. Our handy tips and guides can help you with this!
Are Free Degrees Completely Free or Will I Need Financial Aid?
Usually, the term “free master’s degree” means that the program doesn’t charge any tuition. However, some so-called “tuition-free online master’s degrees” are only free if you successfully get a scholarship or other financial aid to cover full tuition. Furthermore, even if you don’t need to pay tuition, you may need financial aid to help you cover other 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 factors such as the school’s reputation, accreditation, and faculty. 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. Typically, you’ll need to have completed an undergraduate degree in a related field, and – depending on how competitive the admission process is – you may also need to meet other criteria.
If free tuition is available through financial aid or a scholarship, you’ll need to 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
There are plenty of free master’s degrees online that allow students to further their education and build successful careers without serious debt. However, the number of free programs is more limited than paid options and can be fairly competitive.
Other options are to sign up for free courses through educational platforms like Coursera and edX. Even though these courses might not provide a master’s qualification, they’re also 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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