Most Affordable Colleges in Maine 2024
Here are the most affordable colleges and universities in Maine. Our list will help you find the right kind of school for you, at a price you can afford.
Most Affordable Colleges in Maine 2024
- University of Maine
- University of Southern Maine
- Unity Environmental University
- University of Maine at Augusta
- Maine Maritime Academy
- University of Maine at Farmington
- University of Maine at Presque Isle
- University of Maine at Fort Kent
- University of Maine at Machias
- University of Maine
- University of Southern Maine
- Maine Maritime Academy
- University of Maine at Augusta
- University of Maine at Farmington
- University of Maine at Presque Isle
- University of Maine at Fort Kent
- University of Maine at Machias
- Unity Environmental University
- University of Maine at Fort Kent 99%
- University of Maine at Presque Isle 97%
- Unity Environmental University 94%
- University of Maine 94%
- University of Maine at Farmington 94%
- University of Southern Maine 85%
- Maine Maritime Academy 58%
- Unity Environmental University 36 to 1
- University of Maine at Presque Isle 23 to 1
- University of Maine at Fort Kent 17 to 1
- University of Maine at Augusta 15 to 1
- University of Maine 14 to 1
- University of Southern Maine 14 to 1
- University of Maine at Farmington 11 to 1
- Maine Maritime Academy 11 to 1
- Unity Environmental University $12,640
- University of Maine $11,640
- Maine Maritime Academy $11,474
- University of Maine at Farmington $8,640
- University of Southern Maine $8,064
- University of Maine at Fort Kent $7,350
- University of Maine at Presque Isle $7,350
- University of Maine at Augusta $7,350
- Maine Maritime Academy $14,400
- University of Maine at Presque Isle $12,000
- University of Maine at Farmington $10,248
- Unity Environmental University $9,750
- University of Maine $9,738
- University of Maine at Augusta $7,776
- University of Southern Maine $7,776
- University of Maine at Fort Kent $7,350
- University of Maine at Machias
- University of Maine at Fort Kent
- University of Maine at Presque Isle
- University of Maine at Farmington
- Maine Maritime Academy
- University of Maine at Augusta
- Unity Environmental University
- University of Southern Maine
- University of Maine
- Unity Environmental University
- University of Maine at Machias
- University of Maine at Fort Kent
- University of Maine at Presque Isle
- University of Maine at Farmington
- University of Maine at Augusta
- Maine Maritime Academy
- University of Southern Maine
- University of Maine
- Maine Maritime Academy 58%
- University of Southern Maine 85%
- University of Maine at Farmington 94%
- University of Maine 94%
- Unity Environmental University 94%
- University of Maine at Presque Isle 97%
- University of Maine at Fort Kent 99%
- University of Maine at Farmington 11 to 1
- Maine Maritime Academy 11 to 1
- University of Maine 14 to 1
- University of Southern Maine 14 to 1
- University of Maine at Augusta 15 to 1
- University of Maine at Fort Kent 17 to 1
- University of Maine at Presque Isle 23 to 1
- Unity Environmental University 36 to 1
- University of Maine at Fort Kent $7,350
- University of Maine at Presque Isle $7,350
- University of Maine at Augusta $7,350
- University of Southern Maine $8,064
- University of Maine at Farmington $8,640
- Maine Maritime Academy $11,474
- University of Maine $11,640
- Unity Environmental University $12,640
- University of Maine at Fort Kent $7,350
- University of Maine at Augusta $7,776
- University of Southern Maine $7,776
- University of Maine $9,738
- Unity Environmental University $9,750
- University of Maine at Farmington $10,248
- University of Maine at Presque Isle $12,000
- Maine Maritime Academy $14,400
Colleges and Universities in Maine
At $9,970, Maine is right on target with the national average, making the state an affordable choice for those looking to receive an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree. The 16 public colleges and universities range in tuition from $4,000 to $14,000. The 10 private schools tend to cost more, ranging from $27,000 to $55,000, though the class sizes are often much smaller. The largest private university is the University of New England, with just under 6,000 students, and a tuition of $38,000.
Find college admissions consultants in your state.
The University of Maine (UMaine), with just under 10,000 students, is the largest public school, with a tuition rate of $11,000. Based in Orono, the public research university offers degrees in fields like literature, earth sciences, and physics. Stephen King and Bernard Lown are among the influential alumni who attended this school. The cost for higher education in Maine varies, but the state offers loan forgiveness programs for many professions, including dentists, lawyers, educators, health professionals, and veterinarians. The Alfond Leaders program forgives up to $60,000 for residents working in eligible science, technology, engineering, and mathematics occupations.
The northernmost state in New England, Maine is known for its fishing, quaint coastal towns, and of course, lobster. Maine is also home to over 60 lighthouses. Students looking to earn their degree while living in a state that has both ocean beaches and lush forests can choose from 26 private and public higher education institutions.
Come see why Maine is an excellent option for earning your higher education degree and starting a career.
What are Maine’s Colleges & Universities?
- 2 Research Universities
- 14 Liberal Arts Colleges & Universities
- 3 Graduate Schools
- 8 Public Colleges & Universities
- 8 Private Colleges & Universities
- 1 Christian Colleges & Universities
- 13 Small Colleges & Universities (fewer than 5,000 students)
- 9 Affordable Colleges (below $20,000/year)
- 8 Community Colleges
- 8 Online Colleges
Maine’s Best Overall
There are 9 colleges and universities in Maine with stated tuitions and fees under $20,000/year. The following list of the most affordable colleges and universities in Maine is composed entirely of schools offering bachelor’s degree programs, have stated tuition and fees near or under the national average of $16,000/year, and are fully accredited colleges.
Most Affordable Colleges in Maine 2023
These schools are ranked by academic excellence, and all under $20,000/year.
- #1 Best Research Universities in Maine 2024 #1 Best Public Colleges in Maine 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools in Maine 2024 #2 Best Colleges in Maine 2024
Other Rankings
- #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Maine 2024
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Maine
- #1 Best Online Colleges in Maine 2024
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
- #2 Best Online MBAs in Sustainability
- #6 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
- #7 Best Online MBA in Business Analytics Ranked for Students in 2024
- #7 Best Online MBA in Accounting Degree Programs
- #11 Best Online MBAs in Finance
- #15 Best Online Master's in Special Education
- #16 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
- #16 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #16 Best Online Master’s in Education
- #19 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
- #20 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting
- #22 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
55%
Student body
15K
Median SAT/ACT
1200/26
Career Outlook for degree at University of Maine
Cost of Degree: $12,136Expenses: $15,320Starting Salary: $48,300Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Maine known for?
University of Maine’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Psychology
- Earth Sciences
- Biology
- Anthropology
- Mathematics
- Economics
- Communications
- Education
- Engineering
Most Influential Alumni
University of Maine’s Online Degrees
BS in Business Administration
Degree Concentrations
- Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Economics
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Political Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BUS in University Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #2 Best Public Colleges in Maine 2024 #2 Best Grad Schools in Maine 2024 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Maine 2024 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
Other Rankings
- #5 Best Colleges in Maine 2024
- #16 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Maine 2024
- #2 Best Online Colleges in Maine 2024
- #8 Best Online Master's in Behavior Analysis Degree Programs
- #13 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
- #13 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
85%
Graduation
42%
Student body
10K
Median SAT/ACT
1109/22
Career Outlook for degree at University of Southern Maine
Cost of Degree: $10,100Expenses: $14,784Starting Salary: $44,400Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Southern Maine known for?
University of Southern Maine’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
University of Southern Maine’s Online Degrees
BS in Applied Technical Leadership
- Required Credits: 121
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Business Administration
Degree Concentrations
- Management
- Required Credits: 121
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Social And Behavioral Sciences
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Communication
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Leadership And Organizational Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Integrative Professional Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #5 Best Small Colleges in Maine 2024 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Maine 2024 #6 Best Private Colleges in Maine 2024 #8 Best Colleges in Maine 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
53%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for degree at Unity Environmental University
Cost of Degree: $12,640Expenses: $13,884Starting Salary: $37,400Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryUnity Environmental University’s Online Degrees
BS in Conservation Law Enforcement
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
BS in Animal Health And Behavior
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Animal Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Captive Wildlife Care
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
BS in Environmental Geospatial Technologies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Environmental Health And Safety
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Environmental Health And Wellness
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Environmental Justice And Social Change
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Environmental Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
BS in Environmental Science And Climate Change
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Environmental Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Leadership And Communication
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Marine Biology And Sustainable Aquaculture
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Sustainable Business Management
Degree Concentrations
- Adventure Ecotourism
- Hemp Industry And Science
- Renewable Energy
- Sustainable Food And Farming
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Wildlife And Fisheries Biology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
- #3 Best Public Colleges in Maine 2024 #6 Best Small Colleges in Maine 2024 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Maine 2024 #9 Best Colleges in Maine 2024
Tuition + fees
$8K
Graduation
23%
Student body
6K
Career Outlook for degree at University of Maine at Augusta
Cost of Degree: $8,378Expenses: $13,000Starting Salary: $30,600Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Maine at Augusta known for?
University of Maine at Augusta’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- #4 Best Public Colleges in Maine 2024 #8 Best Small Colleges in Maine 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Maine 2024 #12 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
Tuition + fees
$15K
Acceptance
58%
Graduation
66%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1175/25
Career Outlook for degree at Maine Maritime Academy
Cost of Degree: $14,562Expenses: $15,740Starting Salary: $107,200Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Maine Maritime Academy known for?
Maine Maritime Academy’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
53%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at University of Maine at Farmington
Cost of Degree: $9,890Expenses: $14,834Starting Salary: $37,500Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Maine at Farmington known for?
University of Maine at Farmington’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Earth Sciences
- Biology
- Education
- Sociology
- Political Science
- Computer Science
- History
- Anthropology
- Social Work
Most Influential Alumni
- #6 Best Public Colleges in Maine 2024 #5 Best Online Colleges in Maine 2024 #23 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
97%
Graduation
29%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at University of Maine at Presque Isle
Cost of Degree: $8,750Expenses: $13,300Starting Salary: $35,300Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Maine at Presque Isle known for?
University of Maine at Presque Isle’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
University of Maine at Presque Isle’s Online Degrees
BA in Accounting
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Business Administration
Degree Concentrations
- Accounting
- Project Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BLS in Liberal Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Accounting
- Management
- Project Management
- Educational Studies
- Management Information Systems
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in English
Degree Concentrations
- Professional Communication And Journalism
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #7 Best Public Colleges in Maine 2024 #1 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Maine #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Maine 2024 #6 Best Online Colleges in Maine 2024
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
99%
Graduation
37%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at University of Maine at Fort Kent
Cost of Degree: $8,542Expenses: $13,054Starting Salary: $37,700Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Maine at Fort Kent known for?
University of Maine at Fort Kent’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
University of Maine at Fort Kent’s Online Degrees
BS in Cybersecurity
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Nursing Rn To Bsn
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Allied Health
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
What is University of Maine at Machias known for?
University of Maine at Machias’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
University of Maine at Machias’s Online Degrees
BA in Psychology And Community Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Environmental Geographic Information Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online