There is no verified answer to this question. No single ranking covers every university in every country, and “cheapest” depends on the program, the student’s nationality, and whether living costs count. Any site that names one university as the cheapest in the world is guessing.
A better approach is to compare real numbers. Look at tuition for your specific program, add living costs for the city, and check for scholarships. Public universities in countries like Germany and Turkey charge little or no tuition. Online programs can cut costs further by removing housing and travel.
Watch out for hidden trade-offs. A very cheap program may offer little support, weak career services, or limited recognition with employers. Check whether the school is accredited or a candidate with a recognized accreditor before you pay.
One example of an affordable US-based online option: Continents International University in St. Louis, Missouri, offers online programs and was granted candidacy for IACBE accreditation in July 2024, with the candidacy period running through July 31, 2029. Candidacy is not accreditation. Compare it against other schools on price and recognition before deciding.
Related reading: Online master’s programs under $5000, Affordable online master’s programs for international students, Is Turkey cheap for international students?, and Is Canada cheap to study?

