When you’re planning to pursue an MBA degree, there’s one thing you need to make sure of: AACSB accreditation.
AACSB accreditation is highly regarded in the industry. Why?
- Having an AACSB-accredited degree can really make your resume stand out.
- It gives you access to top-notch job opportunities all over the world.
- AACSB-accredited schools have robust ties with other accredited schools, industries, and alumni that will broaden your network, helping you land jobs sooner.
However, MBAs can get pretty expensive. More and more working professionals are looking for cheap online AACSB accredited MBA programs to ensure that they still get a good return on investment from their degree. An online MBA is usually cheaper than going to classes in person. Plus, it’s flexible, allowing students to watch lectures and do their coursework from anywhere.
This article is all about showing you some cheap online AACSB accredited MBA programs. They’re perfect for working individuals who want to get world-class quality education without breaking the bank or sacrificing their work-life balance.
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Understanding AACSB Accreditation
Started in 1916, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International is the oldest accrediting organization for business schools worldwide. In 2024, a study by AACSB found that 73% of CEOs from Fortune 100 companies and 75% of the highest-paid CEOs from S&P 500 companies went to AACSB-accredited schools.
But apart from AACSB, there are two more accrediting agencies for business degrees: ACBSP and IACBE. While they’re also esteemed, AACSB still stands superior as it emphasizes research and academic rigor and its goal of cultivating leaders and scholars. Just 6% of business schools worldwide have the prestigious AACSB accreditation—that’s how hard it is to earn this accreditation.
ACBSP focuses on teaching, practitioner-based learning, and community engagement, emphasizing business education for a wide range of students. Conversely, IACBE focuses more on the curriculum, faculty, and resources than AACSB.
Key Factors in Finding an Affordable AACSB Online MBA
The return on investment of cheap online AACSB-accredited MBA programs varies on several factors. You need to take into account the expenses and possible income when deciding on a program. This will help you land the best of the bunch of affordable AACSB-accredited MBA online programs.
Cost is the leading reason why candidates are deterred from applying to business school. Based on the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), 26% of candidates worldwide are concerned about taking on significant debts. On the other hand, 23% worry that they simply cannot afford it. In general, online MBAs that cost under $20,000 are considered cheap. Yet, you can find AACSB accredited online MBA under $10k.
Fortunately, numerous AACSB MBA programs provide scholarships, assistantships, and employer tuition reimbursement.
When looking for cheap online AACSB accredited MBA programs, your first option should be in-state schools. State residents’ taxes fund state subsidies, allowing public universities to offer reduced fees.
If, however, there’s no in-state MBA school that fits your needs, you can opt for out-of-state schools. These, however, are thought to be more expensive. You might have to pay two or three times more in tuition fees than in-state students.
However, some online MBA schools offer in-state tuition for non-resident online students.
An online MBA program provides flexibility and the opportunity to study from any location. There are different online MBA formats to consider, such as:
- Part-time: Study at your own pace while balancing work and personal life.
- Full-time: Commit to a faster, immersive MBA experience.
- Executive: Tailored for experienced professionals seeking advanced leadership skills.
- Hybrid: Combines online learning with in-person sessions for a flexible yet structured approach.
In addition, certain programs offer synchronous learning, with faculty and students meeting and interacting in real-time at set times. Some offer asynchronous learning, which lets students access course materials and interact with each other at their speed.
Top 10 Cheap Online AACSB Accredited MBA Programs
Check out these top 10 best low-cost online MBA programs AACSB accredited in the United States for 2025.
1. Georgia Southwestern State University
Total Tuition: $9,503
Why it’s affordable: One of the lowest-cost AACSB MBA programs in the U.S.
Program Format: 100% online, no GMAT required
2. Fayetteville State University
Total Tuition:
- $8,949.96 (in-state)
- $21,045.92 (out-of-state)
Why it’s affordable: Offers reduced tuition rate for non-residents
Program Format: Fully online, multiple start dates
3. Texas A&M University-Commerce
Total Tuition: $15,210
Why it’s affordable: Low-cost tuition with financial aid options
Program Format: Online and hybrid formats
4. University of Texas Permian Basin
Total Tuition: $15,000
Why it’s affordable: AACSB accreditation at community college-level pricing
Program Format: Online with optional in-person networking events
5. Southeastern Oklahoma State University
Total Tuition:
- $8,680 (in-state)
- $9,340 (out-of-state)
Why it’s affordable: One of the cheapest MBA options in Texas
Program Format: Online with flexible scheduling
6. University of West Georgia
Total Tuition: $9,512.
Why it’s affordable: Offers in-state tuition rates for online students
Program Format: 100% online, 8-week courses
7. Missouri State University
Total Tuition: $13,730
Why it’s affordable: Low tuition with a strong academic reputation
Program Format: Online with part-time and full-time tracks
8. Louisiana Tech University
Total Tuition:
- $13,965 (in-state)
- $21,850 (out-of-state)
Why it’s affordable: Low out-of-state tuition for online students
Program Format: Online, fast-track options available
9. University of North Texas
Total Tuition: $9,681.21
Why it’s affordable: Affordable tuition with a strong alumni network
Program Format: Online with hybrid options
10. Ball State University
Total Tuition:
- $16,352 (in-state)
- $22,802 (out-of-state)
Why it’s affordable: High ROI and strong career outcomes
Program Format: Fully online, customizable specializations
Benefits of Choosing a Cheap AACSB Online MBA
Online MBAs are a lot cheaper than regular ones, but they still offer the same courses, electives, and prestige as traditional on-campus MBAs. However, you need to put in the effort to evaluate the quality and cost of the program to get the most out of your money.
First, make sure the program is accredited. Earning a business degree from an AACSB school will enhance your job prospects. In fact, some companies and graduate schools may demand a business degree from an AACSB-accredited school. Even graduates from the most affordable online MBA AACSB accreditation programs typically earn more and have better job prospects than those from non-accredited schools.
The flexibility of an online MBA program is a major benefit for your career. This is also one of the reasons why a lot of students are now pursuing the cheapest online business schools AACSB accredited programs. They provide flexible study options such as part-time and full-time courses for working students.
Online MBA programs usually draw in students from all over the world. By sharing their own experiences and joining group learning online, students can create a broad network of professionals that will be helpful.
Admission Requirements and Application Tips
To apply for an AACSB online MBA with low tuition, you must meet certain basic requirements. The most important thing is having your bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with you. For online degree programs, some schools may not require the GMAT/GRE if you already have an advanced graduate degree, but you will usually need about eight years of managerial experience.
You must also prepare a strong MBA personal statement with a concise overview of your goals and experiences. Explain your reasons for applying to your chosen
MBA programs and what you aim to accomplish. Here are a few websites with tips on how to write strong MBA essays:
It’s also important to emphasize your business, finance, or management experience with recommendation letters from employers or professors.
To gain work experience before pursuing an MBA, start with an entry-level job in a business-related field. As you progress in your profession, seek opportunities to develop new skills and take on more responsibilities.
Some entry-level positions to consider include:
- Administrative Assistant
- Fundraiser
- Human Resources Specialist
- Market Research Analyst
- Marketing Assistant
- Sales Representative
Also, be cautious of application deadlines. Thankfully, a lot of budget-friendly AACSB MBA degrees offer rolling admissions.
Conclusion
Selecting an online MBA program is a strategic decision with several benefits, including flexibility, cost savings, and the opportunity to juggle work, life, and study. An affordable AACSB accredited MBA distance learning program opens up advanced career opportunities by providing the skills needed to succeed in the competitive business industry, with high recognition and a strong return on investment. Ensure that you compare online AACSB MBA programs with financial aid before deciding on which of them is the best for you.
Embrace flexibility, take advantage of affordability, and prepare to launch your career with an affordable online MBA that fits your needs.