Earning a Bible degree doesn’t have to come with overwhelming tuition costs. Many students searching for affordable Bible colleges online are looking for programs that balance low tuition rates, flexible online learning, and trusted accreditation. This subject will matter most to people who want to deepen their knowledge of scripture, prepare for ministry, or pursue a career in Christian counselling. I have curated online Bible colleges that make it possible without leaving you in debt.
These schools provide the convenience of online learning without compromising on academic standards or spiritual formation, making them an excellent choice for working adults, church leaders, or anyone seeking to deepen their biblical knowledge.
Top Affordable Online Bible Colleges
1. God’s Bible School & College
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Tuition: ~$125 per credit hour, one of the lowest available.
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Accreditation: Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE), regionally accredited.
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Programs: Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degrees in Ministerial Education, Theology, Church and Family Ministry.
2. Hobe Sound Bible College
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Tuition: ~$225 per credit hour for undergraduate; ~$425 for graduate.
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Accreditation: ABHE.
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Programs: Fully online undergraduate and graduate degrees.
3. Baptist Missionary Association Theological Seminary (BMA Seminary)
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Tuition: ~$220 per credit hour.
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Accreditation: SACSCOC, Association of Theological Schools.
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Programs: Certificate, associate’s, and bachelor’s degrees in Ministry, Theology, Religion.
4. Carolina College of Biblical Studies
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Tuition: ~$247 per credit for undergrad; ~$295 for grad.
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Accreditation: ABHE.
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Programs: Associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s degrees and certificates online.
5. Grace Christian University
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Tuition: ~$370–$440 per credit hour (associate through master’s).
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Accreditation: HLC and ABHE.
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Programs: Fully online degrees across a range of fields, with biblical integration.
6. Moody Bible Institute
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Tuition: ~$370 per credit hour (undergraduate); ~$475 for graduate.
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Accreditation: HLC, ABHE, and ATS.
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Programs: Online associate’s and bachelor’s in Ministry Leadership, Theological Studies.
7. Luther Rice College and Seminary
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Tuition: ~$352 per credit (bachelor’s), ~$332 (master’s), ~$396 (doctoral).
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Accreditation: SACSCOC, ABHE, TRACS.
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Programs: Degrees in Divinity, Apologetics, Leadership, Biblical Counseling, etc.
8. NationsUniversity
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Tuition/Fees: Fully online and tuition-free; minimal admin processing fees may apply.
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Accreditation: DEAC; member of ECFA.
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Programs: Certificates, Bachelor’s in Religious Studies, Master’s and M.Div.
9. BYU–Pathway Worldwide (BYU–PW)
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Tuition: As low as ~$6,300 (U.S.); ~$300 for some international students.
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Accreditation: U.S.-accredited via BYU-Idaho and Ensign College, NWCCU regionally accredited.Programs: Online certificates and bachelor’s degrees accessible worldwide.
10. Tennessee Bible College
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Tuition: Online programs and correspondence courses available; free Bible correspondence course.
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Accreditation: Authorized by Tennessee Higher Education Commission.
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Programs: Online degrees and certificates; free Bible correspondence option.
Other Worthy Mentions
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Trinity Bible College & Theological Seminary: Offers free courses; fees apply for certification or degrees.
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BiblicalTraining.org: Offers free theological courses with optional paid certificates.
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Free Gospel Bible Institute: Tuition-free; students may pay for room/board if in-person.
How to Evaluate These Options
| Factor | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | Compare per-credit costs, program length, and extra charges (e.g., admin, certification). |
| Accreditation | Ensure regional or recognized national accreditation for transferability and recognition. |
| Program Offerings | Check availability of degree levels (certificate, associate, bachelor’s, graduate). |
| Mode of Delivery | Online specificity (fully asynchronous, cohort-based, hybrid, correspondence). |
| Financial Aid & Discounts | Federal aid, scholarships, flat-rate tuition, or income-based pricing (e.g., BYU–PW). |
| Reputation & Outcomes | Consider alumni success, denominational alignment, faculty quality. |
FAQs About Affordable Bible Colleges Online
Q1: What is the cheapest online Bible college?
The most affordable option is God’s Bible School & College, with tuition as low as $125 per credit hour. Tuition-free options like NationsUniversity also exist, though they may charge small administrative fees.
Q2: Are there any tuition-free Bible colleges online?
Yes. NationsUniversity and Trinity Bible College & Seminary offer tuition-free or donation-based online programs, though fees may apply for degrees or certificates.
Q3: Are online Bible colleges accredited?
Many online Bible colleges are accredited through organizations like the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE), The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), or regional accrediting bodies. Always confirm accreditation before enrolling.
Q4: Can I get financial aid for an online Bible college?
Yes, if the school is accredited and participates in federal financial aid programs, you may qualify for grants, loans, or scholarships. Schools like Moody Bible Institute and Grace Christian University offer multiple aid options.
Q5: What degrees can I earn at an online Bible college?
Programs range from certificates and associate’s degrees to bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in fields such as Biblical Studies, Theology, Christian Counseling, Ministry Leadership, and more.
Q6: Do employers recognize online Bible college degrees?
Yes, as long as the school is properly accredited. Graduates often serve as pastors, missionaries, counselors, or continue toward advanced seminary degrees.
Q7: Can I study at my own pace at an online Bible college?
Many schools, such as Carolina College of Biblical Studies and BYU–Pathway Worldwide, offer asynchronous learning, allowing you to complete coursework on a flexible schedule.
Conclusion
Affordable online Bible colleges make it possible for students to pursue their calling in ministry, theology, and biblical studies without the burden of heavy student loans. From tuition-free schools like NationsUniversity to low-cost, accredited programs at God’s Bible School & College or BYU–Pathway Worldwide, you can find an option that meets your financial and educational needs.
When choosing the right Bible college, remember to evaluate:
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Accreditation (regional or national recognition)
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Tuition and hidden fees
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Program offerings (certificate, bachelor’s, or graduate)
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Flexibility (asynchronous or cohort-based learning)
By carefully comparing schools, you can confidently enroll in an affordable, accredited program that equips you for ministry and spiritual leadership—all without sacrificing quality for cost.
