If you’re looking for the cheapest animation schools, a few options stand out from the rest. Animation is a broad subject that may include majors in motion graphics, special effects, 3D animation, game design, digital media design, graphic design, and virtual technology. There are excellent animation schools in the U.S., but some of them can be pretty expensive.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into how to find not only the most affordable animation degree programs, but also the right one for your career goals. If you want to pursue a career in animation but don’t want to break the bank doing so, then read on.
How Much Do the Cheapest Animation Schools Cost?
The cheapest animation schools cost between around $1,000 to nearly $30,000 per year in terms of tuition only. The total average annual cost for the cheapest animation schools varies based on a variety of factors, however. This depends on your location and the school you choose.
Animation School Cost Breakdown
- Tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are the most important components of the total cost. The fees include, but are not limited to, student fees, application fees, sports and recreation fees, and student ID card fees.
- Books and other items. Books are also a major expense and can cost up to $500 per semester. Other items may include a backpack, a laptop, and notebooks.
- Accommodation. Many students choose to live in on-campus housing or apartments near their schools. The accommodation cost includes rent, any separate utility bills, and meals.
- Health insurance. Health insurance for college students is a must, which is why we’ve included it in the total cost of attendance.
- Transport. The cost of transportation can be a big factor for students who live off-campus and use public or personal transport to get to school every day.
Why Attend an Animation School?
You should attend an animation school if you’re interested in a field that brings together both art and technology. There are many opportunities for those who have the skills to work in this field, and the top animation schools will also allow you to network with other professionals in the field in order to make contacts that can help you in your career. Some of these career options include motion graphics designer, video game animator, television animator, art director, storyboard artist, special effects artist, graphic designer, and drafter.
The average salary for animators in the U.S. in 2025 is $65,194, according to PayScale.1 And if you have an advanced animation degree, or as you gain more experience in the field, this number could get even higher.
Can You Attend Animation School for Free?
No, you cannot attend animation school for free. However, there are many scholarships and financial aid options available that can help you offset the cost of attendance. You can also find some free courses on animation and related fields such as video graphics, game design, visual arts, digital media, and graphic design on MIT OpenCourseWare and other websites.
Cheapest Animation Schools That Won’t Break the Bank
| School | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antelope Valley College | $1,124 | $8,228 | 28% |
| Gulf Coast State College | $2,370 | $8,635 | 39% |
| Aims Community College | $3,410 | $11,786 | 31% |
| Indian River State College | $2,764 | $10,201 | 43% |
| New Mexico State University-Main Campus | $8,147 | $25,271 | 55% |
| Morgan State University | $8,118 | $18,800 | 52% |
| University of Idaho | $8,816 | $29,784 | 61% |
| Ball State University | $10,758 | $28,766 | 66% |
| Arizona State University | $12,051 | $32,193 | 67% |
| Ohio State University | $12,859 | $38,365 | 81% |
What Are the Cheapest Animation Schools? A Deep Dive
Paying for Animation School With Financial Aid
Many animation schools offer financial assistance in the form of grants and scholarships. There are also a number of scholarships open to students interested in working in the animation field. In addition, the federal government helps reduce the financial burden for students through grants, loans, and other aid.
Federal Grants
Federal grants are need-based scholarships given to undergraduate students who have not yet earned a bachelor’s or professional degree. Some examples of federal grants include Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), and Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grants.
"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"
Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot
Federal Loans
Federal loans are low-interest student loans that can be used to pay for tuition costs and other education-related expenses. A loan is a type of grant that you must repay after completing your education and getting a job. The most common federal loans include Perkins Loans, PLUS Loans, and Direct Consolidation Loans.
Private Loans
Private loans are non-federal loans that are provided by private lenders, such as banks and credit unions. Private loans typically have higher interest rates than federal loans, but they may offer flexible repayment options.
Work Study
Work study is a federally-funded program that provides part-time jobs (jobs in civic education or in work related to your course of study) for undergraduate and graduate students with financial needs. The earnings from a work study job can be used to help pay for education-related expenses.
Private Scholarships
There are several scholarships available to students interested in a career in animation. Some of the private scholarships for animation students include the Future Designer Scholarship, AIGA Worldstudio Scholarships, Society of Illustrators Scholarships, and Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences Foundation Scholarship (AIAS).
How to Apply for Federal Aid to Finance Your Animation School Program
To apply for federal aid, you will need to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. The FAFSA online form is used to determine your eligibility for federal financial aid. To complete the form, you will need to provide information about your household income and assets, as well as your school’s cost of attendance.
- Step 1. Create an FSA ID, which is used to electronically sign the FAFSA form. You may need to provide your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and contact information.
- Step 2. Next, you’ll need to complete the FAFSA form, which requires information about your household income and assets, as well as your school’s cost of attendance. You may also need to submit some documents required by FAFSA.
- Step 3. Once you’ve completed the FAFSA form, the Department of Education will then determine your eligibility for federal financial aid. After the Department of Education has processed your FAFSA form, you will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR). The SAR is a document that summarizes the information you provided on the FAFSA form.
- Step 4. Once you have received your SAR, you should review it to ensure that the information is accurate. If you need to make any corrections to the SAR, you can do so by logging in to your FSA ID account.
- Step 5. After that, you’ll receive different scholarship offers from your school based on your eligibility. Select the type of financial aid that suits your needs. Your school will then release funds for your financial aid.
Animation Scholarships
- Future Designer Scholarship | Amount: $1,000. The Future Designer Scholarship is available to high school seniors and current college students who are interested in pursuing a career in animation, graphic design, or web design. One scholarship is awarded every year.
- AIGA Worldstudio Scholarships | Amount: up to $5,000. The AIGA Worldstudio Scholarships assist financially needy students pursuing illustration, photography, or design degrees at US colleges and universities. The scholarships range in amounts, potentially up to $5,000.
- Society of Illustrators Scholarships | Amount: up to $10,000. The Society of Illustrators offers several scholarships to talented students every year who plan to pursue a career in illustration. The scholarships are awarded based on the merits of the applicant’s portfolio, as well as their academic record and demonstrated financial need.
- Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences Foundation Scholarship (AIAS) | Amount: $2,500. If you’re passionate about video games and want to pursue a career in animation, engineering, game direction, sound design, or game design, the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences Foundation Scholarship could be a great opportunity for you.
Cheapest Undergraduate Animation Schools
The cheapest undergraduate animation schools that offer the most affordable animation degree programs include Indian River State College, New Mexico State University, Morgan State University, and Ball State University. You can also read about the cheapest animation bachelor’s degrees below.
Most Affordable Animation Associate Degree Programs
- Antelope Valley College | Associate of Arts in Computer Animation | Program Tuition: $1,124/year (in state); $8,228/year (out of state). The Associate of Arts in Computer Animation degree offers students a comprehensive education and set of abilities in computer animation. Students will be well-versed in computer animation and technical fundamentals at the end of this program.
- Gulf Coast State College | Associate of Science in Digital Media and Multimedia Technology | Program Tuition: $98.75/credit hour (in state); $359.71/credit hour (out of state). This 60-credit Associate of Science in Digital Media and Multimedia Technology degree program provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue entry-level positions in the digital media and animation industry.
- Aims Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Animation | Program Tuition: $9,850/year (in state); $32,665/year (out of state). This degree program requires 60 credit hours and typically takes two years to complete. Major coursework includes digital effects, digital animatics, motion graphics design, and animation production.
- Indian River State College | Associate of Science in Digital Media Technology | Program Tuition: $2,760/year (in state); $10,212/year (out of state). Credits from this two-year Associate of Science in Digital Media Technology program can be transferred to a bachelor’s degree program in animation or a related field.
- Miami Dade College | Associate in Arts in Computer Arts Animation | Program Tuition: $118.22/credit hour (in state); $402.51/credit hour (out of state). This degree program is designed to give students a thorough understanding of the computer animation field. The coursework covers everything from 3D modeling and graphic design to animation and animation dynamics.
Most Affordable Animation Bachelor’s Degree Programs
- Indian River State College | Bachelor of Applied Science in Animation, Gaming, and Modeling | Program Tuition: $3,104/year (in state); $13,936/year (out of state). This Bachelor of Applied Science with a concentration in Animation, Gaming, and Modeling focuses on the design and creation of 3D computer graphics, character animation, and level design. Students will also learn about game programming and game engines.
- New Mexico State University | Bachelor of Creative Media in Animation and Visual Effects | Program Tuition: $8,458/year (in state); $26,784/year (out of state). The Bachelor of Creative Media in Animation and Visual Effects is a four-year, 120-credit-hour program that trains students in the latest animation and visual development techniques. The program emphasizes both theory and practice, giving students a well-rounded education in the field.
- Morgan State University | Bachelor of Arts in Screenwriting and Animation | Program Tuition: $4,173/semester (in state); $9,728/semester (out of state). At Morgan State University, the Bachelor of Arts in Screenwriting and Animation program focuses on animation, screenwriting, editing, hybrid media, game design, graphic novels, and comics. Students are taught technical proficiency in all aspects of the animation and screenwriting field.
- University of Idaho | Bachelor of Science in Virtual Technology and Design | Program Tuition: $9,400/year (in state); $28,636/year (out of state). The Bachelor of Science in Virtual Technology and Design is a four-year degree accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. The program provides students with hands-on experience in design labs and studios, allowing them to develop the animation technology skills necessary to create immersive virtual environments.
- Ball State University | Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Arts and Animation | Program Tuition: $11,242/year (in state); $29,790/year (out of state). The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Arts and Animation is a nationally ranked program that can prepare you for a career in gaming, medical animation, product visualization, and architectural rendering. The program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design.
Cheapest Graduate Schools for Animation
The cheapest graduate schools offering master’s degree programs in animation include SUNY College at Oswego, Arizona State University, Ohio State University, and Virginia Commonwealth University. These schools offer affordable, highly-ranked master’s degree programs in animation. We’ve also included four reputable, affordable schools offering PhDs in Animation.
Most Affordable Schools for Master’s Degrees in Animation
- SUNY College at Oswego | Master of Arts in Graphic Design and Digital Media | Program Tuition: $8,237.50/year (in state); $14,712.50. This Master of Arts in Graphic Design and Digital Media program requires 30 credits with a curriculum focused on motion design, interaction design, and graphic design. Check it out if you’re looking for an affordable college in New York.
- Arizona State University | Master of Arts in Narrative and Emerging Media | Program Tuition: $14,382/year (in state); $38,528 (out of state). The MA in Narrative and Emerging Media is a 30-credit degree that equips students for jobs in augmented reality, virtual reality, and immersive storytelling. The program emphasizes the use of new media technologies to create and communicate narratives across multiple platforms.
- Virginia Commonwealth University | Master of Fine Arts in Fine Arts: Kinetic Imaging | Program Tuition: $13,200/year (in state); $35,674 (out of state). The Master of Fine Arts in Fine Arts with a concentration in Kinetic Imaging provides students with a broad range of knowledge in topics such as video art, animated arts, sound art, emerging media, augmented and virtual reality, and motion capture.
Ohio State University | Master of Fine Arts in Digital Animation and Interactive Media | Program Tuition: $14,224/year (in state); $43,063 (out of state). This Master of Fine Arts in Digital Animation and Interactive Media is a three-year program. The program includes 60 credits of animation courses, thesis projects, and writing development, which helps students enter the ever-changing field of digital media.
Most Affordable PhDs in Animation Universities
- University of California-Santa Cruz | PhD in Film & Digital Media | Program Tuition: $35,000-$52,000. The University of California-Santa Cruz’s PhD program in Film & Digital Media is one of the most highly respected programs in the US, and its faculty are some of the most experienced animation professionals in the industry. If you’re looking to get a top-notch education in video and digital media production, this is the place to be.
- Georgia Institute of Technology | PhD in Digital Media | Program Tuition: $44,000-$66,000. The Georgia Institute of Technology has a PhD in Digital Media that provides both theoretical and hands-on experience in the field. The program prepares students for careers as digital media researchers in academia and industry.
- University of Washington | PhD in Digital Arts and Experimental Media | Program Tuition: $50,000-$75,000. The University of Washington’s PhD in Digital Arts and Experimental Media (DAEM) is a three-phase program consisting of coursework and qualifying exams, a general exam, and a final project. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary research and creativity.
- Temple University | PhD in Documentary Arts and Visual Research | Program Tuition: $52,164. If you’re looking to pursue a career in documentary filmmaking or want to engage in visual research at the highest level, then this PhD in Documentary Arts and Visual Research is a great option for you. The total time allowed to complete the degree is three years.
Most Affordable PhDs in Animation Universities
- University of California-Santa Cruz | PhD in Film & Digital Media | Program Tuition: $15,924/year (in state); $31,026/year (out of state). The University of California-Santa Cruz’s PhD program in Film & Digital Media is one of the most highly respected programs in the U.S., and its faculty are some of the most experienced animation professionals in the industry. This program aims to bridge creative and critical practice, while also enabling dialogue between practical application and theoretical knowledge.
- Georgia Institute of Technology | PhD in Digital Media | Program Tuition: $812/credit hour (in state); $1,513/credit hour (out of state). The Georgia Institute of Technology has a PhD in Digital Media that provides both theoretical and hands-on experience in the field. The program prepares students for careers as digital media researchers in academia and industry.
- University of Washington | PhD in Digital Arts and Experimental Media | Program Tuition: $19,011/year (in state); $33,171/year (out of state). The University of Washington’s PhD in Digital Arts and Experimental Media (DXARTS) is a three-phase program consisting of coursework and qualifying exams, a general exam, and a final project. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary research and creativity.
- Temple University | PhD in Documentary Arts and Visual Research | Program Tuition: $1,264/credit hour (in state); $1,693/credit hour (out of state). If you’re looking to pursue a career in documentary filmmaking or want to engage in visual research at the highest level, then this PhD in Documentary Arts and Visual Research is a great option for you. The total time allowed to complete the degree is three years.
How to Choose a Good and Affordable Animation School
Animation schools are the perfect place for aspiring animators and video game designers to get the skills they need to start their careers.
When it comes to choosing an affordable animation school, there are a few things you should keep in mind, including accreditation, tuition and fees, the reputation of the school, financial aid options, and career outcomes.
Accreditation
Accredited colleges have proof that the program meets certain standards set by the accrediting agency. Cheapest schools may not always have proper accreditation. When choosing the cheapest school for animation, make sure that it is an accredited institution.
Tuition and Fees
Of course, you would want to choose a school with the lowest tuition possible. But sometimes schools with higher tuition offer more financial aid options. It is important to consider both factors when making your decision.
The Reputation of the School
The reputation of the school can affect your career outcome after graduation. Cheaper schools may not have the same kind of reputation as more expensive schools. Although reputation isn’t everything, a school with a good reputation can make your job search easier and more successful.
Financial Aid Options
When you are looking for an affordable school, it is important to consider the available financial aid options. Some schools offer more scholarships and grants than others. Be sure to research the financial aid options before making your final decision.
Career Outcomes
The goal of going to school is to get a job after graduation or to pursue further education. When you are looking for an affordable school, be sure to look into the placement rates of recent graduates.
Tips for Saving Money While Attending Animation School
- Pursue scholarships. One of the great ways to save money is to apply for scholarships. There are many scholarships available for animation students.
- Work part-time. Another way to save money is to get a part-time job. This can help you cover some of your expenses while attending school.
- Consider distance education. You may choose to attend an online animation program if available. Online degree programs are typically cheaper than traditional on-campus programs.
- Travel wisely. Use public transportation or carpool with some peers. This can help you save money on gas and parking fees.
- Buy used. Buy used textbooks and other supplies. This can help you save a lot of money on your textbook costs.
Will Attending an Online Animation School Save Me Money?
Attending an online animation school can save you money. One of the reasons for this is that online programs don’t have the same overhead costs as on-campus programs. Additionally, online students don’t have to pay for things like room and board, transportation, and other associated costs.
Benefits of Online Animation Programs
- Flexibility. One of the great benefits of online animation programs is the flexibility that they offer. Students can typically complete classes at their own speed and on their own schedule.
- Affordability. Online animation degrees typically cost less than traditional on-campus programs. This is one of the major advantages of online programs.
- Ability to keep working. Online programs are also a great option for students who need to work while attending school. Students can typically work around their course schedule.
- Ability to meet family obligations. Additionally, online programs are a great option for students who have family obligations. Students can typically take courses at times that work around their family schedules.
- Variety. Many online animation programs offer a variety of courses. This provides students with the ability to personalize their education to their own particular interests and requirements.
Highest-Paying Animation Careers
| Animation Job | Animation Degree | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Art Director | Bachelor’s Degree | $111,0402 |
| Special Effects Artists and Animator | Bachelor’s Degree | $99,8003 |
| Film and Video Editor | Bachelor’s Degree | $70,9804 |
| Drafter | Associate Degree | $65,3805 |
| Graphic Designer | Bachelor’s Degree | $61,3006 |
Best Animation Jobs Explained
The best animation jobs are typically those that offer the most creative freedom and good salaries. Some of the best animation jobs include special effects artist and animator, art director, graphic designer, drafter, and film and video editor.
Animation Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Most Affordable Animation Schools
We chose the most affordable animation colleges based on tuition and general costs information from the schools’ official websites, the U.S. Department of Education’s database of accredited schools, and the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard tool.
Additional Reading About Animation
- https://careerkarma.com/blog/animation/
- https://careerkarma.com/blog/best-schools-for-animation/
- https://careerkarma.com/blog/animation-projects/
Cheapest Animation Schools FAQ
Animation is a good career for those who are creative and have a passion for art. There are many different types of animation jobs available, so there’s sure to be a good fit for anyone who’s interested in the field
Yes, you can be an animator without a degree, but it may be harder to find a job without a degree in animation or a related field. The majority of animation studios require their animators to have a bachelor’s degree in animation or a related field.
There are a variety of jobs available in the animation field, ranging from traditional 2D animators to 3D modelers and everything in between. Some animators may specialize in a particular type of animation, such as character or environmental design, graphic design, and motion graphics, while others may work on a more general team creating animated films or video games.
2D animation is created by drawing characters and objects on paper or digitally and then bringing them to life through movement. 3D animation is created by creating three-dimensional models of characters and objects and then animating them on a computer.
1https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Animator/Salary
2https://www.bls.gov/ooh/arts-and-design/art-directors.htm#tab-5
3https://www.bls.gov/ooh/arts-and-design/multimedia-artists-and-animators.htm#tab-5
4https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/film-and-video-editors-and-camera-operators.htm#tab-5
5https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/drafters.htm#tab-5
6https://www.bls.gov/ooh/arts-and-design/graphic-designers.htm#tab-5
7https://www.bls.gov/ooh/arts-and-design/art-directors.htm#tab-6
8https://data.bls.gov/oesprofile/
9https://www.bls.gov/ooh/arts-and-design/multimedia-artists-and-animators.htm#tab-6
10https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/film-and-video-editors-and-camera-operators.htm#tab-6
11https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/drafters.htm#tab-6
12https://www.bls.gov/ooh/arts-and-design/graphic-designers.htm#tab-6
