Picking a college to attend is a big decision and one in which many factors come into play in order to make the best choice. One deciding factor, which is often the most important deciding factor, is cost. After all, it doesn’t matter how good a school is if you are unable to pay for the education. Fortunately, there are plenty of colleges and universities which are not only affordable but extremely reputable as well. Here is a list of the top 10 affordable and quite prestigious colleges in America:

University of Virginia

University of Virginia not only has a great name but it is extremely affordable. The cost of tuition for both undergraduate and graduate courses is so low that it is applauded throughout the country. The 2011 edition of U.S. News & World Report ranked U.Va. as the second-best public university and 25th overall in the U.S.

Florida State University

Arguably one of the best schools in Florida, although in strict competition with University of Florida, Florida State University offers students top-notch education which they can afford. With plenty of majors and minors to choose from, students can have their pick of an education, access to various financial aid options and reasonable in-state and out-of-state tuition.

University of Florida

Students get a high quality education for a great price at the University of Florida. Financial aid is offered generously and the education is supreme.

University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill Campus

As with financial aid at University of Florida, this financial tool is also readily available at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. The in-state tuition is also a step above the rest with regard to price and those who are admitted to UNC, Chapel Hill are lucky enough to obtain some of the best education access in the U.S.

Appalachian State University

If you are looking for a rural university which is extremely affordable for students, look no further than Appalachian State University. With tuition/fees hovering around $4,000, it is no wonder that those who are seeking a serene learning environment lean towards Appalachian State University.

College of William and Mary

The prestigious College of William and Mary is one which many think to be beyond their means with regard to tuition. However, this is one of the most affordable colleges for some students due to their full financial aid package. This provides financial hardship students with a way to go to school, an excellent school no less, and not have to worry about student loan repayment trouble.

University of Nevada

Both the Reno and Las Vegas campuses of the University of Nevada are extremely affordable. In the land of lights, dazzle and money, it is good to know that some things are cheap and that education is one of them. For under $4,000, you can be educated at a top state school in Nevada.

University of South Florida

A third Florida University to hit the top 10 list of most affordable colleges in the U.S. is the University of South Florida. Sun, fun and an inexpensive education await you at the University of South Florida.

California State University – Long Beach Campus

The Long Beach campus of California State University offers students an affordable California college option. Located in a great setting and offering high quality education at a cheap price, CSU-Long Beach is a popular choice.

University of Washington

If you are a Washington-state resident and have financial issues with regard to college tuition, look no further than the University of Washington which offers free tuition to state residents who fall within a certain income bracket. The State of Washington wants to make education readily accessible to all who wish to acquire it and with the free tuition aspect, education is available to all.

When you choose any of the aforementioned universities, you are going to get a superb education at a steal of a price.