The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley has an acceptance rate of 94.2%, annual tuition of $9,987, average net price of $4,831, and a national rank of #224 (Grade A-), with a 50.9% graduation rate within 150% of normal time, about 28,666 undergraduates, and median earnings of $53,888 four years after graduation. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is a public university in Edinburg, TX. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Computer Engineering.
Academically, students benefit from a 20:1 student-faculty ratio, and 81.1% first-year retention. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at 234.2%, roughly 184.3 points higher than typical outcomes. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore and career-focused learners aiming for high-impact outcomes.
Who is The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley graduates 50.9% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 60.1% and keeps 81.1% of first-year students. Affordability earns an A+ compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $9,987 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,250 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $9,728 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $3,918 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $16,830 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 65.1% of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley students receive Pell Grants — well above the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Low-income families pay less than $3,785 annually, while high-income families pay $13,782. Use The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $7,972/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $13,782/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- Median Earnings (4 Years After Graduation) $53,888
- 10-Year Median Earnings $49,620
- Average Years to Graduate 4.8 years
- Average Student Debt $12,950
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 50.7%
- Employment Rate 90.2%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: With a 234.2% return on investment, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley delivers exceptional value. Graduates earn $53,888 median—-11% above the national average—making this a strong investment for career-focused students.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 460-560
- SAT Math 420-530
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 15-21
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 28,666
- Full-Time Students 74.7%
- Part-Time Students 25.3%
- Retention Rate 81.1%
- Grad Rate (150% time) 50.9%
- Grad Rate (8-year) 60.1%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 20:1
How to Get Into The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
1. Meet Academic Requirements: The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 94.2%, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: With a 94.2% acceptance rate, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 880 and 1090 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley undergraduates. Biology, General, Psychology, General, and Criminal Justice and Corrections draw the most students.
- Biology, General 12.3%
- Psychology, General 9.7%
- Criminal Justice and Corrections 9.7%
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other 7.9%
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitnes 6.9%
- Accounting and Related Services 4.3%
See more majors
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions 3.7%
- Communication and Media Studies 3.1%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $87,989
- 2. Computer Engineering $87,467
- 3. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $87,466
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Mechanical Engineering $77,043
- 5. Civil Engineering $74,618
- 6. Computer Science $71,629
- 7. Engineering Physics $64,774
- 8. Chemistry $63,154
- 9. Mathematics $61,938
- 10. Computer and Information Sciences, General $60,284
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $133,871
- 2. Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degree) $128,256
- 3. Mechanical Engineering (Master's Degree) $85,161
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $79,747
- 5. Business/Commerce, General (Master's Degree) $76,712
- 6. Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degree) $71,465
- 7. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas (Master's Degree) $69,841
- 8. Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Master's Degree) $69,606
- 9. Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology (Master's Degree) $67,983
- 10. Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degree) $67,423
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $87,989—46% more than Computer and Information Sciences, General ($60,284). Graduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing programs lead with $133,871 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 538 graduates)
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 425 graduates)
- Criminal Justice and Corrections (Bachelor's Degree, 425 graduates)
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other (Bachelor's Degree, 345 graduates)
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness (Bachelor's Degree, 305 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (57 programs)▼
- Biology, General
- Psychology, General
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Accounting and Related Services
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Communication and Media Studies
- English Language and Literature, General
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Computer Science
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Mechanical Engineering
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Political Science and Government
- Marketing
- Sociology
- History
- International Business
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Music
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Computer Engineering
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
- Management Information Systems and Services
- Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
- Philosophy
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- Anthropology
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Manufacturing Engineering
- Economics
- Social Sciences, General
- Physics
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Engineering Technology, General
- Dance
- Statistics
- Information Science/Studies
- Physical Sciences
- Hospitality Administration/Management
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Computational Science
- Agricultural Production Operations
- Nutrition Sciences
- Design and Applied Arts
- American Sign Language
Online Master's Degrees (41 programs)▼
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Special Education and Teaching
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Biology, General
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Mathematics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Homeland Security
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Physics
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Agricultural Production Operations
- Marine Sciences
- English Language and Literature, General
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Computer Science
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- History
- Communication and Media Studies
- Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Chemistry
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Second Language Learning
- Music
- Manufacturing Engineering
- Engineering-Related Fields
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Political Science and Government
- Sociology
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Civil Engineering
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Information Science/Studies
- Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services
Online Doctoral Degrees (4 programs)▼
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (4 programs)▼
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Biology, General
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
Online First Professional Degrees (3 programs)▼
- Medicine
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 28,666
- Full-Time Students 74.7%
- Part-Time Students 25.3%
- Male Students 43.2%
- Female Students 56.8%
- Caucasian 2.0%
- Asian 1.1%
- Hispanic 93.2%
- Black 0.6%
- Pell Grant Recipients 65.1%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley has a diverse student body, with 2.0% identifying as White. 65.1% of students receive Pell Grants, well above the national average, indicating strong support for low-income students.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley achieves an outstanding 234.2% return on investment, ranking among the top value institutions nationwide. While ranked #224 overall, the school's financial value proposition significantly outperforms its selectivity ranking.
Students graduate to $53,888 median earnings while paying just $4,831 annually—a combination that produces superior ROI. The 50.9% graduation rate and 81.1% retention demonstrate solid student outcomes and satisfaction.
High-Value Institution: Why The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Delivers Strong Returns
EDsmart identifies The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley as a high-value institution where modest costs combine with strong earning potential.
The Value Formula: The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's 234.2% ROI stems from balancing $53,888 median post-graduation earnings against $4,831 annual costs. This ratio outperforms most selective institutions where higher earnings come with prohibitive price tags.
Ideal Candidates: Budget-conscious students seeking maximum financial return. First-generation college students and middle-class families who need affordable paths to solid careers. Students in practical fields (business, healthcare, technology) where degree cost directly impacts lifetime wealth accumulation.
Understanding the Trade-offs: Schools with 234.2% ROI typically offer less brand prestige than elite universities. Career services, research opportunities, and facilities may be less extensive. For fields where institutional reputation matters significantly (law, medicine, academia), higher-ranked alternatives might justify additional investment.
EDsmart Verdict: With a A- grade and #224 ranking, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley represents smart value for students prioritizing financial outcomes. The school proves that high ROI doesn't require elite selectivity—careful program selection and cost management deliver results.
Key Takeaways
- 50.9% graduation rate sits 11.6 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 81.1% first-year retention is 4.3 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- 234.2% return on investment is 184.3 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $53,888 run about 11% lower than national outcomes four years after graduation.
- Average net price of $4,831 is roughly $15,248 lower than the national median of $20,079.
Helpfulness for Students
- 20:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 81.1% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 90.2% employment rate within three years sits 22.0 points above national outcomes.
- Budget carefully for clinical travel, off-campus housing, and practicum fees to avoid surprise costs.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is a public university based in Edinburg, TX and earns a A- overall grade. It appears at #224 in EDsmart's national list Category results include Completion (B), Support (B-), Career Outcomes (B), and Affordability (A+).
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
81.1% of learners come back after year one while 50.9% graduate within 150% of normal time (60.1% within eight years). Return on investment currently measures 234.2% for this program.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $4,831 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $16,830.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $11,999 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $12,950 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 65.1% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Median earnings come in near $53,888 four years after graduation. That sits about 11% below the national median.
The three-year employment rate is close to 90.2%.
Plan around an ROI of about 234.2% according to the Scorecard data.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
94.2% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's acceptance rate?
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's acceptance rate is 94.2%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley cost?
At The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, listed tuition and fees are $9,987 per year, and the average net price after aid is $4,831. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's ranking?
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley ranks #224 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of A-, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's graduation rate?
At The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 50.9% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), College Scorecard 8-year award rate is 60.1%, and first-year retention is 81.1%.
What are The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's job outcomes?
Graduates of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley report median earnings of $53,888 four years after graduation, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's student population?
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley enrolls about 28,666 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Edinburg, TX 78539-2999
- Website www.utrgv.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Endowment$133.9M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate17.7%