AdmissionsOS Sam Houston State University vs The University of Texas at El Paso
| Sam Houston State University | The University of Texas at El Paso | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate lower = more selective | 90% | 100% |
| SAT range (mid 50%) | 930-1,120 | 860-1,080 |
| ACT range (mid 50%) | 17-24 | 17-22 |
| Average net price what students actually pay after aid | $16,404 | $9,403 |
| Sticker cost of attendance | $25,505 | $19,836 |
| Graduation rate | 55% | 50% |
| Retention rate | 73% | 79% |
| Undergraduates | 17,743 | 21,005 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 19:1 | 21:1 |
| Setting | Huntsville, TX | El Paso, TX |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Application fee | $50 | None |
| Test policy | Required for some | Required |
Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.
Compare these in the interactive toolCommon questions
Is Sam Houston State University or The University of Texas at El Paso harder to get into?
Sam Houston State University is more selective, with a 90% acceptance rate versus 100% at The University of Texas at El Paso. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.
Which is cheaper, Sam Houston State University or The University of Texas at El Paso?
The University of Texas at El Paso has the lower average net price ($9,403 versus $16,404). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.