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AdmissionsOS

Sam Houston State University vs The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Side by side on admissions, cost, and fit, from the same verified school records.

Sam Houston State University The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Acceptance rate lower = more selective 90% 94%
SAT range (mid 50%) 930-1,120 880-1,090
ACT range (mid 50%) 17-24 15-21
Average net price what students actually pay after aid $16,404 $4,831
Sticker cost of attendance $25,505 $16,830
Graduation rate 55% 51%
Retention rate 73% 81%
Undergraduates 17,743 28,666
Student-faculty ratio 19:1 20:1
Setting Huntsville, TX Edinburg, TX
Type Public Public
Application fee $50 n/a
Test policy Required for some n/a

Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.

Common questions

Is Sam Houston State University or The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley harder to get into?

Sam Houston State University is more selective, with a 90% acceptance rate versus 94% at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. 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 Rio Grande Valley?

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley has the lower average net price ($4,831 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.