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AdmissionsOS

Sam Houston State University vs University of Houston-Downtown

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

Sam Houston State University University of Houston-Downtown
Acceptance rate lower = more selective 90% 90%
SAT range (mid 50%) 930-1,120 940-1,110
ACT range (mid 50%) 17-24 16-22
Average net price what students actually pay after aid $16,404 $10,542
Sticker cost of attendance $25,505 $20,749
Graduation rate 55% 33%
Retention rate 73% 67%
Undergraduates 17,743 12,555
Student-faculty ratio 19:1 18:1
Setting Huntsville, TX Houston, 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 University of Houston-Downtown harder to get into?

University of Houston-Downtown is more selective, with a 90% acceptance rate versus 90% at Sam Houston State University. 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 University of Houston-Downtown?

University of Houston-Downtown has the lower average net price ($10,542 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.