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AdmissionsOS

Texas State University vs The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

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

Texas State University The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Acceptance rate lower = more selective 89% 94%
SAT range (mid 50%) 980-1,200 880-1,090
ACT range (mid 50%) 19-25 15-21
Average net price what students actually pay after aid $16,805 $4,831
Sticker cost of attendance $28,073 $16,830
Graduation rate 55% 51%
Retention rate 80% 81%
Undergraduates 36,177 28,666
Student-faculty ratio 21:1 20:1
Setting San Marcos, TX Edinburg, TX
Type Public Public
Application fee $75 n/a
Test policy Test-optional n/a

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

Common questions

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

Texas State University is more selective, with a 89% 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, Texas 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 $16,805). 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.