AdmissionsOS The University of Texas at Arlington vs University of Houston
| The University of Texas at Arlington | University of Houston | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate lower = more selective | 80% | 74% |
| SAT range (mid 50%) | 1,010-1,240 | 1,160-1,340 |
| ACT range (mid 50%) | 19-27 | 23-29 |
| Average net price what students actually pay after aid | $13,951 | $14,276 |
| Sticker cost of attendance | $25,261 | $26,185 |
| Graduation rate | 54% | 65% |
| Retention rate | 73% | 87% |
| Undergraduates | 32,294 | 38,380 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 23:1 | 22:1 |
| Setting | Arlington, TX | Houston, TX |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Application fee | $75 | $75 |
| Test policy | Required for some | Required for some |
Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.
Compare these in the interactive toolCommon questions
Is The University of Texas at Arlington or University of Houston harder to get into?
University of Houston is more selective, with a 74% acceptance rate versus 80% at The University of Texas at Arlington. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.
Which is cheaper, The University of Texas at Arlington or University of Houston?
The University of Texas at Arlington has the lower average net price ($13,951 versus $14,276). 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.