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The University of Texas at El Paso vs The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

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

The University of Texas at El Paso The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Acceptance rate lower = more selective 100% 94%
SAT range (mid 50%) 860-1,080 880-1,090
ACT range (mid 50%) 17-22 15-21
Average net price what students actually pay after aid $9,403 $4,831
Sticker cost of attendance $19,836 $16,830
Graduation rate 50% 51%
Retention rate 79% 81%
Undergraduates 21,005 28,666
Student-faculty ratio 21:1 20:1
Setting El Paso, TX Edinburg, TX
Type Public Public
Application fee None n/a
Test policy Required n/a

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

Common questions

Is The University of Texas at El Paso or The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley harder to get into?

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is more selective, with a 94% 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, The University of Texas at El Paso or The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley?

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley has the lower average net price ($4,831 versus $9,403). 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.