AdmissionsOS University of Alabama at Birmingham vs University of South Alabama
| University of Alabama at Birmingham | University of South Alabama | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate lower = more selective | 88% | 71% |
| SAT range (mid 50%) | 1,210-1,450 | 970-1,190 |
| ACT range (mid 50%) | 23-30 | 20-26 |
| Average net price what students actually pay after aid | $18,749 | $17,648 |
| Sticker cost of attendance | $28,145 | $25,476 |
| Graduation rate | 64% | 53% |
| Retention rate | 80% | 76% |
| Undergraduates | 11,635 | 8,879 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 18:1 | 19:1 |
| Setting | Birmingham, AL | Mobile, AL |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Application fee | $40 | $35 |
| Test policy | Test-flexible | Test-flexible |
Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.
Compare these in the interactive toolCommon questions
Is University of Alabama at Birmingham or University of South Alabama harder to get into?
University of South Alabama is more selective, with a 71% acceptance rate versus 88% at University of Alabama at Birmingham. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.
Which is cheaper, University of Alabama at Birmingham or University of South Alabama?
University of South Alabama has the lower average net price ($17,648 versus $18,749). 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.