Founded in 1927, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. is a Public college. Located in Texas, which is a city setting in Texas, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 24,023 full time undergraduate students, and 3,537 full time graduate students.
The The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 19:1. There are 1079 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
63%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
0
SAT Range
850-1050
ACT Range
18-22
Admissions at UTPA are considered Selective, with ,47% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 39 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
84% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 54% were in the top quarter, and 23% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.
1%
“We”re apathetic”
31%
“We know about current events and vote”
62%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
6%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
9%
“We save it for the classroom”
30%
“Sometimes, but not often”
48%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
13%
“All the time, including weekends”
1%
“I”m always terrified”
5%
“I only go out in groups”
46%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
48%
“I feel extremely safe”
8%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
31%
“We bought the gear”
60%
“We live for the big game”
13%
“It”s not really our thing”
20%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
57%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
10%
“We”re a very artistic group”
6%
“Haven”t met them”
6%
“Available in class”
50%
“They keep regular office hours”
38%
“They”re always available”
22%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
37%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
37%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
5%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
16%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
59%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
18%
“We only party on weekends”
7%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
33%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
54%
“There might be people who do”
11%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
1%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
1%
“We”re apathetic”
31%
“We know about current events and vote”
62%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
6%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
9%
“We save it for the classroom”
30%
“Sometimes, but not often”
48%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
13%
“All the time, including weekends”
1%
“I”m always terrified”
5%
“I only go out in groups”
46%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
48%
“I feel extremely safe”
8%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
31%
“We bought the gear”
60%
“We live for the big game”
13%
“It”s not really our thing”
20%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
57%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
10%
“We”re a very artistic group”
6%
“Haven”t met them”
6%
“Available in class”
50%
“They keep regular office hours”
38%
“They”re always available”
22%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
37%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
37%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
5%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
122 Students rated on-campus housing 3.6 stars. 21 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
76 Students rated off-campus housing 3.9 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
144 Students rated campus food 3.8 stars. 28 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
149 Students rated campus facilities 4.2 stars. 43 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
149 Students rated class size 4.2 stars. 42 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
149 Students rated school activities 3.8 stars. 32 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
150 Students rated local services 4 stars. 47 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
148 Students rated academics 4.1 stars. 42 % gave the school a 5.0.
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley?
110 Students rated The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Angelina
Prospective04/07/2025
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) stands out as a beacon of innovation, opportunity, and cultural richness, making it deserving of a five-star rating. Here’s why:
UTRGV is deeply rooted in the vibrant Rio Grande Valley, offering a unique blend of academic excellence and cultural diversity. Its commitment to bilingual education and serving Latino students is unparalleled, as evidenced by its prestigious Seal of Excelencia certification. This recognition highlights UTRGV's dedication to accelerating Latino student success, making it a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
Academically, UTRGV provides a wide array of programs, from mechanical engineering to psychology, ensuring students have access to cutting-edge education tailored to their aspirations. The university also emphasizes affordability and accessibility through initiatives like the Tuition Advantage program, which covers tuition costs for students from families with an adjusted gross income of $125,000 or less. This commitment to reducing financial barriers empowers students to focus on their education and future goals.
Student life at UTRGV is equally impressive, with opportunities to engage in research, community service, and extracurricular activities. The university's vibrant traditions, such as the Vaqueros spirit and Charro Days celebrations, foster a sense of belonging and pride. Additionally, its campuses across the Valley provide students with access to world-class visual and performing arts events, enriching their overall experience.
UTRGV’s dedication to innovation, affordability, and cultural inclusivity makes it a standout institution. It’s no wonder it earns high praise from students and the community alike. If you’re looking for a university that combines academic rigor with a strong sense of community, UTRGV is the place to be!
JEREMIAS
09/26/2024
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is an increadable University with many activities to participate in. The campus in fascinating and instresting to be in. There is an aboundence of diversity in the people and everyone is welcoming into the university. I highly recommend attending this campus because of the education the campus provides and because of the people who are there.
David
09/11/2024
As a current student at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), I can confidently say that my experience has been overwhelmingly positive. UTRGV is a diverse and inclusive institution that offers a wide range of academic programs, making it an excellent choice for students pursuing various fields of study. One of the standout aspects of UTRGV is its commitment to providing quality education at an affordable cost, making higher education accessible to a broader population.
The faculty at UTRGV are highly knowledgeable and approachable, offering both academic guidance and real-world insights to help students succeed. Small class sizes foster close relationships between professors and students, allowing for more personalized learning experiences. Additionally, UTRGV is known for its strong focus on research and community engagement, providing students with numerous opportunities to gain hands-on experience through internships, fieldwork, and community projects.
The campus environment is welcoming, with modern facilities and resources that support both academic and extracurricular activities. UTRGV places a strong emphasis on student well-being, offering various support services such as tutoring, mental health counseling, and career services. The university’s location in the Rio Grande Valley also provides a unique cultural experience, blending rich history with contemporary academic pursuits.
Overall, UTRGV is a university that fosters both academic growth and personal development. It has provided me with the tools and opportunities to pursue my career goals, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a supportive and enriching educational experience.
Kanea
08/06/2024
I think at UTRGV you get what you put into it. For my particular major, it's honestly not a great education, but you can leave with a LOT of experience (if you actively seek out and make those opportunities for yourself) and that's where you really learn. There are a lot of people who grew up in the area and therefore wind up being content just staying home and not really being involved like they would have if they'd moved away, but that's where you'd be making a big mistake. I think there are many opportunities that students don't take advantage of, because there's a HUNGER for it to be like the other big schools in bigger cities. A portion of students are really eager to make the most of their experience at UTRGV, and they can be really helpful influences and mentors, even, to incoming students. I recommend finding out all that you can be involved in or benefit from and really dive in, then you can have a great experience.
Alejandra
07/27/2024
It is a very cultured school with lots of opportunities for students, from foreign exchange student programs, to laboratory studies. There are a lot of sports such as the football team and cheerleading team; however, they also focus on students’ success by providing many study groups and resources available with little to no cost.
Paris
06/26/2024
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is usually a university that people who grew up in the Valley try to run from because it continues to be our home, however, UTRGV is an excellent campus for learning inside the classroom and out. It shapes students into big league athletes and CEO's, it is a great school to brighten the mind of many.
Jesus
05/22/2024
I have been a student of UTRGV since 2018. The university has changed a lot for the better in every single aspect, from installations, sports, academic performance, number of people enrolled. I am a very proud student of UTRGV becuase it is starting to become one of the best universities of Texas.
Melanie
05/22/2024
I have really liked my time at UTRGV and have always wanted to graduate from this university. Since my first year of high school when they made us choose colleges, my eyes were always set on attending and graduating The University of Texas Rio Grand Valley. My older brother is currently attending as well and my little sister hopes to apply in three years. For me UTRGV is much more than just a school. Its the place were I started to really find myself and my way of thought .
Lauro
03/29/2024
The walking is long and arduous , hard concrete during 100 degree days with minimal water fountain locations. Vending machines that dispence drinks or water are sometimes not working for months at a time making it hard to find water or liquids. Cannot access vehicles to travel accross campus only walking and shuttle services as the distance is often blocked by paths/ trees/ constant construction at school throughout the year. Teachers are rarely seen/heard from and are not clear on instructions when showing up/ not showing up to class. Students forced to work positions as they are understaffed and not certified at the finance office caused students in 2023 to be delayed by 1 month on average. Staff are not trained and do not know their own policies either. On the bright side, the cost is affordable atleast for tuition.
Arianna
08/29/2023
I love my professors and my peers, but the college focuses more on other programs. We don't have enough in our budget, and it's embarrassing that even community colleges have better film equipment than we do. However, the theater/film department does an amazing job on it's shoestring budget.
Gloria
05/04/2023
My opinion is that UTRGV is a great well-rounded school that deserves more recognition from our community, as it provides so many opportunities for local folks to be able to have a career at a low price and still have a wonderful college-life experience that will be able to help them in their future endevours.
Jasmine
01/22/2023
I've gone to college for around 2 years and everytime I go or any time I need help with something, someone is always there to help. Starting Monday, I'll be going on my own to college and I'm very excited but as well as nervous since I won't know anyone in my classes, but there's always room to make friends.
Kailey
01/01/2023
It is really nice you have a lot of different type of wild life to see outside whether if it’s walking by or riding your bike. Classes aren’t to far unless your taking more then one subject that isn’t in the same category. Other than that I’ve had some great experiences when I go and tour the university.
Selene
08/23/2022
My opinion is that UTRGV is a great university because we could meet friends around and we can handout in organizations or in classes. However, I have my best friend, we try to get the same days to see each others to go to eat and talk about how is life tries us. But yes UTRGV is a best university and we could take each others to our cars to not walk alone in the halls.
Jessica
12/13/2021
It is an amazing school and I am glad that UT branched out to RGV. Initially, I never thought that I would see a day where we would have a well known school down here, since most of the other ones are just vocational or location educational locations.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is 63%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
Friends at this stage will only hurt you and not help you. There will be many distractions along the way including boyfriends, illnesses, and times when you want to give up; stay focus. What seems important now will not matter in the future, except your education what you make of it. Remember you have it in you to make a great impact in your own life and the life of others.
The best thing about my school is its emphasis on phylanthropy. The engaging clubs at my school are always working on the next big project to raise money for charities. Their enthusiasm is breath-taking, inspiring, and contagious. They hold brisket plate sales, book sales, food donations, and clothing donations. They also make weekly trips to certain parts of the valley where the neighborhoods are mistreated and help clean them and donate their fundraising to people who need it. Their patriotism for this school is evident and makes me proud to be called a bronc.
What kind of person should not attend this school?
People who are not serious about receiving an education shouldn't attend the University of Texas Pan American because they will be wasting their time and money and the professors time. Other than that, anyone is welcome! People with disabilities, with ambition, with artistic abilities, and with the desire to learn.
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!
No other school would be relatable to the lifestyle that I have been accustomed to. It is like the home away from home that a lot of my peers enjoy going to. Its almost like thebrighter side of our seemingly meek day. When weare there , no matter how difficultour school day has been, there is a certain sense of hope that cannot be found anywhere else other than our campus. The light at the end of the tunnel seems tobe a lot brighter th emore time wea ttend.
The kind of person who wants to continue their education post bachelor's degree. The majority of the students I come in contact with, including myself want to go to graduate school and are highly involved in mentoring youger students.
What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?
I wish I had known a little bit more about the history. This university has such a background to it that I only got to know it by coming to it. It keeps on expanding and growing beyond the limits a university should have. It's become a major staple in the city of Edinburg but I didn't know its history. Never was it mentioned in any orientation either.
What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?
I always tell my friends that you don't have to go to a big expensive school to get a quality education. Family support is very important and it is something you can count on when you attend a commuter university.
The best thing about the school is the Honor's program. The class sizes are down to twenty students. I would change the parking situation. My school is just right. It is big enough to have students all around but small enough to have everything within walking distance. People always ask me how I like the school. I have never received a negative reaction. Most of my time on campus is spent in the library studying. The school's administration is involved and friendly. The biggest recent controversy at school was over budget cuts. "Bucky Pride is shown throughout the walk ways" There are many student organizations that show school pride. I will always remember the "Hestec" festival they have every year. All the student organizations come together with the community to have a great time on the campus. The most frequent student complaint is about the parking situation.
The professors are very friendly. They are willing to work with you and help you out when you need it. There are writing centers available and a student learning center that offers tutoring. You can always find students in the library studying. The classes are usually full with eager students wanting to learn. Some professors put their lectures online that help if you miss a class. The most unique class I took was asian philosophy. We learned how to meditate. I am majoring in Psychology and so far all the professors have been helpful. I am writing a thesis right now and I have three professors on my board. Two of them I have never taken for class but they were still willing to help me. The education is geared toward you learning something not just memorizing facts.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
91% of students attending The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley receive some sort of financial aid.
71% were awarded federal grants.21%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.