Founded in 1864, University of Nevada-Reno. is a Public college. Located in Nevada, which is a city setting in Nevada, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 18,191 full time undergraduate students, and 3,162 full time graduate students.
The University of Nevada-Reno Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 21:1. There are 721 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at University of Nevada-Reno include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
82%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
60
SAT Range
970-1200
ACT Range
21-26
Admissions at UNR are considered Less Selective, with ,198% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 35 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
82% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 54% were in the top quarter, and 27% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at University of Nevada-Reno.
1%
“We”re apathetic”
22%
“We know about current events and vote”
70%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
7%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
3%
“We save it for the classroom”
24%
“Sometimes, but not often”
53%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
20%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
6%
“I only go out in groups”
46%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
48%
“I feel extremely safe”
5%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
26%
“We bought the gear”
68%
“We live for the big game”
5%
“It”s not really our thing”
18%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
64%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
13%
“We”re a very artistic group”
5%
“Haven”t met them”
3%
“Available in class”
68%
“They keep regular office hours”
24%
“They”re always available”
3%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
10%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
82%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
5%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
3%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
24%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
41%
“We only party on weekends”
32%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
9%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
50%
“There might be people who do”
38%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
4%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
1%
“We”re apathetic”
22%
“We know about current events and vote”
70%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
7%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
3%
“We save it for the classroom”
24%
“Sometimes, but not often”
53%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
20%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
6%
“I only go out in groups”
46%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
48%
“I feel extremely safe”
5%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
26%
“We bought the gear”
68%
“We live for the big game”
5%
“It”s not really our thing”
18%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
64%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
13%
“We”re a very artistic group”
5%
“Haven”t met them”
3%
“Available in class”
68%
“They keep regular office hours”
24%
“They”re always available”
3%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
10%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
82%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
5%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
363 Students rated on-campus housing 3.7 stars. 20 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
315 Students rated off-campus housing 3.7 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
451 Students rated campus food 3.6 stars. 22 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
465 Students rated campus facilities 4.3 stars. 48 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
466 Students rated class size 3.9 stars. 26 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
465 Students rated school activities 4.1 stars. 43 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
466 Students rated local services 4 stars. 40 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
466 Students rated academics 4.1 stars. 40 % gave the school a 5.0.
University of Nevada-Reno REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of University of Nevada-Reno?
194 Students rated University of Nevada-Reno
Maya
Prospective04/06/2025
I would like to attend the university of Nevada Reno for many reasons. One main reason is that it’s close to home but still far enough that I can experience living on my own. Another reason is that it’s the best choice for me financially. Also the weather sine moving to Vegas I have missed having all four seasons.
Dennis
Prospective04/04/2025
The University of Nevada, Reno stands out to me not only for its strong academic programs but also for the sense of community and opportunity it offers students. As someone who is deeply interested in cybersecurity and technology, I am drawn to the university’s College of Engineering and its nationally recognized Computer Science and Engineering program. I appreciate that UNR combines rigorous academics with hands-on learning, research opportunities, and partnerships with local industries—things that are critical in a field as fast-moving as cybersecurity.
I’ve also read about UNR’s Cybersecurity Center and its efforts to promote cybersecurity education and research. Knowing that the university is investing in this growing field makes me feel confident that I would be learning skills that are both current and in demand. The chance to work alongside faculty who are doing real-world research, and possibly intern with nearby companies or government agencies, is an exciting part of what makes UNR so appealing.
Outside of academics, I’m drawn to the campus environment. From student organizations and clubs to events and traditions like the Mackay Week and the pride behind the Wolf Pack spirit, the university seems to have a strong sense of belonging and student engagement. That’s something I’m really looking for—a place where I can grow not just as a student, but also as a person.
Location also plays a role. Being in Reno means I would be close to natural beauty like Lake Tahoe, but still connected to a city with opportunities in tech. It’s the kind of balance I value—a peaceful environment that also pushes me to explore, connect, and grow.
Overall, UNR feels like a place where I can build my future, contribute to a meaningful field, and be part of a community that supports and inspires me.
Tieris
Prospective04/01/2025
There are so many aspects that the University of Nevada, Reno has that make it appealing to my personal situation. The first thing would be the academic opportunities it offers to its students such as the undergraduate research opportunities that allow students to participate in research projects with faculty members which allows them to gain experience and skills. Another appealing aspect the school has is the financial aid the school offers, such as the Pack Promise which covers tuition, fees, and books for Nevada residents who meet the requirements set forth. The college doesn't want it to be impossible to pay for and would much rather see their students be successful which, in my opinion, is quite admirable.
Jacob
The University of Nevada, Reno is a school with a very welcoming atmosphere for students from all backgrounds and cultures. There are plenty of opportunities for students across all majors, but there is a huge emphasis on research at this institution, making it a great option for STEM majors. There are also many pre-professional events that can help students prepare for their futures. Overall, this school is a phenomenal option due to its cost, community, and career focused attitude.
Chloe
The University of Nevada, Reno is an overall peaceful school. There are not much issues that arise and there are plenty of opportunities for all cultures and groups. As a college freshman, I quickly noticed how attentive the professors are to their students. whether it is a larger lecture hall or a small classroom, reaching out to the professors has never become an issue. Responses are quick and detailed as if they took their time to individualize each message. The students are enjoyable, and the campus overall is a great place.
Natalia
I am very thankful to be able to go to this school. The people are very different and nice to one another. The campus is beautiful from the little nooks around the campus to the quad where people hang out.
Houston
Personally i’m in love with the University, ever since i first stepped foot in the UNR campus i’ve wanted to go. The campus is beautiful and it has really good weather. Multiple new building have been built or currently being built. The Freshamn (Argenta) hall has been recently remodeled. Everyone that attends the school is very polite and have great attitudes towards their education. It’s generally all around a great experience. If you’re intrested in college and don’t know what college to go to I would definitely check out and look into the University of Nevada Reno.
Sydney
The University of Nevada-Reno is a great college for individuals to realize what they truly enjoy. You are bound to meet a variety of people who make the environment a better place, along with making you feel confident about yourself. Staff and other surrounding communities are uplifting, empathetic, and inclusive for all.
Kylie
This University is a fine establishment. Like all colleges, you’ve got your party crowd, and it is apparent here, but everyone is also really into what they’re here to learn. It’s a great environment and just beautiful. The only real downside is the dining hall food and dietary restrictions don’t have many options.
Jordan
It is a beautiful university, one of the most stunning I have ever seen. The professors are the best and make learning fun. Reno is full of hospitable people and there are no cliques, everyone welcomes each other in with open arms. The housing is amazing and the RA’s really try to settle you in and make the dorms feel like home.
Angelina
I've only been a student at UNR but I've had a great experience. First off, coming from Vegas where it is constantly hot, I love the snow during the winter! It's cold sure, but the snow ball fights are worth it. The student account is also easy to manage so you can get the teachers and classes you need and want.
There's also a space where students and be creative and express whatever they want in the graffiti stairwell. It's one of my favorite places to hang out at.
Ryan
I absolutely LOVE UNR. It is the best school and I am so glad I made this choice. Being from Las Vegas most want to go out of state. I play a sport and was enticed to go to another state to play, but after looking at many different colleges and what they had to offer this school is amazing. Now I have been there for a year and have talked with friends that went to other schools, I realize even more I made a great choice. There are so many things to do in Reno for anyone. In the fall we love tailgates, football games and all the places to go for food, drinks and meeting up. So many are close to campus you don't need a car and their is a bus service that's free to get you anywhere. The school has the most amazing gym. It was built in 2017 so its very new, is 3 stories high and very so convenient on campus that I use this 3-4 times a week. In winter you can ski/board at one of 4 resorts close by. Lake Tahoe is only 45 minutes away in spring and Reno has so many concerts, rodeo , rib fest and fun local things to do. Greek life is something that is also fun but you don't have to join if you don't want. Some schools you have to be associated with it, but you don't at UNR. With so many ways to make friends and a smaller close knit community I love all the choices the University of Nevada Reno gives me. It continues to build and grow and just love the smaller campus feel to such a large university.
Iman Karin
I am proud to say that I have been a student of UNR. Although I am currently taking the semester off, Reno has made it so that I'm excited to learn and see a successful future in my future. From registering for next semester to professors making me laugh, I look forward to every school day. For living in the dorms, I felt safe coming home at any time and was able to make friends. There was always something to do on campus or in dorms and the atmosphere makes you want to go back to school yourself. Everyone is dedicated and proficient in their area of study and people are encouraged to study in the beautiful Knowledge Center. Despite the lackluster food choice in the Den, I would not have this school be any other way. Enamored by the school I used to go to, even in my semester off, I see myself succeeding and wanting to go back.
Kas
The school atmosphere is one of my favorite things about the entire school. Especially during football season it always brings students and families together. As someone who has many family members who attend the school and is planning to attend the university next year I am truly excited to be a part of it. I grew up getting season passes to the football games and always looked forward to actually attending the school.
Amber
My opinion sways with the years, but overall I see my university as a place to grow as a person. There is so much to do if you just want to get involved. If you have a hobby, know there may be a club for it also. I think the experience is based on how much you want to do, it's all at your fingertips. For example my favorite is the discover science lecture series where professionals in a variety of fields come to present a lecture on their research. These free events were inspiring and helped me shape what I wanted to do with my degree. As such it is a good school as long as you are willing to make it your best. Create new friends, join clubs, make experiences, start a career. That's what the university is about and why I have loved my personal experience.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for University of Nevada-Reno is 82%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
If I could go back in time I would honestly tell myself just one thing. This one thing is something that I seem to think about every day since I decided to go to college. It may seem odd and not geared especially toward education but I feel that it is something completly necessary. The one thing that I would tell myself would be to trust in myself as well as to trust in my family. After all, even if college is a bust and you are at the lowest point you could ever be at you will always have yourself and your family to pick you back up and to push on to the next life defining moment in your life. My family has been one of the most dependable and supportive force in my life and for that I am forever greatfull.
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
It's a very research and sports related school. Sometimes the professors are mostly there for research and may not know how to make the material they are trying to teach fully understandable, or they think that the students have to be up to there level. For the sports, football is a huge part of UNR and a part of the budget is just for sports and football gets a big portion, if it's labeled for sports I think there should be more sports avaliable like men's soccer or others, shaving some of footballs budget may help.
What kind of person should not attend this school?
There is not a type of person that shouldn't attend UNR. The University has a lot to offer anyone with any variety of interests. If an individual was told to not attend the University I would guess that it was a result of their lack of motivtion. My counter would be one from personal experience. Day to day, from listening to lectures to personal study time, motivation comes to me and continues to exert itself upon my lifestyle. I belive all people can benefit from any ammount of time spent on the University of Nevada, Reno campus.
What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?
Before I came to the University of Nevada, Reno I wish I had known what it was like to attend such a large school. I attened a very small high school of about 250 students total. Attending a university for the first time was a huge change that I was not very prepared for. Going from knowing every student in my school by first and last name to knowing barely anyone was a scary, but very exciting experience. Although I would never trade in my small town high school days, UNR has shown me there is a lot out there.
The kind of person that should attend this school is someone who is highly motivated toward success and someone who enjoys a fun and quite campus life.
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?
Waiting to register for classes. They have it set so your last name determines when you can register. It is very frustrating to have to wait and watch all the classes you need for your degree fill up fast.
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!
What is unique about my school compared to other schools is the scale and diversity of the campus. A tier one school, the university of Nevada, Reno has a relatively small number of students when compared to other universities, and yet has such a large and expansive campus. The campus houses multiple faculties such as department buildings to help students of any major, different libraries that specialize in different areas of study, and multiple recreational buildings for students to take part in.
Nevada is a college that thrives in not just one area, but many. The Nevada school of medicine ranks among the top 100 in the country at number 92. They have a extremly competitive nursing program that attracts people from all over the country. In additon, the College of Engineering is ranked at 138 in the nation, making Nevada diverse in many aspects of academics. In athletics, Neavda competes ompetitively at the NCAA Division 1 level. Nevada also has state of the art facilities. The Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Center is one of the most technologically advanced libraries in the country.
UNR is a really cool campus. It's both old and modern at the same time. The knowledge center (aka the library) is AMAZING! The tuition is pretty cheap, even if you're an out of state student! I'm happy.
What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?
One of the best things about UNR is that students are not stereotyped. Many of the students are local, first generation students thanks to an in state scholarship program. This year, however, saw the biggest freshman class ever and new dorms are being built to accomodate this influx of students. There are pleanty of opportunities for all kinds of students. We have a diverse selection of fraternities and sororities, healthy sports rivalrys, a strong art program, etc.
What are the most popular student activities/groups?
Football and basketball are typically the biggest events on campus, but there are always things to do here. The university is home to 7 art gallery, 6 museums, and countless academic speakers throughout the year.
UNR offers the best of both worlds. It is both a research and teaching university. The professors teaching your classes are actively engaged in research and know the current research literature. Although there are some large lecture classes, most of the classes are smail enough for personal attention. The school has lots of support systems for students, such as tutoring programs, a writing center, and the center for diversity. The new residence hall is a living learning community where students can take classes in the same building that they live in.
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 University of Nevada-Reno receive some sort of financial aid.
29% were awarded federal grants.40%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.
