Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Sam Houston State University vs The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Huntsville, TX · Edinburg, TX · Source: IPEDS federal database

Sam Houston State UniversityThe University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Acceptance Rate85.4%84.8%
In-State Tuition$9,228$9,859
Out-of-State Tuition$19,020$19,939
Average Net Price$14,556$6,978
Graduation Rate55.0%49.0%

GradFax Analysis

Both are competitive to get into. Sam Houston State University accepts 85.4% of applicants; The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley accepts 84.8%. Tuition is close: $9,228 at Sam Houston State University, $9,859 at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Sam Houston State University graduates 55% of students in 6 years. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley graduates 49%.

Bottom Line

After aid, the average student pays $14,556/year at Sam Houston State University and $6,978/year at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is cheaper for most people.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Sam Houston State University profileThe University of Texas Rio Grande Valley profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Sam Houston State University or The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley?

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. It accepts 84.8% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Sam Houston State University or The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley more affordable?

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, on average. After aid, students pay $6,978/year versus $14,556/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Sam Houston State University: 55% of students finish in 6 years. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is at 49%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Sam Houston State University vs The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax