The University of Texas at El Paso
The Vibe Check
The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) offers a vibrant, culturally rich atmosphere that reflects its unique border identity. Students experience a strong sense of community and school pride, fueled by the iconic Bhutanese architecture and spirited Division I athletics. It feels like a place where diverse backgrounds converge to create a supportive and unpretentious learning environment.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
UTEP is recognized for its strong engineering and health science programs, supported by significant research activity. The university is particularly noted for its leadership in biomedical research and border health initiatives. Class sizes vary, but the university offers robust support through its comprehensive tutoring and success centers.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in El Paso
Student life in El Paso is heavily influenced by the city's rich blend of Texan and Mexican cultures, offering incredible food and music scenes. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy hiking in the nearby Franklin Mountains or taking weekend trips to the scenic Hueco Tanks. The campus itself hosts numerous events, and the Miners' football games are a major social highlight.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($50,923):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
UTEP has its own dedicated police force and maintains a safe, well-lit campus environment. While the surrounding El Paso area is generally considered one of the safest large cities in the U.S., students should still practice standard urban safety precautions.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Extremely affordable tuition and high financial aid availability
- ✓ Strong research profile (R1) with opportunities for undergraduates
- ✓ Unique cultural environment and diverse student body
- ✓ High acceptance rate makes college accessible to many
Cons
- ✗ Low four-year graduation rate (46.6%) may extend time to degree
- ✗ Retention rate suggests some students struggle to persist
- ✗ El Paso's remote location can feel isolated for students from outside the region
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UTEP is widely known for its distinctive Bhutanese architecture, its status as an R1 research university, and its leading programs in engineering, biomedical sciences, and border health research. It is also recognized for its commitment to serving Hispanic students and its competitive Division I athletics program.
No, UTEP has an acceptance rate of 99.9%, making it an open admissions institution. While meeting the minimum requirements essentially guarantees acceptance, a strong application can help secure merit-based scholarships. The average SAT score for enrolled students is around 982.
Campus life is active and community-oriented, with a strong focus on school spirit, particularly during football and basketball seasons. The university offers over 300 student organizations and a growing number of on-campus residence halls. The unique architecture and mountain views make the campus a visually stunning place to walk and study.
Yes, UTEP offers an excellent return on investment, especially for Texas residents. With an average net price of just $10,726 and median earnings of $50,923 after ten years, graduates can expect a strong financial payoff. The availability of research opportunities and a supportive environment further adds to the value.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 23,509
- In-State Tuition $9,744
- Out-of-State $25,512
- Zip Code 79968
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a low average net price of $10,726 and affordable in-state tuition, UTEP offers exceptional value for a degree from a major research university. The 10-year median earnings of $50,923 provide a solid return on investment, particularly given the low cost of attendance. For out-of-state students, the value remains competitive compared to many other public universities.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.