University of New Orleans
The Vibe Check
The University of New Orleans has a gritty, authentic urban vibe that mirrors the city itself. It feels like a place for independent, resilient students who are serious about their studies but also know how to have fun. You're not on a manicured suburban campus; you're in New Orleans, immersed in its creative, resilient culture.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
UNO is known for strong programs in business, engineering, and the arts, with faculty who bring real-world experience to the classroom. As a public research university, it offers solid opportunities for undergraduate research, particularly in the sciences and engineering. The multidisciplinary studies program is a flexible option for students with unique, self-defined academic goals.
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 New Orleans
Student life is deeply intertwined with the culture of New Orleans. On weekends, you can explore the live music on Frenchmen Street, indulge in world-class food, and attend festivals that happen almost year-round. The university's location provides easy access to the Lakefront for outdoor activities and the city's streetcar lines for exploring the rest of the city.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($47,872):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Like any urban campus, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, though UNO has its own police force and emergency alert system. The campus itself is generally considered safe, but students are advised to take standard city precautions when venturing into the surrounding New Orleans neighborhoods.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Very affordable tuition, especially for in-state students.
- ✓ Prime location in a vibrant city with rich culture and internship opportunities.
- ✓ Wide range of popular majors including engineering and arts.
- ✓ Diverse student body with a significant Pell Grant population.
Cons
- ✗ Low graduation rate (40.5%) and retention rate (70.2%) suggest challenges for some students.
- ✗ Urban setting may not be ideal for those seeking a traditional, insulated college town experience.
- ✗ Campus safety requires vigilance due to its location in a major city.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
The University of New Orleans is known for its strong programs in Business & Marketing, Engineering, and its unique location in one of America's most culturally rich cities. It is also recognized for its diverse student body and as a vital part of the New Orleans higher education landscape.
No, the University of New Orleans is not considered highly selective. With an acceptance rate of 66.77%, it is moderately accessible. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1056, and the admissions process is holistic, considering essays and background in addition to test scores and GPA.
Campus life at UNO is that of a commuter and non-traditional student-focused university, with a less intense residential party scene than other New Orleans colleges. Students often engage in city life off-campus, exploring music, food, and festivals, while on-campus life revolves around academics and some student organizations.
For in-state students, the University of New Orleans is an excellent financial value, with a low net price of $11,147 and a solid 10-year median earnings of $47,872. The investment is generally considered worthwhile, offering a pathway to a degree and career without the heavy debt load of more expensive institutions.
Similar Universities
Top Employers
Next Steps & Tools
Make the best decision with our free planning tools.
Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 6,961
- In-State Tuition $9,172
- Out-of-State $14,008
- Zip Code 70148
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an in-state tuition of $9,172 and a net price of $11,147, UNO offers a high-value education, especially for Louisiana residents. The 10-year median earnings of $47,872, combined with a relatively low cost of attendance, suggests a solid return on investment. For out-of-state students, the $14,008 tuition is still competitive compared to many other universities.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.