UTRGV's published cost of attendance is $18,343 per year for in-state students, including $9,859 in tuition, $9,662 for room and board, and $1,190 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students face tuition of $19,939.
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Net prices are averages and may vary. Based on federal data for first-time, full-time students receiving aid.
| Cost Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Cost of Attendance (Sticker Price) | $16,830 |
| Tuition and Fees | $19,827 |
| Room and Board | $9,728 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,250 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$11,999 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $4,831 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $3,785 |
| $30–48k | $3,877 |
| $48–75k | $5,665 |
| $75–110k | $7,972 |
| $110k+ | $13,782 |
UTRGV's published cost of attendance is $18,343 per year for in-state students, including $9,859 in tuition, $9,662 for room and board, and $1,190 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students face tuition of $19,939. However, the average student pays just $6,500 after financial aid, representing savings of $11,843 from the sticker price.
This net price of $6,500 compares exceptionally favorably to the peer median of $15,590, creating a $9,090 advantage for UTRGV students. The substantial gap between published costs and actual net price reflects comprehensive financial aid that makes higher education accessible to diverse economic backgrounds. At $6,500, UTRGV's net price ranks among the most affordable options nationally for a four-year degree, supporting the institution's mission to serve students regardless of economic background.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
UTRGV students graduate with median debt of $12,950, significantly below the peer median of $20,000, creating a $7,050 advantage. Debt ranges from $3,500 at the 25th percentile to $14,347 at the 75th percentile, showing controlled borrowing across the student body.
The debt level ranks at the 88th percentile nationally, indicating performance well above average for debt management. With median earnings of $49,620, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.26 falls well within sustainable ranges, suggesting graduates can manage loan payments comfortably.
Parent PLUS borrowers carry median debt of $8,290 with monthly payments around $109. The combination of below-peer debt levels and reasonable earnings creates favorable conditions for post-graduation financial stability.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
UTRGV generates $8,735 in earnings beyond expectations, ranking at the 83.4th percentile nationally for value-added performance. With median debt $7,050 below peer institutions and a favorable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.26, graduates achieve strong financial positions.
The median earnings of $49,620 provide solid return on the educational investment, particularly given the exceptionally low net price averaging $6,500. Students earn $10,923 less than peer median earnings of $60,543, but this difference is offset by substantially lower costs and debt levels.
The combination of controlled costs, minimal debt, and earnings that exceed expectations creates compelling return on investment. The economic value becomes particularly strong for lower-income students, who benefit from minimal net costs while achieving earnings that support upward economic mobility.
With 63.8% Pell-eligible enrollment, UTRGV serves substantially more lower-income students than typical institutions, necessitating comprehensive financial aid systems. The $11,843 average reduction from sticker price to net price demonstrates extensive aid availability across income levels.
The progressive net price structure, ranging from $5,006 for the lowest-income families to $16,528 for the highest-income families, reflects aid policies designed to maintain accessibility regardless of economic background. This aid structure supports UTRGV's role as an access-oriented institution, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent degree attainment.
The substantial aid available enables the high Pell enrollment while maintaining institutional financial sustainability. Students from diverse economic backgrounds can expect meaningful financial support that makes degree completion financially feasible through manageable net costs.
