The University of Texas at San Antonio

Life at UTSA revolves around its diverse, commuter-heavy campus, where students describe a ‘more than enough to do’ vibe. The university promotes inclusivity through 300+ student organizations, from cultural groups to esports teams. San Antonio’s job market and low cost of living (compared to Austin or Dallas) make internships accessible. Wellness services are robust, with integrated mental and physical health programs. Though Greek life exists, it’s not dominant—only 5% of students join fraternities/sororities. The Roadrunner spirit peaks at basketball games and during Fiesta UTSA, a campus-wide celebration of San Antonio’s signature festival.

UTSA’s six-year graduation rate hovers around 51%, below the national average for public universities. However, transfer students graduate at nearly 20% higher rates than first-time freshmen. Breakdowns by race show Black students graduate at the highest rate (54%), followed by Latinos (47%), whites (44%), and Asians (41%). The College Scorecard reports a slightly higher 60% graduation rate, likely reflecting recent improvements. While outcomes vary by major, the university’s ties to San Antonio employers (like USAA and H-E-B) help place graduates in regional jobs.

UTSA is a budget-friendly option, with an average net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. of $11,013 after aid (65% of students receive assistance). The university reports that 86% of first-years get grants/scholarships, reducing the sticker price of $19,130 for in-state students. Texas’s Hazlewood Act further benefits veterans and their families with tuition exemptions. Financial aid packages typically mix federal grants, work-study, and loans, though merit scholarships are limited compared to flagship UT schools. The low cost of living in San Antonio—especially for off-campus housing—helps keep debt manageable.

UTSA carves its niche as San Antonio’s anchor public university, blending accessibility with growing academic rigor. Its merger with UT Health signals ambitions to compete in biomedical research, while existing strengths in cybersecurity (a nod to the city’s military presence) draw federal funding. The campus’s Mexican-American cultural influences—from Dia de los Muertos events to conjunto music performances—reflect its majority-Latino student body. Unlike cutthroat Texas flagships, UTSA offers a collaborative, ‘start here, go anywhere’ ethos, appealing to first-gen?First-generation (first-gen)A student who would be the first in their immediate family to earn a four-year college degree. Many colleges consider this in context. students and career changers alike. For those seeking low debt and urban opportunities, it’s a pragmatic choice.