San Antonio, TXprivate nonprofituiw.edu
The University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) is a Catholic liberal arts university in San Antonio that combines a nearly open-door admissions policy with surprisingly intimate academics (12:1 student-faculty ratio) and a distinctly Texan-Mexican cultural vibe. Known for nursing, business, and health sciences programs, UIW serves a predominantly local student body with strong financial aid packages—though its 52% graduation rate reflects the challenges of its mission-driven inclusivity.
UIW is one of the least selective universities in Texas, with a 98.1% Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. ([8], [9], [12]). The middle 50% of admitted students score between 910-1150 on the SAT (470-580 Reading, 440-570 Math) or 17-23 on the ACT ([7], [10]). Notably, 42% of enrollees have GPAs of 3.75+, while 23% fall between 3.50-3.74 ([9]). The YieldThe share of admitted students who actually choose to enroll. Colleges watch it closely, which is why some weigh how interested you seem. rate is strikingly low at 9.15% ([12]), suggesting most admitted students treat UIW as a safety school. Applications require only a high school transcript and optional test scores ([1], [4]).
UIW offers 100+ undergraduate programs and 20+ graduate degrees ([13], [16]), with nursing (161 graduates), business (138), psychology (81), and biology (69) being the most popular ([17]). The 12:1 student-faculty ratio supports small classes—58.8% have fewer than 20 students ([14]). Unique programs include:
The School of Professional Studies provides adult-focused degrees in criminal justice and organizational development ([15]). Over 830 students earned research honors recently ([16]), though the curriculum leans vocational rather than theoretical.
UIW’s 96-acre campus buzzes with Latino cultural events and Catholic traditions ([22]). Students describe it as "not as big, but very comfortable" ([23]). Key features:
San Antonio’s Mexican-American heritage permeates campus, with events like Día de los Muertos celebrations ([22]). The Office of Campus Life coordinates everything from intramurals to advocacy services ([21]).
UIW grads face mixed results:
Notably, female students outperform males with a 56% graduation rate ([25]). The "150% time" completion rate (53%) lags behind national averages ([29]), reflecting UIW’s mission to serve underprepared students.
UIW leverages generous aid to offset its $32,000+ sticker price:
Key breakdown:
The Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. Calculator helps estimate costs for prospective students ([31], [36]).
UIW carves a niche as San Antonio’s Catholic university—a rare blend of: 1. Radical accessibility (98% acceptance) with small classes (12:1 ratio) 2. Vocational focus in nursing/business alongside Catholic humanities (Catechetics) 3. Tex-Mex cultural vibrancy (clubs, events, 58% Latino enrollment per CDS)
It’s ideal for local students seeking affordable professional degrees in a faith-based setting, though the low graduation rate signals academic support challenges.