Best Affordable Colleges in Texas
Texas offers a wide variety of affordable colleges that provide high-quality education across diverse fields. Whether you’re looking for a large research university or a small liberal arts college, Texas has options for students who want to balance quality with cost.
For a broader list, check out our Best Affordable Colleges page.
Why Choose Affordable Colleges in Texas?
- Low Cost of Living: Many colleges in Texas are located in cities with a relatively low cost of living, making them ideal for budget-conscious students.
- In-State Tuition Benefits: Texas residents can take advantage of in-state tuition, reducing costs significantly.
- Diverse Options: From large universities to smaller private institutions, Texas offers a range of affordable colleges that cater to various academic interests and career goals.
Top Affordable Colleges in Texas
Angelo State University
Net Price: $12,518
π Location: San Angelo, TX
π Key Stats:
| π― Acceptance rate: 79% | π SAT Range: 920-1140 Test Optional | |
| π₯ Total Undergrad Population: 11,250 | ποΈ Setting: City: Small | π« School Type: Public |
| π Graduation rate (6-year): 41% | π Retention rate: 72% | π¨βπ« Student-to-faculty ratio: 18:1 |
Hardin-Simmons University
Net Price: $21,321
π Location: Abilene, TX
π Key Stats:
| π― Acceptance rate: 97% | π SAT Range: 968-1190 Test Optional | |
| π₯ Total Undergrad Population: 1655 | ποΈ Setting: City: Midsize | π« School Type: Private |
| π Graduation rate (6-year): 50% | π Retention rate: 65% | π¨βπ« Student-to-faculty ratio: 15:1 |
Rice University
Net Price: $20,587
π Location: Houston, TX
Rice University in Houston, Texas is a private institution. Across RiceΒs 300-acre campus students can engage in academics (with a 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio), social events like student plans, student organizations offering volunteer work, D1 athletics, and more.
π Key Stats:
| π― Acceptance rate: 8% | π SAT Range: 1500-1570 Test Optional | |
| π₯ Total Undergrad Population: 8556 | ποΈ Setting: City: Large | π« School Type: Private |
| π Graduation rate (6-year): 96% | π Retention rate: 98% | π¨βπ« Student-to-faculty ratio: 6:1 |
The University of Texas at Dallas
Net Price: $13,464
π Location: Richardson, TX
π Key Stats:
| π― Acceptance rate: 65% | π SAT Range: 1170-1410 Test Optional | |
| π₯ Total Undergrad Population: 30885 | ποΈ Setting: City: Midsize | π« School Type: Public |
| π Graduation rate (6-year): 71% | π Retention rate: 88% | π¨βπ« Student-to-faculty ratio: 27:1 |
The University of Texas at San Antonio
Net Price: $10,831
π Location: San Antonio, TX
π Key Stats:
| π― Acceptance rate: 88% | π SAT Range: 1000-1200 Test Optional | |
| π₯ Total Undergrad Population: 34864 | ποΈ Setting: City: Large | π« School Type: Public |
| π Graduation rate (6-year): 51% | π Retention rate: 79% | π¨βπ« Student-to-faculty ratio: 25:1 |
Trinity University
Net Price: $32,264
π Location: San Antonio, TX
π Key Stats:
| π― Acceptance rate: 28% | π SAT Range: 1320-1465 Test Optional | |
| π₯ Total Undergrad Population: 2694 | ποΈ Setting: City: Large | π« School Type: Private |
| π Graduation rate (6-year): 82% | π Retention rate: 92% | π¨βπ« Student-to-faculty ratio: 9:1 |
How to Choose the Best Affordable College for You in Texas
When choosing the best affordable college in Texas, consider these factors:
- Location: Think about whether you want to live in a big city like Houston or Dallas, or in a smaller town with a more intimate campus.
- Academic Programs: Research the specific programs and majors offered at each school, and see if they match your career goals.
- Financial Aid: Review each collegeβs financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities, to see what makes it most affordable for your family.
FAQ β Affordable Colleges in Texas
What is the average cost of attending an affordable college in Texas?
The cost varies widely, but public universities like UT Dallas and UTSA offer in-state tuition for Texas residents, often costing between $10,000 and $20,000 per year for tuition and fees.
Are there scholarships available for affordable colleges in Texas?
Yes, many colleges offer merit-based scholarships, in addition to state-funded financial aid programs like the Texas Grant and Texas Tuition Equalization Grant.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio at affordable colleges in Texas?
The student-to-faculty ratio varies by college, but it typically ranges from 12:1 to 21:1, with many smaller schools like Hardin-Simmons University and Trinity University offering even smaller ratios for personalized attention.