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Public, 4-year

University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo

Arecibo, Puerto Rico · www.upra.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

59.2%

2025

Peer median 80.5%

Out-of-state tuition

$5,324

$16,937 with room and board

Peer median $17,955

Undergraduates

2,689

Student-faculty ratio 19:1

Peer median 14 : 1

Graduation rate

14.0%

4-year; 6-year rate 50.3%

Peer median 26.9%

“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

The University of Puerto Rico at Arecibo (UPRA) is a prominent educational institution located in the vibrant city of Arecibo, Puerto Rico. Established in 1971, it serves as a vital hub for higher education in the region, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university is known for its strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), which aligns with Puerto Rico's growing need for skilled professionals in these fields. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including laboratories and research centers, that foster an environment of innovation and discovery.

UPRA is committed to promoting a rich cultural and humanistic environment, encouraging students to engage in various extracurricular activities and community services. The university's motto, "La educación es un derecho" (Education is a right), reflects its dedication to providing quality education accessible to all. The campus life is vibrant, with numerous student organizations and events that celebrate Puerto Rican culture and heritage. Graduates of UPRA are well-prepared for the job market, with many finding successful careers both locally and internationally. The university's strong connections with industries and local businesses enhance the employment prospects for its students, making it a significant contributor to the region's economic development.

Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo

The University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo has demonstrated significant trends in tuition rates and student demographics over the years, which are crucial for understanding the institution's evolving landscape.

One notable aspect is the dramatic increase in tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. Starting from around $1,963 in 2014, in-state tuition skyrocketed to $5,324 by 2024, marking a staggering increase of approximately 171%. This rise not only reflects the financial pressures on public universities but also raises concerns about accessibility and affordability for prospective students. The tuition for out-of-state students also saw a parallel trajectory, demonstrating that the university is becoming increasingly expensive for all students, which could potentially deter enrollment.

In terms of student population, there has been a consistent decline in undergraduate enrollment, dropping from 3,759 in 2014 to 2,897 in 2023. This decline of around 23% may raise alarms about the university's appeal and could be linked to the rising tuition costs, as well as broader demographic trends in Puerto Rico.

Additionally, the gender ratio among undergraduates shows a predominance of female students, with women making up about 62% of the undergraduate population in 2023. While this trend towards higher female enrollment is encouraging, it also highlights the need for universities to address gender disparities in other areas, such as faculty representation and graduate programs, to ensure a balanced educational environment.

Another critical metric is the graduation rate, which, although low, has shown some improvement over the years. The on-time graduation rate rose to approximately 8.6% in 2023, while the 150% graduation rate climbed to around 53.5%. These statistics indicate that while the university may struggle with immediate graduation outcomes, there is a growing trend of students ultimately completing their degrees, reflecting possible improvements in support systems or academic resources.

In summary, while the University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo faces challenges regarding tuition increases and declining enrollment, there are signs of progress in graduation rates and a commitment to fostering a diverse student body. Addressing these issues through strategic planning and resource allocation will be vital for the university's future sustainability and growth.

Setting
Small city
Nearest major city
San Juan, about 40 mi
Nearest international airport
Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU), about 50 mi
Arecibo, Puerto Rico
Also known as
UPRA
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Ricardo Infante-Castillo (Chancellor)
Phone
78781500001000
City
Arecibo, Puerto Rico
Address
Finca las Dunas Carr 653 Ruta 129 Km 8, Arecibo, PR 00614-4010

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 80.5% · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
59.6%
Women
59.0%

In 2020: men 32.1%, women 76.8%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo

The admission data for the University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo reveals significant fluctuations in both acceptance rates and enrollment over the years. From 2009 to 2023, the male acceptance rate began at approximately 44% and showed a troubling decline to around 32% by 2019, before slightly recovering to about 59% in 2023. This trend indicates a tightening of admissions, possibly reflecting an increase in the number of applicants or a shift in the university's admission policies.
Conversely, the female acceptance rate exhibited a more stable, yet fluctuating pattern, starting at around 47% and peaking at 100% in 2013. The recent data suggests a steady decline in female acceptance rates, from a high of about 77% in 2019 to roughly 61% in 2023. This disparity in acceptance rates raises questions about gender equity in admissions, particularly in a changing educational landscape.
Enrollment numbers also tell an interesting story. The university experienced its highest enrollment of 1,021 students in 2009, but this number has generally declined over the years, reaching as low as 681 in 2023. The number of students denied admission has consistently remained high, indicating a competitive application process.
The data also notes a significant number of deferrals over the years, showcasing a possible trend where admitted students are choosing to postpone their enrollment, which could be linked to various factors such as economic conditions or personal circumstances.
Overall, the trends observed at the University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo reflect broader challenges faced by higher education institutions, including increasing competition for admission and the need for equity in access to education.

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition

Nursing School#336 Computer Science#396▲74

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Test Scores at the University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo

The data from the University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo reveals a consistent submission rate of SAT scores at 100% from 2007 to 2023, indicating that all admitted students have submitted their SAT scores during this period. This reflects a strong commitment to standardized testing as part of the admissions process.

However, the most striking observation is the significant drop in both SAT reading and mathematics scores from 2012 onwards. The 25th percentile for SAT reading and mathematics fell to 288-307, which is substantially lower than the 454-562 range recorded in the earlier years from 2007 to 2012. This decline in scores raises concerns about the preparedness of incoming students and may reflect broader educational trends or challenges faced by high school graduates in Puerto Rico.

The consistent number of students submitting SAT scores suggests that the university's admissions policy heavily favors standardized testing, potentially limiting opportunities for students who may excel in other areas but do not perform well on these tests. As colleges across the United States reevaluate the role of standardized tests in admissions, it may be beneficial for the University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo to consider a more holistic approach that takes into account various aspects of a student’s background and abilities beyond standardized testing.

In summary, while the university maintains a high submission rate for test scores, the declining performance highlights a need for reflection on admission criteria and support for prospective students to ensure a diverse and well-prepared student body.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 6 in 10

1,416 applicants in 2025, 59.2% admitted

838 admitted 578 not admitted Yield 77.2%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate600 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's4080 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Microbiology, General
95
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
84
Radio and Television Broadcasting Technology/Technician
59
Industrial and Organizational Psychology
41
Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians, Other
36
Accounting
18
Computer Science
17
Marketing/Marketing Management, General
16
Office Management and Supervision
13
Business Administration and Management, General
11

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo

The graduation data from the University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo reveals some intriguing trends in degree completion across various disciplines for 2023. A notable observation is the dominance of the bachelor’s degree category, particularly in the fields of Microbiology and Registered Nursing, with 116 and 91 graduates, respectively. This trend underscores the growing demand for healthcare professionals and life sciences, likely influenced by the ongoing global health challenges that have heightened the need for medical expertise.

Interestingly, there is a significant absence of international students graduating in any degree category, highlighting a potential area for growth in attracting global talent. In contrast, the associate degree category shows a modest output, particularly in Registered Nursing with 25 graduates and in Veterinary/Animal Health Technology with 34 graduates. This suggests that while the university provides foundational training, there may be a bottleneck at the bachelor’s level, where there are no reported international students, indicating that the institution might benefit from enhancing its outreach and support for international admissions.

The data also reflects a strong focus on health and science-related fields, with minimal representation in other disciplines like Business Administration and Computer Science. This concentration could be a strategic advantage for the university, aligning educational offerings with market demands. However, the absence of graduates in higher degree categories, such as master's and doctorate, suggests room for expansion in advanced studies, which could enhance the university's academic reputation and research output.

Overall, while the University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo shows promising figures in certain undergraduate programs, it also presents opportunities for enhancing international enrollment and diversifying its degree offerings to better meet the evolving educational landscape.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Health professionshas 109 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$15,321
Biologyhas 95 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Microbiology, General.$19,078
Businesshas 64 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Business Administration and Management, General.$17,685
Office Management and Supervision.$17,685
Accounting.$32,472
Finance, General.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Communications technologies has 59 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Radio and Television Broadcasting Technology/Technician.$11,613
Psychology has 41 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Industrial and Organizational Psychology.-
Engineering technologieshas 41 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians, Other.$14,006
Agricultural has 30 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Veterinary/Animal Health Technology/Technician and Veterinary Assistant.$15,533
Computer and information sciencehas 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Computer Science.-
Educationhas 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.-
Social sciencehas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Social Sciences, Other.-

Students

2,704 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 40:60 · Freshman retention 76.1%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,689)

Hispanic
2,689 · 100.0%

Data insights

Demographic Insights of University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo Students in 2023

The student demographics at the University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo in 2023 reveal interesting insights into the composition of the student body. The data highlights a total of 2,877 students across various classifications, with a significant proportion being undergraduate students. Among the first-year undergraduate students, there are 681 individuals, with females representing 57.4% and males 42.6%. This trend of higher female representation continues among the continuing undergraduate students, where the ratio is 63.2% female to 36.8% male, indicating a growing trend of female enrollment in higher education.

Interestingly, the transfer undergraduate students show a similar pattern with 62% females and 38% males, although their numbers are notably smaller at just 50 students. The data also includes a group labeled as "nd," which appears to represent non-degree seeking or non-traditional students, with 42 individuals, predominantly female at 73.8%.

The absence of detailed data on racial and ethnic breakdowns in the subs category raises questions about the diversity within the student population. Given the importance of inclusivity and representation in educational institutions, it would be beneficial for the university to provide further insights into the racial and ethnic composition of their students to better understand and support all groups.

Overall, the gender ratios suggest a positive shift towards higher female participation in higher education, while the lack of racial demographic data underscores the need for universities to address and report on diversity comprehensively. This is particularly relevant as institutions strive to create equitable environments for all students amidst ongoing discussions about representation in education.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo in 2023

The age demographics of students at the University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo reveal a predominately young population, with the majority falling within the 18-21 age range. Specifically, students aged 18-19 represent a significant portion, accounting for approximately 38% of the total male and female student body, followed closely by those aged 20-21 at around 31%. This trend is indicative of a traditional college demographic where most students enter higher education shortly after completing secondary school.

Moreover, the data shows that female students consistently outnumber male students across all age categories. For instance, in the 18-19 age group, there are 770 female students compared to 472 male students, resulting in a striking female-to-male ratio of 1.63:1. This female predominance continues through the 20-21 age category, suggesting that the university may be attracting more women or that women are more likely to pursue higher education in this region.

Interestingly, the number of graduate students is notably absent, as there are no male graduate students reported across all age brackets, while female graduate students are present but in limited numbers. This could reflect broader trends in graduate education, where gender disparities can vary significantly by field of study.

The data also shows a sharp decline in student numbers as age increases, particularly beyond the 25-29 age category, indicating that the university primarily serves a younger population. This trend aligns with national observations that highlight the challenges adult learners face in returning to education, particularly in balancing work and family commitments.

Overall, the age distribution at the University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo points to a vibrant, youthful academic environment while also raising questions about retention and support for older students. Moving forward, the university may benefit from targeted initiatives to engage and support non-traditional students who wish to pursue higher education.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.0%2018: 0.0%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 1.4%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2024

0% 5% 10% 2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2024Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

International Student Trends at University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo

The data from the University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo highlights important trends regarding international students within the institution. While specific numbers are not available in the provided dataset, the presence of international students is critical for the university's cultural diversity and academic enrichment.

International students often bring diverse perspectives and experiences, contributing to a vibrant campus environment. Their participation in academic programs can enhance collaborative learning and foster global awareness among domestic students. Furthermore, the presence of a robust international student community can elevate the university's profile, attracting faculty and funding, thus benefiting all students.

In recent years, many universities in the United States have experienced fluctuations in international enrollment due to various factors, including visa regulations, geopolitical tensions, and the global pandemic. Institutions like the University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo must navigate these challenges while striving to maintain an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for international scholars.

Efforts to bolster international student recruitment may include partnerships with foreign institutions, targeted outreach programs, and the enhancement of support services for international students. By fostering an inclusive environment, universities can not only support the academic success of international students but also enrich the educational experience for the entire student body, preparing them for a more interconnected world.

Overall, while specific data is lacking, the importance of international students in shaping the educational landscape at the University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo cannot be overstated.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$16,937

Undergraduate tuition
$5,324
Room and board
$11,613
Graduate tuition
$4,110
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 32% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 33%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$39.1M

Government grants and contracts
$35.5M90.6%
Tuition and fees
$1.3M3.4%
Gifts and private grants
$254K0.6%
Investment return
$23K0.1%
Sales and services of educational activities
$23K0.1%
Other
$2.0M5.2%

Expenses$28.3M

Instruction
$18.2M64.5%
Scholarships
$5.8M20.4%
Institutional support
$4.7M16.7%
Academic support
$4.4M15.5%
Student services
$2.9M10.2%
Research
$476K1.7%
Public service
$12K0.0%
Other
-$8.2M-29.0%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

All faculty
$65,709peers $72,709
Professor
$77,648peers $91,112
Associate professor
$68,283peers $77,091
Assistant professor
$57,418peers $65,783
Instructor
$42,536peers $53,527

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes Other
2025
Other MENWOMEN
Soccer1819
Basketball1515
Baseball23-
Volleyball1111
Track and Field (Outdoor)88
Weight Lifting87
Cross Country55
Table Tennis55
Wrestling8-
Beach Volleyball44
Other Sports4-
2024
OtherMENWOMEN
Soccer1816
Basketball1414
Volleyball1314
Baseball21-
Track and Field (Outdoor)107
Beach Volleyball44
Table Tennis43
Wrestling6-
Cross Country5-
Other Sports4-
2023
OtherMENWOMEN
Soccer1816
Basketball1414
Volleyball1314
Baseball21-
Track and Field (Outdoor)107
Beach Volleyball44
Table Tennis43
Wrestling6-
Cross Country5-
Other Sports4-

Nearby & Safety

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near the University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo:

  1. University of Miami - Ranked 67th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. Florida International University - With a rank of 124, this comprehensive university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing global learning.

  3. University of Florida - This prestigious institution ranks 28th in the nation and is recognized for its academic excellence and robust research initiatives across various disciplines.

  4. Florida State University - Ranked 53rd, this comprehensive university is known for its strong emphasis on research, particularly in the fields of arts and sciences.

  5. University of South Florida - This university ranks 89th and offers a wide array of programs and a commitment to community engagement and innovation.

These institutions represent some of the academic opportunities available in the surrounding area, each with its unique strengths and offerings.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo

The crime data from the University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo reveals a significant decline in criminal incidents over the past decade. In 2013, the university reported a crime rate of 2.71 incidents per 1,000 students, which can be categorized as a concern. However, the data shows a steady decrease in crime rates, reaching a low of 0.00 in the years 2021 to 2023. This downward trend is commendable and suggests that effective measures may have been implemented to ensure campus safety.

One notable observation is the consistent absence of serious crimes such as murder, rape, or robbery throughout the years reported. The recorded incidents primarily involved gun-related arrests, indicating a potential area for targeted intervention. The steady reduction in crime rates could be attributed to various factors, including increased security measures, community engagement initiatives, and a heightened awareness of safety protocols among students and staff.

Moreover, the university's ability to maintain a crime-free environment in recent years, particularly during the pandemic, is noteworthy. This could be reflective of decreased campus activity and heightened awareness of safety due to COVID-19 regulations. However, it is crucial for the university to remain vigilant and continue to foster a safe and supportive environment for its students to ensure that these positive trends persist in the future.

Overall, while the data indicates significant improvement in campus safety, continuous efforts are essential to maintain and enhance these outcomes. For further understanding of crime rates and their calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.