University of Puerto Rico-Cayey
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#160
Acceptance rate
53.0%
2025
Peer median 80.5%
Out-of-state tuition
$5,324
$16,937 with room and board
Peer median $17,955
Undergraduates
2,093
Student-faculty ratio 24:1
Peer median 14 : 1
Graduation rate
5.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 47.2%
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 Cayey (UPR Cayey) is a prominent institution located in the picturesque town of Cayey, Puerto Rico. Established in 1970, it is part of the University of Puerto Rico system and serves as a vital educational hub for the region. With a strong commitment to academic excellence, UPR Cayey offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs across various fields, including sciences, humanities, and social sciences. The university is particularly known for its emphasis on research and community engagement, encouraging students to participate in projects that benefit local and global communities. The school motto, "Ad astra per aspera," which translates to "To the stars through difficulties," reflects the institution's dedication to overcoming challenges and striving for excellence.
In terms of campus culture, UPR Cayey is characterized by a vibrant student life and a nurturing environment. The campus hosts various cultural events, workshops, and academic conferences, fostering a strong sense of community among students and faculty. The university also boasts modern facilities, including well-equipped laboratories, libraries, and recreational areas that promote a balanced lifestyle. UPR Cayey has a dedicated faculty who are not only accomplished scholars but also passionate mentors, ensuring that students receive personalized attention and guidance throughout their academic journey. Additionally, the university's beautiful location in the central mountainous region of Puerto Rico provides students with a unique landscape for outdoor activities, enhancing their overall university experience. With a strong emphasis on holistic development, UPR Cayey prepares its graduates to excel in their careers and contribute positively to society.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at University of Puerto Rico at Cayey
The University of Puerto Rico at Cayey has witnessed significant changes in several key metrics over the years, particularly in tuition costs, student enrollment, and retention rates.
Firstly, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has shown a notable increase, rising from $2,212 in 2014 to $5,324 in 2023, which represents a staggering increase of approximately 140%. This sharp rise in tuition could be attributed to various factors, including inflation and funding cuts to public education. The increase is alarming, especially considering the financial strain it places on students and families, making higher education less accessible.
Simultaneously, there has been a concerning decline in undergraduate enrollment. From a peak of 3,816 students in 2014, enrollment has dropped to just 2,216 in 2023, illustrating a decrease of roughly 42%. This decline may reflect both the rising tuition costs and the broader demographic trends in Puerto Rico, where many young people are leaving the island in search of better opportunities elsewhere. Such a drop in student numbers raises concerns about the university's sustainability and its ability to maintain a diverse and vibrant academic community.
Moreover, retention rates have also experienced a downward trend. The retention rate was as high as 96.7% in 2014 but has dropped to 73.6% in 2023. This decline could indicate increasing challenges students face in persisting through their programs, likely exacerbated by financial pressures and possibly a lack of adequate support services.
Overall, these trends highlight critical challenges facing the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey, including rising tuition, declining enrollment, and reduced retention rates, which together may jeopardize the institution's future. Addressing these issues will require comprehensive strategies to improve affordability, enhance student support, and attract and retain students.
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- San Juan, about 25 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU), about 25 mi
- Also known as
- UPR-Cayey
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Rochellie Martínez (Acting Chancellor)
- Phone
- 7877382161
- City
- Cayey, Puerto Rico
- Address
- 205 Antonio R. Barcelo Ave., Cayey, PR 00737-2230
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 80.5% · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 84.5%, women 89.6%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at University of Puerto Rico at Cayey
The admission data from the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey reveals significant fluctuations in both acceptance rates and enrollment numbers over the years. In 2009, the admission rates for males and females were relatively moderate at approximately 42% and 48% respectively. However, a noticeable decline in acceptance rates was observed by 2022, where the male acceptance rate dropped to around 46% and the female rate to about 49%. This trend indicates an increasing selectivity in the admissions process, which may correlate with various factors such as changes in application volumes or institutional policies aimed at maintaining academic standards.
Interestingly, the number of students enrolled peaked in 2013 at 893, but has seen a decline since, culminating in an enrollment figure of 483 in 2023. This downward trend in enrollment, despite fluctuating acceptance rates, suggests that the university may be facing challenges in attracting and retaining students, possibly influenced by external economic factors or competition from other institutions.
Moreover, the significant number of students denied admission, particularly in 2022, where 754 applicants were turned away, raises questions about the university's capacity and resources to accommodate student needs. The data also shows a high number of deferred admissions in 2010 and 2017, signaling that students may be opting for a gap year or deferring due to personal circumstances, which could impact long-term enrollment patterns.
Overall, this analysis indicates that while the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey has maintained a focus on quality through selective admissions, it must also address the underlying factors contributing to declining enrollment figures to ensure its sustainability and growth in the coming years.
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
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
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
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 99% submitted SAT, 0% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT scores required for admission
Data insights
Trends in SAT Scores at the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey
The data from the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey reveals notable trends in SAT scores over the years, reflecting changes in student performance and possibly the educational landscape. Since 2007, the average SAT reading scores have fluctuated, with a peak score of 612 recorded in 2011, while the lowest score of 467 was noted in 2023. This downward trend in recent years could be indicative of broader challenges faced by students, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly disrupted education systems worldwide.
Moreover, the number of students submitting SAT scores has also varied, with a peak of 893 applicants in 2013. However, this number has declined significantly to just 483 in 2023, suggesting a potential decrease in interest or access to standardized testing among prospective students. The consistent 100% submission rate for SAT scores throughout the years indicates that the university maintains a strong emphasis on standardized testing as part of its admissions process.
Overall, while the historical data highlights periods of higher performance, the recent declines in both scores and applicant numbers raise concerns. It may be essential for the university to investigate the underlying causes of these trends and consider implementing support systems to aid students in achieving better academic outcomes moving forward.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 5 in 10
1,168 applicants in 2025, 53.0% admitted
619 admitted 549 not admitted Yield 76.7%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at University of Puerto Rico at Cayey
The graduation data from the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey for 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the academic landscape, particularly in the fields of biological sciences and business. Notably, the highest number of bachelor's degree graduates was in Biology/Biological Sciences, which had 78 graduates. This prominence in biological sciences aligns with global trends, where there is a growing emphasis on health and environmental issues, prompting students to pursue careers in these fields.
In the business sector, the general Business Administration and Accounting programs also showed significant numbers, with 39 and 20 graduates respectively. This indicates a robust interest in commerce, likely reflecting the increasing complexity and opportunities within the global economy. However, it is noteworthy that the majority of programs recorded no international students graduating at the bachelor's or master's levels, suggesting a potential area for growth in attracting international talent.
Education-related fields, particularly in teacher education, also showed modest graduation numbers. The consistent output of graduates in areas like Special Education and English/Language Arts Teacher Education suggests a commitment to addressing diverse educational needs, though the numbers remain relatively low, with only five graduates in each field. This highlights a possible challenge in meeting the educational workforce demands within Puerto Rico.
Overall, the data underscores a strong inclination towards natural sciences and business disciplines, while pointing to areas where the University could enhance its appeal to international students and increase educational outputs in critical teaching areas. This analysis could serve as a basis for strategic planning to bolster enrollment and diversify graduate offerings in the future.
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
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $18,548 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | |
| Psychology, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | |
| Accounting. | $18,434 | |
| Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Sciences. | $21,287 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | |
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | $13,599 | |
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $13,599 | |
| Science Teacher Education/General Science Teacher Education. | $13,599 | |
| Spanish Language Teacher Education. | $13,599 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | |
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
2,093 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 32:68 · Freshman retention 75.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,573
- First-year undergraduates 474
- Transfers and others 46
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,093)
Data insights
Student Demographics at University of Puerto Rico at Cayey in 2023
The enrollment data for the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey in 2023 reveals a significant gender disparity among the student body, particularly among undergraduates. The data indicates that the majority of undergraduate freshmen are female, with 66.5% identifying as women compared to 33.5% who are men. This trend continues among undergraduate juniors, where 68.7% are women and 31.3% are men. Interestingly, the proportion of female students appears to increase as students progress through their undergraduate studies.
The number of transfer students is notably low, with only 25 individuals enrolled, and this group also shows a significant female majority at 72%. The overall trend suggests that the institution attracts a predominantly female student population, which may reflect broader societal trends in higher education where women are increasingly outnumbering men.
Moreover, the lack of detailed data on the racial and ethnic breakdown for the reported year raises questions about the diversity within the student body. Notably, the data indicates zero representation in the white demographic, which might be a reflection of the local population or recruitment strategies.
As institutions like the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey continue to evolve, it will be essential to monitor these trends closely, considering the implications for campus culture, academic performance, and future enrollment strategies. The growing female demographic could lead to shifts in program development, extracurricular offerings, and support services tailored to the unique needs of women in higher education.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at University of Puerto Rico at Cayey in 2023
The age distribution data of students at the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey reveals interesting insights into the demographics of the student population. The majority of undergraduate students are concentrated in the 18-19 and 20-21 age brackets, accounting for 35% and 40% of the total undergraduate male and female populations, respectively. This indicates a strong influx of traditional-aged college students, which is typical for many universities, as fresh graduates from high school transition into higher education.
Interestingly, the data indicates a sharp decline in numbers as age increases, with a significant drop-off in enrollment for students aged 25 and above. This trend may suggest that older students face barriers to returning to education, possibly due to work commitments or family responsibilities. The absence of graduate male students in all age categories emphasizes an area for potential growth, as attracting more graduate candidates can enhance the academic environment and diversify the student body.
Moreover, the gender distribution shows a consistent pattern, with female students significantly outnumbering male students across all age groups. This could reflect broader trends in higher education, where female enrollment has been on the rise in recent years, often outpacing male enrollment.
Given the current socio-economic climate, it will be crucial for the university to explore strategies to engage non-traditional students and encourage diversity within its graduate programs. As the landscape of higher education evolves, understanding these demographics will be vital for shaping policies and programs that meet the needs of all students.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Commentary on International Student Data at University of Puerto Rico at Cayey
The absence of data regarding international students at the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey presents an intriguing opportunity for further exploration. International students play a crucial role in enriching the academic environment and fostering cultural diversity within universities. They contribute to the global exchange of ideas, enhance classroom discussions, and often introduce unique perspectives to local communities.
The trends observed in international student enrollments across various institutions indicate a growing interest in studying abroad, driven by globalization and the pursuit of higher education. However, the lack of specific statistics from Cayey raises questions about its appeal to international students. Factors such as academic programs, campus resources, and support services can significantly influence a university's attractiveness to foreign students.
Moreover, with recent developments in immigration policies and global travel restrictions due to the pandemic, many institutions have had to adapt their recruitment strategies and support systems for international students. It would be beneficial for the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey to gather and publish this data to better understand its position in the competitive landscape of higher education.
In conclusion, while the current absence of data may limit our understanding of the international student demographic at the university, it highlights the need for ongoing research and engagement in this area. Institutions that prioritize and support international student enrollment are likely to benefit from a more diverse and vibrant campus community.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$16,937
- Undergraduate tuition
- $5,324
- Room and board
- $11,613
Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 31% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 33%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$33.6M
Expenses$23.8M
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.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
| Other | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 19 | 16 |
| Baseball | 19 | - |
| Weight Lifting | 6 | 12 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 2 | 15 |
| Basketball | 15 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Table Tennis | 5 | 3 |
| Other Sports | 4 | 3 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 4 |
| Other | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 19 | 16 |
| Baseball | 19 | - |
| Weight Lifting | 6 | 12 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 2 | 15 |
| Basketball | 15 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Table Tennis | 5 | 3 |
| Other Sports | 5 | 1 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 4 |
| Other | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 18 | 17 |
| Weight Lifting | 10 | 10 |
| Baseball | 18 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 2 | 15 |
| Basketball | 15 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| Table Tennis | 5 | 4 |
| Other Sports | 5 | 1 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 4 |
Nearby & Safety
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey:
-
University of Florida - Ranked 28th in the 2024 US News rankings, the University of Florida is a major public research university located in Gainesville, Florida. It is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Florida State University - With a ranking of 53, Florida State University in Tallahassee offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing research and public service.
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University of Miami - Ranked 67th, the University of Miami is a private research university located in Coral Gables. It is renowned for its strong programs in medicine, business, and law.
-
University of South Florida - This university, ranked 89th, is located in Tampa and is known for its research initiatives and diverse student body.
-
University of Central Florida - Ranked 124th, UCF in Orlando is one of the largest universities in the U.S. and offers a wide variety of programs and degrees to its students.
-
Florida International University - With a rank of 124, this public research university in Miami is known for its multicultural environment and strong programs in international relations and hospitality.
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University of North Carolina Wilmington - Ranked 201st, this university offers a coastal environment and strong programs in marine biology and environmental science.
These universities offer a diverse range of programs and opportunities for students in the surrounding region.
Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at University of Puerto Rico at Cayey
The crime data from the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey over the years reveals some significant trends in campus safety and student behavior. In 2013, the campus recorded its highest crime rate with 4.94 incidents per 1,000 students, particularly driven by firearm arrests. This spike can often be attributed to various societal factors, including the prevalence of gun-related issues that affect many communities across the United States and territories like Puerto Rico.
As the years progressed, there was a noticeable decline in the average crime rates. By 2018, the rate dropped to a mere 0.57 incidents per 1,000 students, indicating a positive shift towards a more secure campus environment. This decrease may reflect effective preventive measures implemented by the university and possibly a broader social movement toward reducing crime, particularly drug-related and alcohol-related offenses.
Interestingly, the data shows a minor resurgence in reported incidents in 2019 and 2023, although these numbers remain relatively low compared to the peak in 2013. The consistency in low rates of serious crimes, such as murder and rape, is particularly noteworthy and suggests that the university is largely safe for its students.
The fluctuation in crime rates highlights the importance of ongoing vigilance and proactive safety measures in educational institutions. As societal issues evolve, universities must adapt and respond to ensure the well-being of their student populations. For those interested in understanding crime rates and their implications further, the methodology for calculating these statistics can be found here: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
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.