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Puerto Rico's five Catholic institutions reveal stark contrasts in both costs and outcomes. Universidad del Sagrado Corazon stands apart with the highest net price at $13,024 and strongest graduate earnings at $31,754, while Universidad Central de Bayamon offers education for just $4,285 annually. The acceptance rates span from highly selective at 55.2% to nearly open enrollment at 99.8%. These schools serve Puerto Rico's healthcare sector, with many graduates entering nursing and medical fields that address the island's physician shortage. The Pontifical Catholic University system operates three campuses across Ponce, Mayaguez, and Arecibo, each maintaining consistent graduate earnings around $24,908. Graduation rates across all five institutions hover between 37.9% and 47.9%, reflecting the challenges many students face balancing work and family obligations while pursuing degrees. Total enrollment ranges from intimate settings of 273 students to larger communities of over 4,000, allowing students to choose environments that match their learning preferences while staying connected to Catholic educational traditions.
5
Schools
$9,015
Avg. Net Price
$26,300
Avg. Earnings
42.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Catholic Colleges in Puerto Rico

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 4,042 $13,024 43.6% 55.2%
2 594 $4,285 37.9% 80.4%
3 3,827 $10,082 47.9% 94.7%
4 597 $8,264 42.1% 99.8%
5 273 $9,421 39.2% 98.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Universidad del Sagrado Corazon different from other Catholic colleges in Puerto Rico?

Sagrado Corazon commands the highest net price at $13,024 but delivers the strongest return with graduates earning $31,754 annually. The university maintains the most selective admissions at 55.2% acceptance rate and serves 4,042 students, making it the largest Catholic institution on the island.

How affordable are Catholic colleges in Puerto Rico compared to mainland institutions?

Net prices range from $4,285 at Universidad Central de Bayamon to $13,024 at Sagrado Corazon, significantly below mainland Catholic college costs. Even the most expensive option costs less than many mainland community colleges, making Catholic education accessible to working families.

Where are the Pontifical Catholic University campuses located across Puerto Rico?

The Pontifical Catholic University system operates three campuses: Ponce with 3,827 students, Mayaguez serving 597 students, and Arecibo with 273 students. All three maintain 98-99% acceptance rates and consistent graduate earnings of $24,908, providing Catholic education across the island.

Is admission competitive at Puerto Rico's Catholic colleges?

Admission varies dramatically, from Sagrado Corazon's selective 55.2% acceptance rate to Pontifical Mayaguez accepting 99.8% of applicants. Universidad Central de Bayamon falls in the middle at 80.4%, while the Pontifical campuses in Ponce and Arecibo accept over 94% of students.

What graduation rates can students expect at these Catholic institutions?

Graduation rates range from 37.9% at Universidad Central de Bayamon to 47.9% at Pontifical Ponce. Most institutions cluster around 42-43%, reflecting the reality that many students work while attending school or face family obligations that extend their time to degree completion.

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.