University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez: 54.4% Acceptance Rate

54.4%Acceptance

$5,274Tuition

9,564Students

47%Grad Rate (6-yr)

$48,992Earnings

#2 in Puerto RicoPublic4-yearSAT/ACT Test BlindNCAA Division IIStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

About University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez

The University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez is the island's top engineering and technology institution. This public research university serves 9,564 students in the small city of Mayaguez, building a reputation that extends well beyond Puerto Rico's shores. The campus has produced generations of engineers who've shaped infrastructure across the Caribbean and beyond. With 54.35% of applicants gaining admission, the school maintains selective standards while remaining accessible to qualified students.

The financial picture tells a compelling story for Puerto Rican families. Students pay an average net price of $12,684 after aid, with those from families earning under $30,000 paying just $10,257. Graduates earn a median of $48,992 ten years after graduation, making the typical debt load of $8,250 quite manageable. Monthly loan payments average just $87, reflecting the university's commitment to affordability. Nearly two-thirds of students receive financial aid, with the same percentage qualifying for Pell Grants.

The student body reflects Puerto Rico's demographics, with 93.54% identifying as Hispanic and 97.36% coming from in-state. Men slightly outnumber women at 55.89% to 44.11%, typical for an engineering-focused institution. The campus fields 23 varsity sports with 272 student-athletes competing at the NCAA Division II level.

Academics & Faculty

The University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez stands out as the Caribbean's top engineering powerhouse, with nationally recognized programs in mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering. The 19:1 student-faculty ratio means undergraduates work closely with professors on research projects that often address Puerto Rico's unique infrastructure challenges. While 84% of students return for sophomore year, the 47% six-year graduation rate reflects the rigorous demands of STEM coursework. The engineering college produces more Hispanic engineers than almost any mainland institution. Students also excel in computer science and industrial biotechnology. The campus culture revolves around collaborative problem-solving, with study groups tackling everything from hurricane-resistant building design to renewable energy systems.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Full-Time Faculty: 94.7%
Graduation Rate (4-year): 44.5%
Graduation Rate (6-year): 47.0%
Retention Rate: 84.2%
Median Earnings (10 years): $48,992
Carnegie Classification: Master's University (Medium)

Popular Programs by Earnings

Popular programs by earnings
Program	Level	Median Earnings
Computer Engineering.	Bachelor	$71,734
Computer Science.	Bachelor	$68,320
Mechanical Engineering.	Bachelor	$63,302
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering.	Bachelor	$62,579
Chemical Engineering.	Bachelor	$54,463
Civil Engineering.	Bachelor	$46,673
Civil Engineering.	Master	$43,798
Industrial Engineering.	Bachelor	$43,575
Business Administration, Management and Operations.	Bachelor	$39,648
Management Information Systems and Services.	Bachelor	$36,941

View all 91 programs →

Campus Life

The western Puerto Rico campus sits in a small city where Spanish dominates daily conversation and 93.54% of students are Hispanic. You'll need sunscreen year-round, not winter coats, as temperatures stay in the 70s and 80s. The 19:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know their students in this tight-knit engineering community.

Campus life revolves around the school's reputation as Puerto Rico's top engineering university. Students gather in the plaza between classes, speaking mostly Spanish and debating everything from thermoactives to local politics. With 97.36% of students from Puerto Rico, the atmosphere feels distinctly local rather than international. Weekends often involve beach trips to nearby Rincón or exploring the historic downtown Mayagüez. The 272 student-athletes across 23 varsity sports create school spirit, though academic pressure runs high given the rigorous STEM programs. Study groups form naturally as students tackle challenging engineering coursework together. Many students commute from nearby towns, creating a campus that empties somewhat in the evenings but buzzes during class hours.

Setting: City-Small
Calendar System: Semester
Study Abroad: Available

Campus Safety (2023)

7 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education

Campus safety incidents by location
Offense	On Campus	Residential	Noncampus	Public Property
Stalking	3	0	0	2
Aggravated Assault	1	0	0	1

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 67°–85°F
July Avg: 72°–90°F
Annual Precipitation: 51.3"
Annual Snowfall: 0.0"

Student Demographics

The University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez draws almost entirely from Puerto Rico, with 97% of students coming from the island. This reflects the campus's role as the top engineering and technology destination for Puerto Rican students. The student body is 94% Hispanic, making it one of the nation's top Hispanic-serving institutions. Nearly two-thirds receive Pell Grants, showing the university's commitment to providing affordable STEM education to working-class families. Men slightly outnumber women at 56% to 44%, typical for engineering-focused schools where technical programs traditionally attract more male students.

Men: 55.9%
Women: 44.1%
White: 0.0%
Black: 0.0%
Hispanic: 93.5%
Asian: 0.0%
In-State Students: 97.4%
Pell Grant Recipients: 64.6%

Location

Mayaguez sits on Puerto Rico's western coast, about 100 miles from San Juan. The city of 78,000 residents combines urban amenities with coastal charm in the island's agricultural heartland. Known as the "Sultan of the West," Mayaguez serves as a regional center for manufacturing and commerce. Students enjoy year-round tropical weather and easy access to beaches along the Mona Passage. The university dominates the local landscape, with 97% of students coming from within Puerto Rico. Coffee plantations and mountains provide a scenic backdrop to this college-centered community. The port city offers internship opportunities in shipping and industry. Students considering colleges in Puerto Rico may also compare University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez with similar schools in the region.

Address: Mayaguez, Puerto Rico 00681

After College

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Median Earnings (10 years): $48,992
Median Earnings (5 years): $51,879
Mean Earnings (6 years after entry): $38,700
Loan Repayment Rate: 67.3%
Monthly Loan Payment: $87/mo
Median Debt at Graduation: $8,250

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez?

University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez accepts 54.35% of applicants, making it moderately competitive for admission. The campus is known as the top destination for engineering and technology education in Puerto Rico. With 97.36% of students coming from in-state, it primarily serves the local Puerto Rican community.

How much does University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez cost after financial aid?

Students pay an average net price of $12,684 annually, with identical in-state and out-of-state tuition of $5,274. The school keeps costs accessible with 64.56% of students receiving Pell Grants and a typical monthly loan payment of just $87. Low-income families earning under $30,000 pay a net price of only $10,257.

What is University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez known for academically?

The university is well-known for its engineering and technology programs, serving as Puerto Rico's top technical institution. With a student-faculty ratio of 19:1 and an 84.21% retention rate, students receive solid support in demanding STEM fields. The campus has built a strong reputation for producing skilled engineers and technologists for the Caribbean region.

What are the graduation rates at University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez?

The six-year graduation rate stands at 47.00%, with 44.54% finishing in four years. These rates reflect the challenging nature of engineering curricula and the fact that many students work while attending school. Graduates earn a median salary of $48,992 ten years after enrollment, demonstrating strong long-term career outcomes.

Where is University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez located and what is campus life like?

The campus sits in Mayaguez, a small city on Puerto Rico's west coast known for its industrial and academic presence. With 9,564 students and 23 varsity sports competing in NCAA Division II, the university maintains an active campus atmosphere. The student body is 93.54% Hispanic, creating a active Latino cultural environment.

How diverse is the student population at University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez?

The student body is 93.54% Hispanic, reflecting the university's role as a cornerstone institution for Puerto Rican higher education. Men slightly outnumber women at 55.89% to 44.11%, typical for engineering-focused schools. Nearly all students (97.36%) come from Puerto Rico, creating a tight-knit community rooted in local culture and traditions.