The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in USA 

As an institution dedicated to student success, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) works to provide outstanding faculty, online programs and resources that enable you to progress through your program in a way that is most convenient for you. As an online student, you'll benefit from the same high quality education and renowned faculty that all UTRGV students enjoy.

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley was created by the Texas Legislature in 2013. UTRGV enrolled its first class in the fall of 2015, and the School of Medicine opened in 2016.

About the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley accreditation

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate degrees. Degree-granting institutions may also offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of UTRGV may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

WHY The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV)?

Innovation. Opportunity. Purpose. That’s what the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is about. With campuses throughout the Valley, UTRGV empowers successful futures, enhances daily life, and lets our region shine as a global innovator in higher education, bilingual education, health education, biomedical research, and emerging technology that inspires positive change.

You have decided to experience your college education in another country and UTRGV is ready to support you on this journey. We'll help make the process here as seamless as possible by guiding you through the application process and helping with academic advisement in your chosen major.

An applicant is considered an international student if the applicant meets the following conditions:

Not a citizen, permanent resident, or have an application on file to become a permanent resident of the United States, and Will be attending UTRGV on a visa. Most international students attending UTRGV are on an F-1 student visa or a J-1 visa.

SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION

Fill out the UTRGV international application online at applytexas.org.
Pay a $50 non-refundable application fee through ApplyTexas.

Submit official scores from one of the following English Proficiency Exams unless you qualify for an exemption:

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL); or
IELTS; or
Duolingo English Test.

If you attended a foreign high school or college, you must send your transcript to get evaluated by SPANTRAN, Foreign Credentials Service of America (FCSA), World Education Services (WES), or International Education Evaluation (IEE). SPANTRAN, FCSA, WES, or IEE are the only companies accepted by UTRGV for foreign evaluations.

For First-Year Students: Admissions Essay A or B through ApplyTexas are optional.

For First-Year Students and Transfer students with less than 24 college hours noted on their foreign evaluation: For the 2024-2025 application cycle, UTRGV remains test-optional. If you have taken the ACT or SAT exams and wish to send us your official scores, contact the testing agency. The UTRGV school code for ACT is 6991, and for SAT 6568.

APPLICATION DEADLINES at University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

• Priority Admission Deadline for Spring – November 1.
  
• Late Deadline for Spring – December 1.
  
• Priority Admission Deadline for Fall – February 1.
  
• Late Deadline for Fall: June 1.
  
• Priority Deadline for Summer – February 1.
  
• Late Deadline for Fall: May 1.
  

I'M ADMITTED! WHAT’S NEXT?

Congratulations and welcome to UTRGV! Now that you’re in, make sure you check off the list below.

• Submit Required Paperworktoggle close accordion
  Make sure that you start your F-1 Visa process and complete other immigration documentation. Ensure that the spelling of your name is consistent on your passport, all non-immigrant, and university documents.

• Activate your UTRGV Account
  This is your Vaquero lifeline. All information regarding your classes, student accounts, announcements, and more will come to your UTRGV email address. Visit utrgv.edu/myaccount to activate your account today!

• Sign up for New International Student Orientationtoggle close accordion
  Don’t delay. Keep an eye out for orientation dates and sign up. You will enroll in your classes and the best selections come at the beginning. SIGN UP FOR NEW INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ORIENTATION

• Check on your Scholarships Awards
  Make sure you stay up to date with your awards. Whether it’s a grant, scholarship, or other financial awards, this is really important information to make sure you pay your tuition and fees on time.

• Make Arrangements for On-Campus Housingtoggle close accordion
  If you plan to live on campus, make sure you fill out all the appropriate forms and submit the necessary deposits before the deadline.

• Know Your Way Around Campus
  Don’t get lost during your first day of class! Check out the campus maps so that you know where to find your classes.