UTSA, with its dual mission of access and excellence, is on track to become the next premier research university in Texas while continuing to provide access to higher education to students from Texas and beyond. With more than 28,000 students enrolled in undergraduate, masters and doctoral programs, UTSA continues to be the fastest growing public university in the state.

While growth can be challenging, thanks to the State Legislature's approval of tuition flexibility in 2003, UTSA has been able to meet the challenge. A flexible tuition policy has helped UTSA serve students better in a multitude of ways, to include:

While much has been said about the increased cost of a college education, maintaining affordability is one of UTSA's highest priorities and 70 percent of our students are eligible for financial aid.

More than the twenty percent of designated tuition that is required by law to be set aside for financial aid is spent to increase funding for scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities.

$500,000 of designated tuition is set aside for middle income students who do not meet financial aid income guidelines.

More faculty

UTSA is working to improve its 22.8 : 1 student-faculty ratio. Last fall's tuition increases helped UTSA hire 75 new faculty and this fall's tuition helped fund salaries for an additional 40 new faculty hires.

More student services

Improving retention - Tuition flexibility dollars provided the funds to hire more financial aid counselors and increase Learning Communities courses for freshman, services within the undergraduate writing center, and retention staff within the various colleges.

Improving graduation rates – UTSA implemented a college based sophomore interest group (SIG) program and a program to enhance student success in math.

Improving customer service - Office hours in student support areas were extended to offer evening and weekend services so students can get assistance with various admission, financial aid and enrollment forms.

Upgraded facilities

Increases in designated tuition allowed UTSA to fund much-needed infrastructure costs such as upgrading of laboratories and other facilities, and funding operation costs of the new Biotechnology, Sciences and Engineering Building.

New programs

To address Texas' teacher shortage, designated tuition funded a loan program for students who plan to teach, with a portion of the loan forgiven for every year a graduate teaches in a public Texas school.

As UTSA begins a new academic year, we remain dedicated to our mission of access and opportunity for all Texans. The university's tuition and fees will not fully provide for all needs, but they address the most pressing institutional and student needs within the availability of finite resources.