The University of Alabama
The Vibe Check
The University of Alabama feels like a vibrant blend of deep-rooted Southern tradition and modern campus energy. You'll sense a strong community spirit fueled by football Saturdays and a campus-wide commitment to school pride. It's a place where school spirit is palpable and the social scene is always buzzing.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
UA is a powerhouse for Business & Marketing, Engineering, and Health Professions, offering robust programs that attract major corporate recruiters. The university fosters significant research opportunities through its Office of Undergraduate Research, allowing students to work alongside faculty on cutting-edge projects. Teaching quality is solid, with many professors dedicated to student success, especially in the popular business and engineering colleges.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Tuscaloosa
Student life in Tuscaloosa revolves heavily around college football, with game days at Bryant-Denny Stadium creating an electric city-wide atmosphere. For fun, students enjoy the lively downtown area with its restaurants and bars, as well as outdoor activities on the Black Warrior River and nearby lakes. The city offers a blend of college-town charm with amenities that cater to a large student population.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($59,221):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus itself is well-patrolled by the University of Alabama Police Department (UAPD) and has a strong emergency alert system. The surrounding Tuscaloosa area is generally safe, but students are advised to practice standard urban safety precautions, especially at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Massive school spirit and a premier SEC football experience
- ✓ Strong and well-regarded programs in Business, Engineering, and Communications
- ✓ Large alumni network provides excellent career and networking opportunities
- ✓ Generous merit-based scholarships for both in-state and out-of-state students
Cons
- ✗ Large class sizes, especially in introductory courses, can feel impersonal
- ✗ Campus and surrounding city can be extremely crowded and congested on football weekends
- ✗ Out-of-state tuition is steep, making it less affordable for non-residents without scholarships
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
The University of Alabama is best known for its powerhouse football program and intense school spirit within the SEC. Academically, it is highly recognized for its College of Engineering (especially in aerospace and mechanical) and the Culverhouse College of Business. The university also boasts strong programs in communications, health professions, and social sciences.
With an acceptance rate of 75.82%, The University of Alabama is considered moderately selective, making it accessible to a broad range of students. The middle 50% of admitted students typically have an SAT score between 1160 and 1400. While not as competitive as some elite private universities, strong grades and test scores are still important, especially for securing merit scholarships.
Campus life at UA is defined by a vibrant social scene and immense school pride, particularly on football game days when the entire city comes alive. With over 400 student clubs and organizations, there are endless opportunities to get involved, from Greek life to academic societies. The campus is a mix of historic and modern buildings, and the retention rate of 86.1% shows that a majority of students are happy with their experience.
For in-state students, the University of Alabama offers an exceptional return on investment (ROI) due to its low tuition and strong graduate earnings. For out-of-state students, the value is still significant, especially for those who qualify for merit scholarships which can substantially lower the cost. With a 10-year median earnings of $59,221 and a graduation rate of 73.2%, the degree provides a solid foundation for a career, particularly in its top majors.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 35,413
- In-State Tuition $11,900
- Out-of-State $33,200
- Zip Code 35487
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
For in-state students, the value proposition is excellent, with tuition around $11,900 leading to a strong return on investment. Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher at $33,200, but the 10-year median earnings of $59,221 suggest the degree can be a worthwhile investment, particularly in high-demand fields like engineering and business. The average net price of $22,150 is manageable for many families, especially with UA's generous merit scholarship opportunities.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.