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University of Memphis

Accept Rate
93.38%
Grad Rate
48.8%
Enrollment
13,645
Avg SAT
1051
Tuition
$10,344
Median Salary
$48,458
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
B
Value
C
Admissions
A-
Diversity
B
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

The University of Memphis offers an energetic urban campus experience where the buzz of city life meets the warmth of Southern hospitality. Students often describe it as a place where you can find your community among diverse student organizations while still having easy access to the cultural heartbeat of Memphis. It feels like a campus where practical ambition and creative spirit coexist.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

93.38%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 105175th Pctl
9051205
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctl75th Pctl
1724
1122436

Admissions Tips

With a high acceptance rate, your application can stand out by highlighting a strong upward trend in your grades or unique extracurricular leadership. Since test-optional policies are common, ensure your personal essay clearly connects your goals to specific programs like their renowned Parks, Recreation, and Fitness major or the College of Engineering. Be sure to submit your FAFSA early, as the university offers various need-based and merit-based aid packages.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1051
40080012001600
School range: 905โ€“1205

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

UofM is recognized for strong, career-focused programs in Business, Health Professions, and Engineering, supported by hands-on learning and regional industry partnerships. The university provides significant research opportunities through centers like the FedEx Institute of Technology and the Herff College of Engineering, allowing undergraduates to engage in real-world projects alongside faculty.

Popular Majors

Business & Marketing
18.4%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
14.4%
Health Professions
10.1%
Multidisciplinary Studies
7.5%
Psychology
6.4%
Engineering
5.1%
Education
5%
Communications
4.5%
Visual & Performing Arts
4.4%
Criminal Justice
3.4%
Social Sciences
3.1%
Biology & Biomedical
2.9%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

48.8%
Graduation Rate
71.2%
Retention Rate
13,645
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$10,344
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$13,253
After financial aid
Total Cost
$25,164
Cost of attendance/year
40%
Receive Pell Grants
38.8%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Memphis

Student life in Memphis is vibrant, with easy access to world-class live music on Beale Street, authentic barbecue joints, and major sporting events featuring the Grizzlies and Tigers. Students often explore the city's rich history at the National Civil Rights Museum or enjoy outdoor activities along the Mississippi River at Tom Lee Park. The campus itself hosts numerous events, and the city's affordable cost of living makes nightlife and cultural experiences accessible.

Local Rent Check

$1,146 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Memphis
Explore Memphis

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$41,376
$0Est. 4 Years: $41,376

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($48,458):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The main campus has a dedicated University Police Department with 24/7 patrols, escort services, and a well-lit infrastructure. While the surrounding urban area requires standard city precautions, the university maintains active safety communication systems and emergency alert protocols for students.

Notable Alumni

Penny Hardaway
Former NBA All-Star and current head coach of the Memphis Tigers men's basketball team.
Bill Courtney
Former football coach and subject of the Academy Award-winning documentary 'Undefeated'.
Katherine Bailess
Actress known for roles in 'Legally Blonde' and 'She's the Man', and a UofM alumna.

Frequently Asked Questions

The University of Memphis is known for its strong professional programs, particularly in Business (Fogelman College), Engineering (Herff College), and Health Professions. It is also recognized for its research initiatives at the FedEx Institute of Technology and its vibrant involvement in the Memphis sports and cultural scene.

No, the University of Memphis has a very high acceptance rate of 93.38%, making it an accessible option for a wide range of students. The middle 50% SAT range is roughly 1010-1180, so applicants with scores around or above the average of 1051 are strong candidates, though test-optional admissions are also available.

Campus life is a mix of spirited school pride and city integration. Students enjoy NCAA Division I athletics, over 300 student organizations, and a diverse social scene. Because it is an urban campus, many students live off-campus and take advantage of Memphis's music, food, and nightlife, while still participating in traditional campus events and Greek life.

For in-state students, the University of Memphis represents a strong financial value with low tuition and a net price that is manageable for many families. The ROI is solid, particularly for graduates entering the strong local job market in logistics, healthcare, and business. However, prospective students should be proactive about utilizing academic support to ensure they graduate on time to maximize that value.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

FedEx AutoZone Regional One Health International Paper Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare
Smart Start Score
52

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Public
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 19,184
  • In-State Tuition $10,344
  • Out-of-State $14,784
  • Zip Code 38152

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 39.7% โ™€ 60.3%

The Money Talk

With an average net price of $13,253 and in-state tuition under $11,000, UofM offers a solid value proposition, especially for Tennessee residents. The 10-year median earnings of $48,458 suggest a respectable return on investment, particularly for graduates in high-demand fields like Business and Health Professions. For many students, especially those utilizing Pell Grants, the combination of low cost and strong regional job placement makes the degree a financially sound choice.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $10,344
Housing (12 mo) $13,752
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $31,296
With avg financial aid:
$13,253/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.