Most
Affordable Colleges in San Juan in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in San Juan, Puerto Rico, offers access to a diverse economy spanning tourism, finance, healthcare, and government. Courses typically include accounting, economics, marketing, management, business law, finance, entrepreneurship, and organizational behavior. Popular local options include the University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras Campus, Universidad del Sagrado Corazón, and Universidad Politécnica de Puerto Rico. Graduates commonly pursue roles as marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, accountants, operations supervisors, business analysts, or sales managers.

Psychology

Studying psychology in San Juan, Puerto Rico, combines learning with the island's cultural perspectives. Typical courses include introductory psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, cognitive psychology, research methods, and statistics. Popular local options include the University of Puerto Rico Río Piedras, Universidad del Sagrado Corazón, and Universidad Ana G. Méndez's Cupey campus. Graduates may pursue work as research assistants, case managers, behavioral health technicians, or human resources assistants; clinical practice generally requires graduate training.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in San Juan, Puerto Rico, combines programming, mathematics, and problem-solving with access to the island's technology community. Typical courses include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and networking. Students can pursue the degree at Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico or the University of Puerto Rico's Río Piedras campus. Graduates commonly work as software developers, systems analysts, database administrators, cybersecurity specialists, or IT support professionals in business, government, and education.

Counseling

Studying counseling in San Juan, Puerto Rico, combines psychological theory with supervised practice and preparation for work across schools, clinics, and community agencies. Typical courses include counseling theories, human development, assessment, group counseling, ethics, multicultural practice, and research methods. Graduates may pursue roles as school counselors, mental health counselors, case managers, or substance-use counselors, subject to licensing requirements. Study options include the University of Puerto Rico at Río Piedras and Interamerican University's Metropolitan Campus.

Nursing

Studying nursing in San Juan, PR offers preparation for healthcare careers in Puerto Rico and beyond. Programs commonly cover anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, community health, medical-surgical care, pediatrics, and clinical practice. Popular options include the University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus and Inter American University's Metropolitan Campus. Graduates may work as registered nurses, hospital or clinic nurses, community health nurses, long-term care nurses, or school nurses, depending on degree and licensure.

Best Colleges in San Juan, PR Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median cost of studying is 5,701.0 overall, compared with 12,112.5 at schools in the top 10% - more than twice as high.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 100.0% of students overall, compared with 77.0% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 77.0%. Schools receive an average of 1,076.86 applicants overall, while top-10% schools average 3,072.8 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 65.0 men and 203.0 women.
• The average number of enrolled students is 2,905.6; averages for enrolled men and women are 145.0 and 243.0, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 49.0% overall and 70.8% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 43.0% for men and 44.0% for women.
• Seven institutions offer associate's degrees, 10 offer bachelor's degrees, seven offer master's degrees, and five offer doctor's degrees.
• Nine schools are coeducational; there are no schools for men and no schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total study costs with the availability of financial aid, and weigh acceptance rates, applicant numbers, enrollment, degree offerings, and graduation outcomes. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher costs and applicant numbers but also higher graduation rates, so consider which factors best fit your budget and educational goals.

How much does studying at a college in San Juan, PR cost?

The available average total cost of studying in San Juan, PR, is $6,663.90. Because the figures do not specify whether this covers one academic year or a whole program, use it as a benchmark rather than a guaranteed full-degree price. The listed averages for tuition, housing, and supplies are separate figures and do not add up to that total, so check each college's current cost estimate before enrolling.

At popular local options such as the University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras; Universidad del Sagrado Corazón; and Inter American University of Puerto Rico, your actual bill will depend on program, course load, and living arrangements. For budgeting, note the reported amounts:

• Tuition and fees: average $6,975.10.
• Room and board: average $10,852.50.
• Books and supplies: average $3,314.00.

Ask admissions offices about mandatory fees, scholarships, and payment schedules; commuting from home can change your budget, while specialized programs may require extra materials or equipment.

How long does it take to finish college in San Juan, PR?

In San Juan, PR, a bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study; an associate degree commonly takes about two, while part-time attendance can extend either timeline. At the University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras, Universidad del Sagrado Corazón, or Universidad Politécnica de Puerto Rico, your exact pace depends on your program, course availability, and how many credits you complete each term.

Available figures show an average graduation rate of 49.0%, compared with 70.8% among the top 10% of schools. The average rates are 44.56% for men and 50.89% for women. These figures show completion varies, but planning and campus support can help you stay on track.

To finish sooner, ask admissions and an academic adviser about:

• Transferring eligible credits from prior college coursework, exams, or military training.
• Taking summer or intersession classes, or an extra course when permitted.
• Choosing year-round, online, or hybrid options that fit your work and family schedule.

Salary

The median alumni salary for graduates of colleges and universities in San Juan, PR, is $20,121.50. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is $31,405.50. Your own earning potential can vary with your field, experience, and employer, but these figures offer a helpful starting point as you plan your next step.

San Juan students can explore institutions such as the University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras; Universidad del Sagrado Corazón; and Universidad Politécnica de Puerto Rico. Comparing programs and career pathways can help you choose a degree that fits your goals and gives you confidence about the opportunities ahead.

People also ask

How much does it cost to go to college in San Juan?

There isn't one set price: costs depend on the college, program, course load, and whether you qualify for Puerto Rico resident tuition. Public universities generally cost less in tuition than private colleges, while fees, books, transportation, and housing can add to your budget. Check the school's current cost estimate and financial-aid options before deciding.

What college in San Juan has the lowest tuition?

For many Puerto Rico residents pursuing an undergraduate degree, the University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras Campus is a strong place to start comparing prices because it is a public institution. The lowest-cost choice can vary by program and fees, so compare current tuition schedules and aid offers. Finding an affordable fit can make studying close to home feel more achievable.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in San Juan, PR Ranking in 2026-2027

The University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras is a large university option for students in San Juan, with 11,322 enrolled students. Its reported graduation rate is 50%, and its acceptance rate is 55%. The reported total cost of studying is $5,024, while median alumni salary is $16,655. The Rio Piedras campus offers a substantial university community within the city. For a prospective student, these figures provide a useful starting point for weighing affordability, admissions chances, campus size, and reported graduate earnings.

The Puerto Rico Conservatory of Music is a small, specialized institution in San Juan for students drawn to music education. It enrolls 352 students, with a reported graduation rate of 67% and acceptance rate of 78%. Its reported total cost of studying is $3,000, and median alumni salary is $11,299. The conservatory's focused musical identity sets it apart from larger, broader universities in the city. Students can compare its lower reported cost and smaller enrollment with their academic and career goals.

Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro offers a university option in San Juan with 4,227 enrolled students. Its reported graduation rate is 39%, while its acceptance rate is 70%. The reported total cost of studying is $4,968, and median alumni salary is $26,307. As a metropolitan campus, it may appeal to students who want to study in the city rather than relocate elsewhere. Consider these figures alongside your intended field, personal budget, and preferred campus environment when evaluating this institution.

Colegio Universitario de San Juan is a smaller San Juan institution, reporting 531 enrolled students. Its graduation rate is 32%, and its acceptance rate is 75%. The reported total cost of studying is $2,040, the lowest figure among these five schools; median alumni salary data is unavailable. Its relatively small enrollment may be worth considering if you prefer a less populous college setting. Since salary information is not provided, prospective students should compare other available outcome measures and verify current costs directly.

EDP University of Puerto Rico Inc-San Juan enrolls 1,521 students and is another local option for degree seekers. Its reported graduation rate is 24%, with an acceptance rate of 61%. The reported total cost of studying is $12,025, the highest among the five institutions listed, while median alumni salary is $36,504. Its San Juan location can suit students who want to study close to home. Compare the cost with your financing plans and the reported alumni salary as you assess potential value.