Resources for Students in Puerto Rico

Going to College on the Island of Enchantment

Whether you’re a Puerto Rico resident applying to college or a prospective student seeking a quality education in a new setting, the U.S. territory has something to offer.

The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico is the academic capital of the Caribbean. With more than 60 public and private colleges and universities — more than any other Caribbean country — students can expect an array of academic programs and vibrant campus experiences.

And while quality academics, sun-soaked beaches, and a rich cultural heritage are probably enticing enough, the best colleges in Puerto Rico also charge below-average tuition rates.

Still, navigating your search for the right Puerto Rican school can prove challenging — that’s where we come in.

We’ve compiled a list of resources — including scholarship guides and a comprehensive directory of the island’s schools — to assist you in finding your academic match in Puerto Rico. Keep reading to review some valuable resources for students in Puerto Rico and jumpstart your college search today.

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College Planning

If you plan on attending a college in Puerto Rico, you’ll notice many similarities with other schools in the United States.

Like schools in other states, admission requirements generally focus on academic performance, transcripts, recommendation letters, and standardized test scores. You’ll also fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) when applying.

If you’re not a Spanish speaker, it’s wise to reach out about language requirements, as Puerto Rico is primarily a Spanish-speaking area. Still, schools like the Inter American University of Puerto Rico teach courses in both Spanish and English.

College Accreditation

Although colleges and universities in Puerto Rico may lack the resources of top schools in the United States, they still typically follow the U.S. higher education model. This is because the best schools and programs hold accreditation from the same accrediting bodies.

In addition to holding institutional accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the Puerto Rico Council on Higher Education, many of Puerto Rico’s best schools offer programs accredited by esteemed bodies like the American Bar Association, the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, and ABET.

You should only seek out accredited schools and programs to ensure you receive a quality academic experience at a reputable school.

Frequently Asked Questions About Puerto Rico Colleges

What is the hardest school to get into in Puerto Rico?

The hardest public school in Puerto Rico to get into is the University of Puerto Rico, Cayey, which had an admission rate of 49% in fall 2022, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. The most selective private institution in Puerto Rico is the Inter American University of Puerto Rico, Arecibo, which admitted just 33% of applicants in fall 2022.

These schools boast prestigious programs with top-tier faculty.

How many colleges are in Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico has more than 60 colleges, making it the Caribbean island with the most higher education options. This number includes public and private institutions, providing a wide array of academic programs and degrees for undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers.

Whether you’re fresh out of high school or returning to college as an adult learner, there’s a college and program that aligns with your academic and career goals.

What is the largest college in Puerto Rico?

The largest college in Puerto Rico is the University of Puerto Rico (UPR), with the Rio Piedras campus serving more than 11,000 students.

This large public institution is home to 50 accredited programs, 61 bachelor’s degrees, and dozens of graduate tracks. Not only is this the largest school in Puerto Rico, but UPR is also the most sizable institution in the Caribbean.