The University of Alabama – Overview
The University of Alabama (UA), established in 1831 in Tuscaloosa, is the oldest and largest public university in the state of Alabama. As the flagship institution of the University of Alabama System, it offers a strong academic foundation, vibrant campus life, and nationally recognized programs. With a student population exceeding 39,000, UA is classified as an R1: Doctoral University for very high research activity.
The University of Alabama – Offered Programs
- Bachelor of Arts and Sciences
- Bachelor of Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Chemical)
- Bachelor of Business Administration (Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Management)
- Bachelor of Communication and Information Sciences
- Bachelor of Education
- Bachelor of Social Work
- Bachelor of Fine Arts
- Bachelor of Nursing
- Master’s Programs (MBA, MS, MA, MEd, MEng, MSW, MSN)
- Doctoral Programs (PhD, EdD, DNP, DMA, JD)
- Honors College and interdisciplinary studies
The University of Alabama – Tuition Fees
| Category | Annual Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| In-State Tuition | $12,180 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $34,172 |
| Room and Board | $13,516 |
| Books and Supplies | $800 |
| Personal Expenses | $2,500 |
These are estimated average costs for undergraduate students for the 2024–2025 academic year.
The University of Alabama – Required Documents and Admission Requirements
- Completed application form (UA or Common Application)
- Official high school transcripts
- Standardized test scores (ACT or SAT recommended but optional for some terms)
- Minimum GPA requirement (competitive applicants generally have 3.7 or higher)
- English proficiency test scores for international students (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent)
- Personal statement or essay (optional, but recommended for scholarships)
- Letter(s) of recommendation (if required for specific programs)
The University of Alabama – Deadlines
| Process | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall Freshman Application Opens | August (previous year) |
| Priority Scholarship Deadline | December 15 |
| Regular Admission Deadline | February 1 |
| Housing Application Opens | October |
| Enrollment Confirmation Deadline | May 1 |
Graduate program deadlines vary by department.
The University of Alabama – Scholarships Offerings
- Automatic merit-based scholarships for qualifying GPAs and test scores
- Competitive scholarships requiring separate applications
- Alumni and endowed scholarships
- Department-specific awards
- Need-based aid via FAFSA (for U.S. citizens and permanent residents)
- Scholarships available for international students with strong academic profiles
The University of Alabama – Rankings
| Ranking Agency | National Rank | World Rank |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. News (National) | #170 | – |
| Times Higher Education | – | 801–1000 |
| QS World University | – | 1201–1400 |
| EduRank | #106 in USA | #319 in World |
Rankings may vary slightly by year and category (e.g., law, business, engineering).
The University of Alabama – Acceptance Rate
The University of Alabama has a moderately selective admissions process. The acceptance rate is approximately 80%, with higher competition in certain programs such as engineering, business, and nursing. Students with strong academic records and leadership experience have a higher chance of admission and scholarship consideration.
The University of Alabama – Student Campus Life
UA offers a lively campus environment with over 600 student organizations, Division I athletics, Greek life, and active student government.
The university provides a variety of dining, recreation, and cultural options, including art galleries, theaters, and music venues.
Accommodation options include:
- Traditional residence halls (shared rooms with community baths)
- Suite-style halls (private bedrooms with shared living areas)
- Apartment-style housing (full kitchens, private bedrooms)
- Special housing for honors students, athletes, and international students
The University of Alabama – Cost of Living
Tuscaloosa offers a relatively affordable living environment for students compared to major metropolitan areas. On-campus housing and dining plans provide predictable costs, while off-campus living options range in affordability depending on location and amenities.
| Expense Category | Monthly Estimate (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (off-campus) | $600–$1,000 |
| Food and Groceries | $300–$500 |
| Transportation | $50–$100 |
| Utilities and Internet | $100–$150 |
| Personal Expenses | $200–$300 |
The University of Alabama – Contact Informations
- Phone Number: +1 205 348 6010
- Email Address: admissions@ua.edu
- Address: The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487, United States
- Website: www.ua.edu
The University of Alabama – Online Application
Students can apply through The University of Alabama’s online application portal or the Common Application. After creating an account, applicants must submit personal information, academic history, standardized test scores (if required), and any supplemental materials. Payment of the application fee finalizes the process. Students can monitor their application status and receive admission decisions online.