University of Nevada, Las Vegas: Rankings, Fees, Courses & Admissions

UNLV features three campuses across Nevada. These include the comprehensive main campus located on 350 acres in the heart of Las Vegas, offering a wide range of academic and student life facilities. Additionally, the Shadow Lane Campus and the Henderson Campus serve specific courses or specializations. 

Below is a look at the primary locations: 

1. Main Campus (Tree Campus USA) 

The main campus is home to state-of-the-art buildings, such as Greenspun Hall, featuring a sustainable design, and Hospitality Hall, which houses interactive classrooms and student-run cafes. Here are some key buildings that the leading campus houses: 

• Greenspun Hall: Home to nearly all College of Urban Affairs programs, including KUNV Radio and UNLV-TV. It’s LEED Gold certified, featuring sustainable elements such as a solar array that offsets 15% of its energy use. 

• Hospitality Hall: The new home for the William F. Harrah College of Hospitality, featuring interactive classrooms, a student-run cafe, and specialized learning spaces for programs like PGA golf management. 

• Science and Engineering Building: A hub for labs, classrooms, and research spaces in fields like computer science and engineering, encouraging collaboration with local industry for research. 

• Clinical Simulation Center: Serving nursing and medical students from UNLV and other institutions, this 31,000-square-foot facility features high-fidelity simulation labs, surgical suites, and teleconference-enabled spaces for advanced training and education. 

• The Cube: A symbol of UNLV’s engineering disciplines, designed in 2015, this structure represents civil, mechanical, computer science, entertainment, construction, and electrical engineering. 

2. Shadow Lane Campus 

UNLV's Shadow Lane Campus, spanning 18.2 acres in Las Vegas' medical district, serves as a hub for health sciences education, research, and clinical services. Established in 2004, this specialized campus complements the main campus by focusing on medical and dental disciplines. 

• School of Dental Medicine: Equipped with 165 dental chairs, this facility offers comprehensive dental education in orthodontics, periodontics, and other dental specialties, and community care. 

• Biotechnology Center: Supports collaborative biomedical research, conducts workshops on forensic DNA fingerprinting, and supports both academic and medical professionals. 

• Nevada Cancer Institute: Established in 2002, leading studies in cancer and genetics, and MS in Epidemiology in collaboration with UNLV, the University of Nevada, School of Medicine, and the University of Nevada, Reno. 

3. Henderson Campus 

UNLV's Henderson Campus is one of the university's central off-campus locations. This campus serves as a vital extension of UNLV, providing accessible educational opportunities to students in the southeastern region of the Las Vegas metropolitan area. 

• Building C: Known as the Caesar J. Caviglia Academic Computing Building, it houses University Police Services, ensuring safety and security for students and staff. 

• Campus Services Building: Provides a range of administrative and support services to students and faculty. 

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) holds a #232 position in U.S. News & World Report National Universities for 2026, marking an improvement from #244 in 2025, and ranks #129 among Top Public Schools. Globally, it stands at #601 in Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, with no change from prior years, alongside #436 in EduRank global standings.​ 

Here's how the University of Nevada, Las Vegas performs across rankings: 

Top Course-wise Ranking 2025/26  

UNLV ranks highly in several academic disciplines, with Leisure and Hospitality Management ranked 4th by QS Rankings, Law at #251-300 by THE Rankings, and Nursing ranked 74th by U.S. News & World Report Rankings. These positions showcase the university's strong academic performance across various fields. 

Here's a look at how the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, ranks based on different subjects or courses: 

For information, check out the upGrad’s University of Nevada, Las Vegas Ranking Page. 

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across diverse fields such as hospitality, business, engineering, health sciences, and liberal arts. The university caters to both domestic and international students, providing excellent academic quality, extensive research opportunities, and support services. Popular programs include B.S. in Hospitality Management, MBA, MS in Engineering, and PhD in Nuclear Engineering. 

Undergraduate Programs 

UNLV undergraduate tuition for non-residents/internationals is ~$26,000/year (15 credits/semester), plus ~$11,000–$13,000 room/board. Total cost of attendance reaches ~$45,000/year.​ 

Note: The amounts mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the currency exchange rates. 

Graduate Programs 

Graduate out-of-state tuition averages $23,000–$26,000/year (9 credits/semester). Programs emphasize research and professional skills, with additional program fees possible.​ 

Note: The amounts mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the currency exchange rates. 

Research & Doctoral Programs 

Doctoral tuition is credit-based (~$600–$1,000/credit out-of-state), often with funding/stipends available; full programs cost $20,000–$30,000/year pre-aid.​ 

Note: The amounts mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the currency exchange rates. 

For information, check out the upGrad’s University of Nevada, Las Vegas Course Page. 

With an acceptance rate of 86%, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) offers an inclusive admissions process for both domestic and international students.  

UNLV accepts both the Common Application and its own application, with a nonrefundable application fee of $60 (INR 5,100) for domestic students and $95 (approximately INR 8,100) for international students. For detailed guidelines on application deadlines and specific program requirements, visit the official admissions page. 

Below is a simpler breakdown of the admission requirements and upcoming deadlines for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. 

Academic Qualification Requirements 

For undergraduate programs, UNLV requires first-year applicants to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or qualifying SAT or ACT scores. Transfer students, on the other hand, need a 2.5 GPA in at least 24 transferable credits.  

Here are the academic requirements: 

Note: Requirements may differ by program. Visit the official website for updated information. 

Language Proficiency 

Non-native English speakers, including those from India, must demonstrate their language proficiency levels through tests such as the IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, etc.  

However, applicants who have attended post-secondary institutions where English is the principal medium of instruction are exempt from this requirement. 

Accepted tests and minimum scores are as follows: 

Note: These minimum scores fluctuate annually, based on the number of applicants and the level of competition. 

Visa Requirements  

F-1 visa denials in the U.S. reached a decade-high in the last fiscal year. 41% of applications were rejected, nearly double the rate from 2014. To reduce the risk of rejection, ensure you submit all necessary documents, including the letter of acceptance, your passport, proof of funds, and apply for the F-1 student visa promptly. 

Here are the visa requirements to study at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas: 

Note: You must pay the SEVIS fee before your visa interview and present the receipt during the interview. 

For information, check out the upGrad’s University of Nevada, Las Vegas Admission Page. 

UNLV admits thousands of students annually with varied acceptance rates by program and intake. The Fall intake sees the majority of applications for undergraduate and graduate programs, while Spring intake is more limited. International students constitute about 10-15% of the student body, making early applications important for visa and housing arrangements. 

Undergraduate Programs 

Fall intake dominates admissions; Early Action/priority by Nov 15 recommended for aid. Applications open Oct 1 prior year.​ 

Graduate Programs 

Most MS/MBA programs use department-specific rolling admissions, but the Graduate College portal closes May 1 (Fall)/Oct 1 (Spring); apply early.​ 

PhD / Research Programs 

Doctoral admissions prioritize Fall; deadlines vary by department (often Dec 1-15 priority for funding), with Graduate College final May 1 (Fall)/Oct 1 (Spring).​ 

Understanding the total cost of studying at UNLV, including tuition, living expenses, and other associated costs, is crucial for effective budgeting. UNLV offers affordable education for 2025-2026, with tuition costs varying by residency status: Nevada residents pay approximately $9,500/year (₹7,98,000) for undergraduate tuition, while non-residents and international students pay about $26,000/year (₹21,84,000). 

Tuition & Fees Breakdown (2025-2026):  

In-State vs. Out-of-State Comparison:  

Note: The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate. 

The cost of living in the USA is an essential factor for students planning to study at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Las Vegas offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to major US cities, with Numbeo data showing a single person needs ~$1,400/month excluding rent (annual ~$16,800). International students should budget for accommodation, food, transportation, and utilities, totaling ~$15,000–$18,000 (~₹13–₹15.3 L) per year.​

Accommodation 

Housing options include on-campus residence halls and off-campus apartments near UNLV. On-campus ensures proximity to classes; shared off-campus reduces costs.​ 

Note: The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate. 

Transportation 

Las Vegas relies on buses (RTC) and personal cars; a monthly pass $64, one-way ticket $2.59.​ 

Note: The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate. 

Utilities and Miscellaneous 

Budget for basics in a 915 sq ft apartment; utilities average $247/mo excluding internet/mobile.​ 

Pro Tip: Planning for ~$15,000–$18,000 (~₹13–₹15.3 L) annually in living expenses ensures students can manage comfortably alongside tuition. 

Note: The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate. 

UNLV offers institutional scholarships like UNLV Signature, Opportunity, and Rebel Edge, requiring admission by priority deadline plus FAFSA/Institutional Aid Application submission. Nevada residents access the Governor Guinn Millennium Scholarship (up to $10,000 lifetime/~₹85 L at $80/credit) and Rebel Edge (free tuition/fees up to 15 credits + $1,000/~₹85K book stipend for AGI <$68,000). Non-residents/internationals qualify for automatic awards like WUE (150% in-state tuition, ~$13K/~₹11 L savings).​ 

Automatic Merit Scholarships 

No separate application beyond admission/FAFSA; renewable up to 135 credits with 2.0 GPA and full-time enrollment.​ 

Need-Based & State Programs 

Priority FAFSA deadline critical; stackable with merit awards.​ 

Pro Tip: Meet priority deadlines (admission + FAFSA/IAA) for stacking; residency changes may adjust awards. Check MyUNLV portal post-submission. INR conversions at ~₹85/USD. 

UNLV graduates achieve strong career outcomes with 95-100% employment rates in high-demand fields like nursing, business, and IT within 6 months. Six years post-graduation, alumni earn an average of $38,200 annually (₹32,08,800), rising to $47,600 (₹39,98,400) after 10 years, which is 39% above the national median. Hospitality, engineering, and health sciences lead placements due to strong industry demand in Las Vegas.  

Top Programs by Employment & Salary:  

Top Recruiters 

UNLV's prime location attracts Las Vegas hospitality giants, healthcare networks, and tech firms through career fairs and Rebel Network partnerships.​ 

UNLV fosters dynamic student experiences on its 350-acre campus with 450+ organizations, NCAA Division I athletics (Rebels in Mountain West Conference), and easy access to Las Vegas entertainment. Campus Life coordinates wellness, arts, traditions, and involvement through the Student Union and events year-round.​ 

1. Campus Facilities 

Modern amenities support academic, athletic, and social needs.​ 

2. Athletics & Housing 

With over 151,000 total graduates, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas has established a broad and accomplished alumni network, with graduates excelling in various fields, including business, entertainment, science, and public service. 

Across the globe, UNLV alumni are making a lasting impact in their careers and communities.

Here are some distinguished alumni from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas:

These alumni and their achievements show how the university prepares you for different professional paths. Next, let’s compare UNLV with similar universities.

Choosing the right university requires comparing key factors, such as tuition fees, top courses, and career outcomes. For example, the median salary at UNLV is $42,865 (INR 36.7 L), higher than similar institutions like Great Basin College and the College of Southern Nevada.  

Let’s now take a closer look at how UNLV compares with these universities on certain parameters to gain a clearer picture. 

Note: The average annual cost for the other two institutes doesn’t include miscellaneous expenses; hence, it may look smaller compared to the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.