The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin), founded in 1883, is a leading public research institution located in the heart of Texas’ capital city. With a vibrant campus community and a commitment to academic excellence, UT Austin offers a diverse array of programs and resources for its students.
If you’re considering applying to UT Austin, crafting a compelling application is crucial. Our statement of purpose editing services and college application essay editing can help refine your essays to effectively showcase your strengths. UT Austin is also featured in our Top 100 US Universities for 2025, providing insights into its standing among leading institutions.
Academic Programs
UT Austin offers over 170 undergraduate fields of study across 13 colleges and schools, including:
- College of Liberal Arts: Offers a wide range of majors in humanities and social sciences.
- Cockrell School of Engineering: Known for its top-ranked engineering programs.
- McCombs School of Business: Provides programs in finance, marketing, and management.
- College of Natural Sciences: Focuses on biological sciences, chemistry, and physics.
- Moody College of Communication: Specializes in journalism, advertising, and public relations.
The university emphasizes interdisciplinary study and research, allowing students to tailor their educational experiences to their interests and career goals.
Admissions Overview
Admission to UT Austin is highly competitive. For the Fall 2025 term, the university received 90,562 applications, marking a 24.3% increase from the previous year. Applications from Texas residents increased by 12%, while out-of-state applications surged by 48%. UT Austin News
Academic Environment
UT Austin maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 18:1, fostering an environment where students can engage with faculty members and participate in research opportunities. The university operates on a semester system, allowing students to explore a variety of courses throughout the academic year. With a strong emphasis on research, UT Austin provides numerous opportunities for undergraduate students to engage in cutting-edge projects across various fields.
UT Austin Admissions Statistics (Fall 2025)
| Statistic | Data |
|---|---|
| Total Applicants | 90,562 |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 29% |
| Middle 50% SAT Score Range | 1230–1480 |
| Middle 50% ACT Score Range | 29–34 |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 18:1 |
Sources:
Admissions data: UT Austin News
Testing and GPA data: BigFuture College Search
General information: UT Austin Wikipedia
Student Life at UT Austin
UT Austin offers a vibrant campus life with over 1,300 student organizations, including cultural clubs, service organizations, and academic societies. The campus is located in Austin, a city known for its live music scene, tech industry, and outdoor activities. The university has a strong athletic presence, with the Texas Longhorns competing in the NCAA Division I Big 12 Conference. Students actively support Longhorn athletics, fostering a strong sense of school spirit and community.
What’s Good
- Research Opportunities: “UT Austin provides ample opportunities for undergraduate students to engage in meaningful research across various disciplines.”
- Diverse Campus: “The student body is diverse, creating a rich cultural and intellectual environment.”
- Location: “Being in Austin offers incredible access to internships, cultural events, and a thriving job market.”
What’s Not-So-Great
- Large Class Sizes: “Some introductory courses can be quite large, making it challenging to connect with professors.”
- Housing: “Securing on-campus housing can be competitive, and off-campus options can be expensive.”
- Cost of Attendance: “As a public university, tuition can be high, especially for out-of-state students.”
Admissions Requirements at UT Austin
UT Austin employs a comprehensive review process, considering various factors:
- Academic Performance: Emphasis on high school GPA, course rigor, and academic trends.
- Standardized Test Scores: For Fall 2025 applicants, submission of SAT or ACT scores is mandatory. en.wikipedia.org
- Extracurricular Involvement: Leadership roles, community service, and unique talents are highly valued.
- Essays and Recommendations: Personal statements provide insight into the applicant’s character and fit for UT Austin.
Does UT Austin Require the Common App Essay?
Yes, UT Austin accepts the Common Application and requires the standard personal statement. Additionally, UT Austin has supplemental essay prompts that allow applicants to elaborate on their interests and how they align with the university’s offerings. These essays are crucial for demonstrating fit and passion for your chosen field of study.
GPA Expectations
UT Austin does not publish a strict GPA cutoff; however, successful applicants typically have a high school GPA of 3.8 or higher. The most competitive programs—such as engineering, computer science, and business—often admit students with near-perfect records and a strong history of rigorous coursework (AP, IB, or dual-enrollment classes).
In-state applicants ranking in the top 6% of their Texas high school class receive automatic admission under the state’s Top 6% Rule (effective for Fall 2025), though not necessarily to their major of choice.
If you’re looking to make a strong impression with your application, we recommend using our statement of purpose editing service and college essay editing support to ensure your story stands out.
Nearby and Comparable Universities
UT Austin is widely regarded as one of the top public universities in the U.S., especially in engineering, business, and the liberal arts. It belongs to the Association of American Universities and is often compared to both regional peers and nationwide public flagships. Comparable schools include:
- Texas A&M University – another major Texas research university with strong programs in engineering and agriculture
- University of Florida – flagship public institution known for business, law, and research
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – strong in liberal arts, business, and public health
- University of Wisconsin–Madison – a top public university known for research and academic breadth
- University of California, Berkeley – globally recognized for computer science, economics, and law
- University of Michigan – public Ivy with strength in nearly every discipline
- University of Virginia – known for its liberal arts tradition and selective admissions
These institutions share UT Austin’s emphasis on academic excellence, vibrant campus culture, and post-graduation career success.
Note: All data and statistics are sourced from the University of Texas at Austin’s official admissions website and reputable third-party sources. For the most current and accurate information, visit UT Austin Undergraduate Admissions.