How hard is it to get into UT Austin?
With a 29% acceptance rate, University of Texas at Austin is very selective — competitive, but within reach for strong applicants. It enrolls roughly 41,000 undergraduates (urban setting) in Austin, TX. Solid grades, a sensible test plan, and thoughtful essays go a long way here.
What it takes to get in
- SAT: admitted students land around 1230–1470 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
- ACT: the middle 50% is about 27–34.
- GPA: admitted students average around 3.8. Rigor (APs/IB/honors) matters as much as the number.
- Testing policy: Test required. Confirm on the school's site, since policies shift each cycle.
- Essays: at UT Austin's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.
Cost
Published tuition is about $41,300 out-of-state ($11,900 in-state) per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.
Notable programs
Computer Science · Engineering (Cockrell) · Business (McCombs) · Plan II
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- What is University of Texas at Austin's acceptance rate?
- University of Texas at Austin's acceptance rate is 29%, which makes it very selective — competitive, but within reach for strong applicants.
- What SAT or ACT score do you need for UT Austin?
- Admitted students typically score about 1230–1470 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 27–34 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
- Is UT Austin test-optional?
- University of Texas at Austin's current testing policy is: Test required. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.
Sources & official links
- UT Austin official website
- UT Austin on College Scorecard (U.S. Department of Education)
- Admissions figures compiled from the Common Data Set and IPEDS.
Figures are the most recent available from Common Data Set, IPEDS, and public reports, and are approximate. Always confirm details on University of Texas at Austin’s official admissions site.