How is the college admission process in 2024 in Texas different?

I'm starting to look at colleges in Texas and wondered if the admission process is different compared to other states. Are there unique aspects I should be aware of for 2024 admissions?

Texas has some unique aspects to their college admission process. One of them is the policy known as the 'Top 10% Rule,' specific to public universities in Texas, like University of Texas at Austin. This rule guarantees Texas students who rank in the top 10% of their high school class automatic admission to all state-funded universities, although UT Austin limits automatic admissions to the top 6% due to the large volume of applications the university receives.

Another key consideration is that Texas uses Common Application (CommonApp) for many of its universities, including University of Texas and Texas A&M. However, Texas also has its own application system known as 'ApplyTexas,' which some students might find more relevant especially when applying to multiple state schools. Do check the specific application requirements of each university in Texas as they may vary.

You should also note that standardized testing policies can differ by school. For instance, as of the 2024-2025 application cycle, the University of Texas at Austin requires standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), but many of the state schools in the California State University system, have gone test-blind.

Also, don't forget to pay attention to specific scholarship opportunities, honors programs, or other unique resources available to students applying to Texas schools. For example, the Forty Acres Scholars Program at University of Texas at Austin is a highly competitive scholarship program that offers funding for an undergraduate degree, a rich cohort experience, and opportunities for custom enrichment activities.

In sum, while the basics of the admissions process - such as grades, standardized testing, personal essays, and extracurricular activities - are still very relevant in Texas, there are a few key differences to bear in mind.