What are UT's acceptance requirements?

Hi everyone! I'm looking into applying to the University of Texas (UT) and I'm wondering what their specific acceptance requirements are. Do they put a lot of emphasis on GPA, test scores, or extracurriculars? Does anyone have any insights about this?

Hello! The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) has a holistic review process, which means they consider multiple factors when reviewing applicants. Some of the main factors include:

1. Academic Performance: UT Austin places significant importance on your overall high school GPA. They also take into consideration the rigor of the courses you've taken - in other words, they like to see students who have challenged themselves with a strong curriculum, such as AP or IB classes.

2. Test Scores: UT Austin has been test optional, but is reinstating the requirement for applicants applying for the Fall of 2025. Aim for either an SAT or ACT score that is within or above the middle 50% for UT Austin accepted students.

3. Extracurriculars: UT Austin values well-rounded students who are involved in their communities and have demonstrated leadership and initiative. They review your extracurricular activities, including any volunteer work, internships, clubs, or sports you've participated in. As always, it's more important to show a deep commitment to a smaller number of meaningful activities than just having a long list of clubs and organizations you were involved in.

4. Essays: UT Austin requires a few essays as part of the application process. Make sure to spend time crafting thoughtful and well-written essays that showcase your unique perspectives and experiences.

5. Recommendations: UT Austin doesn't require letters of recommendation, but you can submit up to two if you think they will provide valuable insights into your character and abilities.

The university does not have a specific cutoff for GPA, test scores, or any other factor, as they consider the unique combination of attributes each applicant brings to the table. Keep in mind that UT Austin is quite competitive, so it's essential to have a strong application overall to increase your chances of getting accepted.

Ultimately, focusing on maintaining a high GPA, participating in challenging coursework, being deeply involved in extracurriculars that matter to you, and writing strong essays will help you stand out and increase your chances of being admitted to UT Austin. Good luck with your application!