Introduction

The University of Texas at Austin, commonly referred to as UT Austin, is a public research university that was established in 1881. Known for its robust research endeavors and special emphasis on creative thought and innovation, UT Austin has consistently been recognized as one of the top public universities in the US. With a rich history of academic achievement and social contribution, it has shaped its identity along the lines of inclusion, progress, and excellence. The university boasts diverse programs, ranging from Engineering and Computer Science to Liberal Arts, all contributing to its esteemed reputation. UT Austin's mission to promote intellectual curiosity, creativity, and personal growth among its students allows it to remain a forefront leader in higher education, continuing to shape the minds of tomorrow's innovators, thinkers, and leaders.

Quick Numbers

• Acceptance Rate: 29%

• Test Optional/Blind: Yes

• Average SAT Score: 1355

• Average ACT Score: 30

• GPA: 2.8

• Number of Letters of Recommendation (LORs): 3

• Common Application Essay/Coalition/Questbridge: Yes

• Number of Supplemental Essays: 5

• Interview: No

• Early Decision/Early Action: No

• Application Deadline: RD - Dec 1st

• Financial Aid Deadline: RD - Jan 15th

Tests

In terms of standardized test scores, The University of Texas at Austin admits students with strong performance on the SAT and ACT exams. Typically, the 25th percentile SAT and ACT scores are around 1230 and 27, respectively. This means that 25% of admitted students scored below these figures. On the other hand, the 75th percentile scores, meaning that 75% of admitted students scored below these figures, are usually around 1480 for the SAT and 33 for the ACT. These scores provide a range within which the majority of admitted students' scores tend to fall and offer you a benchmark to aim for in your test preparation.

Essays

Common App Essay

In terms of the Common App essay, UT Austin,  like many other schools, asks applicants to respond to one of the seven essay prompts provided by the Common Application, allowing students to showcase their unique perspectives and experiences in a personal and meaningful way.

Below is the full set of Common App essay prompts for 2023-24.

1. Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

2. The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

3. Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

4. Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

5. Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

6. Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

7. Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.(This is a very dangerous prompt, and it is recommended to discuss it with your high school counselor before undertaking it.)

In addition, students have the option to tell colleges any additional information that they might want to know. For example, extenuating circumstances that may explain a drop in grades for a certain semester.

Supplementals

Tell us your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today? (500-700 words)

All applicants must submit four required short answers responding to prompts in your admissions application. Answers are limited to no more than 40 lines, or about 250–300 words, typically the length of one paragraph.

Required Short Answer 1: 

Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major?

Required Short Answer 2:

Describe how your experiences, perspectives, talents, and/or your involvement in leadership activities (at your school, job, community, or within your family) will help you to make an impact both in and out of the classroom while enrolled at UT.

Required Short Answer 3:

The core purpose of The University of Texas at Austin is, “To Transform Lives for the Benefit of Society.” Please share how you believe your experience at UT-Austin will prepare you to “Change the World” after you graduate.

Required Short Answer 4:

Please share background on events or special circumstances that may have impacted your high school academic performance.

Conclusion

Navigating the admissions process for UT Austin might seem daunting, but with the right tools at your disposal, it can be a manageable and successful endeavor. Kolly AI, with its advanced capabilities, is designed to guide you through one of the most challenging parts: writing your essays. It provides personalized suggestions and feedback, helping you craft compelling narratives that truly encapsulate your unique experiences, aspirations, and potential.

Don't let the task of essay writing stand in your way. Click the button below to get started with Kolly AI and elevate your application for UT Austin to the next level. Let's make your dream of studying at UT Austin a reality, together.