The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin), founded in 1883, is the flagship institution of the University of Texas System and one of the leading public research universities in the United States. Located in Austin, Texas, the university combines academic excellence with a vibrant innovation-driven environment.

As a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), UT Austin is recognized for its outstanding research contributions. It is particularly strong in Engineering, Business, Computer Science, Communication, Natural Sciences, and Public Affairs. The McCombs School of Business and the Cockrell School of Engineering are nationally renowned.

Academically, UT Austin includes numerous colleges and research centers across liberal arts, engineering, business, law, education, architecture, and the arts. Interdisciplinary collaboration and entrepreneurial innovation are central to the UT experience.

Austin’s reputation as a major technology and startup hub provides students with extensive internship and career opportunities. The presence of leading tech companies enhances professional development pathways.

Campus life is dynamic, with hundreds of student organizations and a strong athletic tradition as a member of NCAA Division I. School spirit and community engagement are hallmarks of UT Austin.

By integrating academic rigor with leadership and innovation, UT Austin prepares students to make meaningful contributions on a global scale.

What are University of Texas Austin looking for?

The University of Texas at Austin looks for applicants with a genuine commitment to its core values—learning, discovery, freedom, leadership, individual opportunity and responsibility.

Admissions Statistics

ADMISSION INFORMATION

APPLICATION DATES & DEADLINES

Additional essay questions of the application.

Submit the required short answers to the prompts in your admission application. Each response is limited to no more than 40 lines, or approximately 250–300 words per prompt, typically the length of one paragraph.

Required Prompts

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

2. Think of all the activities — both in and outside of school — that you have been involved with during high school. Which one are you most proud of and why?
Guidance for students: This can include an extracurricular activity, a club or organization, volunteer work, employment, or a family responsibility.

Optional Prompt

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

Submitting Your Short Answers

You may submit your short answers through either the Common App or the ApplyTexas application. Completion of the short answer responses is required in order to submit your application.