UT Austin: 2024 Requirements, Scores & GPAs

This is the go-to guide for getting into The University of Texas at Austin (UT). We suggest you read until the end... Not only will we layout the exact GPA and test scores you should aim for when applying to UT Austin, but we’ll also offer creative ways to help your application stand out from the pack. We breakdown UT Austin statistics better than any article out there and show you how these have changed over time. Also, make sure to check out The University of Texas at Austin (UT) on CampusReel to see what it’s really like here. If you're interesting in transferring to UT Austin, the read our transfer guide. You can also use the below calculator to help determine your likelihood of acceptance at UT Austin

What GPA do you need to get into The University of Texas at Austin (UT)?

The University of Texas at Austin (UT)’s average GPA is 3.84. The University of Texas at Austin (UT) does require GPA. This average GPA means The University of Texas at Austin (UT) is very selective. Often times, schools in this range are trying to increase their selectivity and “prestige”. We can’t read the minds of UT Austin application readers, but they likely want to increase the average GPA from 3.84 to 4.03 this year - to play it safe, we recommend striving for the 4.03 GPA.

*BEFORE CONTINUING PLEASE NOTE: GPA and “prestige” DO NOT mean a college is right for you. The University of Texas at Austin (UT) may seem amazing on paper, but you may hate it... That’s why 700,000 students transfer colleges every year - they end up going to the wrong school. It’s crucial to watch the videos on CampusReel and make sure you can envision yourself on UT Austin’s campus. These UT Austin admission statistics do not sufficiently tell you what a college or university is like.

What is The University of Texas at Austin (UT)’s acceptance rate?

Last year The University of Texas at Austin (UT)’s acceptance rate was 39.24. However, check out how the acceptance rate has changed over time.

As you can see, The University of Texas at Austin (UT) is a little easier to get into than last year.

Acceptance rate alone does not indicate your likelihood for getting into UT Austin - it’s a very high level understanding of the true competition. Use the acceptance rate as a general guide for curating a list of 10-15 schools that fall into different ranges of competitiveness. Then, use the below data to get a deeper understanding of how your application will compare to the rest of the pool.

Does The University of Texas at Austin (UT) Require Test Scores?

The University of Texas at Austin (UT) requires that you either take the SAT or ACT. See the table below for how The University of Texas at Austin (UT)’s accepted students have performed on both tests. You may be wondering how many test scores should you submit. Generally, don’t freak out about taking the test too often. Industry consensus is that you can submit up to 6 tests as a reasonable limit.

The University of Texas at Austin (UT) SAT Requirements

The University of Texas at Austin (UT)’s average SAT score is 1275 - this is the sum of the math and reading portions of the SAT (the 1600 scale). Check out the below table for a deeper look into how students performed - it’s also very interesting to look at the average test score over time. The trend over time helps give insight into whether The University of Texas at Austin (UT) is getting more or less competitive.

The University of Texas at Austin (UT)’s average SAT score is 1275. To be a competitive applicant for The University of Texas at Austin (UT) your SAT score should come close to the average. If you’re closer to the 1140, you’re likely going to have a tougher time getting accepted. To consider The University of Texas at Austin (UT) a “target” school (one that you are likely to get into) you should aim for a score of 1410.

The University of Texas at Austin (UT) ACT Requirements

The University of Texas at Austin (UT)’s average ACT score is 87. To be a competitive applicant for The University of Texas at Austin (UT) your ACT score should come close to the average. If you’re closer to the 77, you’re likely going to have a tougher time getting accepted. To consider The University of Texas at Austin (UT) a “target” school (one that you have a good chance of getting into) you should aim for a score of 98.

How hard is it to get into The University of Texas at Austin (UT)?

As you can see from the data above, The University of Texas at Austin (UT) is difficult to get into. Not only should you be aiming for a 3.84 but also SAT scores around 1275.

The University of Texas at Austin (UT) Requirements

Now you know where you need to be for getting into The University of Texas at Austin (UT) from a grade and test score perspective. Let’s quickly outline what else you’ll need to provide for your application to get reviewed, and then we’ll move onto the most important section: differentiating your app.

How to get into UT Austin

Follow these steps to maximize your chances of getting into UT Austin. Everything you read above will help prepare you for what you need to achieve to have a shot at UT Austin, but these steps will take you even further in applying that knowledge and differentiating your application.

Main Academic Excellence that is in line with UT Austin admission standards.

1. Score at least a 1275 on the SAT or 87 on the ACT.
2. Maintain a GPA of at least a 3.84.

Join Extracurriculars that Align with UT Austin’s Values.

1. Join your school band, a sports team or another group activity. If The University of Texas at Austin (UT) values music heavily, for example, then try to participate in an organization related to that topic.
2. Volunteer in your hometown. Austin has tons of ways to be involved beyond just the college. The University of Texas at Austin (UT) wants applicants that are also good ambassadors for the school - they want students who will give back to the local community and broader Austin area in general.
3. Spend your summer doing something that speaks to your values, personal growth, leadership qualities and other less quantifiable characteristics. UT Austin needs to see past your test scores and grades - they need to know that you will be a valuable and contributing member of their community. You are more than grades and test scores - your experiences should demonstrate that.

Prepare Your Application

1. Write a stellar essay that shows The University of Texas at Austin (UT) something they can’t figure out from the other parts of your application. For a detailed guide on writing the best college essay, check this out.
2. Get teacher recs that speak to your character. If you know what you’re majoring in and include that in your UT Austin app, try to have at least 1 recommendation from a teacher in that department.
3. Apply Before the Deadline. Too many students wait until the last minute to submit their application, and too much can go wrong during this precious time window. Since many students are applying on the last day, it’s possible that UT Austin’s own system crashes. Don’t risk the added stress this can cause - submit your app a few days early.