Is UT Austin Still the Right Fit? Five Questions Every Family Should Ask in 2025

For decades, the University of Texas at Austin has been the dream school for many Texas families. With its nationally ranked programs, strong alumni network, and unbeatable Austin location, it is no surprise UT remains one of the most sought-after public universities in the country. But in 2025, with over 96,000 applications submitted and rising selectivity across nearly every major, it is important to pause and ask:



Is UT Austin still the right fit for your student?

Here are five key questions that can help you and your student evaluate whether UT is the best academic, social, and strategic choice for them this year.


1. Does Your Student Have a Clear Major—and the Preparation to Match?

UT evaluates applicants based on the major they choose. Students are not just applying to the university, they are applying to a specific program within a specific college. Some majors, such as Business, Computer Science, Engineering, Biology, and Psychology, are especially competitive. For example, in 2024, the acceptance rate for Computer Science was under 10 percent for non-auto admits.


Ask yourself: Has your student taken courses and pursued activities that reflect genuine interest and preparation in their chosen major? Have they gone beyond the classroom—through summer programs, independent projects, or leadership roles—that demonstrate curiosity and initiative?

If not, it may be time to either build a stronger foundation or consider alternative majors with more alignment and opportunity.

2

. Where Does Your Student Fall in the Academic Landscape?

The top 6 percent rule still guarantees automatic admission for many Texas public school students. But even auto admits are not guaranteed a spot in their first-choice major. And for students outside that group, the admissions process is extremely competitive. The average admitted student last cycle had a GPA over 3.6and most had taken multiple AP, IB, or dual credit courses in core subjects.


Test scores are required at UT, so students with high scores often see a boost—especially in high-demand majors. Last year, admitted students to McCombs and Cockrell reported SAT scores above 1450 and ACT scores above 32.


If your student’s GPA or course rigor is not on par with admitted students in their intended major, it is worth asking how their other strengths—like essays, resume, or leadership—can help balance the academic picture.


3. Is Your Student Ready to Shine in UT’s Application Process?

The UT Austin application process is layered and nuanced. Students must complete multiple short essays, the expanded resume, and often additional materials for special programs. UT is not just looking for polished writing. They are looking for clarity, focus, and a clear link between a student’s background and their chosen field of study.


Students who stand out are able to tell a cohesive story. Their essays reflect growth and curiosity. Their resume highlights impact, not just involvement. And their overall application feels intentional rather than generic.


Ask your student: Have you taken the time to reflect on your interests, goals, and growth? Can you explain why you chose this major? Are your essays and resume ready to reflect your best work?


4. Does UT’s Culture Match Your Student’s Learning Style and Social Needs?

UT Austin offers over 170 fields of study, 1,300 student organizations, and one of the largest and most vibrant campuses in the country. For many students, that scale and energy is a huge plus. But for others, especially those who thrive in smaller or more structured environments, UT can feel overwhelming.


Families should consider not only academic fit but also social and emotional fit. Is your student independent and self-motivated? Are they excited by the idea of a large lecture hall or a sprawling campus? Or do they prefer smaller classes and more one-on-one support?


UT has options like honors programs and residential learning communities that can help students find their niche. But it is important to explore whether those options are available in your student’s major and whether they feel like the right match.


5. Are You Building a Balanced List that Includes Other Strong-Fit Schools?

Even if UT is a top choice, it should not be the only one. Last year, nearly 28,000 students were placed on a waitlist or denied altogether. Many were strong applicants who simply did not have the major alignment or competitive edge needed in holistic review.

A balanced college list should include schools where your student is likely to be admitted and thrive. These should not be backups. They should be strong academic and personal fits in their own right.

Talk to your student about what matters most. Academic offerings. Campus culture. Size. Affordability. These factors all help define fit, not just the name on the sweatshirt.


The Right Support for UT Austin Success Starts Here

For 16 years, we’ve helped students successfully navigate the competitive UT Austin admissions process. Our students are admitted at significantly higher rates than the general applicant pool because we know what UT is looking for—and how to help students deliver it. From the expanded resume to the short-answer essays, every detail matters. Our expert coaches guide students step by step, helping them craft a cohesive, major-aligned application that tells a clear and compelling story. If your student is serious about UT Austin, this is the kind of focused support that can make the difference.


Start with a free one-on-one coaching session to give your student a clear plan and a real advantage.