Here’s what you need to know to navigate this increasingly competitive process:

Two Ways to Get In

Texas A&M offers two main paths for admission.

1. Automatic Admission for Top 10 Percent Students
If you are a Texas resident graduating in the top 10 percent of your class, you are automatically admitted to the university. This does not apply to the College of Engineering, which uses a holistic review for all applicants.

2. Holistic Review
For all other applicants, A&M uses a holistic review process. This includes your academic record, major choice, extracurricular activities, leadership experiences, essays, and overall fit for the university. With application volume at an all-time high, every component matters.

Your Major Choice Is Strategic

A&M asks you to choose both a first and second-choice major on your application. You are admitted to the university first, then reviewed for your selected major. If your first-choice major is full, A&M will consider your second choice. If both are full, you may still be admitted to the university but asked to select another major before enrolling.

Popular and enrollment-managed majors fill up quickly. These include:

• Engineering
• Business
• Psychology
• Biology
• Architecture

To increase your chances of being placed into your preferred program, apply by late August or early September. Submitting early shows your interest and gives you the best opportunity to secure your first-choice major.

What Competitive Majors Want to See

Engineering
The College of Engineering is one of the largest in the country and also one of the most selective. Strong applicants show academic performance in math and science, along with meaningful engagement in engineering-related activities. This might include robotics, coding projects, summer STEM programs, or internships. You will also write a required Engineering Essay that explains your interest in the field and how you have explored it.

Business
Students applying to Mays Business School should emphasize leadership, problem-solving ability, and interest in business or finance. This could include running a small business, participating in DECA, managing finances for a student

organization, or interning with a local company.

Build a Strong Holistic Profile

Texas A&M’s holistic review looks beyond grades and test scores. Here’s how to make your application stand out.

Essays
Essay A and the required short answers help admissions officers understand your voice, values, and growth. Choose stories that reflect who you are, how you have changed, and what you care about. Avoid repeating items from your résumé. Focus on depth and reflection.

Activities
Use the i4 Framework: Interest, Involvement, Initiative, and Impact. Show how your engagement has grown over time and how it connects to your academic and career goals.

Community Contributions
Volunteer work, research, jobs, or passion projects help show your character. Highlight the ways you have made a difference in your school or community.

To Test or Not to Test

A&M remains test-optional, but strong SAT or ACT scores can enhance your application. This is especially true for students applying through holistic review. If your scores are above the 75th percentile for your intended major, it is worth including them. Only submit your best single sitting, and send official scores directly from the testing agency.

Stay on Track After Submission

Submitting your application is not the final step. Here’s what to do next.

• Log into the Applicant Information System (AIS). This portal allows you to track your status and upload additional materials. A&M tracks how often students check their AIS, so engage regularly.
• Complete the Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR). This replaces your transcript and is required. Use your high school transcript to ensure accuracy.
• Submit any optional materials. This may include letters of recommendation or a résumé if you need additional space to explain your involvement or achievements.