Quick Stats: UT Austin | US News #32 | SAT 1280-1480 | 29.0% acceptance | Required
SAT Requirements
As of the Fall 2025 application cycle, the University of Texas at Austin has reinstated its standardized testing requirement. All freshman applicants are required to submit either an SAT or ACT score as part of their application.
UT Austin does not practice superscoring for the SAT. This means the admissions committee will consider your highest total score from a single test date rather than combining your best Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math scores from different sittings. Because of this policy, students are encouraged to focus on achieving their best possible performance in a single session. You can use Score Choice to decide which specific test dates you wish to send to the university.
SAT Score Breakdown
To be competitive at UT Austin, your scores should ideally fall within or above the middle 50% range of 1280-1480. While the university does not provide an official section-by-section breakdown for the most recent cycle, typical distributions for this range suggest:
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: 640–730
- SAT Math: 640–750
For students applying to highly competitive programs like the Cockrell School of Engineering or the McCombs School of Business, scores at the 75th percentile (1480+) or higher are often necessary. Strong performance in Algebra and advanced mathematics is particularly critical for STEM-related majors at UT Austin.
Admission Tips
- The Top 6% Rule: For Texas residents, UT Austin is unique due to the state's automatic admission law. Currently, students in the top 6% of their high school graduating class are automatically admitted to the university, though not necessarily to their first-choice major.
- Fit to Major: UT Austin places heavy emphasis on "Fit to Major." Your application should clearly demonstrate why you are prepared for and interested in your specific chosen field of study through your essays and extracurricular activities.
- Expanded Resume: Unlike the limited space on the Common App, UT Austin allows (and encourages) an expanded resume. Use this to detail your leadership roles, long-term commitments, and any work experience.
- Holistic Review: For those not in the top 6% (and for all out-of-state/international students), UT uses a holistic review process. They look for "first-generation" status, special talents, and how you might contribute to the campus community.
Application Deadlines
| Round | Deadline | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Priority Deadline | November 1 | February 15 |
| Regular Decision | December 1 | March 1 |
FAQ
What SAT score do I need for UT Austin?
While there is no strict minimum, the middle 50% of admitted students score between 1280 and 1480. Scoring a 1480 or higher places you in the top 25% of applicants.
Is UT Austin test-optional?
No. UT Austin has ended its temporary test-optional policy. All students applying for Fall 2025 and beyond must submit an SAT or ACT score.
Does UT Austin superscore the SAT?
No, UT Austin does not superscore. They evaluate your highest total score from a single test sitting.
What is the acceptance rate at UT Austin?
The current acceptance rate is approximately 29.0%. However, this rate is significantly lower for out-of-state applicants and for competitive majors like Computer Science and Business.