University of Texas GPA Requirements: Admission Statistics & Calculator

The University of Texas at Austin stands as the flagship institution of the University of Texas System and one of the largest and most prestigious public universities in the United States. Known for its academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and strong research programs, UT Austin consistently ranks among the top public universities nationally. With its renowned business school, engineering programs, and liberal arts offerings, the University of Texas attracts students from across the country and around the world. Understanding UT Austin's GPA requirements and admission standards is essential for prospective students seeking to join this competitive and dynamic academic community.

Average GPA for UT Austin Admitted Students

The University of Texas at Austin maintains highly competitive admission standards. The average GPA for admitted students at UT Austin is approximately 3.83-3.84 on the unweighted 4.0 scale, indicating that successful applicants typically have strong academic records with predominantly A's in challenging coursework.

For weighted GPAs, UT Austin admits often have GPAs ranging from 4.0 to 4.4 on weighted scales, reflecting their participation in Advanced Placement (AP), dual enrollment, and honors courses.

UT Austin GPA Quick Facts

Average unweighted GPA: 3.83-3.84
Middle 50% GPA range: 3.7-3.9
Top 6% auto-admit rule for Texas residents
Holistic review for remaining spots
Strong emphasis on class rank and course rigor

UT Austin Acceptance Rate and Competitiveness

UT Austin is highly selective with an overall acceptance rate of approximately 31-32%. However, this varies significantly between Texas residents (who benefit from the top 6% auto-admit rule) and out-of-state students, who face much more competitive admission standards.

With over 53,000 applications annually for approximately 8,500 freshman spots, UT Austin's selectivity has increased dramatically in recent years. The university's reputation, location in Austin, and strong academic programs make it one of the most sought-after public institutions nationally.

Admission Cycle	Applications	Admits	Acceptance Rate
Class of 2028	53,237	16,827	31.6%
Class of 2027	52,736	16,495	31.3%
Class of 2026	51,033	16,323	32.0%

Texas Top 6% Auto-Admit Rule

UT Austin's unique auto-admit rule significantly impacts admission for Texas residents:

Top 6% Auto-Admit (Texas Residents)

Automatic admission to UT Austin
Must rank in top 6% of high school class
Must be Texas resident
Must complete required coursework
Still must apply to specific majors/schools
Covers approximately 75% of Texas admits

Holistic Review (All Other Students)

Texas residents not in top 6%
All out-of-state students
International students
Transfer students
Highly competitive admission process
GPA typically 3.8+ for competitive chances

Academic Preparation Requirements

UT Austin requires completion of the Texas Distinguished Achievement Program or equivalent:

Required Foundation Courses

4 credits of English
4 credits of mathematics (including Algebra II)
4 credits of science (including 2 advanced study/lab)
3.5 credits of social studies
2 credits of foreign language (same language)
1 credit of fine arts
1 credit of physical education

Recommended for Competitiveness

Advanced Placement (AP) courses
Dual enrollment college courses
International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma
Pre-calculus or calculus
4+ years of science including physics and chemistry
3+ years of foreign language

School-Specific GPA Requirements

Different schools and majors at UT Austin have varying competitiveness:

School/Program	Typical GPA Range	Competitiveness	Special Requirements
Engineering	3.9-4.0	Extremely High	Strong math/science, separate application
Business (McCombs)	3.8-3.9	Very High	Leadership, business experience
Computer Science	3.9-4.0	Extremely High	Strong math, coding experience
Communications	3.7-3.9	High	Portfolio, media experience
Liberal Arts	3.6-3.8	Moderate-High	Well-rounded academics

Standardized Test Profile

UT Austin requires SAT or ACT scores for admission consideration:

Test	Middle 50% Range	75th Percentile	Average
SAT Composite	1230-1480	1480	1355
SAT Math	610-760	760	685
SAT ERW	620-720	720	670
ACT Composite	27-33	33	30

UT Austin's Holistic Review Process

For students not automatically admitted, UT Austin uses a comprehensive holistic review:

Academic Achievement (40%)

GPA and class rank
Course rigor and curriculum strength
Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT)
Academic trends and improvement
School context and opportunities

Leadership & Activities (25%)

Leadership roles and responsibilities
Extracurricular involvement
Community service and civic engagement
Work experience and family responsibilities
Athletic or artistic achievements

Essays & Context (20%)

Personal essays demonstrating character
Supplemental essays showing UT fit
Overcoming challenges or adversity
Unique perspectives and experiences
Personal growth and development

Special Circumstances (15%)

First-generation college student status
Socioeconomic background
Geographic diversity
Family educational background
Special talents or achievements

Strategies for UT Austin Admission Success

Academic Excellence Strategy

Maintain highest possible GPA (3.8+ for holistic review)
Take most rigorous courses available (AP, dual enrollment)
Achieve strong SAT/ACT scores (1400+ SAT, 30+ ACT)
Excel in core subjects related to intended major
Show consistent academic growth and challenge-seeking

Texas Resident Strategy

Focus on class rank to reach top 6% if possible
Choose high school strategically if relocating within Texas
Understand auto-admit doesn't guarantee specific majors
Still need strong application for competitive programs
Consider backup majors with higher acceptance rates

Out-of-State Strategy

Need exceptional academic credentials (3.9+ GPA)
Demonstrate strong connection to Texas
Show unique perspectives and experiences
Excel in standardized tests
Apply to less competitive majors for better chances

Calculate Your UT Austin Admission Readiness

Use our GPA calculators to assess your academic standing:

High School GPA Calculator

Calculate your weighted and unweighted GPA for UT Austin applications.

Cumulative GPA Calculator

Track your overall GPA and class rank progress.

Frequently Asked Questions About UT Austin GPA Requirements

What GPA do you need to get into UT Austin?

For Texas residents in the top 6% of their class, automatic admission is guaranteed. For others, competitive GPAs are typically 3.8+ for a strong chance of admission.

Can you get into UT Austin with a 3.5 GPA?

While challenging, admission with a 3.5 GPA is possible with exceptional test scores, compelling essays, and strong extracurricular achievements, especially for less competitive majors.

How does the top 6% rule work at UT Austin?

Texas residents who rank in the top 6% of their high school graduating class are automatically admitted to UT Austin, though not necessarily to their first-choice major.

Is it harder for out-of-state students to get into UT Austin?

Yes, out-of-state admission is significantly more competitive as only about 10% of spots are reserved for non-Texas residents, requiring exceptional credentials.

What are the most competitive majors at UT Austin?

Engineering, Computer Science, Business (McCombs), and Communications are among the most competitive, often requiring top 1-3% class rank and exceptional qualifications.

Ready to Pursue UT Austin?

The University of Texas at Austin offers world-class education in one of America's most vibrant cities. Use our tools to track your progress and develop a competitive application strategy for this prestigious institution.

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