The University of Texas at Austin Reinstates SAT and ACT Scores
The University of Texas at Austin has officially reinstated SAT and ACT test score requirements for first-year admissions. This change reflects a broader national trend of selective universities returning to standardized testing after the COVID-19 test-optional period. At Quest For Success, we provide students and families with clear, updated guidance so they can plan their applications with confidence.
Why The University of Texas at Austin Reinstated Test Scores
The University of Texas at Austin follows a holistic admissions process that evaluates both academic and personal achievements. Academic factors include GPA, class rank, course rigor, and standardized test scores, while personal factors include essays, extracurricular involvement, and letters of recommendation.
Because admissions decisions are made by academic major, alignment between a student’s interests, academic preparation, and chosen major is a significant consideration. The “Why This Major” short answer response is especially important, as it demonstrates a student’s readiness and genuine interest in their field.
Former admissions counselors from The University of Texas at Austin have consistently emphasized the role of test scores in assessing readiness, particularly for competitive majors such as engineering, natural sciences, and business.
Understanding Automatic Admission in Texas
Texas law guarantees automatic admission to The University of Texas at Austin for students who graduate within a predetermined top percentage of their high school class. For recent admission cycles, this threshold has been the top 6%. Key points include:
- Automatic admission guarantees a place at the university but does not guarantee a spot in the student’s chosen major.
- Automatic admits are the only applicants reviewed for a second-choice major.
- Academic readiness varies widely among automatic admits due to differences in school rigor and available opportunities across Texas.
Standardized test scores help the university evaluate preparedness—especially for students whose schools offer limited advanced coursework.
Data Supporting the Return of Test Requirements
Recent data highlights the value of test scores in predicting student success at The University of Texas at Austin:
- 42% of nearly 73,000 applicants for Fall 2024 chose to submit test scores.
- Among automatic admits, 49% opted to include scores.
- Median SAT score for “opt-in” applicants: 1420
- Median SAT score for “non-opt-in” applicants: 1160
The University of Texas at Austin has also reported significant improvements in graduation rates—from 52% in 2013 to 74.5% in 2023—after implementing a student success program in 2012 that incorporated test scores as a predictor of academic performance.
Changes to Essay Requirements
- Required short answers reduced from three to two.
- One prompt remains major-focused.
- The new second prompt allows students to highlight a significant activity.
- The long essay remains mandatory but now offers more flexibility in topic choice.
Reintroduction of the Waitlist
The University of Texas at Austin will reinstate its waitlist for this cycle.
Important details:
- Automatic admits will not be placed on the waitlist.
- Students may receive waitlist offers starting March 1.
- Admission from the waitlist will depend on space availability within specific academic majors.
Updated Recommendation Letter Guidance
Recommendation letters remain optional; however, the university now recommends that students submit a letter from someone outside the classroom—such as a mentor, employer, coach, or community leader—who can add new insight beyond the standard application.
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Final Thoughts
The University of Texas at Austin’s decision to reinstate standardized testing requirements underscores its emphasis on academic preparedness and alignment with a student’s chosen major. With additional changes to deadlines, essays, and the reintroduction of the waitlist, students must prepare strategically and submit a well-rounded, well-aligned application.
Quest For Success is here to help students understand these updates, strengthen their profiles, and confidently navigate their path to admission at leading universities.