University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at Austin, informally UT Austin, UT, University of Texas, or Texas in sports contexts, is a public research university and the flagship institution of The University of Texas System. Founded in 1883 as "The University of Texas," its campus is located in Austin—approximately 1 mile (1,600 m) from the Texas State Capitol. The institution has the fifth-largest single-campus enrollment in the nation, with over 50,000 undergraduate and graduate students and over 24,000 faculty and staff. The university has been labeled one of the "Public Ivies," a publicly funded university considered as providing a quality of education comparable to those of the Ivy League.

UT Austin was inducted into the American Association of Universities in 1929, becoming only the third university in the American South to be elected. It is a major center for academic research, with research expenditures exceeding $550 million for the 2013–2014 school year. The university houses seven museums and seventeen libraries, including the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum and the Blanton Museum of Art, and operates various auxiliary research facilities, such as the J. J. Pickle Research Campus and the McDonald Observatory. Among university faculty are recipients of the Nobel Prize, Pulitzer Prize, the Wolf Prize, the Emmy Award, and the National Medal of Science, as well as many other awards.

UT Austin student athletes compete as the Texas Longhorns and are members of the Big 12 Conference. Its Longhorn Network is unique in that it is the only sports network featuring the college sports of a single university. The Longhorns have won four NCAA Division I National Football Championships, six NCAA Division I National Baseball Championships and has claimed more titles in men's and women's sports than any other school in the Big 12 since the league was founded in 1996. Current and former UT Austin athletes have won 130 Olympic medals, including 14 in Beijing in 2008 and 13 in London in 2012. The university was recognized by Sports Illustrated as "America's Best Sports College" in 2002.

Admissions requirements at the University of Texas at Austin include a comprehensive review of academic achievements, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation. Prospective undergraduate students must submit a completed application through ApplyTexas or the Coalition for College, along with official high school transcripts. The university considers the Academic Index, which includes GPA and standardized test scores such as the SAT or ACT, though the importance of these scores has been evolving with the adoption of test-optional policies. As part of the application, students are encouraged to submit essays that demonstrate their interests, leadership, and potential contributions to the campus community. Letters of recommendation are optional but can strengthen a student's application.

For admissions to graduate programs, applicants typically need to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Specific graduate programs may have additional prerequisites, such as GRE scores, relevant work experience, or portfolio submissions, depending on the discipline. International students must demonstrate proficiency in English through TOEFL or IELTS scores and submit certified translations of their academic records. The university also evaluates applicants holistically, considering personal factors, achievements, and potential.

The admissions process involves reviewing completed applications, evaluating academic record and test scores, assessing extracurricular involvement, and sometimes conducting interviews. The university promotes a diverse and inclusive student body and encourages applicants from various backgrounds.

Early action and early decision options are available for undergraduate applicants, allowing for earlier notification of admission decision. The application deadlines typically fall in November for early action and December for regular decision. Transfer students are also welcomed and are evaluated based on college transcripts, completed courses, and academic performance.

Overall, the process aims to select students based on their academic potential, leadership qualities, and alignment with the university’s mission to foster innovation, research, and community service. Applicants are advised to review specific departmental requirements and ensure all required materials are submitted by the deadline to enhance their chances of admission.

Affiliations

• UT System
• AAU
• URA
• SURA
• ORAU
• APLU

The campus is currently home to fourteen residence halls, the newest of which opened for residence in Spring 2007. On-campus housing can hold more than 7,100 students. Jester Center is the largest residence hall with its capacity of 2,945. Academic enrollment exceeds the on-campus housing capacity; as a result, most students must live in private residence halls, housing cooperatives, apartments, or with Greek organizations and other off-campus residences. The Division of Housing and Food Service, which already has the largest market share of 7,000 of the estimated 27,000 beds in the campus area, plans to expand to 9,000 beds in the near future.

Student organizations

The university recognizes more than 1,000 student organizations. In addition, it supports three official student governance organizations that represent student interests to faculty, administrators, and the Texas Legislature. Student Government, established in 1902, is the oldest governance organization and represents student interests in general. The Senate of College Councils represents students in academic affairs and coordinates the college councils, and the Graduate Student Assembly represents graduate student interests. The University Unions Student Events Center serves as the hub for student activities on campus. The Friar Society serves as the oldest honor society at the university. The Livestrong Texas 4000 for Cancer student organization is the longest annual charity bicycle ride in the world and has raised over $4 million for cancer research from its founding in 2004 to August, 2013.

The University of Texas at Austin offers a wide range of facilities and services dedicated to supporting student success and well-being beyond traditional lectures and seminars. Students have access to extensive academic resources including libraries such as the Perry-Castañeda Library, which provides vast collections of books, digital resources, study spaces, and research assistance. The university also maintains specialized labs and research centers across various disciplines, enabling students to engage in hands-on learning and innovative research activities.

For health and wellness, students can utilize the university’s Student Health Services, which includes primary healthcare, mental health counseling, wellness workshops, and health promotion programs. The Counseling and Mental Health Center offers individual and group counseling sessions, crisis intervention, and mental health resources aimed at supporting students’ psychological well-being. The campus is equipped with fitness facilities like the Gregory Gym and the REC Sports Center, providing opportunities for exercise, intramural sports, and recreational activities.

Students also benefit from career development services including career counseling, resume workshops, job fairs, internship placement programs, and employer networking events. The university’s Center for Career and Professional Development assists students in exploring career options and preparing for the job market. For transportation, the university operates an extensive shuttle service, bike-sharing programs, and parking facilities to facilitate mobility around campus.

Housing services include university-managed dormitories, off-campus housing assistance, and subsided meal plans through dining services. The university also caters to student needs with resources such as the Sanger Learning Center, which offers tutoring, academic coaching, and workshops to enhance learning skills.

Student organizations and leadership development programs are actively promoted, providing opportunities for community engagement, cultural activities, and extracurricular involvement. The university hosts cultural centers, diversity offices, and student advocacy groups to foster an inclusive campus environment.

Technology support is provided through the Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC), IT services, computer labs, and free Wi-Fi access across campus. Additionally, students can access transportation and safety services including the university police, emergency response units, and the Texas Student Emergency Fund. Overall, the University of Texas at Austin provides a comprehensive array of facilities and services aimed at supporting a holistic student experience beyond academics.

University of Texas at Austin offers a world-class education characterized by academic excellence, innovative research, and a vibrant campus community. As a flagship institution in Texas, it provides students with access to over 170 undergraduate and graduate programs across diverse fields including engineering, business, arts, sciences, and more, ensuring comprehensive educational opportunities. The university boasts a strong faculty composed of renowned scholars and researchers dedicated to mentoring students and advancing knowledge. Its extensive research facilities and partnerships with industries foster an environment of innovation and practical learning, preparing students for successful careers. UT Austin is also known for its dynamic campus life, rich traditions, and active student organizations that promote leadership, diversity, and community engagement. The university’s strategic location in Austin, a city famous for its cultural scene, technology industry, and entrepreneurial spirit, offers students numerous internships, job opportunities, and networking events. UT Austin's commitment to affordability and financial aid programs makes higher education accessible to a broad range of students. Additionally, its global community welcomes international students, providing support services and a welcoming environment. The university’s emphasis on sustainability, public service, and social impact aligns with the values of students seeking to make a difference in society. With a strong alumni network, including leaders in various fields worldwide, UT Austin provides an impressive foundation for lifelong success. All these factors make the University of Texas at Austin a compelling choice for students aspiring to excel academically, professionally, and personally.