The University of Texas at Austin is known for its rigorous academic standards and vibrant school spirit. Like many universities across the nation, standardized testing plays a significant role in the UT Austin college application process. In this article, we’ll explore UT Austin’s specific requirements and average ACT scores. Be sure to also check out our companion article covering UT Austin’s SAT expectations!
Reflecting its commitment to academic excellence, UT Austin’s average composite ACT score is around 30. This surpasses the national average of approximately 21. In addition, the 25th percentile score sits at 26, while the 75th percentile score reaches 33. These figures illustrate the high academic standards upheld by UT Austin. That said, they also highlight the range of scores among admitted students: there is no one score required for admission.
The ACT composite score represents the average of a student’s scores across four test sections: English, mathematics, reading, and science. Let’s dive into UT Austin’s ACT English and Math score statistics.
Currently, the average ACT English score at UT Austin ranges from 25 to 35, with the 25th and 75th percentiles sitting at those scores respectively. The average ACT English score for admits to UT Austin is a solid 32. Evidently, UT Austin students excel in the English section of the ACT, with given that the top 25% of scorers achieved a 35 or 36 in the English section.
The average ACT Math score among applicants admitted to UT Austin falls within the 25th and 75th percentiles of 25 and 33, respectively. Additionally, achieving an ACT Math score of 28 places you in the 50th percentile of scorers at UT Austin. While these scores are slightly lower than those in the English section, they remain well above the national average. Despite this fact, there is no singular benchmark score that applicants must meet for admission.
For students applying for admission for the fall of 2025, UT Austin has reinstated a standardized testing requirement. After four years of test-optional admissions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, UT Austin aims to resume the use of standardized testing scores in its admissions process.
Applicants are required to submit at least one set of scores directly from the testing agency. The essay section of the ACT is not required for admissions, although it may be used for other purposes, such as awarding course credit.
You can read more about UT Austin’s SAT requirements on their Application webpage.
Of all the students who enrolled at UT Austin in the fall of 2021, 23% submitted ACT scores, while 53% submitted SAT scores, and 24% did not submit either. While the SAT remains popular among accepted applicants, there is no disadvantage to submitting the ACT.
UT Austin does not superscore test scores. When sending your scores, you can use the College Board Score Choice option to select which test dates to submit scores from. However, you cannot select individual scores from different test dates.
UT Austin does not have specific ACT score requirements or cutoffs, but most admitted students have high standardized test scores. This is compared to the national average of a composite 21. Because UT Austin accepts the top 6% of the graduating class of all high schools in Texas, those students need not worry about achieving a perfect ACT score if UT Austin is their dream school.
For students who are out-of-state, or are in-state but aren’t in the top 6% of their graduating class, then striving for that 50th percentile or higher will position you well in the admissions process.
| Section | 25th | 50th | 75th |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite | 26 | 30 | 33 |
| English | 25 | 32 | 35 |
| Math | 25 | 38 | 33 |
While challenging, gaining admission to UT Austin with a below-average ACT score is possible. However, strong academic and extracurricular achievements can compensate for lower scores. UT Austin maintains a holistic approach to admissions, considering various aspects of an applicant’s profile. In addition, remember that if you are in the top 6% of your high school’s graduating class in the state of Texas, then your ACT score won’t impact your admissions chances.
Regardless, you should strive for an ACT score in the 50th percentile or above among admitted applicants in order to have the best chance of being admitted. If you don’t achieve a score in the 50th percentile, then you may want to retake the ACT (if you still have time). If retaking the ACT is not an option, you can focus on the other elements of your application, like your essays, extracurriculars, and teacher recommendations.
We generally advise that students take the ACT during their junior spring semester. That said, the exam can be taken or retaken later. For students applying to UT Austin in the Early Action round, scores must be sent to the school by the official testing agency by November 8. For students applying during the Regular Decision round, scores need to be received by admissions officers by December 11. In general, it’s best to send scores as soon as you have received them.
UT Austin’s ACT code for submitting official test scores is 4240.
In conclusion, while ACT scores are considered in UT Austin’s admissions process, admissions officers consider many factors. Applicants should strive for strong scores while focusing on their overall academic and extracurricular achievements. Because of UT Austin’s recent reinstatement of the standardized testing requirement, students should focus on studying for and taking the SAT or ACT if they plan to apply. If you’re considering the SAT, check out our article about UT Austin’s SAT stats and requirements!
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