Standardized Testing Policy FAQs
High school students who apply to The University of Texas at Austin for fall 2023 undergraduate admission will not be required to submit an ACT or SAT test score as part of their application.
Below are frequently asked questions regarding this policy change. If you have additional questions, please reach out to admissions@austin.utexas.edu.
Why was this decision made?
This change was initially made in Fall 2021 in order to allow the university to better serve potential students by ensuring that testing limitations related to COVID-19 do not affect a student’s ability to apply.
Does university admissions still suggest students take the exams if they can even though they're not mandatory?
Students are encouraged to submit SAT/ACT scores, but it is not required. Submitted standardized test scores will serve as one of many elements that are holistically assessed to determine a student’s ability to contribute to and benefit from the UT Austin educational experience. No single factor within the application determines admissibility. The Office of Admissions uses an individualized, holistic review process to consider each completed freshman application. Students should provide information in their application that demonstrates their academic potential. This can be accomplished in a number of ways, such as through their essay prompt, high school transcripts, or items like letters of recommendations or standardized ACT or SAT scores.
What is the deadline for submitting scores if I want them considered as part of my admissions application?
Student who wish to meet the priority deadline should submit their online application by November 1 and all remaining materials should be received by November 9. After November 9, applications go to review and any optional items submitted may not be considered.
To meet the regular deadline students should submit their online application by December 1 and all remaining materials should be received by December 9. After December 9, applications go to review and any optional items submitted may not be considered.
How will my application be reviewed without a standardized test score?
The Office of Admissions uses an individualized, holistic review process to consider each completed freshman application. Applications from students who qualify for automatic admission based on section 51.803 of the Texas Education Code are reviewed to determine admission to specific colleges, schools and majors. Applications from students who are not eligible for automatic admission are reviewed to determine admissibility and to make decisions about admission to specific colleges, schools and majors.
How I do indicate if I would like my scores considered as part of the holistic review process?
While completing the ApplyTexas or Common App application students will be asked if they would like their test score to be used as part of the holistic review process. A student should indicate that they would like their scores considered and submit official test scores from the testing agency by the appropriate deadline in order for their scores to be considered in the holistic review process.
How will this affect Calculus Readiness requirements for certain majors?
Additional tests may be required to ensure students receive adequate academic support services, especially in math-intensive majors. Students will be contacted if there are additional testing requirements.
Does this affect my eligibility for scholarships?
Scholarships awarded by UT Austin will not be affected by your submission or non-submission of standardized test scores. Students are advised to review application requirements for scholarships not administered by UT Austin to determine if a standardized score is required.
Does this affect my eligibility for Honors Programs?
Submitted standardized test scores will serve as one of many elements that are holistically assessed to determine a student’s admission to Honors programs. The Office of Admissions uses an individualized, holistic review process to consider each completed freshman application.
Are there other tests that I will need to take in place of the SAT/ACT if I am admitted?
Additional tests may be required to ensure students receive adequate academic support services, especially in math-intensive majors. Students will be contacted if there are additional testing requirements.
What will be the standardized testing requirements for international applicants?
International students who apply to The University of Texas at Austin for fall 2023 undergraduate admission will not be required to submit an ACT or SAT test score as part of their application.
International applicants must submit either an official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score report demonstrating an adequate knowledge of English. The TOEFL iBT is preferred over the IELTS. We cannot accept institutional TOEFL (ITP) scores.