Choosing the right high school classes is an important step in preparing for UT Austin. By focusing on rigor in your strongest areas, exploring classes related to your intended major, meeting core requirements, and balancing your workload, you’ll be well-positioned to showcase your strengths to the UT admissions team. Remember, your transcript tells the story of your academic journey—make it one that highlights your readiness to thrive as a Longhorn.

UT Austin just announced a staggering 90,000+ freshman applications for Fall 2025 - a 24% surge from last year, with out-of-state applications soaring by 48%. Early strategic planning has become more crucial than ever for aspiring Longhorns. Success in this competitive landscape, especially for selective majors like Business, Engineering, and Computer Science, requires a comprehensive approach beginning in 9th grade that aligns coursework, activities, and leadership development with students' intended majors. The good news is that with proper guidance and a strategic four-year plan, students can build authentic, compelling profiles that showcase their genuine interests and capabilities, helping them stand out even in UT's most competitive applicant pool yet. 

For seniors applying to college, the personal statement plays a significant role in your application. This essay, typically between 500 and 650 words, is crucial in the holistic review process for college admissions. As James Nondorf from the University of Chicago emphasizes, "The most important part of any college admissions essay is to write something you believe truly represents your unique voice—something that, beyond demonstrating your competencies as a writer, also displays your ability to be a creative and critical thinker and to make unique contributions to an academic community." This essay is your primary opportunity to communicate aspects of your personality, perspectives, and relationships that a resume alone can't convey. It’s your chance to give the admissions committee a sense of who you are and how you see the world. Tamara Siler from Rice University adds, "Sometimes an essay can be the conduit for a student to reveal something to the admission committee that we would never have thought to ask. In terms of selective admission, personal statements are very important in adding needed texture to an application file." Students are accustomed to writing academic papers with clear prompts, specific expectations, and a rubric outlining how to earn full credit. Personal essays are different. The prompts are open-ended, and the expectations can seem frustratingly vague. Embrace this freedom of thought—it's representative of what college will be like, and it's a fantastic opportunity to showcase your individuality. Once you've completed your draft, how can you ensure your essay stands out? We’ve developed a supportive 5-point scorecard to help you assess your personal statement: 

All applicants to the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M, and most other colleges need to submit a personal statement, also known as the Common App essay or the Long Essay. This essay, which runs between 500 and 650 words, plays a crucial role in the holistic review process for applications.

Choosing your major at The University of Texas at Austin can be tough. Explore all options, including mixed majors or custom degrees, to find a good fit. It's okay to be unsure now; college is a time to explore and grow. UT Austin supports students in finding their passions. Your major is just the start of an exciting journey.