Omniac Attack!

Current Articles | RSS Feed RSS Feed

Want to go to University of Texas at Austin? Get in line!

Posted by Mark Truman on Mon, Jan 12, 2009 @ 04:20 PM
  
  
  
  
  
Add to delicious  delicious  
  

I have a good number of students every year who would like to attend the University of Texas at Austin.  There are a lot of great reasons to go to Austin (weather, cool city, great sports teams, world-class programs), but my students are always surprised to find out just how competitive UT Austin actually is when compared to similar schools. 

For example, last year UT Austin admitted around 50% of its applicants.  That's an incredible difference from Brigham Young's 75% admission rate or Arizona State's 90%+ rate, two more typical rates when looking at large state schools that have strong academic programs. UT's low rate is much closer to Occidental College (45%), a small private college than it is to any of these other state schools!

I've always known that UT Austin has a strong preference for in-state students and assumed that they have gotten more selective over the years, a typical position for a school that has raised standards and built a brand that appeals to parents and students. But this week, some information came out of the UT campus that redefined the discussion quite a bit.

The University of Texas at Austin President, William Powers, revealed to the Texas Associated Press that 81% of entering freshman at UT: Austin were admitted under the "10% law" and called for the law to be rewritten to give his admissions staff more discrection in the process.

That's right.  More than 80% of the entire entering class has to meet only two requirements to be automatically granted admission:

  1. Graduate from a Texas High School
  2. Be in the top 10% of the class

That leaves the admissions office at UT Austin in a bind.  They can't deny admission to any of these students, so they have to get more selective with the remainder of their class. 

Therefore, unless you are a stand out student, it's going to be difficult to gain admission, not because the student body is getting more selective overall, but because they are simply so few spots left! (You'll find the same sort of situation over in the Ivy Leagues, where admission rates have fallen in half because the number of applicants has doubled without a significant increase in open spots.)

Powers is going to continue to fight this battle, but he's not doing it to ensure that they can get more out of state students.  In fact, he's more concerned about Texas students that don't meet the requirements being denied admission and the efficiacy of this program in regards to minority applicants.

So, what can you do about the low admission rate for out of state students?  Not much.   As you now know, there aren't a lot of spots left every year for out of state kids. You've got to treat UT Austin as if it was an incredibly selective school.

But now that you know how tough the battle will be, you can get ready for it.  Improve your ACT or SAT score, get some help with your college essay, and keep your grades high!  If you've set a goal like UT Austin, make you are getting all the help you need!

#####################################

What are you doing to get ready for applications this year?  Let us know in the comments!

Tags: ,

Comments

Gods! Haven't been even near UT since Darryl Royal was running the Wishbone. Left Texas then and never had a desire to go back, for all sorts of reasons
Posted @ Monday, January 26, 2009 11:35 PM by jrandom42
Texas is an interesting place. I've noticed that my students have strong reactions to it. 
 
However, I think Austin is a lot different from the rest of Texas. My visits there have helped to convince me that Austin is refreshingly weird!
Posted @ Wednesday, January 28, 2009 9:30 AM by Mark Truman
This is obsurd. The top 10% is crucial.. let it go.
Posted @ Wednesday, March 18, 2009 5:05 PM by Emily ROLL
@emily - Do you mean to say that I shouldn't report on the 10% law? I personally don't have a problem with it, but it's making it difficult for the UT admissions office to function...
Posted @ Wednesday, March 18, 2009 5:11 PM by Mark Truman
Consider this... 
I am in the top 10.3% of my graduating class, and I was offered in UT's CAP program. In simple terms it means I got denied admission to UT Austin's Fall 2009 freshman class.  
Now, it seems a understandable for me to be denied entry if I were in the top 25% of my class. But, currently there are two people between me and the top 10% rule. I have a higher SAT score than almost half of the "top ten percenters" in my class (all of whom I know), and I am a competitive student, who attended a small (small as in graduating class of four people small) private high school for two years, and then transfered to a large public high school with no rank and no academic GPA, and I worked very hard to get where I am. So how is the top 10% rule "crucial" to admissions? Crucial in the sense that it causes the University to deny well-qualified students? That just doesn't seem right. 
The top 10% rule assumes a lot of things about an applicant, and leaves out many other important details. And what happens, if, like this year, so many top 10% students (there are over 24,000 of them) applied that the University has to fill up their freshman class with only top ten percenters and reject everyone else? How is that a good idea?
Posted @ Saturday, March 21, 2009 5:58 AM by Laura B
@laura - I think your case is exactly why the 10% admission policy is probably a bad idea. 10% is a wide swath of students...so wide that it's taking students that probably don't belong. 
 
I think the best quote from your comment is this: 
 
"The top 10% rule assumes a lot of things about an applicant, and leaves out many other important details." 
 
Where did you end up deciding to go to school?
Posted @ Saturday, March 21, 2009 1:41 PM by Mark Truman
Wow Laura, I definitely agree with you.  
 
I am in the same position. I got offered the CAP program as well. I am in the top 10.7% of my class, am in numerous activities (several of which I hold leadership positions), have good SAT scores, and have worked my butt off to get where I am.  
 
We received the same offer as any other Texas applicant who did not receive direct admissions. As long as you live in Texas and apply to UT, you will at least be assured entrance to the University thru CAP. This infuriates me. I could have taken regular classes and been in the top 10% of my class, but instead, I figured it would pay off if I took Advanced Placement classes. I guess I was wrong. 
 
When I hear people say that the top 10% rule is "crucial" like Emily, it makes me think they are ignorant. The fact that she has misspelled the word "absurd" even furthers my assumption.
Posted @ Saturday, March 28, 2009 5:36 PM by Kaylie
@Kaylie - I'm sorry to hear that you have been frustrated by the 10% issue. You may be happy to know that there are efforts to cap the number of students admitted to Austin under the 10% law at 60% of the class.  
 
The more I hear from students, the less I like this program. I hope that the efforts to change it are successful. 
 
However, those efforts don't much help you. Have you looked into alternate state schools? There are lots of places where you can still find spots open for school if you look! 
 
Posted @ Sunday, March 29, 2009 11:21 AM by Mark Truman
Thanks for your concern, Mr. Truman. 
 
I actually wrote to several Senators, Representatives, and Governor Perry urging them to vote in favor of SB 175 (the bill that plans to alter the Top 10 Percent Law). 
 
I'm currently appealing the admissions decision. I've been a die hard Longhorn since I was a baby, so UT is definitely my number one choice.  
 
If I don't get in through the appeal, though, I'll be a Boomer Sooner. I also got into LSU, but I think OU would better suit me. It's quite the opposite of UT, but after the appeal, I'll have done everything in my power to get in and maybe that's what I'll need.
Posted @ Sunday, March 29, 2009 11:41 AM by Kaylie
First, call me Mark. Mr. Truman makes me think of my dad. :) 
 
Second, I'm impressed with your tenacity! I think you will feel better once you've done everything you can to work on your admission. 
 
Please let us know if we can help!
Posted @ Sunday, March 29, 2009 11:44 AM by Mark Truman
How does this work if you have been out of High School for over ten years and have taken classes at two different Comunity Colleges? I was number 3 in my Texas public high school, class of 35 persons, back in 1996 with a 93.7 GPA. I joined the USMC after high school and served for 8 years. After the USMC I took a few classes, five to be exact, at TCC (in Fort Worth)and my GPA was 4.0. What are my chances at getting in to UT? I will be using the new GI Bill which will pay for the full tuition and books. What is the best approach for me to get accepted into UT? Thank You!
Posted @ Wednesday, June 03, 2009 6:25 PM by Gabe
@Gabe - Hello! Thanks for visiting the site.  
 
As far as your individual case goes, I don't believe you will qualify under the 10% plan because you've already taken college classes. In fact, I believe that UT may treat you as a transfer student. 
 
If you've like more information, I'd be happy to chat with you on the phone or via email. Hit us up through our contact page on the site!
Posted @ Wednesday, June 10, 2009 4:11 PM by Mark Truman
There is hope for the 11%ers, but beware. My son (a little out of the top 10 percent) was not initially accepted to UT Austin, but was offered an opportunity to be on a small(250 I think) waitlist. He found out May 29 that he got in. We're now stuck in the nighmare of trying to figure out financial aid (that office is impossibly far behind), housing (dorms are full and student apts are confusing) and he won't even register until a day before classes begin. It's very stressful having everything up in the air and not even knowing the size of the check you'll have to write for it.
Posted @ Monday, August 03, 2009 2:20 PM by Jane K
@Jane - Congrats! I'm so glad to hear that your son got in. Try to keep in mind how wonderful that is as you get buried in a mountain of paperwork. :) 
 
Last minute work is always stressful, but in the case of college admissions it can eventually feel like you are snatching victory from the jaws of defeat. Hang in there and you'll reap the benefits down the road. 
 
In the meantime, let us know if we can help!
Posted @ Monday, August 03, 2009 2:41 PM by Mark Truman
My daughter is a senior this year with a weighted grade average of 92.6 and this puts her in the 19th percentile of her class. A slow start in the 9th grade started her in the 36th percentile but hard work in 10th an 11th grade improved her standing significantly. Her SAT score (first attempt) was 1860 (620 critical reading, 590 math and 650 writing). She has taken a very challenging schedule each year, completing 7 units in English (4 yrs AP + 1 unit Creative Writing + 2 units of Journalism and Newspaper); 4 Units each of AP math and science (1 Pre-AP), 4 units of AP history and economics, 2 units of French; 3 units of Art (1 AP) and Orchestra; and units in Speech, Health, Computer, Graphic Design. She has taken two years of Independent study classes where she has written a novel (550 pages), to include doing all the formatting to prepare the manuscript for publication. 
 
 
 
As a parent it is frustrating to know that the 10% rule and only the 10% rule, might cause her to not be accepted to UT Austin. As a Texan, it frustrates me to know that we could lose this potential young talent to another state. 
 
 
 
Posted @ Friday, August 28, 2009 1:05 AM by jan
@Jan - Yes, it is frustrating that your student sees stiffer competition because of the 10% rule. It looks like she's done a lot to build a fantastic resume and it would be a pity for her to be denied based on a large scale program. 
 
However, I wouldn't be too quick to jump the gun and declare her out of luck. It sounds to me like she has a significantly above average application. While she might only be in the top 19% of her class, her AP Classes, test scores, and accomplishments are fantastic!  
 
The 10% program has a purpose. It helps students who go to high schools that don't have the AP classes and internship opportunities that your daughter has had. It's a valuable program for bringing low-income and minority students into college. 
 
Please, let us know what happens!
Posted @ Friday, August 28, 2009 12:40 PM by Mark Truman
What are my chances of getting into UT as a transfer student with 3.5 GPA. I am transferring from UTD. I have some volunteer hours and am involved in 3 campus clubs. I want to get into the school of natural sciences.
Posted @ Friday, September 25, 2009 3:34 PM by Archana
@Archana - It's really tough to say what your chances are without knowing more about your application. If you'd like you can contact me at markt@omniaceducation.com, I would be thrilled to talk with you in more detail. 
 
That said, 45% of transfer students are admitted at UT Austin. Given your GPA and involvement, I would rate your chances as fairly good!
Posted @ Friday, September 25, 2009 3:48 PM by Mark Truman
People who complain that the 10% rule is bad because they didn't get in need to stop. Sure, it makes admission more difficult, and I don't agree with the law, but UT Austin still reviews all "non-top-10%" applicants. If you aren't good enough, you don't make the cut. I applied for admission fall 2010, and am a resident of Maryland. Yes, out of state, where the odds are even slimmer. I was offered admission for fall 2010 before winter break. So, I don't agree with the law, but it does ensure diversity and it does bring lots of competitive students to the school. Just maintain your GPA and be involved in your community and school. (That doesn't mean "I have a decent GPA and am pretty involved.") Plus, when you get in, it's all the sweeter. 
@ mark truman, I couldn't have said it better!
Posted @ Tuesday, January 05, 2010 6:53 PM by Gordie
Updating my Aug. 28th post.... 
 
 
 
My daughter increased her SAT to 1910 and took the ACT and scored a 29 (33 on the writing/english section). She was accepted early admission to Tulane and much to our surprise she was accepted today to UT Austin eventhough she was in the 19th percentile when she applied (she's 16th percentile now). She was accepted to three other safety schools and she is waiting to hear from two others. So its been a very exciting time. Thanks for your encouragement.
Posted @ Friday, February 19, 2010 12:14 AM by Jan
@Jan - Great! As I said before, she has an outstanding application overall. I'm not at all surprised to hear she was admitted. Good luck to her in the fall! 
 
Also, thanks a lot for checking back in with us...
Posted @ Friday, February 19, 2010 5:15 PM by Mark Truman
I agree that those who are complaining about the top 10% rule stop complaining. I moved from a school with a class of 200 people of which I was #5 to a class with 700 people that was much more academically competitive my junior year and worked my hardest with all AP classes to get in the top 8% of my class. I really believe that anyone who is in the top 10% deserves to be automatically admitted. You either worked hard enough or you didn't and that's the harsh reality of it.
Posted @ Sunday, February 28, 2010 8:40 PM by Tiffany
Wow... I had totally forgotten I had posted a comment to this blog. I posted almost a year ago, right after I had gotten denied admission to UT and had been offered the CAP program. I stated above that I had chosen to appeal the decision. I told you, Mark, that I would keep you posted on whether or not I got in... 
 
Well, I am writing to you as I sit in my dorm room in Austin, Texas as a TEXAS LONGHORN! I got in through the appeals process and I am so glad I did. 
 
As you know, I was not in the top 10% of my school. Many people say if you're not in the top 10% you don't deserve to be here. I definitely disagree. I had a 3.5 GPA last semester here at Texas and I made the Dean's List. Having to work so hard to get here has made me really appreciate it. 
 
I encourage everyone who gets in automatically to really be grateful, but also recognize that being a good college student has more to do with study habits and initiative than where you sat in your high school class ranking. I have several friends here who were in the top 10 percent of my graduating class and are now on academic probation.  
 
Anyways, that was my spiel... Just thought I should share. 
 
Hook 'em \m/
Posted @ Sunday, February 28, 2010 11:54 PM by Kaylie Williams
Kaylie, 
My son just had a similar experience to yours. We found out this weekend that he was denied admission and offered the CAP. It is encouraging to hear of your success in the appeals process. I would be very interested in your appeal strategy.
Posted @ Monday, March 01, 2010 9:16 AM by Jon Brickey
@Kaylie - Great job! I'm so pleased to hear that your appeal led to results. Well done! Please share anything you felt made the difference. 
 
@Jon - Kaylie's example is a great place to start. Don't give up and let me know if there's anything we can do to help.
Posted @ Monday, March 01, 2010 9:44 AM by Mark Truman
Jon, 
 
My best advice to your son is to get in touch with his admissions counselor. Ka'rin (my admissions counselor) was extremely helpful in telling me what the appeals board is looking for. Also, I'm not positive and they won't tell you for sure, but I believe your son's admissions counselor can rally for your son if he or she feel like he really deserves to get in. Therefore, make friends with him or her, because they're on your side. 
 
Also, one thing Ka'rin stressed was that the appeals board is looking for NEW information. It's a huge turnoff if you ask them to "reconsider your original application". 
 
The process is definitely competitive. Last year, Ka'rin told me many people (over a thousand I believe she said) appeal, but only a handful will have their original decision overturned. For that reason, it's important to really make your appeal stand out. Many people only send in a letter and I have a feeling that's not too impressive to the appeals board, but that's just me. Get creative and put some work into it and I'm sure it will pay off.  
 
For me personally, the appeals process was grueling, emotional and stressful, but in the end, it was absolutely, totally worth it to get in.  
 
Hope this helps! Tell your son good luck and let me know if there's anything else I can do :) 
 
P.S. The appeals process is very hush hush so you'll probably find it hard to get in depth information about it. Again, your son's admissions counselor will be loads of help in this area.
Posted @ Monday, March 01, 2010 4:23 PM by Kaylie Williams
Jon, 
 
I just googled the appeals process for UT and apparently, just this year, they formalized the process and published information about it... Lucky you (or your son, rather)! Here's the link to the information: 
 
http://bealonghorn.utexas.edu/freshmen/admission/appeals/index.html 
 
And feel free to email me with any other questions you have at kaylie.williams@yahoo.com
Posted @ Monday, March 01, 2010 4:29 PM by Kaylie Williams
The 10% rule is stupid because that assumes that all high schools are equally rigorous. Some high schools are clearly better and more "college prep" than others, meaning someone could be ranked in the top 50% at one school and have had tougher courses and competition than someone in the top 10% at another school. Plus, it doesn't take into account difficulty of the course load. Some students may be loading up on home ec and band while others are taking honors physics and honors calculus. To not even look at the cirriculum is stupid. Plus, finishing in the top 10% of a class of 80 is not the same as finishing in the top 10% of a class of 800. Typical Texan dimwits.
Posted @ Wednesday, April 28, 2010 4:14 PM by Mortimer
I can't stand to see these comments go unanswered. The 10% law (which was probably a response to Texas's elimination of affirmative action policies) does not deny students who are not in the top 10% of their class automatically. I was admitted out of state (I'm from Maryland), so I wasn't eligible for the 10% rule, but still gained entrance into the university's honors programs and the business school. Anyone who applies who isn't in the top 10% still has their application reviewed holistically.. they're just not guaranteed admission.  
That said, the reason the law is in place is to increase diversity since the (arguably more fair) affirmative action policies are now illegal. It's not perfect, but it's not denying qualified students spots at the university by any means. If a student is qualified as a student at UT, he will be admitted. If he's not, he won't be offered admission.
Posted @ Wednesday, April 28, 2010 8:31 PM by Gordie
@Mortimer - I don't think the 10% rule assumes that all high schools are equally rigorous. In fact, I believe the intent of the law is exactly the opposite. 
 
Many students in Texas go to high schools that don't have the opportunities that are available to students at more successful and challenging schools. The 10% rule keeps those students in the application pool and levels the playing field.
Posted @ Thursday, April 29, 2010 10:18 AM by Mark Truman
@Gordie - I don't think anyone here has said that students that are outside the 10% will be denied admission.  
 
It is, however, much more difficult to get admitted outside of the program. Given your accomplishments, I would say that you're likely a top scorer with a fantastic GPA. It's likely that your application is well above the average for UT Austin...which is why you were admitted. An average application that isn't in the 10% is usually rejected.
Posted @ Thursday, April 29, 2010 10:25 AM by Mark Truman
This new law is absolutely ridiculous. Lets compare two different kids: One goes to a lower ranked high school, and just by adding one and one, he got into the top ten percent. The second kid takes all AP and Honors classes, and has learned a tremendous amount of material in high school, but since he goes to a top ranked high school, he is only in the top quarter. They both apply to UT Austin, and only the kid in the top ten gets accepted. After a semester or so, this kid finds out that college is just a little bit harder than addition. After his first semester, he fails out. Basically, that kids spot could have been filled by the top quarter kid who is clearly smarter, and would succeed in life. He could have graduated and made the world a better place, but rather the top ten kid just makes the world a less developed place. Basically, this situation is showing how this new law is destroying the world.
Posted @ Friday, April 30, 2010 10:07 PM by Jesus Christ
@ jesus christ.. 
The kid you described who was in the top quarter of a competitive high school taking lots of AP classes would almost certainly be admitted, along with the student in the under-achieving school in the top 10. Admissions takes into account the rigor of coursework, competitiveness of the school, extracurriculars, etc when deciding who to admit. Is the system perfect? No, and far from it I'd say, but it does help fill the void in diversity that the outlawing of affirmative action left. It's Texas's attempt to replace affirmative action (which probably would have been less controversial..). Further, are there any statistics that say that it's now much harder to be admitted to UT than before the 10% rule? I just think it's hard to argue that, because of this rule, fully qualified students are being turned away. UT does everything it can to get students in (CAP, spring semester, appeals, etc).
Posted @ Friday, April 30, 2010 11:04 PM by Gordie
i think the top 10% percent rule is obsurd you should let it go.
Posted @ Tuesday, May 18, 2010 12:20 PM by mary
They can be offered CAP, I was. There are rigorous requirements to meet, but if you do then you'll be admitted to UT Austin as a sophomore.
Posted @ Tuesday, May 18, 2010 11:16 PM by
Hello I am currently a senior in high school, and well since the laws have changed I know that the top 8% rule applies now, so I know I have automatic admittance to the University, but say I apply in September how soon will I know If I was accepted into my major of choice or not? Considering I am applying for the MCcombs School of Business I understand the difficulty of getting into that selected major which is why it's crucial I know soon. Do you think I would possibly know before December? Thanks so much for your input it's greatly appreciated.
Posted @ Monday, August 16, 2010 5:56 PM by Jasmine
@Jasmine 
You'll know the major you've been accepted into once you're given your admission decision. I don't believe UT has a Early Decision/Action program, so you may have to wait as long as mid March to know. 
 
Sorry, I know that doesn't ease your mind much.  
 
I got in to UT Austin through the CAP program. I really think it was the best thing for me, as I had a year to drill in the study habits, discover what I really wanted to do and what needed to be done to get there, and how to handle my money as a college student before I was on an immense campus with next to no one to help me figure all of those things out. 
Things to think about.
Posted @ Monday, August 16, 2010 8:18 PM by Blair
@Jasmine - Unfortunately, Blair is right. You're going to have to wait for your admission decision to know your major status. And since UT Austin doesn't have an early admission deadline, you may need to wait until March...or later. 
 
I would recommend applying early, however. It's likely that if you get your app in early, you might see an earlier decision.
Posted @ Tuesday, August 17, 2010 12:48 PM by Mark Truman
@Jasmine 
I agree with Truman. The earlier you get your application in, the better your chances are of being admitted to your major. When the rep from UT came to speak with us, she said that early apps will not effect our admission decision, but it will influence our choice of major. It was confusing, but it makes sense.
Posted @ Tuesday, August 17, 2010 2:24 PM by Blair
What if you're taking Dual Credit Courses? 
 
A teacher told me if we passed dual credit courses we're technically transfer students and not freshmen. Does this mean my rank won't mater??? Also, I need some person left to be top 8 percent. I am worried, because I really want to be a long horn.
Posted @ Sunday, September 05, 2010 10:32 PM by Elizabeth
@Elizabeth 
 
I went in with 12 credits I got from AP and Dual Credit. The credits transfer but you will not be classified as a transfer student. Your teacher is telling you technicalities that the colleges don't bother with. They'd have almost no original students if every credit earned through AP/Dual deemed you a transfer student.
Posted @ Sunday, September 05, 2010 11:14 PM by Blair
I have a 35 composite ACT and a 4.2 GA from a rigorous private high school in Dallas. I am not top 8%, and beyond that info, my school does not rank. Not sure if I can get get into UT McCombs, but have been accepted and offered scholarships by six out of state schools (early action.) I hate to leave Texas, but may have no choice!
Posted @ Saturday, November 20, 2010 1:30 PM by Susan
@Susan - Wow! That sound like an excellent application. I would recommend waiting to hear back from UT Austin; there is a very strong chance that you will be admitted. If not, best of luck out of state!
Posted @ Monday, November 22, 2010 10:50 AM by Mark Truman
UT Austin is supported by State tax dollars, and I pay these taxes. Therefore, I WANT Texas residents to have preferential treatment. If UT Austin becomes totally private, then I do not care what it does. 
 
 
 
Also, I like the top 10% rule. It reward performance of some type, and everyone has a shot, no matter how big or how small their school may be. 
 
 
 
Even though my son was in the top 12% and will not gain automatic admission, he has only himself to blame for that.  
 
 
 
Him not being selected has nothing to do with his gender, race, or financial need. I really like the idea that some measure of performance is used. 
 
 
 
I could not care less that admissions offices and the education bureaucracy does not have as much control. I am sick of my tax money being used to advance the personal agendas of a few. 
 
 
 
If a student is in the top 10% of a poor school district, he/she is admitted just the same as if he/she was in the top 10% of a more affluent district. I am perfectly OK with this metric, as the state of Texas controls the state curriculum. 
 
 
 
Posted @ Thursday, December 02, 2010 2:26 PM by M Shelton
@Shelton - I think you've made some really great points about why the system works. The UT Austin campus should absolutely prefer Texas students and the 10% plan offers a way for a good number of disadvantaged students to enter the system. 
 
I'm only trying to explain to students how the system works. Once they understand it, they can choose to pursue academic strategies that will help them reach their goals.
Posted @ Friday, December 03, 2010 1:26 PM by Mark Truman
Hi, I am wanting to get in to UT for fall of 2011. I am at UH right now, and have a 4.0. The only involvement i really do is a religious club because i don't live on campus. I have a professor to write a letter of recommendation too.  
In high school i didn't apply, but i was in the top 15%. I was in a few clubs in high school. 
How much of a chance do you think i have?!?? 
i will probably go for the college of engineering or natural sciences.
Posted @ Saturday, January 01, 2011 10:42 PM by Danielle
@Danielle - It's hard to say how good your application is without more specific information. If you would like to contact me to share that information, send me an email at markt@omniaceducation.com. 
 
That said, it sounds to me that your extracurricular activities are a little light. Would it be possible for you to get involved in a few more things before you apply?
Posted @ Sunday, January 02, 2011 3:08 PM by Mark Truman
Ok so I'm reading a lot of these comments and I'm beginning to think that i have no chance at this college but i really want to go...... of course I'm only a freshman at Quitman High over here in louisiana and im looking to become a computer specialist or programmer i have had a lot of time with computers and learned alot but not the programming and my dad is not good at it so i am going to become a programmer like my dad wanted to. But here's the thing im not good with grades and im not sure what ill make on the ACT test im not even sure what that happens to be in all honestly..... but i can tell the inside of a computer and name the parts like nothing i can go through the computer and fix any problem you have but i cannot make an anti virus program i cannot even make one simple line. I've studied the Java Language course to better understand some programming of games, but i got lost and havn't had the time to start over scince i was remodling the house. if i cannot get into this college do ya'll happen to know any other college i might be able to enter that has a good computer science and engineering course?
Posted @ Wednesday, January 05, 2011 8:21 PM by nick greer
@Nick - First, calm down. :) The college admissions process isn't nearly as bad as you think it is. Honestly, there are lots and lots of college that have great science and engineering courses. 
 
Second, you need to get focused on your grades right now. It's much too early for you to be worried about your test scores and essays, but your grades can use your attention and focus right now. 
 
You might also want to look into various classes and courses that deal with computer work. You probably already have more knowledge than most students who are graduating from high school! If you can expand further on it, you can make it a huge asset during the admissions process. 
 
Does that help? 
Posted @ Wednesday, January 05, 2011 11:11 PM by Mark Truman
I am a freshman at Penn State University and I am thinking about transfering to UT. I have a 3.87 gpa. I was wondering what my chances of getting are and when I would be notified.
Posted @ Sunday, January 23, 2011 11:31 PM by Jarred
@Jarred - Your GPA is really solid, but it's difficult to tell how strong your application is without knowing more information. If you'd like, send me an email at markt@omniaceducation.com and we can chat more privately. 
 
As far as being notified, transfer applicants are usually notified around April and May...
Posted @ Monday, January 24, 2011 9:23 AM by Mark Truman
@Truman - ok well yes it helps and thank you sorry i was grounded helping a friend in need so sorry it took so long and ok that helps thanks :)
Posted @ Tuesday, February 15, 2011 3:43 PM by nick greer
@Nick - Great! I'm glad we were able to help. Let me know if you have any more questions.
Posted @ Tuesday, February 15, 2011 5:01 PM by Mark Truman
Hi, 
 
 
 
I stumbled across this article and couldn't stop reading it. I am valedictorian of my class, have a 3.93 GPA, and scored a 29 on the SAT. Obviously, because of the 10% rule I was accepted into UT Austin a few months ago. I would just like to add to a comment Mark made. While the rule isn't fair to everyone, to those of us who are from tiny schools with no opportunities for AP classes,extracurriculars other than sports, etc it is a godsend. UT isn't my 1st choice, but because of financial difficulties it may be my only choice. I know that this whole process is frustrating but please keep in mind that the 10% law is the only way some of us have a shot at getting into a decent Texas school. :)
Posted @ Tuesday, February 22, 2011 10:56 AM by Taylor
@Taylor - Well put! I think sometimes people believe all schools to offer equal opportunities when they do not.  
 
Goo luck at UT!
Posted @ Tuesday, February 22, 2011 5:04 PM by Mark Truman
Hello! I just discovered this thread today and read the entire thing. It spans from 2009, over two years ago and keeps going!  
I feel like I'm in on the line between whether or not the 10% rule (now I guess 8%) is good or not.  
I went through the admissions process last year, and have to say I was quite ignorant thinking I'd get in the the UT Business school right off the bat. My second major was Art. That wasn't smart of me to list that. I was 14% of my school out of 700 students. I took AP classes and lots of extracurricular but in the end it wasn't enough.  
I had a lot of high school friends who were border line 10% as in 10.1-11% and did NOT get in. Their applications were outstanding. Of course it's frustrating at first but now we're all CAP students at UTSA. We've had a fun year so far and it's fairly easy (easier than high school for the most part). 
We also have a friend who's a freshman at Penn State U who would also like to transfer to UT Austin. He is an actual transfer student (not like us CAPs) and probably will have more difficulty getting in. But that doesn't stop us from still trying.  
As of now I have a 4.0 but it may become a 3.89 by the end of the spring semester. I'm not sure if that'll be enough to get into the McCombs School of Business (disregarding my actual application of course) but I have to say if you aren't accepted to UT Austin your freshman year, definitely do the CAP program! It's very refreshing here at UTSA and it's a good first step to a college career.  
Although I may not get into the UT Business school, I do have a backup plan.. but I don't want to do that unless I have to.. 
Applications for CAP students are due March 1st and I'm not sure if the Essays I wrote will really impact my application or not.  
Posted @ Friday, February 25, 2011 11:40 AM by Miki
@miki - Thanks for the feedback! I think it's a good reminder that the CAPS program isn't a death sentence... 
 
Your essays absolutely do matter. Please feel free to contact me at markt@omniaceducation.com if you would like me to look over them.
Posted @ Friday, February 25, 2011 5:23 PM by Mark Truman
My son is top5% w/31 ACT lots of leadership, community service, AP & Honors etc...He is wait listed b/c he didn't attend a Texas High School. He is a Texas Resident though but b/c his father choose to serve his country he had to go to High School in NC. He is NOT considered a resident of NC. So he is like an orphan b/c of this.
Posted @ Tuesday, March 15, 2011 5:39 AM by theresa
@Theresa - A number of states make accommodations for students who are living in the state with a parent who is in the armed forces. Have you contacted the NC schools to talk about the issue?
Posted @ Tuesday, March 15, 2011 10:33 AM by Mark Truman
Oh Yes! And Cody even volunteered on the political campaign of Rick Glazier who got some movement on this just this past year. The catch is as soon as we move out of state (this summer) he will ONLY remain in resident status IF he does not change his major/college. That is too high a risk for us. The "graduated from a Texas High School" stipulation should be lifted for children of Military who have ALWAYS been Texas Residents.
Posted @ Tuesday, March 15, 2011 10:39 AM by Theresa
Personally I think the top 10% rule hinders a lot of decision making. I went to an extremely competitive arts magnet high school, and our top 10% was 17 people (our entire graduating class was just 172 kids). I had a 3.8 and was only in the top 25%. I also had a 1930 on the SAT and 7 AP scores, all 4's or 5's. I didn't get into UT because of the top ten rule. I became roommates with a girl who went to a normal high school in Houston. Her graduating class was 2,000 kids (notice her top ten percent, 200 kids, was bigger than my entire graduating class). She had a 2.7 gpa, never took an AP class, and admitted to me that she took three classes her senior year, one of which was Office Assistant. Because she was top 10% at her school, she got into UT.
Posted @ Thursday, April 14, 2011 9:34 PM by MG
@MG - Agreed. There's definitely a problem when students who are working much less hard are being admitted at a higher rate.
Posted @ Friday, April 15, 2011 9:53 AM by Mark Truman
I stumbled upon this thread and figured that I might as well add to it. I'm currently a freshman and due to financial circumstances and summer classes, I have credit from 2 Universities and 2 community college from Texas. After this semester, I'll have around a 3.07/3.1 with 27 hours transferrable hours. I plan to take 6-9 hours in the summer as well so I can add to my credit count. Would I have a good chance of getting into UT as a transfer? I had a 26 ACT and a weighted 90.5 gpa in high school.
Posted @ Monday, May 02, 2011 1:01 PM by Greg
My son will be attending UT Austin this fall. He is from a VERY competitive high school in the Dallas metroplex. At 104 GPA, with mostly AP classes, he is in the top 27% of his class. So, how did he get in? He was very successful on his school's Debate Team (at the local, state and national level). His SATs were 800 in English and 760 in math. But aside from that, he took the advice of the Admission's Office. He knew his chances were slim (to none), so he wrote the three most awesome essays I have ever read. He had wanted to be a Longhorm since very early in his childhood. So, he spent almost an ENTIRE year writing about his passions and goals - how he could change the world. So, getting in when not anywhere near the Top 8% can be done! We are proud because he is a wonderful, bright student who had the added pressure of being at a highly competitive school. Still, I am the first to recognize that he and his fellow students have parents with a little (or a lot) more money and access to resources that many students throughout Texas do not have. So, don't spend too much energy fretting about the fairness (or unfairness) of the selection system. Instead, spend energy telling UT Austin officials why they SHOULD PICK YOU. It worked for my son. And, it feels good that they didn't have to take him...they CHOSE him.
Posted @ Monday, May 02, 2011 10:46 PM by Angelica Monreal
@Greg - Thanks for chiming in! It's very difficult to tell you anything about your application in the abstract, but you can contact me at markt@omniaceducation.com and we can talk about it more. 
 
Overall, I would be worried a bit about your GPA. It's not as strong as I think UT is looking for in transfers.
Posted @ Tuesday, May 03, 2011 12:42 PM by Mark Truman
@Angelica - Yes! Essays count for so, so, so much. Thanks for giving an example that can help other kids understand how much work actually has to go into those essays. 
 
Posted @ Tuesday, May 03, 2011 12:46 PM by Mark Truman
Decided I'd share some of my thoughts about the UT Admissions process as I am currently finishing my Junior year at the university. Didn't get accepted out of high school even with a 29 ACT score; 95th percentile in the country. My grades were so so, but I was able to graduate High School a semester early; it didn't help my chances. I finished roughly at the 25th percentile in my very competitive class, due to the death of both of my parents. Got offered CAP and completed the agreement, had a good time at UTSA and was able to get on the dean's list. CAP Program is pretty fair, and not too hard to complete. Drawbacks, none of your grades from UTSA will be calculated in your UT austin GPA you start at UT with a 0.0. Basically I got on the UTSA engineering dean's list with no benefit to my UT austin GPA, you come in with the same credit as someone who paid 1/3 the price at a comm. college, doesn't sound very fair to me. CAP is a way for the UT system to make more money off of you if you want to be assured you'll eventually get in @ UT Austin. 10% rule is stupid, different high schools across Texas prepare students to different levels, high school is mostly a waste of time b/c it is long and the challenge is not even close to the level for any class at UT. Also, taking AP classes and performing just "ok" will hurt your chance of acceptance, others who took regular classes like band, and made A's will likely end up in a better position. I was stoned most of my High School career, school was long, I was lazy, didn't care, my mother died, and I knew I had brains. I see how dumb some of my classmates are at UT and yet I'm sure most had a higher GPA than myself. Good test scores should be mandatory for all acceptees. My friend at the time scored a 19 on the ACT, graduated 13% in her class and got accepted to start early in the summer, I scored 29 on the ACT and did not. UT is a great school however, and I'm glad to be enrolled, if you really want to get in, do what it takes and you'll have a great time @ UT.
Posted @ Wednesday, May 11, 2011 2:27 AM by Trenton Colluro
Hi, I am a sophomore going on junior at UNT, and I am wanting to apply for UT Spring of 2012. But I do have a big concern wondering if I could even get in competing as a transfer student with all the 10% incoming freshmen. I have a 2.9 gpa// What are the REALISTIC odds that I am looking at of being accepted.
Posted @ Friday, June 03, 2011 11:09 AM by Stevie A
@Stevie - Honestly, your GPA is going to be quite an obstacle. Can you contact me at markt@omniaceducation.com with some more details about yourself? I'd like to hear more about what else you have to offer...
Posted @ Friday, June 03, 2011 1:48 PM by Mark Truman
Hey ya'all. I read through this whole thread and I had a question. As of right now I have a 3.4 gpa at a very competive school in the Dallas area. I am the vice president of my local high school Rotary club and am the head chair of a committee I began to bring the non-profit group, Invisible Children, to my school. Last year, as the secretarymy club raised over ten thousand dollars for the organization. I will also be the editor in chief for my school newspaper and will be in charge of a staff of close to 50 people. Currently I'm working on my Gold Award that should be completed by this time next spring. My coursework has been above-average, with AP and several Pre-AP classes. I have over 500 hours of volunteering through Girl Scouts and other events. I also play in the band and have played my instrument for over seven years. However, I'm not in the top ten percent. My question is, do I stand a chance because I have above average extra activities but my gpa doesn't qualify me as the top ten percent? I haven't taken the SAT or ACT but am taking them this month.
Posted @ Friday, June 03, 2011 4:04 PM by Kayla
@Kayla - Absolutely! Your GPA is low, but your other activities could make up for it. 
 
However, you will need strong ACT scores and a strong set of essays. Please shoot me an email at markt@omniaceducation if you're interested in hearing more about how you can work on those parts now!
Posted @ Friday, June 03, 2011 5:01 PM by Mark Truman
Okay, now I have a few questions. 
 
I'm about to be a senior in high school, living in Chicago, Illinois, trying to figure out where to attend. I got a 23 on the ACT, 26 on the English/writing, but I'm thinking about retaking it. I have a 3.6 unweighted G.P.A., and I'm taking AP classes, but my school doesn't offer a lot... I'm currently in the top 12% of my class, ranked 9 of 73. 
 
UT is one of my top choices, and I understand the whole '10% rule'. I've done a few extra-curricular activities in my neighborhood, maybe about five, and I'm attempting more volunteer work. 
 
What do you think my chances are if I pull my punches my senior year? 0.0
Posted @ Monday, June 27, 2011 6:44 PM by Shakyra
The top 10% has been moved to top 8% to allow for more students who wouldn't have been accepted because of the 10% rule. You've got a good shot at it with another year of school. You want as much volunteer work, great grades, glowing recommendations, and well written essays.
Posted @ Monday, June 27, 2011 11:58 PM by Briton
@Shakyra - Briton is definitely on the right track. Grades, essays, and recommendations will make the difference for your application. 
 
However, I would strongly recommend taking some ACT prep to raise your ACT score. While it may seem far away now, a 27-29 would make you a much more competitive candidate.
Posted @ Thursday, June 30, 2011 2:50 PM by Mark Truman
A friend wasn't in the top 10% and was placed on UT's wait list. He was accepted to Harvard. UT certainly puts a lot of weight on a fairly superficial qualification. 
 
However...being in the top 10% percent only guarantees you admission to the university, not any of the "good" colleges like business, pharmacy, engineering, communications. You're shuffled into Undeclared Liberal Arts (you have to apply for programs like economics or psychology) or Undeclared Natural Science (you need to apply for computer science, etc.). They've recently created another college, the College of Undergraduate Studies, to address the number of unqualified students. 
 
So, yes, lots of qualified in-state and out-of-state students go to UT and enter a professional college or other competitive program (like economics). But all of these less qualified students who enter the university because of the top 10% rule end up with a worthless degree in Undeclared Something. It's a waste of their time and money, and it's not fair to them or to the far more qualified people who could be attending the university. 
 
But hey, it's a state school. Anytime the government's involved, trying to "create opportunity", you end up with situations like these.
Posted @ Tuesday, August 30, 2011 5:55 PM by Skyler
@Skyler - Thanks for your feedback. Good tips and notes for any student looking at UT Austin.
Posted @ Tuesday, August 30, 2011 9:39 PM by Mark Truman
Hi. I'm currently in the top 10.9% at my San Antonio High School, William H. Taft, and I was wondering if I had a chance to get into UT Austin... 
 
I have an internship at CPS Energy, a 95.5 GPA, 1730 SAT, in the band, in all those NHS things blah blah blah, on the varsity bowling team :) , and I've been reading this thread and starting to freak. Plus my high school has a sister school, Communications Arts HS. Just last year, they began ranking us TOGETHER. SO, due to them, I have fallen about 20-30 spots in my class. Anyways, enough of my woes, maybe someone could just rip the bandaid off now and give me the bad news. :( 
 
I'd appreciate anyone's opinion on this. Mark Truman seems to be good :)
Posted @ Tuesday, October 11, 2011 9:23 PM by Meghann, your new friend
Sorry, forgot to add that I wanted to be accepted into the Engineering School.  
 
And I've done 3 years of PREP. PreFreshman Engineering Program. SO, I'm not sure if it's enough. :( 
 
On the brightside, I have a 100 average in Calculus AP DUAL :) 
 
Thoughts, please.
Posted @ Tuesday, October 11, 2011 9:28 PM by Meghann, your new friend
Hey Meghann! 
 
Your application seems really strong. You've got a good GPA, clearly defined interests, and you're from Texas. You absolutely have a shot at getting in to UT Austin. 
 
I would recommend that you work on your SAT Score (It's a bit low for UT Engineering), and seek some professional help for your essay and applications.  
 
If you'd like to contact me to talk about it more, I'd be happy to discuss your application privately - markt [at] omniaceducation [dot] com
Posted @ Tuesday, October 11, 2011 10:56 PM by Mark Truman
Hi, I have two daughters, my eldest graduated in June of this year as Salutatorian from a small HS. She is currenty attending local community college and has a 4.0, an honors student, member of Phi Theta Kappa, & Rotoact club. She will graduate in May with an Associates Degree due to her dual credit hours. She is interested in transfering to UT in the fall of 2012. Is there anything else that she should be doing to bolster her chances? Also, my youngest daughter is a freshmen in HS and is ranked 5th in her class, however her class size is small around 60 so this puts her on the verge of the automatic admission. She is determined to go to UT and that has helped her to work harder to make good grades and improve her rank. What else do you suggest she do to improve her chances of admission. Thanks.
Posted @ Thursday, October 13, 2011 2:14 PM by Sharon
My daughter attends one of the top public high schools in Texas. She has straight A's but is still not in the top 10%. There are so many intelligent and hardworking kids at this school but out of the 690 in her class, only 69 will even have a chance of going to UT Austin. Meanwhile, there are many, many high schools in Texas where you make the top 10% just by showing up to class. Every state has low performing schools but Texas has chosen to allow them a free pass on the admissions process. Whatever happened to rewarding hard work? This law needs to be repealed!
Posted @ Thursday, October 13, 2011 2:22 PM by Heather
@Heather: UT - Austin isn't exclusively admitting students in the top 10%, those are just the ones being admitted automatically.  
 
As Mark Truman stated in an earlier comment, the admissions office absolutely takes things like course rigour and the strength of differing high schools into consideration. 
 
Any student, especially a Texas student, who has a 4.0 GPA, strong SAT/ACT scores, and strong extracurriculars would have a very strong UT application and would very likely be admitted. 
 
Based on how you've described your daughter, I would say that she would not have any issues being admitted to UT.
Posted @ Friday, October 28, 2011 4:44 PM by Derrick Kapchinsky
Hey, I am a senior with a Class rank of 29%, but I have took most of the Ap classes available in my school (which is a lot) and an ACT score of 29. I have also been in orchestra for 4 years now with leadership positions... Would I make UT Austin?
Posted @ Monday, November 14, 2011 11:15 AM by Foram Patel
@Foram: Since you are in the top 50% of your class, you need a 25 on the ACT for automatic admission to UT. With your 29 score, I'd say it's safe to start buying Longhorn t-shirts. I would go apply ASAP!
Posted @ Monday, November 14, 2011 11:20 AM by Heather
okay this thing is old, the rule now is top 8% if you guys havent heard....theres 1400 kids in my grade and im at 300.....F@#$...at least im a sophmore...
Posted @ Tuesday, December 13, 2011 10:30 PM by niiiiiiiiiiiiiick
Hey,  
 
I just kind of found this site and I was curious. I'm a freshman in college and I made a 3.506(3.51 if your round up I suppose)for my first semester. I'm hoping to do a little bit better in spring. I participate in a program called Lunch buddies, I help with fundraisers from time to time, and back in high school I was HEAVILY involved with our band program(the program reached a national level). I have already called ahead and made sure all of my credits transfer over if I get accepted, what are my chances of getting into UT?
Posted @ Tuesday, January 03, 2012 11:34 AM by Natasha
@Natasha - It's difficult for me to say how likely your chances are without a lot more information. If you'd like me to talk with you about it, please email me at markt@omniaceducation.com. 
 
Thanks!
Posted @ Tuesday, January 03, 2012 9:02 PM by Mark Truman
I got accepted to UT and im a texas resident in the top 16% of my class...i pretty much took high school as a joke, not trying much. 
but i got an 800 on my math SAT so i got accepted into the engineering school there...though i got accepted in april..pretty late. 
 
This happened in 2010/2011
Posted @ Thursday, January 05, 2012 3:26 PM by bob
I was not quite in the top ten percent at a competitive Texas high school, and this law drove me crazy during college application time.  
 
I think the main reason for the in-state pressure at UT (and this law) is that it's the one nationally renowned public school in Texas, and the others are treated as redneck farms (sorry A&M). There aren't many options for good Texas students to stay in state, and not enough students who can afford out of state tuition anywhere else.
Posted @ Thursday, January 12, 2012 8:59 AM by Hannah
Hi there! 
 
 
 
I have a 3.85 GPA, a 28 on my ACT and I am 85/700 in my class at a competitive high school. I have numerous extra curriculars such as DECA, FBLA, lacrosse, cross country, etc. I also have hundreds of community service hours. I was adopted from China and I am a first generation college student. 
 
 
 
Do you have any idea of what my chances are of getting into UT Austin? I realize that I am not in the top 9%, but I am top 12.1% and have a unique background. Thank you for your opinion!
Posted @ Thursday, January 19, 2012 8:49 PM by Tylee Milan
@Tylee - It sounds to me like you would be an excellent applicant! It's hard to say exactly your chances, but I think they are definitely better than 50/50.  
 
If you'd like, please shoot me an email at markt@omniaceducation.com, and we can talk about it further.
Posted @ Thursday, January 19, 2012 10:51 PM by Mark Truman
Tylee. Since you are in the top 25%, those test scores should be very close to getting you in. I suggest you do essay c and talk about how you were adopted to submit as a special circumstance. There is no guarantee you'll get in but if you have good community service, activities and essays, you have a good shot at review. Good luck!
Posted @ Thursday, January 19, 2012 10:58 PM by Amy
Post Comment
Name
 *
Email
 *
Website (optional)
Comment
 *

Allowed tags: <a> link, <b> bold, <i> italics

Find / Friend / Follow

Need More Help?

Subscribe by Email

Your email:

Browse By tag

Browse By Date