The University of Texas at Austin is a flagship public research university and one of the largest universities in the United States. Its McCombs School of Business, top-ranked accounting program, and strong engineering college benefit from Austin's booming technology sector and vibrant cultural scene.
Mascot: Longhorn
Notable Alumni
Matthew McConaughey (Academy Award-winning actor)•Renée Zellweger (Academy Award-winning actress)•Owen Wilson (actor and screenwriter)
At a Glance
Cost
Published sticker prices for 2025-2026. Actual cost after aid varies.
Top Programs & National Ranking
Approximate national ranking based on departmental rankings, research output, and program reputation.
Highlights
Campus Experience
UT Austin's social scene is massive and decentralized — with 50,000+ students, 1,000+ organizations, and the entire city of Austin as your playground, you'll never run out of options. Greek life is large in absolute numbers and captures 10-15% of undergrads, with West Campus frat parties as one piece of a social ecosystem that includes Sixth Street, live music, and food trucks. Football Saturdays with 100,000 fans in DKR Stadium and 'Hook 'em Horns' create a unifying tribal energy.
The UT Tower is an iconic landmark, and the Spanish Renaissance limestone buildings along the South Mall create a grand axis. Live oaks, fountains, and the Turtle Pond add warmth to the expansive campus.
Based on Niche reviews, Princeton Review surveys, student forums, and institutional data.
Safety
UTPD expanded its force significantly in 2025, with officers now permanently stationed in West Campus. The university offers the SURE Walk program and blue-light phones across campus.
West Campus, where most students live, benefits from increased UTPD patrols. The surrounding Austin neighborhoods are generally safe, though standard urban awareness is advisable.
Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.
Plan Your Visit
Schedule: Multiple times weekly during the academic year
Duration: About 60-90 minutes
Guided campus walking tours available through the admissions office. Welcome center located on the ground floor of Perry-Castaneda Library. College-specific in-person interest sessions available to complement your tour. Admitted students can attend UT30 Admitted Longhorn Fridays.
Book a TourVirtual campus tour available online. Self-guided resources and maps provided through the admissions welcome center.
Tour ResourcesVisit October through November for cooler weather and peak football season — a Saturday game at Darrell K Royal Stadium (capacity 100,000+) with 'The Eyes of Texas' is unforgettable. Late March through April is also ideal with Austin's famous wildflower season. Avoid June-August when temperatures regularly exceed 100°F.
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is 8 miles from campus (~15-25 min depending on traffic). No free visitor parking on campus — use one of 12 garages (open 24/7, no permit needed, $3/30 min up to $18 for 8+ hrs). The Brazos Garage and San Jacinto Garage are most central. CapMetro bus routes serve campus extensively. Traffic around UT is heavy — rideshare or bus recommended.
Location
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