university of north texas supplemental essays

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Essays & Short Answers

Summer/Fall 2025 Essay

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you’ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Please keep your essay between 500–650 words (typically two to three paragraphs).

Spring 2025 Essays

All freshman Spring 2025 applicants must submit a required essay:

• UT Austin Required Essay in the Common App, or
• Topic A in ApplyTexas

Please keep your essay between 500–700 words (typically two to three paragraphs).

Spring 2025 Essay Topic

Tell us your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today?

Submitting Your Essay

You can submit your essays:

• In conjunction with your application.
• Using the Document Upload System in MyStatus.

*Students do not need to submit other Common App essays. We’ll only review what is required.

Short Answers

• Submit the required short answers to prompts in your admission application.
• Answers are limited to no more than 40 lines, or about 250–300 words per prompt, typically the length of one paragraph.

Summer/Fall 2025 Prompts

• Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major?
• Think of all the activities — both in and outside of school — that you have been involved with during high school. Which one are you most proud of and why? ( Guidance for student s: This can include an extracurricular activity, a club/organization, volunteer activity, work or a family responsibility.)

Optional Short Answer

Please share background on events or special circumstances that you feel may have impacted your high school academic performance.

Spring 2025 Prompts

• Describe how your experiences, perspectives, talents, and/or your involvement in leadership activities (at your school, job, community or within your family) will help you to make an impact both in and out of the classroom while enrolled at UT.
• The core purpose of The University of Texas at Austin is, “To Transform Lives for the Benefit of Society.” Please share how you believe your experience at UT Austin will prepare you to “Change the World” after you graduate.

Submitting Your Short Answers

You can submit your short answers with either your Common App or Apply Texas application. Short answer responses must be completed in order to submit your application.

• Transfer applicants must submit one essay responding to Topic A.
• Applicants to the School of Architecture and Studio Art, Art Education and Art History are required to upload Topic D in addition to Topic A. 

Essay Topics

Topic a (required).

The statement of purpose will provide an opportunity to explain any extenuating circumstances that you feel could add value to your application. You may also want to explain unique aspects of your academic background or valued experiences you may have had that relate to your academic discipline. The statement of purpose is not meant to be a listing of accomplishments in high school/college or a record of your participation in school-related activities. Rather, this is your opportunity to address the admission committee directly and to let us know more about you as an individual, in a manner that your transcripts and the other application information cannot convey.

Topic D (School of Architecture majors only)

Personal interaction with objects, images and spaces can be so powerful as to change the way one thinks about particular issues or topics. For your intended area of study (architecture, art history, studio art, visual art studies/art education), describe an experience where instruction in that area or your personal interaction with an object, image or space effected this type of change in your thinking. What did you do to act upon your new thinking and what have you done to prepare yourself for further study in this area?

Submitting Your Essay(s)

University Libraries

Engl 1310: college writing i.

• Beginning the Research Process
• Writing Resources

Summarizing, Paraphrasing, and Quotiong from Purdue OWL

Citation styles - english predominately uses mla, annotated bibliography, common writing assignments from purdue writing lab, how to use refworks, unt writing lab, student publishing opportunities, office of disabilities access, what is thorough research, literature review and synthesizing sources.

• Record a Presentation with "One Button Recording and LightBoards"
• Journal Articles
• Evaluating Sources
• Information Literacy Tutorial

How to Write a Research Question

How to write an outline.

• Outlining Outlining is a tool we use in the writing process to help organize our ideas, visualize our paper’s potential structure, and to further flesh out and develop points. It allows the writer to understand how he or she will connect information to support the thesis statement and the claims of the paper. An outline provides the writer with a space to consider ideas easily without needing to write complete paragraphs or sentences.

Research Paper

Genre and the Research Paper by Purdue OWL

• Revising Why Revise? To make the draft more accessible to the reader. To sharpen and clarify the focus and argument. To improve and further develop ideas

Synthesizing Sources

• Synthesizing Sources from Purdue OWL When you look for areas where your sources agree or disagree and try to draw broader conclusions about your topic based on what your sources say, you are engaging in synthesis. Writing a research paper usually requires synthesizing the available sources in order to provide new insight or a different perspective into your particular topic (as opposed to simply restating what each individual source says about your research topic).

Close Reading and Critical Reading

• CRITICAL READING: WHAT IS CRITICAL READING, AND WHY DO I NEED TO DO IT? Critical reading means that a reader applies certain processes, models, questions, and theories that result in enhanced clarity and comprehension.
• Critical Reading You'll find many ways to read and understand a text, but keeping a journal as you read is one of the best ways of exploring a piece of writing. By integrating reading and writing, you can interact with the work more fully.
• Close Reading a Text and Avoiding Pitfalls Close reading a text. This covers prewriting, close reading, thesis development, drafting, and common pitfalls to avoid.
• Close Reading From Harvard College Writing Center
• Poetry: Close Reading By learning how to close read a poem you can significantly increase both your understanding and enjoyment of the poem. You may also increase your ability to write convincingly about the poem.
• Reading a Play These sections also discuss different approaches (literary theory/criticism) students may use to write about literature. These resources build on the Writing About Literature materials.
• Audience Analysis Overview In order to compose persuasive, user-centered communication, you should gather as much information as possible about the people reading your document. Your audience may consist of people who may have differing needs and expectations.

Developing a Thesis from a Story or Novel

Developing a Thesis from a Story or Novel

Understanding Rhetoric

• Understanding Rhetoric Understanding and being able to analyze rhetorical situations can help contribute to strong, audience-focused, and organized writing. The PowerPoint presentation in the Media box above is suitable for any classroom and any writing task. The resource below explains in more detail how to analyze rhetorical situations.

Rhetorical Analysis

• Organizing Your Analysis General tips for plotting out the overall form of your essay.
• Types of Outlines and Samples Types of Outlines from Purdue OWL
• Rhetorical Situations Understanding and being able to analyze rhetorical situations can help contribute to strong, audience-focused, and organized writing.
• Elements of Analysis How to write a rhetorical analysis essay of primarily visual texts with a focus on demonstrating the author’s understanding of the rhetorical situation and design principles.
• Analysis Analysis is a type of primary research that involves finding and interpreting patterns in data, classifying those patterns, and generalizing the results. It is useful when looking at actions, events, or occurrences in different texts, media, or publications.

Writing a Literature Review

• Writing a Literature Review A literature review is a document or section of a document that collects key sources on a topic and discusses those sources in conversation with each other (also called synthesis). The lit review is an important genre in many disciplines, not just literature (i.e., the study of works of literature such as novels and plays). When we say “literature review” or refer to “the literature,” we are talking about the research (scholarship) in a given field. You will often see the terms “the research,” “the scholarship,” and “the literature” used mostly interchangeably.

Installing MS Office 365 ProPlus

Free Microsoft© Office 365 ProPlus is available to currently enrolled students.

https://it.unt.edu/installoffice365

• ePortfolio LibGuide UNT’s new ePortfolio system provides you with an opportunity to connect your experiences on campus and in your community with demonstrable skills for your future career. Learn how to begin building and archiving a personal repertoire of marketable experiences in your ePortfolio.
• Sample Essay for Summarizing, Paraphrasing, and Quoting from Purdue OWL This handout compares and contrasts the three terms, gives some pointers, and includes a short excerpt that you can use to practice these skills.
• MLA Guide from Purdue OWL These OWL resources will help you learn how to use the Modern Language Association (MLA) citation and format style. This section contains resources on in-text citation and the Works Cited page, as well as MLA sample papers, slide presentations, and the MLA classroom poster.
• MLA Sample Paper Sample Paper
• APA Style Guide from Purdue OWL APA (American Psychological Association) style is most commonly used to cite sources within the social sciences. This resource, revised according to the 6th edition, second printing of the APA manual, offers examples for the general format of APA research papers, in-text citations, endnotes/footnotes, and the reference page. For more information, please consult the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, (6th ed., 2nd printing).
• APA Sample Paper Sample Paper
• Chicago Manual of Style from Purdue OWL This section contains information on The Chicago Manual of Style method of document formatting and citation. These resources follow the seventeenth edition of The Chicago Manual of Style, which was issued in 2017.
• Chicago Manual of Style, Author Date Sample Paper Author Date Sample Paper more...
• Chicago Manual of Style, Notes and Bibliography (NB) Sample Paper Notes and Bibliography (NB) Sample Paper

Annotated Bibliographies from Purdue OWL

A   bibliography   is a list of sources (books, journals, Web sites, periodicals, etc.) one has used for researching a topic.   An   annotation   is a summary and/or evaluation. Therefore, an   annotated bibliography   includes a summary and/or evaluation of each of the sources.

Common Writing Assignments

• RefWorks - Bibliographic Manager How to create your Refworks account. 1. Enter the access code 1890-1506, go to the UNT Refworks login page at refworks.proquest.com/signup/university-of-north-texas (this link is also included in the Databases tab and in the Most Requested section on library.unt.edu) 2. Enter the UNT access code and submit. 3. Next complete the registration, and then you can start using your new account. 4. You can now login with your username and password through https://refworks.proquest.com/ wherever you have an Internet connection. 5. Visit our RefWorks Guide to learn how to make your research more efficient. Video tutorials: https://guides.library.unt.edu/rwnew/videos
• UNT Writing Lab At the UNT Writing Lab, we offer free writing tutoring to all currently enrolled UNT students in all disciplines and at all stages of their academic careers--from English composition students to graduate students writing theses and dissertations. We do more than merely proofread; we teach you strategies and techniques to improve your writing for the long term. We accept both appointments and walk-ins at our Sage Hall, Room 152 location. However, to ensure time with a tutor, we recommend setting an appointment.
• Student Publishing Opportunities If you are interested in publishing your article take a look at these possibilities.

Plagiarism occurs when you use other people’s writing or ideas without giving credit to the creator. Any sequence of more than three words is plagiarism

  We always give credit to other people’s creative and intellectual property. We respect the rights and property of others.

Some students make errors in citing because they do not give themselves enough time to cite their material while they write. Learning how to Quote, Summarize, and Paraphrase with In-text citation is critical and learning to include in-text citations while writing your paper will avoid possible citation errors. Please use the link above and practice citing material.

Once I contacted the author of an online resource and asked if I could use some of her information in a guide I was working on. She gave me permission and I cited the author in my guide.

Types of Plagiarism:

• Direct or Clone – taking someone else’s work directly. This plagiarism carries the most severe penalty because it demonstrates dishonesty and involves intent.
• Self Plagiarism – reusing work from a previous courses without permission from your professor.
• Mosaic, patch writing, or find and replace plagiarism. If you quote a source, or keep the basic format from the source and use synonyms to change a few words, without properly citing the information, then you are committing plagiarism.
• Accidental – this can occur if the student does not use their own critical analysis found from synthesizing the information learned, and instead uses the critical argument of another author.

Video:  Student Success Series, A Student’s Guide to Avoiding Plagiarism and Understanding Citations

Avoid Plagiarism by citing your material correctly

If you are not sure if you need to cite your material, it is always better to cite and not have a problem with plagiarism.

Student Academic Integrity

UNT promotes the integrity of learning processed and embraces the core values of trust and honesty.  Academic integrity is based on educational principles and procedures that protect the rights of all participants in the educational process and validate the legitimacy of degrees awarded by the university.  In the investigation and resolution of allegations of student academic dishonesty, the university’s actions are intended to be corrective, educationally sound, fundamentally fair, and based on reliable evidence. 

Writing Center. (2018, January). Six Common Types of Plagiarism. Ashford University. https://writingcenter.ashford.edu/sites/default/files/inline-files/Six%20Common%20Types%20of%20Plagiarism_0.pdf

Free Plagiarism Checker. (2021). Scan My Essay. Viper. https://www.scanmyessay.com/plagiarism/types-of-plagiarism.php

CopyLeaks. (2019, October 21). 4 Types of Olagiarism and How to Avoid Them. Copyleaks Technologies LTD. https://copyleaks.com/blog/types-of-plagiarism/

• Interpreting and CART Accommodations he Office of Disability Access works to provide reasonable access and an inclusive environment to UNT students who identify as d/Deaf, Deaf-Blind, or Hard-of-Hearing. Reasonable accommodations include, but are not limited to the following: American Sign Language Interpreters CART Services Closed Captioning for information presented in an audio or video format Advanced copies of PowerPoints or Handouts Reserved seat in the front of the class Assistive listening devices

"Thorough research" 

• Reviewing all sources and finding relevant information for your paper..
• Use correct sources (popular or scholarly) based on your assignment requirements. Use recommended databases from your school which guarantees the quality of the material found. If you use Google, Google Scholar, Yahoo or another search engine you have to evaluate the source which takes a considerable amount of time. 
• Using more than one sources gives a broader perspective on a subject. All journals write to a specific audience and the more articles or items you reference the greater your understanding of the current discussions surrounding your topic.

Evidence Explained. (2014, July 29). QuickTips. https://www.evidenceexplained.com/quicktips/

• Writing a Literature Review In a review of the literature, the writer provides an overview of the most important research and scholarship on a specific topic, problem, or question. (In this context, "literature" refers to the important scholarly sources on a topic including the current scholarly conversation.
• Synthesizing Sources Synthesizing Sources from Purdue OWL When you look for areas where your sources agree or disagree and try to draw broader conclusions about your topic based on what your sources say, you are engaging in synthesis. Writing a research paper usually requires synthesizing the available sources in order to provide new insight or a different perspective into your particular topic (as opposed to simply restating what each individual source says about your research topic).
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• Last Updated: Jan 8, 2024 4:57 PM
• URL: https://guides.library.unt.edu/ENGL1310

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University of North Texas at Dallas

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Requirements

Any applicant who has already earned a bachelor's degree and applies for admission to UNT Dallas must apply for admission through the Graduate School and Graduate Admission Office regardless of whether you plan to enroll in undergraduate- or graduate-level courses.

Degree Requirements

Persons holding a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution or a comparable degree from an international institution are eligible to apply for admission to the University to graduate studies at UNT Dallas.  

University Requirements

To be considered for graduate admission to UNT Dallas, you must meet minimum admission requirements set by the Graduate School. Requirements of individual graduate programs are often more rigorous than those set by the Graduate School.  

To qualify for University admission you must  satisfy one of the admissions options  listed below:

• Option One The GPA from the highest earned degree is used for admission consideration. Applicants with an earned master’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a 3.40 GPA or higher qualify for university graduate admission. Proof of the baccalaureate degree is also required.
• Option Two A GPA of 2.80 (on a 4-point scale) or higher on all undergraduate work  OR  a 3.00 or better in the last 60 hours is required for the posted baccalaureate degree.
• Option Three An applicant who does not qualify for admission under Option 1 or 2 may be conditionally admitted to a program by special action if, upon the basis of acceptable evidence, the applicant is judged by the specific academic program coordinator to possess sufficient academic and professional potential pertinent to the educational objectives to merit such action.  Please contact the  Associate Director of Graduate Recruitment  for more information.

NOTE:    Every graduate program sets their own admission requirements and deadlines, and requests the submission of additional materials.   Please view or print the Academic Program Requirements and Deadlines for your chosen program.

Admissions Process

Applicants are responsible for submitting the documents required for admission. These items include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Master’s Degree Requirements & Deadlines
• Post-Baccalaureate Requirements & Deadlines
• You will be assessed a non-refundable application processing fee for each program to which you apply.  You are responsible for paying this fee whether or not you are offered admission or choose to enroll.  You must pay your application fee online.  Your application will not be processed until you pay your application fee and the fee is authorized.
• Applicants must submit an official transcript from ALL colleges and universities attended.  All credentials submitted in support of the application for admission become UNT Dallas property and will not be returned to students, nor will UNT Dallas release copies of such credentials to a third party.
• SpanTran is our recommended international transcript evaluation service. They have created a custom application for the University of North Texas Dallas that will make sure you select the right kind of evaluation at a discounted rate. You can access their application SpanTran Application - University of North Texas Dallas
• Scores from national standardized graduate admissions tests are considered official only when they are send directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions from the testing agency.  Each degree program has specific requirements, and applicants should consult with the appropriate department for admission testing requirements.
• Identify and contact references who will provide a strong letter of recommendation for you.  Applicants should check the  Master’s Degree Requirements & Deadlines for the exact number of letters required.  Recommenders should be the applicant's current or former professors or other individuals who can speak to the applicant's academic talents, work ethic, and intellectual strengths.  The  Graduate School General Application will ask applicants to provide their reference's names and email addresses.  The references will then be contacted via email with instructions on how to electronically submit a letter of recommendation. This process begins once the applicant submits the Graduate School General Application.
• A statement of goals or personal statement (about 1-2 pages in length) is required by some programs to assess your writing ability and determine if the program suits your needs.  Some programs may require you to address certain questions or topics.
• Any other supplemental material required by the department

The Office of Graduate Admissions will begin to process the graduate or post-baccalaureate applicant's file once it is fully complete according to the program's requirements.  

When complete, the admissions file is reviewed by the Office of Graduate Admissions staff to see if the applicant satisfies one of the options above.  If the applicant satisfies one of the options above, then the application file is forwarded to the academic department for an admissions recommendation. 

Once the academic department has reviewed the file, the department makes an recommendation on admission and notifies the Office of Graduate Admissions.  If the department recommends admission and the applicant meets all graduate school academic requirements, an official letter of acceptance is mailed to the applicant through the Office of Graduate Admissions.

Graduate students apply for and are accepted into specific disciplines. Students who wish to change from one discipline to another must meet all admission requirements for the new discipline.

UNT Theses and Dissertations

Theses and dissertations represent a wealth of scholarly and artistic content created by masters and doctoral students in the degree-seeking process. Some ETDs in this collection are restricted to use by the UNT community .

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Extracurriculars.

How to Write the UT Austin Essays 2023-2024

The University of Texas, Austin is a large public research university with an enrollment of over 51,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students. UT Austin is the flagship institution of the University of Texas system, and is the home to some of the best engineering, architecture, and business programs in the nation.

Since UT Austin is a selective school, writing strong essays is essential for making your application stand out. UT Austin’s application involves one long essay and four short essay questions (one of which is optional), with additional writing requirements for students applying to these programs: Art/Art History, Architecture, Nursing, and Social Work.

Read these UT Austin essay examples from real students to inspire your own writing.

UT Austin Essay Prompts

Tell us your story. what unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today (500-700 words), short answer.

Prompt 1 : Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major? (250-300 words)

Prompt 2 : Describe how your experiences, perspectives, talents, and/or your involvement in leadership activities (at your school, job, community, or within your family) will help you to make an impact both in and out of the classroom while enrolled at UT. (250-300 words)

Prompt 3 : The core purpose of The University of Texas at Austin is, “To Transform Lives for the Benefit of Society.” Please share how you believe your experience at UT-Austin will prepare you to “Change the World” after you graduate. (250-300 words)

Prompt 4 (Optional): Please share background on events or special circumstances that you feel may have impacted your high school academic performance. If your response to this question is similar to one of the Common App Personal Essays, feel free to simply copy and paste the important parts of your essay here. (250-300 words)

Art/Art History Applicants

Prompt 1 : In 500 words or less, please tell us about a time when an artwork, artist or art teacher impacted your life. How did this inspire you to pursue an education in the arts?

Architecture Applicants

Prompt 1 : Inherent in the design disciplines the capacity to impact the world around us. What does the opportunity to develop such capacity mean to you and you approach to your college education? Please limit your response to 250-300 words.

Prompt 2 : Please provide and upload three images total that demonstrate your creativity. The three images may all be of one option type, or varied amongst the two following options:

Option 1 – Either an original photograph or photographs from a camera, smart phone/mobile device, OR

Option 2 – images of an original art or design project that you have produced and authored yourself., for all, describe how the three images are representative of how you see creativity as a way to describe, reflect on, or change the world. please limit your response to 50-75 words..

Discuss the factors that have influenced your motivation and deep desire to pursue a career in Nursing. Please include any activities and/or life experiences that are related. (250-300 words).

Social Work

Discuss the reasons you chose Social Work as your first—choice major and how a Social Work degree from UT will prepare you for the future. (450-500 words)

Long Essay—All Applicants

This is Topic A of the ApplyTexas Essays . The long essay is the space to tell your story and let the admissions office know something about you that does not appear on your high school resume or transcript. The long word limit gives you time to develop and reflect on an important experience. It’s not enough to just tell a story of an opportunity or challenge; you need to dive into what aspects of your experience influenced you to be the person you are currently.

This prompt is very open-ended, so it is important to take time before you start writing to think about what subject matter you want to talk about. Make sure all elements in your essay tie together and don’t overwhelm the reader with too much information. Focus on only a few, or even just one, experiences within your essay, and dive into good detail on how your experience has shaped you as a person.

The prompt asks you to describe “unique opportunities or challenges” that you have experienced. While brainstorming ideas for your essay, don’t get too caught up in thinking that you must find something that is an obvious opportunity or challenge; think about hobbies, extracurriculars, or personal experiences that have influenced you to this day.

Here are some examples:

• A chance job opportunity that allowed you to push yourself — Maybe you grew up in a rural area and you spent part of your time in high school tending to cows and goats. You’d wake up early before school to tend to the animals, and through that you learned to be reliable and developed a passion for caring for animals. Or maybe an acquaintance runs a small business and you were given the opportunity to run their social media to promote the business. This opportunity taught you the difficulties of running a small business, and also helped you find a creative outlet through advertising design. Either of those examples, or more unique job opportunities that you may have stumbled upon in high school, requires time and dedication, and teaches responsibility.
• Creative hobbies — You like to design and sew clothing for yourself. While designing your prom dress, you came across an intricate bodice design that you wanted to emulate. Figuring out how the pattern came together was like solving a complex puzzle, and because of all of the challenges you have come across while attempting to translate a 2D idea into real life, you have become better at visualizing how different things around you come together, and it’s a skill you’ve carried through all parts of your life. It’s helped you visualize difficult math concepts, or organize your desk and closet space to optimize your productivity.

Short Answers—All Applicants

For your UT Austin application, you are required to respond to the first three prompts. There is also an additional prompt to let the committee know about any extenuating circumstances that may have affected your high school performance.

Short Answer 1—All Applicants

Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major (250-300 words).

Ah, the common “Why This Major” college application essay. This essay is important to demonstrate to the admissions committee that you are passionate about the area of study you are interested in. Whatever major is your first choice, you need to take time to reflect and think about what drew you to pursue this field of study.

As detailed in CollegeVine’s article about writing the “Why This Major” essay, a couple key topics to cover are how you developed this interest, and your goals in studying this major. 

Show how you’ve looked into research or career opportunities that appeal to you, and the steps you have taken to pursue your interest, whether it be through hobbies, jobs, research opportunities, readings, etc. Do you have personal reasons for choosing this major? Detail those reasons, and explain how either a personal experience, inspirational character, or more have impacted your life and decision to study your major.

• Biology — You have been a passionate bird-watcher for most of your life. Your father would take you around to various parks and teach you how to identify various bird calls, differentiate between males and females within a species, and more. This has developed into an interest in the evolutionary and migratory behavior of birds, and you wish to pursue biology as the stepping stone to further graduate studies specializing in birds.
• Radio-Television-Film — Growing up, you’ve always had a fascination with movies and have become a huge movie buff. You’ve been especially interested in how the creative team creates and rig up the physical special effects and props. In your spare time, you and your friends make your own home films, and you are often the one who researches and creates any special effects and props with your available budget and resources. Though your home productions are not the most well-refined, you have had fun, and you want to pursue Film to get a better understanding of how to professionally create crazy shots and break into the film industry.
• Linguistics — Your family moved around a lot throughout your childhood, and in every new town or city you lived in, you were fascinated by the different slang and accents of the people around you. You’ve lived everywhere — Louisiana, Vancouver, Long Island, South Dakota, Southern California, and more, and you want to further understand how these regional quirks developed and how they affect the culture of an area today.

Short Answer 2—All Applicants

Describe how your experiences, perspectives, talents, and/or your involvement in leadership activities (at your school, job, community, or within your family) will help you to make an impact both in and out of the classroom while enrolled at ut. (250-300 words).

This is the classic Diversity Essay , which allows colleges to get to know you better and how you’ll impact their campus community.

Reflect on the things that make you truly unique. If you choose to go down the talent route, keep in mind that “talent” is a broad term that can apply to anything. It’s not just about whether or not you can juggle; perhaps your talent is your ability to lead vocal warmups before the school musical – you can write about how you’ve learned to build a sense of community using your talent.

And speaking on leadership, leadership isn’t just becoming an officer in a school organization or a captain of an athletic team. Leadership can also be demonstrated by taking charge and caring for your siblings while your parents are busy, organizing your friend group’s yearly Secret Santa, or coaching your neighborhood swim team. Even if something you did isn’t explicitly a “leadership role,” you can demonstrate guidance and management skills in other ways. 

Avoid just listing off all leadership positions you have held. This information is most likely already elsewhere in your application, and doesn’t give the admissions committee a more in-depth view of why you are passionate about the areas you have shown leadership in and what you did to better the group/environment/area around you. Pick 1-3 related experiences, and tie together how you took initiative to shape things around you. The admissions committee wants to make sure they are accepting students with initiative and determination to impact their environment. 

• Family Responsibility — Your parents had to work late hours a lot to earn enough for your family when you were younger. Though you and your siblings have always been responsible, you’ve noticed that it’s been difficult for your younger brother with special needs when your parents were away in the evenings, so you took the time to create different activities for him. You had your brother explore various hobbies that were accessible to you, such as drawing or tree climbing around your neighborhood, to keep him busy, mentally stimulated, and help your parents. This has taught you a lot of responsibility and you would love to continue to work with children who have special needs through some of UT Austin’s organizations like the Student Council for Exceptional Children.
• Friend Group Activities — You have a small group of friends who enjoy spending time with each other, but are terrible at planning larger, more ambitious activities. You decided that you were sick of just doing the same old thing, hanging out in the park or a parent’s basement. You started organizing day trips to the city nearby, Secret Santa gift exchanges, a day kayaking trip, and more to help you and your friends explore different activities. You coordinated everyone’s schedule and made sure to accommodate all your friends’ likes and dislikes, and have become the unofficial “leader” of your friend group. You now hope to take these experiences and work as an orientation advisor to help incoming freshmen find their group as well.
• School/Extracurricular Events – You stepped up to the plate this year to plan the school’s Homecoming dance, and you wanted to make sure your senior dance could be as fun, inclusive, and well-planned as possible. As such, you organized a committee, delegated responsibilities, and implemented strategies to increase attendance, emphasize safety, and organize different activities that appealed to the wider school community. You gained event planning experience and hope to bring that same passion to UT Austin and assist UT Austin’s Events + Entertainment organization with bringing student-focused events to campus.

The common thread between these three examples is that they all write about a personal experience that eventually ties to how you’ll bring your gained knowledge to UT Austin. You won’t just want to name drop organizations that you hope to join at UT Austin, rather you’ll want to explain why—particularly with a personal connection. 

Short Answer 3—All Applicants

The core purpose of the university of texas at austin is, “to transform lives for the benefit of society.” please share how you believe your experience at ut-austin will prepare you to “change the world” after you graduate. (250-300 words).

UT Austin wants its students to work for the betterment of the world. This prompt requires students to reflect on their personal goals and think about their impact on society. Your response should explain how UT Austin will help you reach those goals using the “Why This College?” essay format. 

First, consider the field of study you want to pursue and what sort of impact you want to make. Maybe you want to go into public health to improve the health outcomes of underrepresented communities. Or perhaps you want to study English and Environmental Science to become an environmental lawyer. 

Keep in mind that its impact doesn’t have to be directly related to community service or altruism. For example, computer science majors can change the world by making processes more efficient. Economics majors can become financial advisors and improve the lives of others. 

If you’re not sure how your work can impact others, see if you can find alumni stories on the website of your department. Here’s the Public Health one , for example. These real-life stories can give you some inspiration on your wide range of options after graduation.

Your goals can be both big and small, but they need to be personal. The “what” doesn’t matter if you don’t write about the “why.” 

Finally, be sure to mention specific UT Austin resources that will help you change the world. Using the public health example, that student may mention how UT Austin offers a student internship program that allows students to conduct their own semester-long research projects and how that will prepare them to conduct independent public health research on minority health outcomes in the future.

It’s also important to mention relevant extracurriculars. Continuing that example, the public health student may want to join Texas Public Health, an on-campus organization, to volunteer in the Austin community and get hands-on experience in public health initiatives. 

Short Answer 4—All Applicants (optional)

Please share background on events or special circumstances that you feel may have impacted your high school academic performance. if your response to this question is similar to one of the common app personal essays, feel free to simply copy and paste the important parts of your essay here. (250-300 words).

This essay is optional and provides you the opportunity to explain extenuating circumstances that have affected your education during high school. This is not necessarily a space where you would include a creative essay about your passion for math or make a political statement. Rather this is room for you to let the UT Austin admissions committee know about any extenuating circumstances that may have affected your academic performance. 

Although in the near-past, the COVID-19 pandemic has and is still affecting many students across the world in various ways. This could be a situation that you may want to explain to the admissions committees.

Other non-COVID-related experiences may have also impacted you. If there is a circumstance, such as a loss of job, sickness of a close relative, mental health, or more that has affected your school performance, let UT Austin know here so the admissions committee may take it into consideration while reading your application. 

If any of these extenuating circumstances are written in your Common App personal statement, more likely from prompt 1 or prompt 2 , then you can include an excerpt here.

However, do not use this space as a way to excuse poor performances. Be direct, and let the circumstances speak for themselves. Also keep in mind that many students were disrupted by COVID-19 in similar ways, so you should only write about circumstances that went beyond those common experiences. 

There’s no need to take up the full allotted space or even really write a whole essay; just use as much space as needed to explain your situation.

Major-Specific Short Answer Questions

Certain majors at UT Austin require submitting 1-2 additional short responses. These prompts are brief and dive deeper into showing your passion for your intended area of study.

Art/Art History

In 500 words or less, please tell us about a meaningful way in which an artwork, or artist, has changed your life. how has this prompted your ambitions for a life in the arts.

For the art/art history major at UT Austin, the admissions committee wants to see a commitment to the arts in your everyday life. Dive deep and think about what artists inspired you, or what specific art pieces you find yourself going back to. 

Think across various mediums of art. Painters, sculptors, cinematographers, poets, or more can serve as inspiration to you. Maybe a piece of art inspired you to create your own art and got you interested in different painting techniques across different cultures, inspired you to change habits within your life, or start a band. Whatever inspired you, make sure to relate how your inspiration directly impacted you. Don’t get caught up in just describing your favorite artist or work; tie it into your own life experiences and goals.

Architecture

Inherent in the design disciplines the capacity to impact the world around us. what does the opportunity to develop such capacity mean to you and your approach to your college education please limit your response to 250-300 words..

The admissions committee is hoping to get a sense of your goals and reasons for applying to the Architecture program at UT Austin.

While impacting the world sounds like a weighty topic, UT Austin isn’t looking for you to embellish. The admissions committee wants to hear how you would apply an education in architecture to help the world in any capacity, and that goes for anything from your local community to the globe. 

First define your reasons for pursuing architecture. This is important since the prompt asks what the capacity to impact the world means to you , so you need to reflect on how you’ll impact the world and why you want to do it in that way.

Do you want to design houses in low-income neighborhoods since you grew up in low-income housing that wasn’t efficient or livable? Or do you want to design apartments with sustainability in mind since you’re from Hawaii and have seen how construction can disrupt the environment? 

When possible, mention specific UT Austin resources that will help you achieve your goals, as the prompt asks how your goals shape your approach to your college education. For the student who wants to create sustainable architecture, they may mention courses like Modern History of Sustainable Architecture or wanting to be in one of the fastest-growing cities in the US (Austin), offering many opportunities for hands-on experience in sustainable development.

Please provide and upload three images total that demonstrate your creativity. The three images may all be of one option type, or varied amongst the two following options:

This is a short prompt! The admissions committee wants to see through your eyes and get an idea of your vision of the world. Be concise in your statement, and make sure your photos have a common thread, even if it’s not initially obvious. For example, you could submit photos of the skyline at important locations or times to you, or you could submit photos of various objects that inspire you. This is a very open-ended prompt, and you can spin it to really show the admissions committee your unique outlook on life and the environment around you.

This is also a chance to showcase your creativity and artistic skill. While the program doesn’t require you to submit a portfolio, submitting some of your artwork would give you more of an opportunity to stand out, particularly because UT Austin allows you to mix and match the format of your submissions.

Another way to make your response more cohesive and concise is to submit work with an overarching theme, whether that’s various pictures of your neighborhood at sunset, or artwork you made in response to a specific topic. Tying the three submissions together with a bow will give the admissions committee a stronger sense of how you think about the big picture.

While neither of these prompts have a defined word limit, make sure to answer the question thoroughly while also keeping it brief — remember, the admissions committee is reading many applications and you want to keep them engaged! We recommend no more than 500 words.

Discuss the factors that have influenced your desire to pursue a career in Nursing. Please include any activities and/or life experiences that are related (250-300 words)

This question allows you to discuss why you chose Nursing as your first choice program. Although you have already answered why you want to pursue your first choice major in the short answers section of the application, this extra space really allows you to dive deeper into why you decided to pursue nursing as a career and allows you to show off your work towards your goal. You can add additional anecdotes about why you chose nursing that you might not have had space to include in your short answer prompt.

Before beginning this essay, write down the qualities you feel a good nurse would have. Are they compassionate, culturally aware, patient, knowledgeable, etc.?

Then, write down the activities you did that correspond with those qualities. Did you volunteer for your local Red Cross, or organize a fundraiser for your local care facilities? Did you work in a nursing home, or at a daycare to gain experience working with people with varying needs? What academic classes did you take in high school to prepare yourself for a college nursing program? 

Maybe instead, your motivations to pursue a career in nursing are more related to your own life experiences. Is someone close to you in that occupation? Have you previously worked in a healthcare-related role? Or have you had your own medical issue where a nurse meaningfully changed your perspective on medicine?

Be specific, and dive into details on how your activities or life experiences relate to developing an interest in nursing and a nursing career. Chances are, you have already listed your activities out in another section of your application. Using anecdotes about specific instances or events is crucial in offering new information that will keep admissions officers engaged, and teach them about your passion for nursing.

Discuss the reasons you chose Social Work as your first-choice major and how a Social Work degree from UT will prepare you for the future.

Similar to the nursing prompt, the UT Austin admissions committee is looking for additional information that may not have fit into previous essay answers. How do you want to give back to your community by doing social work? What specific area of social work do you want to work in? Do you want to work with mental health, child protection, human rights, or other aspects of social work? For example, if you grew up in the foster care system and you want to help children who grew up in a similar situation to you, elaborate on that.

The second part of this question asks you how specifically an UT Austin degree can help you with your future goals and career. Make sure to show that you have researched the program itself. Name specific research institutes you may want to work in, such as the Addiction Research Institute, and elaborate what issues you want to study. Relate these to the work you want to do in your future.

If you’re unsure of the specific specialization of social work you want to do, narrow it down to 2-3 interests, and talk about how you can explore various subjects through courses or clubs at UT Austin. Show the admissions committee that you have done your research on the school and truly believe that it is the best place for you to achieve your goals. For instance, someone interested in working with seniors might want to join the research team for the project Telehealth treatments for depression with low-income homebound seniors .

Where to Get Your University of Texas at Austin Essays Edited

Do you want feedback on your UT Austin essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school.

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How to Respond to the 2023/2024 UT Austin Supplemental Essay Prompts

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The University of Texas at Austin requires all applicants to submit a set of UT Austin supplemental essays. These essays are a great way to utilize creative writing to make yourself memorable and unique. Take this chance to tell your story and run with it. In this article, we will be breaking down each prompt to make each one easier to understand. Let’s go!

See also: How to write a great supplemental essay

Before you begin

• Multiple writing samples are required, including a supplemental essay and then four short answers (one of the four is optional).
• UT Austin offers students the opportunity to submit additional materials to strengthen their applications, such as letters of recommendation or an expanded resume

The UT Austin supplemental essay prompt

“Tell us your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today?” 

The traditional essay prompt is generally between 500 and 700 words. Compared to other supplemental essays, this is not all that long. In addition, this is an essay all about you. UT Austin wants to hear about your story and what makes you special. This is an easy topic to write about your personal experiences versus an essay that asks you to connect it back to the university. 

With that being said, you don’t have to connect it back to the university, but… it  is always a good idea to do so. This way, the people reading it are able to see what you have to offer the University of Texas, and what you bring to the table as a student. 

So, what makes you unique? If you are planning on talking about challenges for this question, we recommend thinking twice about writing about the Pandemic. This is because although you may have a unique experience, the pandemic was a challenge that everyone had to live through. Pick a challenge that is unique to you, one that makes you you . In addition to that, in the optional short answer, you have the opportunity to talk about the challenges that you were presented with during the Pandemic. 

Short answers

As mentioned above, you’ll need to write three short answer questions (and have the option to write one additional one). These can be quick and easy, but extremely influential to the college admissions process. Each response should be between 250 and 300 words.

Short answer #1

“Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major?”

This is a simple question, and easy to answer in less than 300 words. Maybe you have always known what you wanted to study in college, or maybe you are still figuring it out– whatever the case may be, just be open, honest, and concise when you speak about this topic. 

Short answer #2

“Describe how your experiences, perspectives, talents, and/or your involvement in leadership activities (at your school, job, community, or within your family) will help you to make an impact both in and out of the classroom while enrolled at UT.”

In this short answer, they are offered  the opportunity to talk about the things you are passionate about. Take this and run with it! This is one of the things that makes students stand out among the crowd– what they are passionate about and why. The trick here is connecting it back to how it currently benefits you as a student, and how it will continue to benefit you as a student. 

An example of this could be a student organization that taught you about accountability. From being in a leadership position in this organization, you learned accountability, which helped you to be a better student because you were more apt to be on time with assignments, get ahead on your schoolwork, and to hold yourself accountable. Learning these things early on helped you to build healthy learning habits that you will carry with you into college. 

Short answer #3

“The core purpose of The University of Texas at Austin is, “To Transform Lives for the Benefit of Society.” Please share how you believe your experience at UT-Austin will prepare you to “Change the World” after you graduate.”

This is arguably one of the more important short answers that UT – Austin asks you to write. They want to know that you hold similar values to their founders and the existing student body, and that you will be a good fit for their university holistically, not just academically. 

There are so many different directions that you could take this question. First, think about what you want to do with your degree after college. Then ask yourself, “What can I do at UT Austin that will not only transform my life, but how can what I learn from that experience that will help me be able to transform others’ lives as well”? This is a loaded question, and a lot more than you might be able to answer right now. Just try to be idealistic and think of your future. 

Optional short answer

“Please share background on events or special circumstances that you feel may have impacted your high school academic performance. If your response to this question is similar to one of the Common App Personal Essays, feel free to simply copy and paste the important parts of your essay here. Please limit your response to 250-300 words.”

This one is quick, easy, and a short answer that everyone should answer if their situation warrants. This is your opportunity to let UT Austin know about your struggles and help them understand your story a bit better. 

Closing thoughts for students

It is completely understandable if you are feeling overwhelmed after reading through all of these prompts. The only thing that you can do is try your best and be honest about who you are–in other words, stay true to yourself. The college admissions professionals at the University of Texas – Austin simply want to get to know you as a person, and that is why they are asking you so many questions! Remember, the prompts are not meant to make you feel overwhelmed or scared by any means. 

Additional resources

At Scholarships360, we understand that the college admissions process is a long and strenuous process. We want to make things easier for you, so we’ve curated a pretty extensive list of tips and tricks to help you out. Learn how to write an essay about yourself and perfect writing both  250  or  500 word essays. We can help you figure out how many colleges to apply to , and after,  how to make your college application shine . We wish you luck, and remind you to apply for all the scholarships you are eligible for! 

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How to write the university of texas essays 2020-2021: the applytexas guide.

The University of Texas is a public research university located in Austin, Texas, with an acceptance rate of 40%.

One of the largest schools in the nation , UT is divided into 18 schools and colleges. It offers over 900 clubs and organizations, hundreds of study abroad programs, nationally ranked sports teams, and more.

If that sounds like your kind of school, you’ll first have to make it past the admissions process. While your GPA, SAT scores, and other accomplishments are important, your essays also offer a great opportunity to stand out from the crowd.

In this article, we’ll help you capitalize on that opportunity by providing tips, ideas, and inspiration for writing the University of Texas essays.

Let’s get started!

What Are the University of Texas Supplemental Essays?

The University of Texas uses the ApplyTexas application, a common application accepted by Texas public universities and some private Texas universities.

Along with this application, you must submit at least one essay and three short answer questions.

UT’s required supplemental essay is fairly long, at 500-700 words or 2-3 paragraphs. All applicants must write their essay addressing this prompt:

Tell us your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today?

Some majors and schools within the University of Texas require additional supplemental essays. These prompts are listed below, along with the school or major they relate to:  

UT School of Art and Art History:

In 500 words or less, please tell us about a meaningful way in which an artwork, or artist, has changed your life. How has this prompted your ambitions for a life in the arts?

UT Nursing Majors:

Discuss the factors that have influenced your desire to pursue a career in Nursing. How have your academic and extracurricular activities prepared you to pursue a degree in Nursing?

UT School of Architecture:

What are the ways you explore and express your creativity? Please limit your response to 250-300 words. Take and upload up to three photographs from a camera, smart phone or mobile device that capture how you see the world. Describe what you are trying to evoke with these images. Please limit your response to 50–75 words.

Steve Hicks School of Social Work:

Discuss the reasons you chose Social Work as your first-choice major and how a Social Work degree from UT will prepare you for the future.

Once you’ve responded to your main essay as well as any applicable major or school-specific prompts, you will need to respond to three short-answer questions, and you’ll have the option to answer one more.

U Texas Required Short-Answer Questions:

These are listed as short-answer questions, but they are more similar to the regular essays required by most college applications. They should be no longer than 40 lines, which is equivalent to 1 paragraph or 250-300 words.

Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major? Leadership can be demonstrated in many ways. Please share how you have demonstrated leadership in either your school, job, community, and/or within your family responsibilities. Please share how you believe your experiences, perspectives, and/or talents have shaped your ability to contribute to and enrich the learning environment at UT Austin, both in and out of the classroom.

U Texas Optional Supplemental Essay Question:

Please share background on events or special circumstances that you feel may have impacted your high school academic performance, including the possible effects of COVID-19. Please limit your response to 250-300 words.

General Tips for the University of Texas Supplemental Essays

When you look over most of your ApplyTexas application, you’ll see a lot of numbers. These numbers include SAT scores, GPA, your class rank, the years you’ve been involved in various activities, and so on.

Perhaps these numbers capture your achievements over the four years of high school, but do they form an accurate picture of you ?

Probably not; and that’s where the essays come in.

These essays will help admissions officers at UT get to know who you are beyond the numbers and statistics. They’ll get to know your personality, values, and goals. They’ll learn about where you come from and what has shaped or influenced you.

Keeping this purpose in mind, make sure that you’re honest in your essays and write in your own voice. The essays should “sound” like you and should address ideas and experiences that you find meaningful. Use specific details to make your essays interesting and memorable.

Try to be reflective and insightful, indicating that you’re a mature student who will thrive in a college environment.

Also, be sure to carefully edit and revise your essays, preferably getting feedback from a few trusted teachers, family members, or peers. You want to make a good impression; Spelling and grammar errors aren’t the way to accomplish that!

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s take an in-depth look at each of UT’s essays and short answer questions.

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Required university of texas supplemental essay.

When you first look into this prompt, you may feel surprised or overwhelmed by the required word count. UT states that this essay should be between 500 and 700 words, which is much longer than the typical college application essay.

However, instead of feeling uncertain, try to get excited. It may be a longer essay, but that means you’ve got more space to show the University of Texas admissions team who you are and why you belong in their upcoming freshman class.

It’s also an interesting prompt because it starts broad and later gets more specific. “Tell us your story” is about as broad as essays can get. Then, however, you find out what UT really wants to hear about is the challenges you’ve faced so far in life.

Take these two questions and bring them together into one; What are some challenges you’ve faced that have turned you into the person you are today?

UT doesn’t necessarily want to hear the happy, upbeat parts of your story, they want to hear the hard stuff. They want to see what you’ve overcome.

Start by brainstorming the aspects of your story you’d like to address.

• Have you gone through something challenging that significantly impacted your life?
• If not, think of some small things: Make a list of tough classes, write about when you moved to a new town and had to start over by making new friends in a new school, or even describe some of the difficult aspects of your life at home.

It doesn’t matter if these challenges are big or small; UT simply wants to see that you’ve overcome them and they’ve shaped you into the person you are today.

Once you have your challenges, take some time to examine yourself.

How did these difficulties affect your life? How did they change the person you’ve become?

• Did they make you more resilient?
• Did they teach you to never give up?
• Did they give you the motivation you need to work hard and make a difference in the world around you through your future career?

Look into who you are deeply, and don’t be afraid to be a little creative.

If you’re still stumped on how these events have changed you, ask a family member or close friend. If they watched you push through, they likely saw the change before you even began to notice it.

You may also be able to find inspiration by reading through old diaries, digging around in your attic or basement, or taking a drive through your neighborhood or town.

Use vivid, specific details to describe your experience. Allow the admissions team to feel as if they’re going through the challenge right alongside you.

Then, dig even deeper:

• How did you mature or grow as a result?
• What life lessons did you learn?
• What elements of your personality were shaped by this experience?

No matter what challenges you write about, be sure to write your essay from a meaningful and authentic point of view. Take time to show the University of texas admissions team who you are and what makes you special.

If you write from your heart and show UT who you are, your essay is sure to impress.

UT School of Art and Art History Supplemental Essay

For the first part of this prompt, you should showcase your passion for  art history, visual art, or another intended area of study.

• Have you had a powerful experience while viewing a specific art piece or artist’s work?
• How did this experience shape you as an individual and/or an artist?
• How did it change your life as a whole?

We’re talking about art here, so be descriptive!

Start by choosing your art piece or artist, and explain what you felt when you first saw or experienced it.

Then, explain the impact it has had on your life.

Maybe it’s affected who you are as an artist by compelling you to turn your hobby into a career:

• Have you taken studio classes, completed an internship, or independently worked on relevant projects?
• What do you plan to do at UT to continue exploring this interest?

Maybe it’s simply taught you about who you are.

No matter how the art piece or artist has changed your life, be sure to paint an image of your experience through your words. Be sincere, and show UT that you have a true passion for the arts.

They want to see that art has truly made you who you are today, and that you’re serious about your future in the creative world.

UT Nursing Majors

Prompt #1: Discuss the factors that have influenced your desire to pursue a career in Nursing.

For your first nursing-specific essay, think about experiences or other factors you’ve already had that have prepared you to be a good nurse.

• Have you always been interested in the Human Body and how it works?
• Did you have an amazing nurse at one point in your life, and you’ve wanted to follow in their footsteps ever since?
• Have you had a family member experience a medical challenge, and what to give back through a career in nursing?

You may want to tie UT’s Nursing program specifically into your answer:

• Research opportunities, professors, or classes you’d like to be part of, and mention how these specific programs or experiences can help you reach your goals.
• Be sure that your tone is enthusiastic and excited.

You should also take the time to clearly express your goals in nursing.

• Is there a specific population you’d like to work with or something in particular that you’d like to achieve? Why?

By showing UT that you’ve got good reason to desire a future as a nurse (and that you’re sure to make a good one) you’ve got a much better chance at being accepted into the program.

Prompt #2: How have your academic and extracurricular activities prepared you to pursue a degree in Nursing?

While brainstorming your response to this prompt, consider your past nursing-related academic or extracurricular experiences:

• Do you have clinical experience?
• Research experience?
• Volunteer work you’ve done?
• If not, any experience working with people and/or demonstrating compassion could suffice.

You’ll want to show UT that you’re dedicated to this career path, and show that you’ve already taken concrete steps to introduce yourself to the field.

U Texas School of Architecture

Prompt #1: What are the ways you explore and express your creativity? Please limit your response to 250-300 words.

This sounds like a simple question, but its broad origin makes it more challenging that other essay prompts.

Since this question is so broad, you’ll want to break it down to find your inspiration.

First, how do you explore your creativity?

• What gives you your inspiration?
• How do you come up with new ideas?
• Where does your passion for architecture lie?

Think hard about where your creativity comes from, and let UT know. Don’t worry if it’s not the most amazing place; they want you to be honest and authentic.

Next, talk about how you express your creativity.

Once you get a new idea, how do you get it out?

Does it steam for a while, or do you stay up all night until you have the entire plan on a page in front of your own eyes?

• Do you free-write to get all of your ideas down on paper?
• Do you grab a sketchbook and start to draw?
• Maybe you’re a 3D builder, and love creating models of future works you’d like to accomplish

Remember once again to be honest and authentic.

At the same time, be sure to fill your response with detail. Write in a way that gets the U admissions team excited about the creativity you’ve got inside of you. Show them how passionate you are and how you’re simply made for a future in architecture.

Prompt #2: Take and upload up to three photographs from a camera, smart phone or mobile device that capture how you see the world. Describe what you are trying to evoke with these images. Please limit your response to 50–75 words.

This is an interesting prompt because it requires photos, so it’s almost more similar to a portfolio submission.

However, it includes a write-up, so we want to support you through your response.

When you set out to take your pictures, be intentional. Keep in mind that you’ll have to write something that is both short and impressive when your done (and it needs to relate specifically to the pictures you take).

When you start writing, try a free-write to get the process going.

Write down everything you have to say about your images, and underlying the best things that come to you.

Take those best pieces of information, and make them as direct and compact as possible.

With only 50-75 words, everything you put on that final page needs to count.

Steve Hicks School of Social Work

This question is simple: Why social work, and why UT?

• Have you had experiences working with others to help them overcome challenges, such as being a tutor or volunteering at a soup kitchen?
• Can you demonstrate that you’re an empathetic, compassionate, and resilient individual?
• Try using an anecdote to describe why you’re so interested in social work—and why you would make a great social worker.

For the second half of the question, you may need to do some research on UT’s social work program.

• Look into classes, professors, opportunities, and other resources.
• What most excites you about this program?
• What opportunities will you take advantage of?
• How will these experiences prepare you for a career as a social worker?

An essay that shows passion for social work and commitment through understanding UT’s social work program is sure to stand out.

UT Supplemental Required Short Answers

Remember, every UT applicant will answer at least three short-answer questions. Responses are limited to 250-300 words.

Short Answer #1: Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major?

Don’t panic if you’re not completely sure what you want to do after college yet.

• Is there a field you’re interested in exploring?
• A career path you think you want to pursue?
• Just choose something that interests you, and explain why you can see yourself working in this field.

Even if you have several possible careers in mind, remember that you only have 300 words. It’s best if you choose just one to focus on for the purpose of this essay. Get right to the point.

Even though you’ve only got 300 words, you still want to make sure UT has the chance to get to know you better through this essay. Be sure to include some information that sheds light on who you are and why you’re passionate about your potential future major:

• Can you think of one particular moment or event that helped you decide on a career or academic path?
• If so, this is a perfect place to narrate that anecdote for admissions officers.
• Alternatively, perhaps there are several reasons you’ve become fascinated with a certain career. You can mention them here, but be sure to include specific details!

If you’ve spent time outside of school volunteering, researching, or exploring your selected career, mention it. Your essay should convey passion, excitement, and genuine interest in the career you’ve chosen to discuss.

Short Answer #2: Leadership can be demonstrated in many ways. Please share how you have demonstrated leadership in either your school, job, community, and/or within your family responsibilities.

Colleges these days aren’t looking for just any student, and UT is no exception. This essay prompt shows that the University of Texas is seeking leaders to join their upcoming freshman class.

What have you done to lead in the past?

• Have you held a chair position in Student Council?
• Were you the captain of the basketball team?
• Maybe you started and lead your own language learning club

Remember that these leadership roles do not have to relate directly to school or academics:

• Are you an older sibling who has helped raise your brothers and sisters?
• Have you filled in for your manager at your weekend job?

It doesn’t matter where the role was, UT just wants to see that you’ve got it in you to be a leader.

They want to know that you’re capable of taking things into your own hands and making a difference in the world around you.

Remember to be authentic, fill your essay with specific details, and show UT a little bit more about who you are. They want to see a leader, but they also want to see you.

Short Answer #3: Please share how you believe your experiences, perspectives, and/or talents have shaped your ability to contribute to and enrich the learning environment at UT Austin, both in and out of the classroom.

This is a typical “Diversity” essay; it shows that UT wants to know about the unique pieces of you that will both benefit their campus and add to the diversity of their next freshman class.

Take it as an opportunity to show UT why and how you stand out.

When you begin brainstorming how you’ll respond to this prompt, be sure to consider all of the areas listed:

• What unique experiences have shaped your learning venture so far? Have you attended specialty camps or had what you consider to be the best science teacher in existence?
• What about perspectives? What are some interesting ways you have of viewing certain subjects? Have you had first-hand experiences to shape these views?
• Don’t forget about talents; what are you good at? Don’t be afraid to brag! UT sincerely wants to know.

Once you’ve got your experiences, perspectives, and/or talents listed, consider how they’ll add to UT’s classrooms.

What do you have to offer to your future classmates and teachers?

What will make you stand out in class?

Take this essay as a chance to show UT what you’ve really got to offer in the classroom, even if it doesn’t show up in your GPA or test scores.

UT Supplemental: Optional Short Answer

As we’re living in unprecedented times, you’ve got what appears to be an unprecedented opportunity; an optional short answer essay that relates to COVID-19.

Your response to this prompt is, of course, optional, but we suggest every applicant takes the time to respond. Why? Because they more you write in your application, the more UT will get to know who you really are.

When writing this essay, consider anything and everything that has impacted your academic performance throughout high school. COVID-19 almost certainly has made a mark on your high school experience, but include other factors when necessary:

• Maybe you were ill throughout most of your Freshman year, causing you to miss a significant amount of school
• You may have moved schools with every starting year, causing you to have trouble settling into each new schedule and routine.
• You could have had a family emergency or tragedy that affected your academic performance at a specific time.

This is a unique opportunity, because it gives you the chance to explain something that may make your application look less than ideal.

Give your reason, and then go beyond the prompt.

Show UT how you grew through that challenge and what it taught you.

Show the admissions team how strong you are, and how you’re capable and ready to leave your mark at the University of Texas.

Conclusion: How to Write the University of Texas Supplemental Essays

As you write your UT essays, remember that the goal is to give admissions officers a glimpse into your background, personality, and goals.

Be enthusiastic, open, and honest. Instead of trying to impress, simply try to convey who you are. Genuine answers will be more interesting and memorable than forced answers.

Start working well in advance, giving yourself plenty of time to proofread and edit , and be sure to use the tips and inspiration we’ve provided here.

Strong essays will definitely increase your chances of joining the Longhorns in the fall. Good luck!

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University of Texas at Austin 2023-24 Essay Prompt Guide

Early Action: Oct 15

Regular Decision Deadline: Dec 1

You Have: 

University of Texas at Austin 2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanations 

The Requirements: 1 essay of 500-700 words; 3 essays of 250-300 words

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Community , Why , Additional Info , Personal statement

All freshman applicants must submit a required essay, Topic A in ApplyTexas and the UT Austin Required Essay in the Coalition application. Please keep your essay between 500–700 words (typically two to three paragraphs).

Tell us your story. what unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today (500-700 words).

Whether you’re using the Coalition or ApplyTexas to apply to UT Austin, you’ll have many opportunities to document your greatest high school achievements. So for this essay, it’s important that you focus on telling a personal story (it’s right there in the prompt!) that doesn’t appear elsewhere on your application. What opportunities and challenges were specific to your high school experience? The goal isn’t to craft a list, so aim to focus on one central story that describes either an opportunity or a challenge. When brainstorming , on the other hand, we recommend writing the longest list you can think of: two columns or a Venn diagram documenting every hurtle or special chance you got throughout high school. 

As you consider your “opportunities,” keep in mind that your reflection on the event or opportunity that shaped who you are today will be a source of great insight for admissions. Maybe being fluent in Tagalog opened up a unique opportunity for you to start an online exchange between your school and a school in the Philippines.  Or were you invited to perform with your dance group at a community event? Did this experience launch you to seek out other performance opportunities, spurring your interest in entrepreneurship? As you sift through your “challenges” route, aim to showcase qualities like resilience, perseverance, or simply an ability to turn lemons into lemonade. Perhaps the long commutes on the bus between home, school, and your internship taught you about time management or inspired an interest in urban planning. The challenges you choose to write about can be serious (dealing with bullies or discovering a learning disability) or seemingly banal (a public speaking #fail). While the possibilities are almost endless, students should be careful not to choose challenges that may seem trite (getting a B on a big project or winning lottery tickets to Hamilton). 

Regardless of the direction you choose to pursue, remember to make sure that admissions is learning something new about you through personal anecdotes and specific details. 

All applicants must submit three required short answers responding to prompts in your admissions application. Answers are limited to no more than 40 lines, or about 250–300 words, typically the length of one paragraph.

Note special requirements: architecture, art and art history, nursing, and social work require additional short answer questions of their applicants. , required short answer 1: , why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major.

This prompt sounds simple enough: describe what you want to study and why you like it so much that you’re willing to dedicate four years of your life to it (at the very least). While you might be tempted to get technical or poetic in your response, your reader will expect you to connect your intended major to some prior experience and/or passion. In other words, tell a story. Lucky for you, we would have advised you to start with an anecdote anyway. The most memorable essays spring from concrete descriptions of your experiences. What excites you and why? When was the last time you got drawn down a Reddit rabbit hole – and what was the topic? While you don’t need to pinpoint the exact moment you became interested in ancient history or calculus, try to zero in on some inspiring experience. What was the best TED Talk you ever watched? The first time you spoke to your new friend in ASL? Your story should showcase your unique connection to your chosen course of study. And don’t forget to talk about UT Austin! By the end of your essay, your reader should not only know why you are passionate about your chosen major, but also what excites you about Austin’s program. In admissions, we call that your fit!

Oh and a quick shoutout to all the undecideds out there: don’t worry! If you can’t decide, then tell a story that demonstrates your wide range of interests or natural curiosity. Focus on the opportunities UT Austin offers across departments and how you plan to explore once you arrive on campus. It’s normal to want to try new things at the start of college!

Required Short Answer 2:

Describe how your experiences, perspectives, talents, and/or your involvement in leadership activities (at your school, job, community, or within your family) will help you to make an impact both in and out of the classroom while enrolled at ut..

In short, this is an essay about diversity and the aspects of your life and experience that distinguish you from your peers. For some applicants, the answer might be obvious: you might have been the only one at your school with a certain background, belief system, or inherited skill set. But whether this prompt seems like it was made for you or just a total head-scratcher, we encourage you to dig a little deeper than your first thought. What about your history, experiences, perspectives, or talents might be worth highlighting for an admissions officer? And how can the experience, perspective, or talent you choose enrich the learning environment at UT Austin?

Maybe you grew up in a military family that moved around a lot, and you want to write about how this experience has shaped your ability to make new connections super quickly. Perhaps you’ll teach your floor-mates about what makes for a great ice breaker. Maybe you were raised on a farm and developed a strong work ethic at a young age as you helped your parents tend to the fields. Perhaps you will be a natural leader in group projects and take initiative in the many clubs you’d like to join. Be sure to connect your personal story to a future vision of yourself at UT Austin. The most important thing to remember for this prompt is that your experience, perspective, or talent is dynamic and specific to you and who you are, and no one else.

Required Short Answer 3:

The core purpose of the university of texas at austin is, “to transform lives for the benefit of society.” please share how you believe your experience at ut-austin will prepare you to “change the world” after you graduate..

UT Austin seeks to invite movers and shakers to campus, students who dream of a better tomorrow and have a plan to make it happen. Admissions wants to know what change you would like to effect in the world. Maybe you want to be at the forefront of the fight against climate change and global warming. How do you plan to contribute and how will your time at UT Austin set you up for carbon neutral success? Perhaps you would like to see more reparations in place for marginalized and historically deprived communities in the United States. Will UT Austin’s Race, Indigeneity, and Migration major help prepare you for a career in public service?

However you decide to answer this prompt, be sure to show admissions that you care about the wellbeing of others. And make sure they know you want to be part of positive change and will make UT Austin proud long after graduation.

Optional Short Answer 4:

Please share background on events or special circumstances that may have impacted your high school academic performance..

T his essay is perfect for students who have encountered outstanding challenges, and need an opportunity to explain them. In fact, we recommend saving those details for an Additional Info essay, so that you can use the rest of your application to highlight other parts of your amazing personality. So, if something has happened that affected your academic performance, this is a great opportunity to explain the circumstances. Did a COVID-19 infection during your junior year cause your participation in clubs and activities to take a hit? Did a family emergency cause an overall drop in your GPA? A drop in grades or a gap in your resume does not define you. Remember to make this essay not about the things you couldn’t control, but the actions you took to improve the situation. You don’t want to come off as a victim of circumstance, but as a resilient person who can take steps to positively affect their situation.

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How to Write the UT Austin Supplemental Essays + Examples

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 10/23/23

Writing the UT Austin essays requires introspection, creativity, and time! To learn how to ace this application component, read on!

If you’re planning on applying to the University of Texas and are making your way down your application checklist, you may hit a roadblock when it comes to the supplemental essays . 

These essays often prove to be the most demanding aspect of college applications, as they call for transforming your thoughts into captivating words and leaving a lasting impression on the admissions committee. But fear not! This guide has got you covered! In it, we’ll break down each of the UT Austin essays. 

UT Austin Supplemental Essay Prompts 2023-2024

Before we delve into how to write the UT Austin supplemental essays , let’s go over the prompts. You’ll be required to answer one essay prompt and a few short answers. 

The required essay prompt should be around 500-700 words , typically two the three paragraphs. However, your responses to the short answer prompts should be no more than 40 lines or 250-300 words . 

Required Essay Prompt #1

“Tell us your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today?”

Short Answer Prompt #2

“ Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major?”

Short Answer Prompt #3

“ Describe how your experiences, perspectives, talents, and/or your involvement in leadership activities (at your school, job, community, or within your family) will help you to make an impact both in and out of the classroom while enrolled at UT.”

Short Answer Prompt #4

“ The core purpose of The University of Texas at Austin is ‘To Transform Lives for the Benefit of Society.’ Please share how you believe your experience at UT Austin will prepare you to ‘Change the World’ after you graduate.”

Optional Short Answer Prompt #5

Students may also answer the following short answer if it applies to them:

“Please share background on events or special circumstances that you feel may have impacted your high school academic performance.”

How to Write Each Essay Prompt for UT Austin

Now, we’ll delve into how to answer each of UT Austin’s prompts to ensure your responses are original, insightful, and interesting! We’ll go through specific UT Austin essay requirements and also provide successful essay examples to begin your creative process. 

How to Write UT Austin Required Essay #1 + Analysis and Tips

Analysis of UT Austin’s required essay prompt : This prompt, by asking you to “tell your story,” calls for some personal reflection on your life so far. UT Austin wants to get to know you as a well-rounded person beyond your application materials. They want to know the things that have shaped and formed you in your life. 

The various opportunities and challenges you’ve experienced say a lot about who you are. By asking you to tell these anecdotes, the admissions committee wants to see you display humility, self-awareness, gratitude, and a desire to learn and grow. Think deeply about significant moments in your life and how they have made you different. 

To write a strong essay for UT Austin, consider following these tips:

Tip #1: Dig into Your High School Memories

Time for a little throwback session! Sit down with a cup of coffee, tea, or whatever else floats your boat, and start digging up all those unique experiences you had during high school. For most of you, you’re likely in your senior year, so this shouldn’t be too hard!

Remember those times when life threw something special at you or maybe even knocked you off your feet? Jot all of these memories down so you can go through them and pick the most meaningful ones to talk about. 

Tip #2: Find the Common Thread

Now that you've got a bunch of high school memories in front of you, see if there's a common theme or a big idea that ties them together. It could be a passion, a challenge you faced head-on, or a turning point that changed the game for you.

Tip #3: Be Descriptive!

Get creative with your writing! Paint a picture with your words. Make your essay engaging and fun to read. You want those admissions officers to be hooked from the start to the finish. 

Tip #4: Get Real and Vulnerable

No need to put on a show here to worry about what you think the admissions committee wants to hear. Be yourself! 

Share your stories and feelings with authenticity. The admissions committee wants to see the genuine you, not some perfectly polished version. Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable, share your feelings and emotions, and demonstrate your growth.

Tip #5: Talk About Unique Opportunities

Share those opportunities that set you apart from the crowd. Maybe it was an internship, a special extracurricular , a passion project , or a chance to travel. 

Show them how these experiences opened up new doors and helped you grow.

Tip #6: Face the Challenges, No Holding Back

Life's not always rainbows and sunshine. The admissions committee wants to hear about your struggles and your ability to overcome them. So, discuss those tough moments that you thought you’d never get through, how you pushed on, and what you learned along the way.

Show the committee how all these experiences—the good, the bad, and the ugly—shaped the awesome person you are today. 

Tip #7: End On a High Note

End your essay with a forward-looking approach. You’ve spent most of your essay reminiscing about high school and the lessons you learned from it. Now think about what’s next! 

Offer the admissions committee some insight into your academic and career aspirations. Talk about how you plan on fulfilling these goals at UT Austin and what you plan on contributing to this school!

How to Write UT Austin Short Answer #2 + Analysis and Tips

Short answer #1 analysis : The first short answer is relatively straightforward. There’s a reason you chose your intended major, and now’s your time to demonstrate your passion and explain why your selected program interests you! 

UT Austin is dedicated to making a real difference in the world, so it’s essential you take your essay beyond the realms of your immediate college career. Think about what you’ll do with your education and how you’ll impact those around you!

Keep these tips in mind to ensure you nail this short answer:

• Showcase your passion and genuine interest : Avoid essay topics that you think the committee wants to hear. Instead, ensure your sincere passion for the major you've selected is evident throughout your essay. Explain why it excites you and what specific aspects of the subject matter resonate with you.
• Connect to your background : Reflect on any relevant events, challenges, or opportunities that influenced your decision. Share one or two brief anecdotes or stories that demonstrate how your experiences have shaped your aspirations and academic path. This will make your essay personal and engaging. 
• Highlight your skills and alignment with UT Austin : Explain how your skills, strengths, and natural abilities align with the chosen major. Describe specific talents or aptitudes that you possess and how they complement the demands of your academic program and profession.
• Emphasise UT Austin's program and opportunities : Demonstrate your knowledge and interest in UT Austin's program. Research its offerings, faculty members, research opportunities, and distinctive features related to your chosen major. Explain how these aspects appeal to you and align with your goals.
• Discuss your future aspirations : Share your long-term aspirations and how pursuing this major will enable you to make a positive impact in your chosen field and beyond. Discuss how you envision using the knowledge and skills gained from this program to contribute to society or address real-world challenges. 

How to Write UT Austin Short Answer #3 + Analysis and Tips 

Short answer #2 analysis : With this prompt, UT Austin wants to see drive and commitment to make a difference in the university community as well as proof that you’ve made a difference in other spaces as well. 

This question should demonstrate self-awareness, passion, and motivation. UT Austin wants to know how your past experiences have brought you to where you are, and they also want to know more about your future aspirations. 

By demonstrating your potential to have a positive impact both in and out of the classroom, you can present yourself as a well-rounded candidate that will make great contributions to the UT community!

Implement these tips into your second short answer response:

• Highlight your key qualities and experiences : Provide an overview of the experiences, perspectives, talents, and leadership activities that define you as an individual but avoid listing them without adding context and depth. Explain how they contribute to your overall character and worldview.
• Emphasize leadership skills and potential : Discuss your involvement in leadership activities. Illustrate how you have taken initiative, influenced others, or demonstrated a commitment to creating positive change. All of these traits are highly valued by UT Austin!
• Talk about your future : Demonstrate how your specific attributes and experiences will allow you to make a positive impact both in and out of the classroom at UT Austin. Explain how your perspectives and background have shaped your understanding of different issues and will enrich class discussions.
• Connect back to UT Austin : Show that you have done your research on UT Austin's values, culture, and community. Explain how your experiences, perspectives, and talents align with the university's mission and how you plan to contribute to the campus environment. 
• Be genuine and specific : Throughout your essay, be authentic and avoid any vagueness. Share specific anecdotes and examples to illustrate your points, and be descriptive! Show, don't tell, and immerse your readers into your experiences so they connect to them better.

How to Write UT Austin Short Answer #4 + Analysis and Tips

Short answer #3 analysis : This short answer is one of the more challenging UT Austin essays. It requires students to look ahead past their college career and think critically about how they plan on bettering the world. 

While the previous questions are focused on your passions in a more general sense, this prompt asks you to think about your aspirations at UT Austin specifically. How does your desire to attend UT Austin connect to your dreams and goals? 

Here are some tips on how to approach this question:

Tip #1: Be Realistic

The admissions committee isn’t looking for any sappy or exaggerated goals. They aren’t expecting you to cure cancer or find life on Mars. 

Think about what realistic impact you want to have on the world. Whether it be changing the lives of your patients as a healthcare worker, helping address social issues, or simply being a strong advocate for the environment, any effort to better the lives of others counts!

Tip #2: Be Specific

Don’t make vague statements about your passion to change the world, healthcare, poverty, or any other broad topic. Be specific and clearly state your long-term aspirations and the specific ways you envision changing the world after graduation. 

Think about who exactly you want to help, what issue you aim to address, and the tools you’ll use to do so. 

Tip #3: Connect UT Austin's Offerings to Your Goals

Showcase your understanding of UT Austin's unique offerings and how they align with your ambitions. Discuss specific academic programs, research opportunities, clubs, or organizations that UT Austin offers and explain how they will support your personal and professional growth towards your goal of changing the world.

Tip #4: Discuss Your Commitment to Impact

Emphasize your dedication and commitment to creating a positive impact. Demonstrate that you are not just interested in pursuing your career for personal gain, but that you genuinely care about making a difference in the lives of others and improving society.

Tip #5: Be Ambitious

Be ambitious in your goals, but also be realistic about the steps you'll take to achieve them. Demonstrate that you have a clear plan for how your experience at UT Austin will serve as a stepping stone to creating a lasting impact on a broader scale. Demonstrate you have direction and know what it’ll take to reach your goals.

Tip #6: Wrap Up with Confidence and Gratitude

Conclude your essay with a strong and confident statement that reinforces your commitment to changing the world and your gratitude for the opportunity to do so at UT Austin. Leave a lasting impression on the reader that highlights your passion and determination.

How to Write UT Austin Optional Essay #6

Answering the optional essay is simple; stick to the facts and be honest. There is no need to be overly descriptive or create a compelling narrative out of your circumstances. 

This essay should only help the admissions committee learn more about the extent of your circumstances, how they prevented you from achieving your best, and how you attempted to overcome them. As such, you’ll want this essay to be relatively short. It should not exceed one to two paragraphs. 

Examples of UT Austin Supplemental Essays That Worked

It can be really helpful to look at examples of successful essays for inspiration. Below, you’ll find essay examples from accepted UT Austin applicants! We’ll look at each example closely to examine what worked about it. 

Sample Essay #1

Your UT Austin essays need to be concise, captivating, and creative to effectively answer this prompt:

Take a look at this example essay:

“‘Gone but never forgotten’---the solemn inscription on the plaque dedicated to my best friend, displayed prominently in our high school. A phrase intended to offer comfort, but one that will always ring hollow for me. The reality remains stark; gone is still gone. No matter how many times I replay his infectious smile or reminisce about our sunlit summers spent surfing until sundown, he remains forever confined to the realm of memories.

Losing my best friend to cancer was a heart-wrenching blow that shattered my world. We had shared dreams, laughter, and endless plans for our future. His untimely departure left an emptiness in my heart and a void in my life that seemed impossible to fill. Grief consumed me, and the once vibrant light of my high school years dimmed significantly. Coping with the loss of such a young, budding life was a challenge unlike any other, and it tested my emotional strength to its limits.

But, In the face of this overwhelming and seemingly unending pain, I found solace in the support of my family and friends. Their unwavering presence and understanding helped me navigate through the darkest times. I realized that I was not alone in my grief and that reaching out for support was not a sign of weakness but an act of bravery. This experience taught me the power of empathy and the significance of connection, shaping my understanding of the value of relationships in life.

While the loss of my best friend left a permanent scar, it also sparked an awakening within me. I became acutely aware of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. As I struggled to regain my sense of purpose, I sought solace in volunteer work at a local cancer support center. Being able to offer comfort and empathy to patients and their families on their own journeys was a cathartic experience that helped me heal and provided me with a newfound sense of direction.

Amidst the challenges, high school also offered unique opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery. I found inspiration in the arts, particularly through music and painting. These creative outlets became my refuge, allowing me to express emotions that words could not convey. Art became a powerful medium through which I could heal and explore my own emotions, and it ignited a passion that continues to fuel my aspirations.

As I delved deeper into my artistic pursuits, I discovered my ability to inspire others through storytelling. I started sharing my experiences through writing and public speaking, aiming to bring hope and awareness to those facing similar struggles. This newfound purpose motivated me to excel academically and to embrace every opportunity for growth that high school offered.

With newfound resilience, I became an active member of various clubs and organizations that focused on cancer awareness and support. I initiated fundraisers and awareness campaigns, determined to make a difference in the lives of those affected by this dreadful disease. In doing so, I found strength in unity, as we came together as a community to support a common cause.

Through the highs and lows of high school, I have evolved into a compassionate, determined, and empathetic individual. The loss of my best friend has taught me that life is fragile and unpredictable, urging me to make the most of every opportunity and to embrace challenges with unwavering resolve.

As I prepare to embark on the next chapter of my journey at UT Austin, I am filled with a sense of purpose and determination. I aspire to study medicine, combining my love for the arts with my passion for healthcare to bring comfort and healing to those in need. The experiences of my high school years have shaped me into a resilient individual who values empathy, compassion, and the power of connection. I am confident that my journey through grief and self-discovery will not only enable me to excel academically but will also empower me to change lives and make a lasting impact both in and out of the classroom. So, while my best friend may be gone forever, his legacy will live on; through me, the sunsets I now surf through alone, the patients I will heal, and the grieving families I will support when all they have left to hold are intangible memories.”  

Why It Works

This essay stands out because of its deeply personal exploration of the writer's journey from grief to resilience, fueled by a passion for cancer awareness and healing. 

The unique fusion of art, medicine, and storytelling highlights the writer's distinct personality, aspirations, and well-roundedness. Their commitment to community engagement, coupled with a clear academic focus on medicine, also aligns well with the university's values. 

Short Answer #1 Example

Below, you’ll find an example essay answering the following prompt: 

“Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major?”

Here’s another example essay to draw inspiration from:

“In 'The Alchemist,' Paulo Coelho writes, 'And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.' This profound sentiment resonates deeply with my decision to pursue an English major at UT Austin. For me, the study of English is a transformative journey of self-discovery and a pursuit of understanding the interconnectedness of humanity through the written word.

Like Santiago, the protagonist in 'The Alchemist,' I believe that our desires and dreams can shape our destinies. In the enchanting world of literature, I find myself constantly drawn to the power of storytelling, where words become vessels for ideas, emotions, and shared experiences. 

Choosing UT Austin as the home for my academic pursuits was an easy decision. The English program's reputation for fostering intellectual curiosity and nurturing creativity aligns perfectly with my academic goals. The diverse range of courses, from classic literature to contemporary poetry, promises to provide a comprehensive understanding of literary traditions, nurturing my ability to critically analyze and interpret texts.

Beyond the curriculum, I am excited about the vibrant literary community at UT Austin. Engaging with like-minded peers in literary clubs, workshops, and events will undoubtedly enrich my perspective and encourage meaningful discussions on the intricacies of literature. Moreover, I envision utilizing my passion for writing to contribute to UT Austin's literary publications and participate in creative writing workshops. Embracing opportunities to share my voice, whether through poetry or prose, is essential to my growth as a writer and communicator.

Ultimately, my decision to pursue an English major at UT Austin is driven by a deep-rooted passion for storytelling, a desire to understand the complexities of human existence, and a conviction that words possess the power to change lives.”

Why Essay #1 Worked

This essay begins with an interesting quote that intrigues the reader from the very first line. Then they artfully connect this quote to their personal and academic aspirations, which reflects a thoughtful consideration of the applicant's choice of major and resonates with the transformative power of education.

The alignment of their academic interests with UT Austin's English program also showcases a well-researched understanding of the university's offerings. 

Short Answer #2 Example 

You’ll need to do some serious brainstorming and reflecting to write an essay that answers this prompt well: 

“Describe how your experiences, perspectives, talents, and/or your involvement in leadership activities (at your school, job, community or within your family) will help you to make an impact both in and out of the classroom while enrolled at UT.”

You can use the following UT Austin essay to guide you in your brainstorming process:

“My journey leading up to UT has been shaped by a tapestry of experiences: my responsibilities at home, my passion for basketball, and my commitment to community service. Balancing two part-time jobs throughout high school to ease the financial burdens at home has instilled in me a strong work ethic and a determination to excel both academically and personally.

As a devoted basketball enthusiast, the court has become my sanctuary, teaching me invaluable lessons in teamwork, perseverance, and leadership. The discipline and dedication required in sports have translated into my academic pursuits, where I strive for excellence with the same fervor I bring to the game.

My commitment to community service is deeply rooted in my family's legacy of veterans, who have instilled in me the importance of giving back. Volunteering at local animal shelters, soup kitchens, and hospitals and organizing charity events has allowed me to witness the transformative power of service firsthand. As such, I am driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others, both in and out of the classroom.

At UT, these experiences and perspectives will serve as my compass for engagement and leadership. As a student-athlete, I intend to contribute my skills to the campus basketball team, fostering a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship. On the academic front, my diverse background will enrich classroom discussions, bringing unique perspectives to the table.

Outside the classroom, I aspire to collaborate with service-oriented organizations, amplifying their impact on the community. Moreover, my leadership experience, gained from organizing charity events and coordinating community initiatives, will be instrumental in rallying fellow students to join forces for common causes. I am eager to embrace the enriching opportunities that UT has to offer, using my talents to foster a nurturing environment where empathy, determination, and teamwork thrive.”

Why Essay #2 Worked

The essay effectively highlights how all of this student’s experiences have shaped their character, instilling qualities like a strong work ethic, determination, teamwork, and leadership. 

Their commitment to community service reflects a genuine desire to give back, and their intention to bring this commitment to UT's campus showcases their dedication to making a positive difference in the university community. 

Short Answer #3 Example

For UT Austin’s third short answer essay, it’s important to include meaningful details. However, remember to be concise when answering the following prompt: 

“The core purpose of The University of Texas at Austin is, ‘To Transform Lives for the Benefit of Society.’ Please share how you believe your experience at UT Austin will prepare you to ‘Change the World’ after you graduate.”

Below is a sample essay to help you craft your own detailed and concise response: 

“Aspiring to become a nurse, I am driven by a profound sense of compassion and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on people's lives. The core purpose of The University of Texas at Austin resonates deeply with my aspirations, and I believe my experience at UT Austin will empower me to change the world through the profession of nursing.

UT Austin's esteemed nursing program will provide me with a comprehensive and cutting-edge education, equipping me with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver high-quality care to diverse populations. The renowned faculty and state-of-the-art facilities will cultivate my clinical expertise, enabling me to make a tangible difference in patients' lives.

Through hands-on experiences and clinical rotations, UT Austin will offer me invaluable opportunities to work with real patients and understand their unique needs and challenges. These experiences will shape me into a compassionate and empathetic caregiver, dedicated to advocating for the well-being of each individual.

Additionally, UT Austin's commitment to community engagement and service aligns perfectly with my vision of making a difference in society. Participating in health outreach programs and volunteering at local clinics will provide me with a broader perspective on healthcare disparities and strengthen my commitment to serving underserved communities. The diverse and inclusive environment at UT Austin will enhance my cultural competence and foster my ability to provide patient-centered care to individuals from different backgrounds.

My experience at UT Austin as a nursing student will be transformative, preparing me to be a compassionate and skilled healthcare professional. Rooted in the university's core purpose of transforming lives for the benefit of society, I am confident that I will graduate as a competent nurse ready to embrace the challenges of the healthcare field and positively impact the lives of those I serve.”

Why Essay #3 Works

The student grounds their aspiration to become a nurse in a genuine compassion for others and a desire to create a positive impact, which resonates well with the university's core purpose. 

The essay also effectively outlines how UT Austin's nursing program is a perfect fit for the applicant, highlighting the comprehensive education, renowned faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities that will prepare them to deliver high-quality care. 

These points present a strong case for how UT Austin’s program will empower this student and how she will contribute to the university’s community. 

Optional Essay Example

Remember, you only need to respond to this prompt if it applies to you: 

For your reference, here’s a sample essay explaining the circumstances that prevented a student from achieving the GPA they intended to:

“During my high school years, I encountered a unique set of circumstances that significantly impacted my academic performance. After my single mother was unexpectedly fired from her job and faced challenges finding another, our family's financial stability became uncertain. In order to support my mother and contribute to household expenses, I took on multiple part-time jobs, which demanded a substantial portion of my time and energy. As I juggled work commitments alongside my academic responsibilities, I found it increasingly challenging to maintain the GPA I had envisioned, a 3.8. While my determination to succeed academically remained steadfast, the added responsibilities and time constraints hindered my ability to dedicate as much time to my studies as I desired.

Despite these challenges, I persevered, ensuring that I gave my best effort in every aspect of my life. Balancing work and studies taught me invaluable time management and prioritization skills, but it also meant sacrificing some extracurricular opportunities that could have enriched my high school experience further. While my academic performance may not have reflected the 3.8 GPA I initially aimed for, I am proud of the resilience I demonstrated in the face of adversity. The experiences I gained from shouldering responsibilities beyond academics have shaped me into a diligent and empathetic individual. I believe these life lessons will undoubtedly serve me well as I embrace new challenges and opportunities in the future.”

Why This Optional Essay Works

This answer sticks to the facts and clearly articulates the circumstances the student faced, how they tried to improve their situation, and what they learned from it. The student keeps a positive tone throughout and does not place blame or try to evoke pity from the admissions committee!

Get More Sample Essays Here!

Looking at sample essays can work wonders for your own inspiration and motivation. If you want to check out more college application essays written by admitted students, take a look at our college essay database down below! 

FAQs: UT Austin Essays

Below, you’ll find the answers to any remaining questions about the UT Austin essays!

1. How Many Essays Does UT Austin Require?

UT Austin requires all of its applicants to answer one long essay and three short essays. There is an additional optional essay for students that faced circumstances that negatively affected their high school experience. 

2. Does UT Look At the Common App Essay?

Yes, the Common App essay will be considered in the admissions committee’s evaluations. 

3. Does UT Look At Coalition Essays?

No, UT Austin only uses the Common Application or the Apply Texas application . 

4. How Long Does UT Austin Supplemental Essay Need to Be? 

The UT Austin required essay should be between 500-700 words. However, the short answer essays only need to be 250-300 words. 

5. How Important Are Essays for the University of Texas at Austin? 

According to UT Austin’s most recent common data set , the application essays are taken into consideration. This means that you’ll have make sure your essays are stellar so that your application stands out! 

Final Thoughts

Overall, your UT Austin essays are not just about showcasing your achievements, but also about how your unique journey has shaped you into the person you are today. Embrace the challenges you've faced and the lessons you've learned along the way. 

Be confident in your abilities and potential. Show them how you can make a positive impact both inside and outside the classroom at UT Austin. UT Austin is looking for a diverse array of individuals, so let your personality and potential shine brightly in your essays!

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Plan II Essay Info

Guidelines and prompts for freshman applicants.

Plan II must often deny applicants with excellent grades and test scores who submit mediocre essays.  A great essay can sweep us off our feet and perhaps make up for somewhat lower scores or relatively lackluster grades. These are the writing samples you will submit for the ApplyTexas (or Common Application) portion of the application and your Plan II Honors short answer response.  Instructions on how to submit your essays can be found on the Texas Admissions page

What NOT to Do

• Choose a very complicated and involved topic that you think will impress us
• Choose a very safe subject
• Make the essay brief and superficial
• Fill it with clichés
• Make unsubstantiated assertitions
• Throw in broad generalizations
• (Over)use a thesaurus.

To write a good essay for Plan II: Express yourself

• Use your own voice
• Write about something you know or something that is truly important to you (as much as possible within the confines of the prompts)
• Give us a clear impression of who you are, providing your admission evaluators a view of an interesting individual is what gets applicants admitted
• Appeal to the senses when you write:  show us what is beautiful, sad, impressive, scary, confusing, frustrating or comforting.  Don't just tell us that it was so.
• To make your story resonate employ detail, description and precision rather than pretense and melodrama.
• Don't simply tell us what you think or what you feel in abstract terms. Describe it. Make it real.

What do we want?

• Sophistication
• Strong command of language
• Good variety in sentence structure
• Clarity of development and thought
• Flow from sentence to sentence, paragraph to paragraph and idea to idea
• Introduce the topic, develop the topic, and move on to a clear conclusion
• Great essays may be quite creative or they may exhibit very straight-forward narrative/expository writing

Take your time, but beware over-editing

Spend plenty of time writing and fine-tuning your essays. Ask for feedback from people you trust before submitting your essays.  But be careful.  Don't allow helpful editors to edit you out of your own essay .  Stay true to your original idea.  Stay true to your voice.  If your essay sounds as though your father, your AP English teacher or your older sister wrote it, it's not likely to earn you admission to Plan II Honors. 

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN APPLICATION

Tackling the ut austin short answer essay prompts.

UT requires students to write two short answer essays as part of their application. These essays are a wonderful opportunity to help UT understand why a student is a fit for UT and their first-choice major.

A student's expanded resume provides the “data” on their achievements and experiences. Their essay and short answers, in contrast, show that they're a living, thinking, feeling human being, someone who cares about what they do and has big dreams for their future. No admissions committee expects a student to have their life 100% planned out right now—the whole point of college is to give students time, space, and resources to learn and explore. But they do want to know that if they admit someone, that student is going to take advantage of everything they offer.

GENERAL TIPS FOR THE UT AUSTIN SHORT ANSWER APPLICATION ESSAYS

• Just answer the question. Seems simple, but it's important to keep in mind: these are not trick questions. UT Admissions is asking students exactly what they want to know. Students should read the question carefully and be sure they're addressing it directly.
• Be succinct. Students should absolutely use illustrative examples where appropriate, but they can save their creative juices for the long essay - the personal statement (also known as the Common App essay). The short answers are more about providing extra information to the admissions committee.
• Always keep first-choice major in mind. The short answers are a great place to provide additional evidence for why a student is a good fit for their first-choice major.

The short answers on the UT application fit together to create the perfect opportunity for a student showcase themselves as an active, engaged future member of the UT community. Here, we'll walk you through each short answer question and offer some tips on how to tackle them.

Need help with your UT Austin Application?

You might be interested in our 1:1 Coaching Program for Students Applying to the University Of Texas at Austin

REQUIRED SHORT ANSWER 1: FIRST-CHOICE MAJOR

Short Answer Prompt

Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major?

300 Word Maximum

How to Approach This Question

In this short answer response, students need to communicate to the admissions committee what they personally find engaging and exciting about their proposed field of study. The admissions committee does not expect student to already be an expert in their field or to have their future career in this field planned out. But they do want to know that the student didn't just open the course catalog and pick a major at random. 

Remember, the student should demonstrate how they specifically—not just a generic student—will take advantage of the opportunities available to them. 

So rather than writing a dry sentence like “I plan to apply for Department X's summer research grant,” a student should write a sentence or two describing a burning question they hope to answer through their research: “With the support of Department X's summer research grants, I could deepen my understanding of [ insert specific topic you're passionate about ] and finally discover an answer to [ burning question ]—something I've been fascinated by since my sophomore year internship at [ relevant workplace ].” The first sentence could just as easily apply to a thousand different applicants. The second is focused, detailed, and could only have been written by—and about—one student. 

Students' responses to this question should demonstrate the following: 

• They have already begun exploring this subject on their own, independently and/or through organized opportunities (e.g., classes, summer programs, internships). 
• They have a sense of how this major fits into their long-term goals.
• They have thought about why UT would be an excellent place to study this subject. 

Questions for Reflection and Freewriting 

Students should be careful not to simply relist classes, activities, and awards from their resume. Instead, they can highlight two or three experiences they found especially meaningful, and reflect on how those experiences shaped their interest in their major. Here are some questions they can ask themselves as they brainstorm: 

• How did this learning experience change the way you understand the world? Did you learn about new problems you hadn't been aware of? Gain a new perspective on your own life, culture, or community? Learn new skills or methods for solving problems? 
• How did you grow from this learning experience? Did it spark new realizations or spark you to take action in some way? Give you new creative outlets for expressing yourself? Open doors to careers or fields of study you hadn't previously considered? 

Personalizing the Answer

If a student hasn't had the opportunity to participate in summer programs or take coursework directly related to their first-choice major, they might need to get a little more creative here. Remember: learning experiences don't have to be formally organized. Taking the initiative to explore a topic independently can demonstrate to colleges that a student is self-motivated and intellectually curious. Here are some ways students might independently explore their interests: 

• Reading books and other publications related to their interests
• Watching relevant lectures on YouTube or listening to podcasts
• Starting conversations with friends, family, or classmates about what they're learning
• Finding ways to incorporate interests into assignments (e.g., researching famous social psychology experiments for an AP U.S. History project)
• Talking with a teacher or reaching out to a professional in their field to learn more
• Gathering information from real world experiences, even if they don't seem directly connected to the major. (For example, if a student is an aspiring accounting major who currently works a retail job, they might pay close attention to how a small business handles expenses compared to a large chain. Or, if they're an aspiring education major who cares for younger siblings, they might help their siblings with their homework assignments and come up with creative ideas to teach them difficult concepts.) 

Bottom line: Students should be sure that their answer to this question doesn't regurgitate information from their resume and instead offers new insight into their personal connection with their first-choice major.

The college essay & resume for UT Austin process can feel overwhelming. Our program provides an experienced coach and a proven framework, working one-on-one to reduce the stress so the student can tell a compelling story.

Our program for students applying to UT Austin includes:

• Guiding students through the UT expanded resume development process
• Managing your student’s essay timeline for one long essay and four school-specific supplemental essays
• Coaching students through a targeted set of college essays, including one long essay  and four school-specific supplemental essays
• Providing students with suggested edits and proofing for this targeted set of college essays
• Review of essays and application by our internal admissions committee

Your student will be carefully matched with a coach based on personality, working style, and first-choice major—it’s just one of the many ways we modify our proven process to meet individual student needs.

REQUIRED SHORT ANSWER 2: MEANINGFUL ACTIVITY

Think of all the activities—both in and outside of school—that you have been involved with during high school. Which one are you most proud of and why? (Guidance for students: This can include an extracurricular activity, a club/organization, volunteer activity, work or a family responsibility.)

For this essay, students should choose an activity that holds personal significance: one that has had a meaningful impact on their personal growth, skill development, or understanding of the world around them. Here are some tips for how they can approach it.

1. Explain their role and contributions. Students should clearly describe their involvement in the activity, highlighting any leadership positions, initiatives they took, or projects they completed. They should discuss how they contributed to the success of the activity, the impact they made on others, and why they're proud of this activity. This essay is also a great place for students to write about their leadership experiences, even if it's not leadership in the traditional sense. 

2. Showcase their personal growth. Students should reflect on how this activity has shaped their character, values, and goals. They should consider discussing any lessons they learned, skills they developed, or insights they gained through their participation.

3. Be succinct. While it's important for students to use illustrative examples where appropriate, they should remember that the short answers are primarily about providing extra information to the admissions committee. Students should be concise and focused in their responses.

4. Always keep their first-choice major in mind. If possible, students should choose an activity that provides additional evidence of their fit for their first-choice major — ideally highlighting something they didn't mention in their short answer essay about their major. They should demonstrate how the skills, experiences, or insights gained through this activity relate to their intended field of study.

5. Diversify. Students should make sure to choose a topic they didn’t already talk about in their other essays, and they should go deeper than what’s on their expanded resume. For example, a student applying as a communication major might talk about their job at a restaurant and describe how they were able to diffuse a tense situation with a customer resulting in praise from a supervisor. The student could delve into what they learned about themselves in this situation and how they can see themselves using their skills in their career.

Questions for Reflection and Freewriting

When choosing an activity to write about, students should reflect on experiences that have had a significant impact on their personal growth, skill development, or understanding of the world around them. Here are some questions they can ask themselves as they brainstorm:

• What activity are you most proud of and why? Consider extracurricular activities, clubs/organizations, volunteer work, jobs, or family responsibilities.
• How did your involvement in this activity contribute to its success? Did you take on any leadership roles, initiate projects, or make a meaningful impact on others?
• In what ways did this activity help you grow as a person? Did you develop new skills, gain valuable insights, or learn important lessons that have shaped your character, values, or goals?
• How has this activity prepared you for your chosen major or future career? Have you acquired skills, experiences, or knowledge that relate to your intended field of study?
• Did this activity expose you to new perspectives, challenges, or opportunities that have influenced your academic or professional interests? How has it made you more excited or committed to pursuing your chosen major?

By reflecting on these questions, students can identify an activity that showcases their personal growth, highlights their strengths and contributions, and demonstrates their fit for their chosen major.

When writing about their chosen activity, students should focus on their unique experiences and perspectives, using specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate their contributions. Then, by reflecting on how the activity has shaped their values, goals, and understanding of themselves and the world around them, students can create a response that is authentic, meaningful, and truly showcases who they are as individuals.

Remember, the goal here isn't for students to rattle off a list of achievements from their resume. Instead, they should demonstrate that they've reflected thoughtfully on their past experiences, and that they've learned something from those experiences that will help them be a good member of the UT community.

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Jumpstart june: gain the edge on your ut austin application, june 5th at 6:00 pm ct, how ut reviews applications.

UT Austin has a special way of looking at applications from students who want to go to their school. It's called the fit-to-major model, and it means that they look at everything in your application—your grades, test scores, essays, resume, and recommendation letters—to see how well it matches up with the major you want to study. They really want to find students who have shown that they're interested and good at the things they'll be learning about in their major. They also want to see that you've done things outside of school that relate to what you want to study.

Choosing the right major is super important because it's the biggest part of your application. UT Austin wants to see that you understand why you picked your major and how it fits with what you want to do in the future.

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• RESEARCH HIGHLIGHT
• 17 May 2024

Reading between the lines: application essays predict university success

Analysis of more than 40,000 university application essays found that gradual transitions between chunks of text correlated with higher marks. Credit: Dusan Stankovic/Getty

Aspiring students who wrote content-rich university admission essays were more likely to end up with higher grades in their classes 1 .

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doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-024-01396-8

Berger, J. & Toubia, O. PNAS Nexus 3 , pgae163 (2024).

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