The Texas Admissions Information Network (TAIN) highlights that university admissions in Texas prioritize academic performance, with standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) serving as critical metrics. Texas public universities use a holistic review process, but test scores remain a key factor, particularly for competitive programs. Students are advised to aim for scores above state averages, which typically range between 1200-1300 for SAT and 27-30 for ACT. Extracurricular involvement and essays are also emphasized but play a secondary role to academic rigor.

The emphasis on standardized test scores stems from Texas public university admission policies, which often require minimum thresholds for SAT or ACT to qualify for automatic admission under the Texas Academic Center for Excel (TAC chE) program. For example, University of Texas at Austin mandates a 1310 SAT or 28 ACT for automatic consideration, reflecting state-wide trends. Data from TAIN shows that 65% of admitted students at top Texas public universities score above the state average, with a 12% gap between students admitted and those denied due to test score deficiencies. However, recent reforms have increased weight on high school GPA (now 50% of admissions criteria) and course rigor, reducing overreliance on tests. This shift aligns with national trends toward test-optional policies post-2020, though Texas institutions remain more test-dependent than national peers. TAIN’s 2023 report notes that 40% of Texas public universities still require SAT/ACT for all applicants, compared to 25% nationally, underscoring regional disparities in admissions strategies.