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How to Get Into Texas A&M University: Admissions Stats + Tips

What’s covered, how hard is it to get into texas a&m university, average academic profile of accepted texas a&m university students.

• What is Texas A&M University Looking For?
• How To Improve Your Chances of Getting Into Texas A&M University
• How To Apply To Texas A&M University
• Learn More About Texas A&M University

Founded in 1876, Texas A&M University has the distinction of being the oldest institution of higher education in Texas. Established initially as a military institution, Texas A&M’s Corps of Cadets (also founded in 1876) is the university’s oldest student organization and is the largest uniformed body of students outside the U.S. military academies. Texas A&M has grown considerably since its founding as an Agricultural and Mechanical (A&M) college—today, it’s home to 17 academic colleges and offers more than 130 undergraduate degrees. 

Getting into Texas A&M University is a challenge. The university received 43,307 applications to its Class of 2025, of which it accepted just 27,287 students. This equates to a 63% overall acceptance rate. 

Texas A&M’s acceptance rate is low, but your actual chances of acceptance are centered on the strength of your profile. CollegeVine can help you better understand your odds of getting into Texas A&M. Our free admissions calculator considers a variety of factors—including your grades, test scores, and extracurriculars—to estimate your odds of admission as well as to provide tips to improve your profile!

The middle 50% SAT score of Texas A&M’s Class of 2025 is 1170-1380 . The middle 50% ACT score is 26-32 .

Texas A&M didn’t report the average high school GPA of its Class of 2025. However, understand that it largely consists of students with excellent academic profiles— 65.84% of the university’s Class of 2025 graduated in the top tenth of their high school. 

What is Texas A&M University Looking for?

Texas A&M University is a state school and, according to its 2020-2021 Common Data Set, considers state residency as “important” to admissions. In-state students make up the bulk of Texas A&M’s classes; in 2017, 94.8% of undergraduates in College Station were from Texas and all 192 Texas counties are represented in the school’s Class of 2025 . Texas residents are also favored with a particular admissions advantage—those who rank in the top 10% of their graduating class qualify for automatic admission to any state school in Texas, including Texas A&M.

While out-of-state students are in the minority at Texas A&M, they’re still a presence on campus, with 44 states represented in the university’s Class of 2025 . Applicants who don’t rank in the top 10% of their graduating class or who are from out-of-state are selected through a holistic admissions process. Admissions officers will consider academic and non-academic factors when evaluating these applicants in search of intelligent, inquisitive students who will add to the university’s vibrant student life.  

How Texas A&M University Evaluates Applications

According to their 2020-2021 Common Data Set, Texas A&M University considers the following factors “very important” :

• Course rigor
• Test scores
• Extracurricular activities 

These factors are “important” :

• First generation 
• State residence
• Geographic location 
• Volunteer work
• Work experience

These are “considered” :

• Recommendations
• Applicant interest

And these are “not considered” :

• Racial/ethnic status
• Religious affiliation

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting into Texas A&M University

1. achieve the best possible gpa while taking the most challenging classes available.

Texas A&M university places substantial weight on academics. The university considers both class rank and GPA “very important” to admissions. The university did not report the average high school GPA of its Class of 2025, however, it’s safe to assume it’s very good considering 65.84% of the class graduated in the top tenth of their high school. 

Selective schools that receive a huge number of applications, like Texas A&M, often use a tool known as the Academic Index to ease the admissions process. Academic Index is a summary of your entire academic performance represented by a single numerical score. If your Academic Index fails to meet Texas A&M’s standards, you risk being viewed as unqualified and not having your application receive serious consideration. 

If your GPA is substandard, and you’re early in your high school career, there is still time to raise it. Check out our tips for increasing your GPA . If you’re a junior or senior, it’s more difficult to bring your GPA up to standard. Rather, the best method to improve your Academic Index is to earn a high test score.

Great grades are important to Texas A&M admissions, but so are the courses you earned them in. The school views course rigor as “very important” to admissions decisions, and Texas A&M students commonly have taken the most challenging coursework available to them in high school. Competitive applicants will often have completed between five and eight AP classes in high school on their way to becoming an Aggie .    

2. Aim for a 1380 SAT and 32 ACT

Texas A&M University considers standardized test scores as “very important” to admissions. The middle 50% SAT/ACT scores of Texas A&M’s Class of 2025 are 1170-1380/26-32 . Any score in the middle 50% of accepted students is satisfactory, but the closer to the 75th percentile you get, the better your odds of admission become. 

Texas A&M will practice test-optional admissions for the Fall and Spring 2022 admissions cycles. That said, CollegeVine recommends taking either the SAT or ACT if you can do so safely and submitting scores that meet or exceed the 25th percentile of admitted students. Applicants who submit test scores are admitted at higher rates than those who do not. You can get recommendations on whether or not you should apply test-optional using our free chancing engine . 

Texas A&M does not superscore the SAT or ACT. Applicants should plan on taking one of the exams between two and three times to ensure they submit the best score possible. A 2016 study found that 57% of ACT takers who retested improved their scores . To improve your SAT/ACT score, check out these free CollegeVine resources:

• How to Get a Perfect 1600 Score on the SAT
• How to Get a Perfect 36 Score on the ACT
• More SAT Info and Tips
• More ACT Info and Tips

3. Cultivate strong extracurriculars

Extracurriculars are also “very important” to Texas A&M University admissions. To stand out among a crowded field of applicants, you’ll want a highly developed interest, known as a “ spike ,” with at least one or two impressive extracurricular activities (among a portfolio of more) . The four tiers of extracurriculars are a good way to understand how a college weighs your activities outside of the classroom: 

• Tier 1 is home to the most prestigious and rare extracurriculars. Tier 1 activities demonstrate exceptional achievement and great leadership and are highly valued by colleges. Tier 1 extracurriculars include winning a prominent national award, gaining national recognition for athletics or music, or attending a renowned merit-based summer program. 
• Tier 2 is where activities that demonstrate great accomplishment and leadership—but are more common than those found in Tier 1—are placed. Examples of Tier 2 activities include winning a regional award, earning state-level recognition in athletics or music, or serving in a top leadership position like student body president. 
• Tier 3 activities hold less weight than those found in the higher tiers and are better for showing your interests outside of the classroom rather than distinguishing yourself from other applicants. Tier 3 extracurriculars include captaining a varsity sport, getting selected for a regional ensemble, or serving in a leadership position such as class treasurer. 
• Tier 4 extracurriculars are the least influential to college admissions. These activities highlight your interests but lack the merits of those in the higher tiers. Examples of Tier 4 extracurriculars include playing a sport or instrument, participating in a club, holding an after-school job, and general volunteer work.

4. Write engaging essays

Along with extracurricular activities, essays are how you show colleges the parts of yourself that don’t come across through the rest of your application. Texas A&M University wants to learn “what makes you you” and views the essay as “important” when making admissions decisions.   

You’re required to complete the personal essay section of your application (either ApplyTexas or the Coalition Application). And if you’re applying to Texas A&M’s College of Engineering, you’ll also need to respond to a short-answer question. An attention-grabbing college essay is written in your unique voice and highlights both how you fit at a particular school and how that school will benefit from having you on campus. For Aggie-specific essay advice, check out our article, “ How to Write the Texas A&M University Essays 2021-2022 .”

5. Apply Early Action

With the exception of the College of Engineering’s Early Action (EA) admissions, Texas A&M University does not have an Early Decision or early application process in place. If you’re planning to apply to the College of Engineering, Early Action can give your odds of acceptance a boost. Texas A&M “considers” applicant interest when making admissions decisions and applying EA is a great way to show your enthusiasm for the university. 

How to Apply to Texas A&M University

Application requirements.

Texas A&M University accepts the ApplyTexas and Coalition Application. Other requirements include:

• Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR)

Other optional materials include: 

• SAT/ACT Scores 
• Letters of recommendation 

Learn more about Texas A&M University 

Interested in learning more about Texas A&M? Check out these other informative articles: 

• How to Write the Texas A&M University Essays 2021-2022
• What is the Academic Common Market? What Schools Participate?
• What Is Automatic Admission to Texas Schools?

Want to know your chances at Texas A&M? Calculate your chances for free right now .

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

How to Get Into Texas A&M University Guide

How to get into texas a&m – general information.

Texas A&M is a public research university in College Station, Texas. It was founded in 1876 as the state’s first public institution of higher learning. Its student population lives within the Houston, Dallas, and Austin triangle. The undergraduate Texas A&M enrollment is around 50,000 . 

What we’ll cover in this How to Get Into Texas A&M guide: 

• The informal Texas A&M GPA requirements and Texas A&M SAT requirements
• Meeting the Texas A&M application deadline 
• Interpreting the Texas A&M acceptance rate
• Writing a top tier Texas A&M essay
• Texas A&M enrollment statistics 
• And many more tips on acing Texas A&M admissions!

Want to know how to get into Texas A&M? It will take strategy to impress Texas A&M admissions with your Texas A&M application.

Even though the Texas A&M enrollment is large, the Texas A&M acceptance rate is low and Texas A&M admissions is competitive. Therefore, make sure you research the informal Texas A&M GPA requirements and Texas A&M SAT requirements. This will increase your chances of making the Texas A&M enrollment. Ensure every part of your “How to Get Into Texas A&M” plan is up to scratch, including the Texas A&M essay. This is how to get into Texas A&M successfully! 

Figuring out how to get into Texas A&M takes strategy. We can help. CollegeAdvisor.com’s network of 300+ Admissions Experts (and former admissions officers) includes graduates from some of the country’s top schools. Want to maximize your Texas A&M admissions odds? Create your free account or schedule a free advising consultation by calling (844) 343-6272. 

How can I get into Texas A&M?

So, you want to know how to get into Texas A&M? Ranked #68 in the U.S. News National Colleges list, it’s no wonder you’re intrigued. Working out how to get into Texas A&M will take planning to ensure that you have an impressive Texas A&M application before the Texas A&M application deadlines.

Want to make Texas A&M enrollment? Meeting the informal Texas A&M SAT requirements and assumed Texas A&M GPA requirements is key. If you don’t think you can meet the Texas A&M GPA requirements, you can still impress Texas A&M admissions with your Texas A&M essay. 

Still, if you really want to know how to get into Texas A&M, you should strive to meet those unofficial Texas A&M GPA requirements and Texas A&M SAT requirements. The low Texas A&M acceptance rate means academics should be a key part of your “how to get into Texas A&M” strategy.

How hard is it to get into Texas A&M?

If you want to know how to get into Texas A&M, then it’s good to know the Texas A&M acceptance rate. This can tell you something about the caliber of the Texas A&M enrollment. The Texas A&M acceptance rate is 57.8% , which makes it a more selective school. 

Ranking as #50 on Forbes Top Colleges 2021 list, it’s no surprise that more and more students are making a “how to get into Texas A&M” plan. So, try to exceed the assumed Texas A&M GPA requirements and Texas A&M SAT requirements. Texas A&M admissions values your class rank or GPA , so keep your grades high. 

You might worry about your ability to meet the informal Texas A&M GPA requirements and Texas A&M SAT requirements. In this case, take extra care to plan your Texas A&M application narrative. You can show Texas A&M admissions why you should make the Texas A&M enrollment through your Texas A&M essay and extracurriculars. 

What are the Texas A&M GPA requirements?

Texas A&M admissions does not give formal Texas A&M GPA requirements. However, since the Texas A&M acceptance rate is 57.8%, we can assume Texas A&M admissions looks for a higher GPA. Texas A&M admissions uses academic achievement, specifically class rank, when evaluating students. Therefore, you should aim to have a competitive GPA—3.5 or above. 

Set a GPA goal at the beginning of your school year, semester, or grading period, and make a plan to get there. Take challenging courses that you can succeed in, especially advanced classes (IB or AP courses). This will show Texas A&M admissions that you are motivated and not afraid of an academic challenge. 

For the fall and spring 2023 semesters, Texas A&M admissions has not issued Texas A&M SAT requirements. Texas A&M admissions is temporarily test-optional. While they encourage students to submit their test scores, your decision to withhold test scores will not negatively impact your application. 

Based on past Texas A&M enrollment statistics, we expect the informal Texas A&M SAT requirements to fall around 1250. If your scores stand up to the informal Texas A&M SAT requirements, send them in. Remember, Texas A&M admissions values your grades and scores. So, if your scores match the informal Texas A&M SAT requirements, they can only increase your chances of making the Texas A&M enrollment. 

What does the Texas A&M application look like?

If you want to know how to get into Texas A&M, the answer lies in crafting an excellent Texas A&M application.  In order to have the best shot at beating the Texas A&M acceptance rate and making Texas A&M enrollment, start early ! Don’t wait until the week before the December 1 st Texas A&M application deadline to get started. 

Your Texas A&M application requires:

• A completed Texas A&M application through ApplyTexas or The Coalition Application
• Your Texas A&M essay
• $75 processing fee
• Self Reported Academic Record ( SRAR )
• Recommended coursework
• Optional: resume, standardized test scores, letters of recommendations (up to two)

While there are no Texas A&M SAT requirements, sending in high scores is a great way to stand out. Texas A&M admissions cares about things like the informal Texas A&M GPA requirements, but they also want to know what else you’d bring to Texas A&M enrollment. The Texas A&M essay is a great way to show your personality and writing style, especially if you’re worried about the estimated Texas A&M GPA requirements. 

With the undergraduate Texas A&M enrollment at about 50,000, many hopeful applicants are working out how to get into Texas A&M. So, to make the Texas A&M enrollment despite the low Texas A&M acceptance rate, prepare early .

Here are some extra tips from Texas A&M admissions on how to ace your Texas A&M application.

What extracurriculars do I need for Texas A&M?

The undergraduate Texas A&M enrollment is around 50,000, and the total Texas A&M enrollment is about 70,000. So, it will come as no surprise that there are endless ways to get involved on campus. Aggieland has over 1,100 organizations that students can join. 

So, what does that mean for your “how to get into Texas A&M” strategy? While academic achievement is critical, extracurriculars are still important given that low Texas A&M acceptance rate.  

Texas A&M admissions looks for students who are involved in their communities and show leadership . That said, your extracurriculars should reflect who you are. Avoid choosing them for the sole purpose of college admissions. 

Passion and consistency are key in extracurriculars. Choose activities that you enjoy, and commit to them. Being in one club for four years looks much better than signing up to something different each semester. Finally, be sure to write about your endeavors in your Texas A&M application and Texas A&M essay. 

Find more tips on nailing the Texas A&M essay later in this “how to get into Texas A&M” guide. 

What is the Texas A&M acceptance rate?

Understanding the Texas A&M acceptance rate is a good place to start when thinking about how to get into Texas A&M. The undergraduate Texas A&M enrollment is about 50,000. So, what exactly is the Texas A&M acceptance rate? 

The Texas A&M acceptance rate is 57.8% which makes it a more competitive university. 

Here’s how to increase your chances of making Texas A&M enrollment despite the Texas A&M acceptance rate:

• Academic success. The informal Texas A&M GPA requirements are likely to be high. So, take challenging courses in high school that you can excel in. 
• Meaningful extracurriculars. Get involved in extracurriculars that are important to you. Show that you have strong leadership skills and give back to your community.
• Impressive essay. Use the Texas A&M essay as another way to make your Texas A&M application stand out. Show admissions who you are through your Texas A&M essay writing style, thoughtful responses, and impeccable grammar and mechanics. 

Texas A&M Essay—Tips & Tricks

Writing an impressive Texas A&M essay is key when planning how to get into Texas A&M. While the assumed high Texas A&M GPA requirements are important, they are not the only factor in Texas A&M admissions. 

Are you relieved there are no formal Texas A&M SAT requirements or worried about the informal Texas A&M GPA requirements? Then, the Texas A&M essay is a great way to boost your Texas A&M application. 

You must choose one Texas A&M essay prompt out of two for your Texas A&M application. Engineering applicants must complete both. The Texas A&M essay has no word limit, but we recommend keeping it to 500-700 words. 

Texas A&M essay tips: 

• Start early. Brainstorm, draft, revise, and rewrite to ensure you impress Texas A&M admissions. Don’t wait until just before the Texas A&M application deadline to get started. 
• Make it unique. The Texas A&M essay is a chance to show Texas A&M admissions who you are. Forget the informal Texas A&M GPA requirements and the Texas A&M SAT requirements and tell your unique story. 
• Write impeccably. Texas A&M admissions won’t want to see a Texas A&M essay with endless spelling and grammatical errors. If writing isn’t your strong suit, get another pair of eyes to check your draft for errors.

Check out our full guide to writing your Texas A&M essay. 

How does Texas A&M admissions review applications?

Want to know how to get into Texas A&M? Then, it’s important to understand what Texas A&M admissions looks for. This will give you the best chances of making the Texas A&M enrollment despite the Texas A&M acceptance rate. 

Academics are the most important part of your Texas A&M application. Do all you can to meet the informal Texas A&M GPA requirements. 

Class rank is also important. Texas residents who rank in the top 10% of their graduating class qualify for automatic admission .  

While there are no formal Texas A&M SAT requirements or ACT requirements for the 2023 application, submitting test scores above 1250 will certainly help your application. 

Texas A&M admissions also considers your extracurriculars and Texas A&M essay. Therefore, use them to show Texas A&M admissions who you are and why you would make a great addition to campus. 

Check out these application tips from a former TX college advisor. They’ll help you perfect your Texas A&M application and make Texas A&M enrollment despite the low Texas A&M acceptance rate. 

Will Texas A&M look at my social media accounts?

Worried your social media accounts could undermine your “how to get into Texas A&M” plan? While Texas A&M admissions doesn’t officially review students’ personal social media accounts, you shouldn’t post irresponsibly. 

Texas A&M admissions officers likely will not review your accounts. However, social media could have an impact on potential internship or job opportunities. Always post responsibly .

Is Texas A&M a good school for me?

It’s easy to get caught up in working out how to get into Texas A&M. Remember to consider whether the school is a good match for you!

Don’t let obsessive research of the Texas A&M GPA requirements, Texas A&M SAT requirements, and the Texas A&M acceptance rate cloud your vision. The most important factor in the Texas A&M application process is you. There’s no shame in deciding that a popular and competitive university just isn’t a fit.

As you make your “how to get into Texas A&M” plan, think about what you want from a university. Consider factors such as size, academics, and campus life. Think about your future goals. Then, make sure your top schools have everything you need to achieve those goals. 

The Texas A&M enrollment is about 70,000, and the undergraduate Texas A&M enrollment is about 50,000. There are over 1,100 student organizations on campus. Athletics are also a huge part of the school’s culture. 

Check out this student’s personal experience in a BS/MD program. It will help you understand what life on campus might be like if you make Texas A&M enrollment.

Additional tips to get into Texas A&M

A strong  “how to get into Texas A&M” plan consists of more than just meeting the assumed Texas GPA requirements. To beat the Texas A&M acceptance rate, each part of your Texas A&M application must shine. 

Extra tips on how to get into Texas A&M: 

• Prepare early. Start your Texas A&M application process well before the December 1 st Texas A&M application deadline to make sure you aren’t rushing through the process. 
• Succeed academically. Academics are the biggest factor in the Texas A&M admissions process. Take challenging courses in high school and set academic goals in order to meet the assumed Texas A&M GPA requirements. Even though there aren’t any Texas A&M SAT requirements for 2023, an above average score could help your Texas A&M application. 
• Write passionately. Use your Texas A&M essay to show who you are and why you would be a great addition to Aggieland. Make sure your writing style comes through and that your mechanics are impeccable. 
• Get involved. Extracurriculars are another great way to show Texas A&M admissions who you are. Show that you are a passionate, talented, committed leader through your activities. Highlight those qualities on the Texas A&M application.

This guide was written by Sarah Kaminski. If you want to know how to get into Texas A&M, we’ve got you covered. CollegeAdvisor.com’s network of 300+ Admissions Experts (and former admissions officers) includes graduates from some of the country’s top schools. Create your free account or schedule a free advising consultation by calling (844) 343-6272. 

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Texas A&M: Acceptance Rate and Admission Statistics

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Texas A&M's University is a large, selective public university with an acceptance rate of 58%. Considering applying to Texas A&M? Here are the admissions statistics you should know, including average SAT/ACT scores of admitted students.

Why Texas A&M?

• Location: College Station, Texas
• Campus Features: Texas A&M's massive 5,200-acre campus includes an 18-hole golf course, polo fields, and Kyle Field, the football stadium that seats over 102,000 fans.
• Student/Faculty Ratio: 19:1
• Athletics: The Texas A&M Aggies compete in the NCAA Division I Southeastern Conference (SEC).
• Highlights: Undergraduates can choose from 130 degree programs spread across the university's 17 schools and colleges. Programs in business, agriculture, and the biological and health sciences are particularly popular.

Acceptance Rate

During the 2018-19 admissions cycle, Texas A&M University had an acceptance rate of 58%. This means that for every 100 students who applied, 58 students were admitted, making Texas A&M's admissions process selective.

SAT Scores and Requirements

Texas A&M's main campus in College Station requires all students to submit either SAT or ACT scores. During the 2018-19 admissions cycle, 62% of admitted students submitted SAT scores.

This admissions data tells us that most of Texas A&M's admitted students fall within the  top 35% nationally  on the SAT. For the evidence-based reading and writing section, 50% of students admitted to Texas A&M scored between 580 and 680, while 25% scored below 580 and 25% scored above 680. On the math section, 50% of admitted students scored between a 580 and 710, while 25% scored below 580 and 25% scored above 710. Applicants with a composite SAT score of 1390 or higher will have particularly competitive chances at Texas A&M.

Requirements

Texas A&M does not require SAT Subject Tests, but the tests are sometimes used for course placement. The university does not require students to take the optional essay portion of the SAT. Note that Texas A&M does not superscore the SAT; your highest total score from a single test date will be considered.

ACT Scores and Requirements

Texas A&M requires that all applicants submit either SAT or ACT scores. During the 2018-19 admissions cycle, 38% of admitted students submitted ACT scores.

This admissions data tells us that most of Texas A&M's admitted students fall within the top 18% nationally on the ACT. The middle 50% of students admitted to Texas A&M received a composite ACT score between 26 and 31, while 25% scored above 31 and 25% scored below 26.

Texas A&M does not require the optional ACT writing section. If students choose to submit the optional writing section, it will be used primarily as a check on the validity of the main application essay. The university will not superscore the exam, they will use your highest composite score from a single test date for admission purposes. Students who take the ACT are not required to take any SAT Subject Tests.

Texas A&M does not publish GPA data of accepted students, but the self-reported data in the graph below shows us that the great majority of admitted students have high school averages in the B+ range or higher. In 2019, over 70% of students of admitted students who provided data indicated that they ranked in the top 10% of their high school class.

Self-Reported GPA/SAT/ACT Graph

The admissions data in the graph is self-reported by applicants to Texas A&M's main campus in College Station. GPAs are unweighted. Find out how you compare to accepted students, see the real-time graph, and calculate your chances of getting in with a free Cappex account.

​Admissions Chances

Texas A&M is one of the top Texas colleges and universities , and applicants will need above average GPAs and SAT/ACT scores to be admitted. However, Texas A&M has a holistic admissions process involving factors beyond your grades and test scores. Students with exceptional talent (in, for example, athletics or music) will typically receive a closer look even if their numerical measures are a bit below the norm. Like all selective universities, Texas A&M is trying to enroll students who will contribute to the campus culture in meaningful ways. Strong application essays , positive letters of recommendation , and interesting extracurricular activities are all important pieces of a successful application. Engineering applicants have an additional essay requirement.

Texas A&M has guaranteed admission for students who graduate in the top 10% of their class. This state policy, however, does have a couple of restrictions. For one, students must be in the top 10% of a Texas school, so out-of-state applicants have no admissions guarantees. Also, top 10% admits must have completed enough college preparatory classes to qualify.

In the graph above, green and blue dots represent accepted students. It's important to realize that there's a lot of red (rejected students) hidden beneath the blue and green in the middle of the graph. Some students with scores and grades that are on target for Texas A&M still get rejected. Note also that a number of students were accepted with test scores and grades a bit below the norm.

All admissions data has been sourced from the National Center for Education Statistics and the Texas A&M Undergraduate Admissions Office .

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How to Get Into Texas A&M: Acceptance Rate and Strategies

July 14, 2023

The oldest university in the state of Texas, A&M has long outgrown the “Agricultural & Mechanical” portion of its name. More than 40,000 students applicants have applied for the opportunity to attend the College Station campus in each of the past six admissions cycles; back in the year 2000, fewer than 17,000 applied. The Texas A&M acceptance rate has remained steadily under 65%, but this is not a particularly strong indicator of just how selective A&M is in 2023.

Due to a policy that grants Texas residents who finish in the top 10% of their high school class automatic admission, roughly two-thirds of attendees hail from the top decile. As a result, competition for the remaining spots tends to be fierce.

Given the increasing level of competition in the quest to become an Aggie, students really need to do their homework before submitting the application. Toward that aim, this article will provide applicants with:

• Texas A&M’s Class of 2026 acceptance rate
• SAT, ACT, and class rank of accepted A&M applicants
• Admissions trends from the Class of 2026
• The demographics of current Texas A&M undergraduates
• Texas A&M’s yield rate
• How A&M’s admissions officers evaluate candidates
• Tips for applying to Texas A&M
• How to assess whether applying to A&M is even worth the $75 application fee (for you)

Let’s begin with an examination of the most recent admissions data.

Texas A&M: Acceptance Rate – 2023

A&M received 43,422 applications for a place in the Class of 2026, one of the highest totals in school history; 27,203 were admitted for an acceptance rate of 63%. For the Class of 2025 (most recent data available), the in-state acceptance rate was 66% compared with a 56% acceptance rate for out-of-state applications.

All students must apply by December 1st at the very latest, but students can apply as early as August 1. Engineering students should always aim to meet the early action deadline of 10/15.

Texas A&M Admissions – SAT, ACT, and Class Rank

The middle-50% SAT scores for the Class of 2026 were 1160-1380; the math range was 580-700. SATs were submitted by 76% of applicants. ACTs were submitted by 24% of applicants and the middle-50% ACT Composite score was 25-31. The median ACT Composite score was 28 and the median SAT score was 1270. An impressive 61% of those attending placed in the top 10% of their high school class while 88% were in the top quartile.

Admissions Trends & Notes

• Students who are in the top 10% of the high school class earn automatic admission into A&M. Prior to 2021, students could be in the top 25%.
• 25% of those presently attending Texas A&M are the first member of their family to attend college.
• 21% of incoming students were awarded Pell Grants.
• Just 1% of current undergrads are international students.
• In a typical year, there are 250 National Merit Finalists in the freshman class.

Who Gets Into Texas A&M?

Let’s look at the demographics of the Aggie undergraduate student body.

Most A&M students hailed from the Lone Star State and paid in-state tuition. In fact, 96% of the student body are Texas residents.

Looking at ethnic identity, the breakdown is:

• Asian American: 10%
• Hispanic: 25%
• African American: 2%
• International: 1%
• Multiracial: 4%

Texas A&M Acceptance Rate (Continued)

International students came from the following countries in the greatest numbers:

• South Korea

The breakdown by gender shows more men than women enrolled at A&M:

• Female: 48%

Students in one recent class came from the following locations:

• Number of US high schools: 1,281
• Number of Texas counties: 192
• Number of US States: 44

Texas A&M’s Yield Rate

A&M’s yield rate was 46% last year. To compare this school to other top-notch public STEM-focused institutions, Georgia Tech is at roughly 40%, Virginia Tech has a 33% yield, and Purdue is at just 23%.

How Texas A&M Rates Applicants

There are five factors that Texas A&M ranks as being “very important” to their admissions process: rigor of secondary school record, class rank, GPA, extracurricular activities, and talent/ability. Essays, first-generation status, geographical residence, state residency, volunteer work, and work experience are rated as “important”.

In the admissions office’s own words: “If you do not qualify for top 10% , but meet the State of Texas Uniform Admission Policy, your application file, which includes all factors you noted, will be reviewed in a holistic manner. Academic factors include all high school courses attempted and grades earned, rigor of coursework, GPA and class rank. Non-academic factors include involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, leadership, employment and summer activities as well as extraordinary opportunities, challenges and hardships experienced during high school career.”

Possessing a top-notch athletic program, it most definitely helps if you are recruited as an athlete to join one of A&M’s 20 Division I sports teams . There are roughly 650 student athletes competing at A&M and 75% receive some level of scholarship. In general, recruited athletes possessed GPAs and SATs far below the average for the pool of general admits.

Tips for Applying to Texas A&M

If you plan on joining the 43,000+ Aggie hopefuls for the next admissions cycle, you should know the following:

• While a holistic process, A&M does not offer interviews.
• Texas A&M does consider “demonstrated interest” so be sure to take steps toward that aim .
• Make sure to dedicate sufficient time and effort to the supplemental essays required by Texas A&M. In the 2023-24 cycle, you will encounter a number of essays prompts, so save plenty of time prior to the deadline to write, revise, and polish your responses.

This year’s prompts are as follows:

• Tell us your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today? (Required, 500 – 750 words)
• Describe your academic and career goals in the broad field of engineering (including computer science, industrial distribution and engineering technology). What and/or who has influenced you either inside or outside the classroom that contributed to these goals? (for engineering)
• Describe a life event which you feel has prepared you to be successful in college. (Required)
• You have selected a major in the College of Engineering for either your first or second choice major; therefore, please address the following prompt: Describe your academic and career goals in the broad field of engineering (including computer science, industrial distribution, and engineering technology). What and/or who has influenced you either inside or outside the classroom that contributed to these goals? It is important to spend time addressing this question as it will be considered as part of the engineering review process. If you have chosen an engineering major for both your first and second choice majors, you will see the same question twice and may provide the same response to both questions. (Required for Engineering applicants)

Texas A&M Acceptance Rate – Final Thoughts 

Getting into Texas A&M has never been more of a selective process, as it now requires either a) finishing in the top 10% of your Texas-based high school class or b) possessing other supremely impressive attributes that blow away admissions committee. As such, all students need to make sure that they formulate an appropriate college list , containing a complement of “target” and “safety” schools. You’ll definitely want to do this in collaboration with an admissions professional who is aware of the latest trends and strategies associated with your prospective colleges.

• Application Strategies
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Andrew Belasco

A licensed counselor and published researcher, Andrew's experience in the field of college admissions and transition spans two decades. He has previously served as a high school counselor, consultant and author for Kaplan Test Prep, and advisor to U.S. Congress, reporting on issues related to college admissions and financial aid.

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FRESHMAN ADMISSIONS

How to apply,  applicant type.

You are a domestic freshman if you:

• are a current high school student (with or without college credit) OR a high school graduate with no college credit earned after high school AND
• are a citizen or permanent resident of the United States or have applied for permanent residency OR are graduating from a Texas high school after three years in residence in Texas.

Additional information for international freshmen is available here .

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 ADMISSION APPLICATION

Texas A&M University at Galveston only utilizes ApplyTexas for its application for admission.

 REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Your documents must be received by the deadline   (see   When to Apply   below).

• ESSAY Complete Essay A ApplyTexas Essay: Tell us your story.  What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today? Average length is a page to a page and a half.  - BEST>>:  S ubmit as part of the application. - OTHER>>:  Upload at  Applicant Information System (AIS)  via the Upload Documents tab.  
• PREFERRED>>:  Pay through  ApplyTexas
• Check or money order by mail
• Checking the Fee Waiver box on the application is not sufficient.
• SAT Fee Waiver   or   ACT Fee Waiver   OR
• PREFERRED>>:  Upload in  AIS
• OTHER METHOD>>:   Mail
• Emailed copies will NOT be accepted.
• If still in high school must submit a complete, official transcript through their junior year/6 semesters
• If graduated from high school must submit an official transcript that also includes senior courses, a graduation plan and date of graduation
• Home-schooled students must submit a complete, official transcript through their junior year/6 semesters which includes grades earned for all completed coursework.
• If your school does not rank, a school profile from the high school must be provided along with your transcript and Texas A&M will assign a class rank based on reported GPA.
• PREFERRED>>:  Electronic transcripts sent by TREx (available only to Texas high schools)
• PREFERRED>>:  Upload a copy of current high school transcript in  AIS  (after you graduate, your final high school transcript  cannot be uploaded  through AIS; it must be mailed.)
• Faxed or e-mailed copies will not be accepted.
• You must send your scores through the testing agency.
• Your highest total score from a single test date will be considered for admission.
• SAT and ACT scores expire after 5 years.
• Optional essay/writing portion is not required.
• Allow 2-4 weeks for scores to be received.

* For admissions purposes only, Texas A&M University is test optional and will not require ACT or SAT scores for freshman applicants. We encourage students who have test scores to send them. The submission of test scores will not create any unfair advantage or disadvantage for those students who provide them. Applicants may submit SAT/ACT test scores to demonstrate compliance with the   Texas Success Initiative Program   with regards to college-level readiness in reading, writing, and mathematics. 

IF APPLICABLE

• High School Curriculum Requirement   (Texas private high schools only) Students who do not meet the   State of Texas Uniform Admission Policy (UAP)   must provide   Exemption Form 3 . - BEST>>:    Upload at  Applicant Information System (AIS)  via the Upload Documents tab.  - OTHER>>:    Mail  
• Permanent Resident Card or I-551 Students who are not U.S. citizens but are permanent residents (or have applied for permanent residency) need to provide a copy of the card. - BEST>>:    Upload at  Applicant Information System (AIS)  via the Upload Documents tab.  - OTHER>>:    Mail
• Senate Bill 1528 Affidavit - BEST>>:   Upload at  Applicant Information System (AIS)  via the Upload Documents tab.  - OTHER>>:   Mail
• Letters of Recommendation Once submitted, you will not be able to see your letters of recommendation.  We will only review the first two letters we receive. Letters of recommendation typically do not play a pivotal role in the decision process.  - BEST>>:    Upload at  Applicant Information System (AIS)  via the Upload Documents tab.  - OTHER>>:    Mail  
• Resumes Resumes should only be used if you run out of space on the application. - BEST>>:    Upload at  Applicant Information System (AIS)  via the Upload Documents tab.

 WHEN TO APPLY

SPRING August 1 - December 1 DEADLINE:   December 1

FALL August 1 - May 1 DEADLINE:    May 1

• All other required documents will be accepted through May 15. 
• Spring application dates differ for incoming   International Freshman .
• If the deadline falls on a weekend, the application will remain open until 11:59 PM (CST) on the following Monday. Additional required documents will be accepted until 5:00pm (CST) on that Monday.

NOTE:   On average, it takes 3-5 business days from the time your application is successfully submitted for Texas A&M to receive it. Monitor your email address which you provided on the application for the Application Acknowledgement communication.

 ACTS OF DISHONESTY

All students applying to Texas A&M University at Galveston are expected to follow the Aggie Code of Honor which states “An Aggie does not lie, cheat or steal nor tolerate those who do.” Applicants found to have misrepresented themselves or submitted false information on the application will receive appropriate disciplinary action. Pursuant to the current undergraduate catalog and Texas A&M student rule 24.4.1, acts of dishonesty include but are not limited to:

• withholding material information from the University, misrepresenting the truth during a University investigation or student conduct conference, and/or making false statements to any University official
• furnishing false information to and/or withholding information from any University official, faculty member, or office
• forgery, alteration, or misuse of any University document, record, or instrument of identification

The submission of false information at the time of admission or readmission is grounds for rejection of the application, withdrawal of any offer of acceptance, cancellation of enrollment, dismissal or other appropriate disciplinary action.

How to Get into Texas A&M - Admission Requirements + Tips

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 4/26/24

Are you planning to apply to Texas A&M University? Read on to learn everything you need to know about the admissions process.

Source:  Texas A&M

Texas A&M University has a rich history of academic excellence, where they have fostered innovation and leadership skills among its students. Hence, getting admission into Texas A&M is a coveted achievement for many students.

This guide will discuss getting into Texas A&M by exploring its admission requirements and application process. We will also offer valuable tips that you can use to increase your chances of getting accepted.

So, whether you are an applicant preparing for your college journey or a transfer student who wants a new academic environment, this article will equip you with the necessary knowledge.

Texas A&M University Acceptance Rate

Texas A&M University has an acceptance rate of 63% . For the past six admission cycles, about 40,000 students have applied to the school yearly. 

Nearly half of the applicants who applied to the school and have submitted their test scores have a SAT score between 1150 and 1390 or an ACT score between 25 and 31. For example, only 27,203 students were admitted out of 43,422 applications for the class of 2026.

Is It Hard to Get into Texas A&M?

Getting into Texas A&M is challenging because it is highly competitive, as shown by the acceptance rate. The competitiveness during the admission process depends on the specific program you are applying for, your academic credentials, and the number of applicants who applied in a year.

Hence, you must research the specific admission requirements for the program you want to do at the University. Also, ensure you have a strong application that accurately shows your academic abilities and achievements.

Texas A&M Admission Requirements

To get into Texas A&M, strive for an SAT score of at least 1270 or an ACT score over 28. You should also aim for a GPA of around 3.7. Having leadership and community service experience on your application can elevate it even more!

Texas A&M’s requirements can vary depending on factors, including what you want to study in college . 

Below are its general admission requirements :

High School Diploma, Coursework, and Class Rank

One of the major requirements for a freshman is to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Also, applicants on the verge of completing high school credits within two semesters are in this category. When you are in high school, you should know the best combination of subjects that will help you get into your dream school. 

Also, the University recommends a strong high school curriculum for applicants. The curriculum should include:

• Four years of English
• Three years of science-related subjects such as biology, chemistry, and physics
• Four years of math, which includes algebra I, algebra II, geometry, and advanced mathematics
• Three years of social studies and interpersonal relations
• Two years of the same foreign language
• One year of visual and performing arts
• One year of physical education

In addition, high school coursework is essential for admission into Texas A$M University to serve as the foundation for college courses.

If the high school you attended provides class rank, you should submit it. Texas A&M University values class rank as one of the important admission factors.

Interestingly, the Texas residents who rank in the top 10% of their graduating class have access to automatic admission to any school in the state.

Test Scores

Submitting test scores on the ACT or SAT is part of your application process into Texas A&M. Although Texas A&M University has adopted a test-optional policy if you have test scores that can boost your chances of admission, we encourage you to send them. The median SAT and ACT scores for the recent admission processing are 1270 and 28, respectively. 

Extracurricular Activities

You must include information about extracurricular activities in your application. You should also include your leadership experiences and community involvement.

Ensure you submit the required essays during your application process because the university will require you to submit three. A college application essay is also known as a personal statement. It is a brief personal essay that reflects the personality traits and experience that make you an ideal candidate for the college you are applying to

How to Apply to Texas A&M University?

Here’s our step-by-step guide on how to apply to Texas A&M University:

Create an Account on GraduateCAS

The GraduateCAS is the graduate admission application portal of Texas A&M University. If you want to create an account, you will need to click on the link for your intended entry semester. After this, you must add your program and complete the main application sections. Then, submit your application and pay the application fee.

Fill Out Your Personal Information

For this section, you must put your contact information, including your email address, for further information regarding your application. Although it is optional, also add information about your parents or guardian. Moreover, you must complete the Texas Residency questions to determine your tuition fee. 

Fill in the Academic History Option

For this section, you should provide information about the institutions of schools you have attended. You should also upload your unofficial transcripts if need be. In this section, international students can be asked to submit the test scores they got to fulfill their English proficiency requirements.

Fill Out the Supporting Information Section

This section is for uploading your resume and curriculum vitae. Also, your experiences and achievements should be included in this section. Note that all this information is also in your resume or CV.

Fill in the Program Material Section.

All applicants must complete the questions under this section. You are required to upload a personal statement in the documents tab. Also, enter the contact information in the recommendations tab.

Complete a Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR)

There is a new development in the application process of Texas A&M University. Henceforth, applicants must complete a Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR), which can be used in place of transcripts.

This happens after the applicant has applied and their official transcripts are needed to complete the form. It is important to note that most schools only provide official transcripts later. Students are encouraged to fill it into SRAR after getting the transcripts.

Submit the Application and Pay the Application Fee.

After filling all the sections and your progress bar shows a check mark, you should submit your application. After submitting, the next thing is to enter your fee payment. The fee is $89 and $114 for domestic and international students . It is important to note that the application portal only accepts credit cards, and there is no refund.

Track Your Status

After completing the application process, you can track your status using the “check status tab” in the application portal. There are different application statuses, which are explained below:

• Complete status shows that all the required information, recommendations, and documents have been submitted.
• The received status shows that all the required information and documents have been submitted. However, one or more of the recommendations still need to be completed.
• In progress, the status shows that the application process has started. However, some information, documents, and recommendations should be included. Students who have completed all the sections but have paid the application fee are under this section also.

Receive Your Decision Through Mail

After doing everything necessary, the admissions committee's review timeline varies by program and semester. Once the committee finishes its review, you will see your official decision via mail.

Texas A&M Application Process and Deadlines

The application process for Texas A&M University involves various steps that should be followed strictly. Below are the key components of the application process:

Determine Your Applicant Category

To start the application process, you must first identify your applicant category. For example, you should identify whether you are a freshman, transfer student, or international student. This way, you will know the application process peculiar to each group.

Choose the Application Platform You Want

The University accepts applications through these platforms: ApplyTexas and the Coalition Application. You should not worry about the one to use because the University has no preference. Choose the one you want and create an account.

Create an Account

Choose the platform you prefer and register. Ensure you use valid mail, as this is the primary mode of communication for any information.

Choose Your Campus and the Program

There are different Texas A&M University campuses, namely College Station, Kingsville, and others. During your application process, specify the campus you want and the program you wish to pursue.

Check Application Deadline

Application deadlines may vary depending on your applicant category and entry term. Make sure to check the school’s website to stay abreast of the application deadlines.

To know the deadline for a program, click "add program" and review the information under "deadline." The cycle close date is the final date you can submit your application because the University also has final application processing dates for managing all applications.

Complete the Online Application

Fill out the application form with accurate and complete information. Details such as academic history, essays, and extracurricular activities should be provided.

Monitor Your Application Status

After submitting your application, you should monitor your application status and receive updates through the portal and mail. Hence, check your portal regularly for important information regarding your application status.

Check for Scholarship and Financial Aid

Texas A&M University offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities. To be considered for financial assistance, you should review and check out the university's scholarship application requirements and see if you meet the criteria.

Review and Respond to Admission Offers

After you have received an offer of admission, carefully check the requirements, terms, and conditions. Sometimes, you may need to submit a deposit to show your commitment and secure your spot in the University.

Prepare for Enrollment

Once you have been admitted, ensure you follow the enrollment instructions provided by the University. These instructions may include submitting additional documents, attending the school's orientation program, and registering for classes.

Tips on How to Get Into Texas A&M

Top schools like Texas A&M University receive many applications, making the admission process competitive. Below are some tips that might increase your chances to get into Texas A&M University:

Aim for a High GPA

Texas A&M places a huge emphasis on academics. Class rank and GPA are two important parameters when considering granting admissions to applicants. As great grades are important to the admission process, the courses you earned them in are equally important. Hence, the admission process also involves checking the coursework.

Apply Early to Get Your First-Choice Major

It is important to apply early in the admission cycle. As soon as your essays are ready, it is recommended that you start your admission process. Most of the majors at A&M University are on a first-come, first-served basis. Hence, applying early can give you an edge over others and enable you to get your first choice major.

Aim for a Competitive SAT and ACT Score

The University considers standardized test scores as an essential component of the application process. Average scores are good, but the ones above the 75 th percentile are better. Good scores increase your chances of being admitted into the University. Interestingly, the University does not make any tests better than the others. You should take one of the exams and perform well in it.

Cultivate Strong Extracurriculars

Participating in meaningful extracurricular activities and being able to write about them effectively is also an important part of the admission process. Here are the four tiers of extracurricular activities, showing how a university sees your outside-the-classroom activities:

• Tier 1 contains the prestigious extracurricular activities. The activities here show exceptional achievement and good leadership skills that the universities highly value. Examples include winning a prominent award and gaining national recognition.
• Tier 2 is about activities that show great accomplishment and leadership experiences. It is more common than the ones found in tier 1. Examples include winning a regional award and serving in a top position like the student body president on campus.
• Tier 3 is about activities lesser than those in the higher tiers. Examples include captaining a university sport and serving as class coordinator.
• Tier 4 activities are the least influential in the university admission process. Although they show your interest and engagement, they lack the merit of those in the higher tiers. Examples of the activities in these tiers include participating in general volunteer work and playing a sport or instrument.

These extracurriculars provide key insights into your character, interests, and abilities, which can make all the difference when trying to stand out in the admissions process.

Write Engaging Essays

College essays are a great way to show the admissions committee who you are outside of academics. They give you the opportunity to tell the story of who you are, what you care about, and what you hope to achieve in your own words. 

A good college essay leaves a lasting impression on admissions officers and can improve your chances of getting accepted. To craft an engaging essay, make sure to choose a compelling topic that reflects your ideas clearly. 

Use vivid examples to illustrate your points and aim to connect with the admissions committee by revealing your personal qualities and aspirations.

Choose Your Recommenders Wisely

Selecting recommenders who are familiar with you on a personal level is very important. These individuals can provide more meaningful and persuasive endorsements as they possess a thorough understanding of your character, skills, and achievements. 

This, in turn, bolsters the overall quality of your application and can greatly impact your chances of success in Texas A&M’s competitive admissions process.

Should I Apply to Texas A&M?

You may apply to Aggieland because of its benefits and opportunities. Texas A&M University is one of the best public research universities in the nation, which offers more than 130 undergraduate programs.

The school has earned its reputation for the good academic programs it offers, its commitment to research, and the contribution of the alumni body. If you are looking for where to spend the next few years as an undergraduate, below are some reasons why you should choose Texas A&M:

Best Value University in the State

Texas A&M is one of the best-value universities in Texas and comes in ninth place in the US News' ranking of the country’s top public schools. It offers a wide range of academic programs, robust research opportunities, and a vibrant campus community, making it an ideal choice for students seeking both affordability and academic excellence.

Access to Post-Graduation Opportunities

Your college years are transformative and crucial for building your network and knowledge. Attending Texas A&M offers a distinct advantage due to its strong alumni network of over 500,000 professionals in various companies. 

The university's career center is also a valuable resource for securing internships and your first job, ensuring your post-graduation success.

Deep Commitment to Your Success

Texas A&M is committed to your success to help you become a better student and person. Some of the resources below will help you grow into an all-rounded personality in the University:

• The Academic Success Center provides students with tutoring and mentorship from students who are in higher classes and have excelled in the courses.
• First-year programs include seminar courses that teach students to navigate and excel in all areas of their lives. Each student is allocated a staff instructor and a community of students, which help them to gain their feet early in the school.
• Diversity resources include disability services, women's resource centers, international student services, and race and ethnic student institutes.

All these resources are available for the students to give them an all-rounded experience in the school.

The Aggie’s Spirit

A&M students are called “ Aggies .” They are unique and entirely different in their talk and interpersonal relationships with others. The school instills so much value in them that it makes them stand out wherever they are.

Their core values include respect, excellence, leadership, loyalty, integrity, and selfless service. Students of the University act with these core values in mind, and this makes them unique.

Below are some Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about how to get into Texas A&M, the admission requirements, and tips

1. How Hard Is It to Get Into A&M University?

With an acceptance rate of 63%, getting into A&M is highly competitive. To give yourself the best chance of acceptance, secure a strong academic profile, earn high test scores, and participate in meaningful extracurriculars.

2. What Is the General Admission Requirement for Texas A&M University?

Texas A&M has the following admission requirements: 

• High school diploma or the equivalent
• Completion or in the process of completing a strong high school curriculum
• Submission of standardized test scores
• Extracurricular activities. 

It is important to note that some specific majors or programs may require extra requirements.

3. Does Texas A&M Accept Applications From Out-of-State and International Students?

Yes, Texas A&M accepts applications from out-of-state and international students. 

4. Does Texas A&M Have an Automatic Admission Policy for Texas Residents?

Yes, Texas residents who graduate in the top 10% of their high school class are automatically admitted to Texas A&M. It is important to note that automatic admission does not necessarily guarantee acceptance into their preferred program.

5. Are There Scholarships Available at Texas A&M?

Yes, Texas A&M has various scholarships available to incoming and current students. These scholarships are typically awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, extracurricular involvement, and financial need. The university offers various scholarships.

6. Can I Transfer to A&M From Another College or University? 

Yes, you can transfer to Texas A&M. Keep in mind that requirements for transfer students may vary based on the number of college credits completed in your intended program.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to get into Texas A&M is important for all applicants seeking admission. The school embodies academic excellence, innovation, and commitment to groom an all-rounded student.

In this article, we have explored what getting into Texas A&M University entails, which includes the university's admission requirements and application process. With determination, preparation, and a strong application, you can increase your chances of becoming a proud member of the A&M student body and contribute to the institution's rich legacy. 

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Undergraduate Application Process

Due to the continued increase of competitive applications, the Texas A&M University College of Engineering has moved to a total holistic review process. This policy applies to all engineering applications, including Texas A&M automatic admits, and is handled entirely by the Office of Admissions — not  the College of Engineering.

Factors that are considered during the review process include the following:

• Academic achievements — class rank and SAT and/or ACT scores, as well as completion of Texas A&M's  recommended high school coursework . NOTE: Submission of SAT/ACT scores is optional for students applying for the spring and fall 2023 semesters. 
• Personal achievements — involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, leadership, employment and summer activities, as well as any talents, awards and honors.
• Information shared in Essay A and the Engineering Essay.

Engineering applicants will be considered for the following programs:

• General Engineering at College Station
• Texas A&M Engineering at Blinn  (general deadline only)
• Engineering at Galveston (general deadline only)
• Engineering at McAllen

Admission to Texas A&M University  will continue to be achieved in one of two ways — top 10% admits or holistic review admits — and admission decisions will continue to be communicated on a rolling basis.

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SAT Logistics , SAT Essay

Planning to take the SAT? Before you sign up, you need to decide whether you're going to take the test with or without the optional Essay . How should you pick? Well, some colleges require that you apply with the SAT with Essay; others don't care whether you submit an SAT score with or without the Essay.

In this article, I'll provide you with a complete list of colleges that require or recommend taking the SAT with the Essay .

UPDATE: SAT Essay No Longer Offered

In January 2021, the College Board announced that after June 2021, it would no longer offer the Essay portion of the SAT (except at schools who opt in during School Day Testing). It is now no longer possible to take the SAT Essay, unless your school is one of the small number who choose to offer it during SAT School Day Testing.

While most colleges had already made SAT Essay scores optional, this move by the College Board means no colleges now require the SAT Essay. It will also likely lead to additional college application changes such not looking at essay scores at all for the SAT or ACT, as well as potentially requiring additional writing samples for placement.

What does the end of the SAT Essay mean for your college applications? Check out our article on the College Board's SAT Essay decision for everything you need to know.

What Is the Optional SAT Essay?

The redesigned SAT debuted in March 2016 with a now-optional Essay section. For the Essay, you have 50 minutes to read a passage (similar to those you see on the Reading section ) and write an essay dissecting how the author made the argument . Did the author use evidence to support the main claim? Appeals to emotion? Specific word choice?

If you take the SAT without Essay, the test length is three hours . However, if you take the SAT with Essay, the optional Essay adds 50 minutes . It also costs more to take the SAT with Essay : $64.50 vs $49.50 without the Essay.

Don't automatically assume you must take the Essay. Whether it's important for you depends on which schools (and scholarships) you're applying to and what the rest of your application looks like. I'll go into more depth later about how to decide which version of the SAT to take.

List of Schools That Require the SAT With Essay

Below, I've compiled a list of colleges that require or recommend taking the SAT with Essay. All data comes from the College Board and some individual schools we consulted separately.

Note: This list is subject to change, so make sure to double-check with each school you're applying to.

Surprisingly (and in contrast to how it's been in the past), top schools mostly do not require the SAT essay . Currently, no Ivy League School requires students to take the SAT with Essay; the same is true for Stanford, Caltech, Duke, Georgetown, Johns Hopkins, MIT, Northwestern, NYU, and UChicago. Many of these schools no longer even recommend students to take the SAT with Essay, which is a huge turnaround from just a couple of years ago.

Similarly, most liberal arts colleges do not require or recommend the SAT with Essay ; however, there are some exceptions, such as Soka University, which does require it.

In general, most state schools also do not require the SAT with Essay, though there's still a significant portion that do. There tends to be some weird variance even within states. For example, all University of California schools require the SAT with Essay, but most of the California State University schools do not.

Regardless of the types of schools you're applying to, don't assume that they all ask for the SAT with Essay . Check with every school to make sure you understand their testing requirements.

How to Decide Whether to Take the SAT Essay: 4 Questions

When making your decision about whether to take the SAT with Essay or the SAT without Essay, you'll need to consider the following four questions.

#1: Do Any Schools I Want to Apply to Require the SAT Essay?

If you're applying to any school that requires the Essay, then you must take the SAT with Essay . If you take the SAT without Essay, your application will be incomplete and you won't get admitted. By contrast, if you apply to any schools that don't require the SAT Essay, you can still take the SAT with Essay since these schools will accept both types of SAT scores (with or without Essay).

To reiterate, colleges that require the SAT Essay won't consider your score if you took the SAT without the Essay . The last thing you want to do is take the SAT without the Essay and get a good score—but then find out that one of your target schools requires you to take the SAT with Essay.

Remember that some colleges change their application policies from year to year, so make sure to double-check the testing policies of the schools you're applying to .

#2: Do Any Schools I Want to Apply to Recommend the SAT Essay?

If you're not applying to any schools that require the SAT Essay section but are applying to some that recommend it, then I'd still suggest taking it . This gives you another dimension schools can use to evaluate your application; however, there are some cases in which you shouldn't take the SAT with Essay.

If, for some reason, you do not qualify for SAT fee waivers and paying the extra cost to take the SAT with Essay would be a financial burden to you , then please don't feel as if you have to take it. In this case, it's fine to take the SAT without Essay instead.

In addition, if you really struggle to write essays under time constraints (due to anxiety), you might want to opt out of the Essay . That said, I only recommend this for students who normally have strong English and writing skills but struggle to write coherent essays when there's the added pressure of a time constraint.

For example, do you get As on essays you can work on at home but Cs on in-class essays because you get easily nervous? If that's the case, taking the SAT with Essay might not be a good idea.

#3: Am I Applying to Any Scholarships That Require an SAT With Essay Score?

Many scholarships (such as National Merit ) require you to submit SAT scores , and some specifically want SAT with Essay scores.

Therefore, be sure to check the requirements of each scholarship you're planning on applying for . While scholarships that don't require or recommend the SAT Essay should still accept your SAT with Essay score, scholarships that require the Essay section will not consider your SAT score if you took the no-essay version .

#4: Will the SAT Essay Enhance My Application in Other Ways?

Generally speaking, taking the SAT Essay if it's not required won't add a lot to your application. In truth, colleges that don't recommend or require the Essay really don't pay much attention to it.

Nevertheless, the Essay might be helpful for international students who want to prove they have strong English skills and who think they'll do especially well on it. If you fall into this category and feel confident you'll get a high score on it ( after doing practice essays , for example), definitely consider taking the SAT with Essay.

On the other hand, if you don't think you'll do well on the Essay, I recommend against taking it.

What's Next?

Need help preparing for the SAT? Read our ultimate study guide to get expert tips on prep and access to the best free online resources. If you're taking the test soon, learn how to cram for the SAT .

Want to learn more about the SAT Essay? Check out our step-by-step guide to writing a great essay .

Not sure where you want to go to college? Learn how to do college research right and figure out your SAT target score .

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Texas A&M - Commerce Requirements for Admission

Choose your test.

What are Texas A&M - Commerce's admission requirements? While there are a lot of pieces that go into a college application, you should focus on only a few critical things:

• GPA requirements
• Testing requirements, including SAT and ACT requirements
• Application requirements

In this guide we'll cover what you need to get into Texas A&M - Commerce and build a strong application.

School location: Commerce, TX

This school is also known as: Texas A&M University - Commerce

Admissions Rate: 43.5%

If you want to get in, the first thing to look at is the acceptance rate. This tells you how competitive the school is and how serious their requirements are.

The acceptance rate at Texas A&M - Commerce is 43.5% . For every 100 applicants, 44 are admitted.

This means the school is moderately selective . The school expects you to meet their requirements for GPA and SAT/ACT scores, but they're more flexible than other schools. If you exceed their requirements, you have an excellent chance of getting in. But if you don't, you might be one of the unlucky minority that gets a rejection letter.

We can help. PrepScholar Admissions is the world's best admissions consulting service. We combine world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies . We've overseen thousands of students get into their top choice schools , from state colleges to the Ivy League.

We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit. We want to get you admitted to your dream schools.

Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in.

Texas A&M - Commerce GPA Requirements

Many schools specify a minimum GPA requirement, but this is often just the bare minimum to submit an application without immediately getting rejected.

The GPA requirement that really matters is the GPA you need for a real chance of getting in. For this, we look at the school's average GPA for its current students.

Average GPA: 3.36

The average GPA at Texas A&M - Commerce is 3.36 .

(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA.

With a GPA of 3.36, Texas A&M - Commerce accepts below-average students . It's OK to be a B-average student, with some A's mixed in. It'd be best to avoid C's and D's, since application readers might doubt whether you can handle the stress of college academics.

If you're currently a junior or senior, your GPA is hard to change in time for college applications. If your GPA is at or below the school average of 3.36, you'll need a higher SAT or ACT score to compensate . This will help you compete effectively against other applicants who have higher GPAs than you.

SAT and ACT Requirements

Each school has different requirements for standardized testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them.

Texas A&M - Commerce hasn't explicitly named a policy on SAT/ACT requirements, but because it's published average SAT or ACT scores (we'll cover this next), it's likely test flexible. Typically, these schools say, "if you feel your SAT or ACT score represents you well as a student, submit them. Otherwise, don't."

Despite this policy, the truth is that most students still take the SAT or ACT, and most applicants to Texas A&M - Commerce will submit their scores. If you don't submit scores, you'll have one fewer dimension to show that you're worthy of being admitted, compared to other students. We therefore recommend that you consider taking the SAT or ACT, and doing well.

Texas A&M - Commerce SAT Requirements

Many schools say they have no SAT score cutoff, but the truth is that there is a hidden SAT requirement. This is based on the school's average score.

Average SAT: 1046

The average SAT score composite at Texas A&M - Commerce is a 1046 on the 1600 SAT scale.

This score makes Texas A&M - Commerce Lightly Competitive for SAT test scores.

Texas A&M - Commerce SAT Score Analysis (New 1600 SAT)

The 25th percentile SAT score is 928, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1130. In other words, a 928 on the SAT places you below average, while a 1130 will move you up to above average .

Here's the breakdown of SAT scores by section:

SAT Score Choice Policy

The Score Choice policy at your school is an important part of your testing strategy.

Texas A&M - Commerce ACT Requirements

Just like for the SAT, Texas A&M - Commerce likely doesn't have a hard ACT cutoff, but if you score too low, your application will get tossed in the trash.

Average ACT: 20

The average ACT score at Texas A&M - Commerce is 20. This score makes Texas A&M - Commerce Moderately Competitive for ACT scores.

The 25th percentile ACT score is 17, and the 75th percentile ACT score is 24.

Even though Texas A&M - Commerce likely says they have no minimum ACT requirement, if you apply with a 17 or below, you'll have a very hard time getting in, unless you have something else very impressive in your application. There are so many applicants scoring 20 and above that a 17 will look academically weak.

ACT Score Sending Policy

If you're taking the ACT as opposed to the SAT, you have a huge advantage in how you send scores, and this dramatically affects your testing strategy.

Here it is: when you send ACT scores to colleges, you have absolute control over which tests you send. You could take 10 tests, and only send your highest one. This is unlike the SAT, where many schools require you to send all your tests ever taken.

This means that you have more chances than you think to improve your ACT score. To try to aim for the school's ACT requirement of 20 and above, you should try to take the ACT as many times as you can. When you have the final score that you're happy with, you can then send only that score to all your schools.

ACT Superscore Policy

By and large, most colleges do not superscore the ACT. (Superscore means that the school takes your best section scores from all the test dates you submit, and then combines them into the best possible composite score). Thus, most schools will just take your highest ACT score from a single sitting.

We weren't able to find the school's exact ACT policy, which most likely means that it does not Superscore. Regardless, you can choose your single best ACT score to send in to Texas A&M - Commerce, so you should prep until you reach our recommended target ACT score of 20.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and ACT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

SAT/ACT Writing Section Requirements

Currently, only the ACT has an optional essay section that all students can take. The SAT used to also have an optional Essay section, but since June 2021, this has been discontinued unless you are taking the test as part of school-day testing in a few states. Because of this, no school requires the SAT Essay or ACT Writing section, but some schools do recommend certain students submit their results if they have them.

Texas A&M - Commerce considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration. You don't need to worry too much about Writing for this school, but other schools you're applying to may require it.

Final Admissions Verdict

Because this school is moderately selective, strong academic performance will almost guarantee you admission . Scoring a 1130 SAT or a 24 ACT or above will nearly guarantee you admission. Because the school admits 43.5% of all applicants, being far above average raises the admission rate for you to nearly 100%.

If you can achieve a high SAT/ACT score, the rest of your application essentially doesn't matter. You still need to meet the rest of the application requirements, and your GPA shouldn't be too far off from the school average of 3.36. But you won't need dazzling extracurriculars and breathtaking letters of recommendation to get in. You can get in based on the merits of your score alone.

But if your score is a 928 SAT or a 17 ACT and below, you have a good chance of being one of the unlucky few to be rejected.

Admissions Calculator

Here's our custom admissions calculator. Plug in your numbers to see what your chances of getting in are. Pick your test: SAT ACT

• 80-100%: Safety school: Strong chance of getting in
• 50-80%: More likely than not getting in
• 20-50%: Lower but still good chance of getting in
• 5-20%: Reach school: Unlikely to get in, but still have a shot
• 0-5%: Hard reach school: Very difficult to get in

How would your chances improve with a better score?

Take your current SAT score and add 160 points (or take your ACT score and add 4 points) to the calculator above. See how much your chances improve?

At PrepScholar, we've created the leading online SAT/ACT prep program . We guarantee an improvement of 160 SAT points or 4 ACT points on your score, or your money back.

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• PrepScholar customizes your prep to your strengths and weaknesses . You don't waste time working on areas you already know, so you get more results in less time.
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Application Requirements

Every school requires an application with the bare essentials - high school transcript and GPA, application form, and other core information. Many schools, as explained above, also require SAT and ACT scores, as well as letters of recommendation, application essays, and interviews. We'll cover the exact requirements of Texas A&M - Commerce here.

Application Requirements Overview

• Common Application Not accepted
• Electronic Application None
• Essay or Personal Statement
• Letters of Recommendation
• Interview Not required
• Application Fee No fee required
• Fee Waiver Available? None
• Other Notes Interview for honors college recommended for some freshmen

Testing Requirements

• SAT or ACT Considered if submitted
• SAT Essay or ACT Writing Optional
• SAT Subject Tests
• Scores Due in Office August 1

Coursework Requirements

• Subject Required Years
• Foreign Language
• Social Studies 4

Deadlines and Early Admissions

• Offered? Deadline Notification
• Yes August 15 October 1

Admissions Office Information

• Address: 2200 Commerce, TX 75428
• Phone: (888) 868-2682
• Fax: (903) 886-5888
• Email: [email protected]

Other Schools For You

If you're interested in Texas A&M - Commerce, you'll probably be interested in these schools as well. We've divided them into 3 categories depending on how hard they are to get into, relative to Texas A&M - Commerce.

Reach Schools: Harder to Get Into

These schools are have higher average SAT scores than Texas A&M - Commerce. If you improve your SAT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

Same Level: Equally Hard to Get Into

If you're competitive for Texas A&M - Commerce, these schools will offer you a similar chance of admission.

Safety Schools: Easier to Get Into

If you're currently competitive for Texas A&M - Commerce, you should have no problem getting into these schools. If Texas A&M - Commerce is currently out of your reach, you might already be competitive for these schools.

Data on this page is sourced from Peterson's Databases © 2023 (Peterson's LLC. All rights reserved.) as well as additional publicly available sources.

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If you are a high school senior or a student who has completed high school and has not yet enrolled at another college or university after graduation, you should apply for freshman admission. Domestic freshmen are U.S. citizens, permanent residents or students who are graduating from a Texas high school.

If you are an international freshman, visit our International Freshman page .

Online Application

We recommend using the Common App to apply, but you can also apply using the Apply Texas  application.

Key Freshman Admission Dates

Summer/fall enrollment.

• Application Opens August 1
• Early Action Deadline to Apply October 15
• Regular Deadline to Apply December 1
• Early Action Decisions Released January 15
• All Decisions Released February 15

Spring Enrollment

• Deadline to Apply September 1
• Decisions Released December 1

Application Requirements

Required for ALL freshman applicants who are U.S. citizens, permanent residents or who are graduating from a Texas high school.

Application

Application fee.

Pay the non-refundable application fee of $75 when you submit your application. You can request a fee waiver. Requests can be made in the application, or by submitting the Request for Fee Waiver form via our Document Upload System in MyStatus.

Essay and Short Answers

Applicants must submit at least one essay and the required short answer prompts. The essay topic, requirements and prompts can be found on our website and in the applications.

Essays and Short Answers

SAT/ACT Scores

SAT and ACT official test scores must be submitted by the appropriate deadline to be considered. Submit at least one set of scores directly from the testing agency. (We do not require the SAT Essay or ACT Writing scores). Scores are only accepted directly from the testing agencies. We do not accept scores in transcripts or copies of score reports. You are not required to submit SAT Subject Test scores.

Testing agencies should send your scores using the codes designated for UT Austin:

* SAT/ACT Scores remain optional for students applying for Spring 2025. SAT/ACT Scores are required for students applying to Summer/Fall 2025 and beyond.

High School Transcripts, Class Rank and College Transcripts

Transcripts should list all of your high school coursework (from 9th – 11th grade) as well as your class rank. If your high school does not rank students, include a statement from your school describing its policy, a copy of your school’s profile and a GPA or grade distribution report. If you have earned any college credit (including dual credit) while in high school, request that the college or university send official transcripts to UT Austin.

Transcript Info

High School Prerequisites

You must  complete or be on track to complete certain high school coursework to be competitive for admission.

High School Prerequisites 

Review Optional and Additional Materials

Certain majors may require additional materials after you have submitted your application. You may also wish to submit additional materials to strengthen your application, such as letters of recommendation or an expanded resume.

Additional Materials

The following materials may be required. These items must be received by the appropriate deadline.

Major-Specific Items

Certain majors may require specific items in addition to your application. Please be sure to review any additional items required by your first and second choice majors by visiting their college or school website.

Colleges & Degrees

Student Information Form

If applicable, tell us about your high-school coursework. MyStatus will prompt those who are required to complete the form.

Texas Private High School Certification Form

This form is used to determine qualification for automatic enrollment. Applicable students are:

• Those who attended a Texas private school and do not satisfy test score requirements.
• Those who attended a Department of Defense High School and are not exempt based on test scores.

Residency Affidavit

If you aren’t a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident but graduated or will graduate from a Texas high school, you may qualify for residency for tuition purposes. Students who may qualify will be prompted to download the residency affidavit within their application or MyStatus. Email the completed, notarized residency affidavit to [email protected] .

Residency FAQs

Optional Materials

The optional items below are NOT required for admission consideration. However, you may include them as part of your application for admission if submitted by the appropriate deadline.

Expanded Resume

You may submit an expanded resume offering additional information about your achievements, activities, leadership positions and student employment. Submit your resume in MyStatus using the Document Upload System after you have submitted your application. You can also submit your expanded resume in the Common App.

If you submit a resume, you should include:

• Details about what each activity involved rather than a general description.
• The number of hours per week and weeks per year you spent on each activity.

Letters of Recommendation

You can submit up to two letters of recommendation with your application or after you’ve submitted your application. These letters may be from mentors or people who know you well, and can include teachers, although we encourage you to provide letters from sources outside your high school. The letter should be able to give additional context or information to support your admission that is not already provided in your application or other submitted documents (resume, transcripts).

Submitting Your Recommendations

We do not accept recommendations via email. Submit your recommendations via:

• The Common App
• MyStatus using the Document Upload System (accessible only by students after application submission)
• Parchment, Naviance/Edocs or Scoir

Once you’ve submitted your application, you can track the status and submit additional documents in MyStatus. Be sure to regularly monitor MyStatus until your application is listed as complete and submit any to-do items prior to the deadlines.

Check MyStatus

MyStatus is available 24-48 hours after submitting your application. You may be asked for additional information. Check MyStatus to stay up to date.

Complete the FAFSA/TASFA

Completing the FAFSA/TASFA before March 15 will maximize your eligibility for financial aid awards.

Complete Your Housing Application

You can apply for housing before you receive an admission decision. Housing is offered on a first come, first served basis. We recommend applying as soon as possible.

Check Your Email

We’ll alert you about your admission decision, financial aid awards, housing contract and other important details via email. Be sure to check your email regularly.