texas a and m admission essay

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Texas A&M University’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Impactful person short response.

Tell us about the person who has most impacted your life and why.

Opportunities and Challenges 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?

Life Even Short Response

Describe a life event which you feel has prepared you to be successful in college.

Overcoming Challenges Short Response

If there are additional personal challenges, hardships, or opportunities (including COVID related experiences) that have shaped or impacted your abilities or academic credentials, which you have not already written about, please note them in the space below.

College of Engineering Essay

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 engineering review process.

ApplyTexas Essays

Schools using ApplyTexas will have specific guidelines for how many of the following essays are required, if any. Some schools are also on the Common App, so you may respond to those prompts instead in that case.

Most students have an identity, an interest, or a talent that defines them in an essential way. Tell us about yourself.

You’ve got a ticket in your hand – Where will you go? What will you do? What will happen when you get there?

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

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?

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Discover who we are at Texas A&M University and learn what it means to be an Aggie.

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Apply as a Freshman

At Texas A&M University, we foster lifelong success with a premiere multidisciplinary education and academic support programs. And with more than 140 undergraduate programs  offered at several locations , you have many options for beginning your college career. If you’re considering joining us as a freshman, view our application information to get started.

Freshman applicants are current high school students (with or without college credits) or high school graduates who haven’t earned any college credits since high school graduation.

Freshman Admission Cycles

If you’re applying as a freshman to Texas A&M, find the dates when you can apply for each semester and location.

College Station

College station spring 2025 apply from aug. 1, 2024-oct. 15, 2024, college station fall 2024 the application period was aug. 1, 2023–dec. 1, 2023.

All additional required documents are due by Dec. 15, 2023.

If the application deadline falls on a weekend, the ApplyTexas and Common Application will remain open until 11:59 p.m. CST on the following Monday. Required documents will be accepted until 5 p.m. CST on that Monday.

College Station Early Action Engineering Deadline (Fall 2024) The application deadline was Oct. 15, 2023

Applicants who apply to the College of Engineering and have a complete admission file by the Early Action Deadline of Oct. 15, 2023, will receive a communication regarding their admission decision by mid-December for fall 2024. The communication will notify the student of admission or deferral to the standard decision timeline.

Please apply early to allow time to complete your entire application file by the deadline. On average, it takes three to five business days from the time your application is successfully submitted to receive the communication from Texas A&M University that is needed to link your self-reported academic record. Applicants who apply on or just before the Early Action Deadline will likely not meet the deadline.

Galveston Spring 2025 Apply from Aug. 1, 2024–Dec. 1, 2024

Spring application dates differ for incoming international freshmen.

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

Galveston Fall 2024 The application deadline was May 1, 2024

The application deadline for fall is May 1, 2024.

All other required documents will be accepted through May 15, 2024.

Higher Education Center at McAllen

Higher education center at mcallen fall 2024 the application period was jan. 9, 2024–march 1, 2024, application materials for freshman applicants, required online application.

Prospective students can submit their applications through ApplyTexas or Common App . The application you choose will not affect your admission decision.

Processing Time

On average, it takes three to five business days from the time your application is successfully submitted for Texas A&M to receive it. Monitor the email address that you provided on the application for the application acknowledgment communication.

Required Application Fee

A $75 nonrefundable application fee is required to complete your application. The application fee can be paid online through ApplyTexas or Common App , or by calling 979-458-5155.

See the “application fee” section of our undergraduate document submission page to learn about fee waivers.

Required Essay

Submit at least one essay with your application. You can submit your essay as part of your application or upload it to the Applicant Information System .

This is your chance to set yourself apart from other applicants. Texas A&M cares about more than your grades and scores; we want to know what makes you you!

See essay tips on our college readiness resources page .

Required Self-Reported Academic Record

A self-reported academic record replaces high school transcripts during the initial admission process in most cases.

Circumstantial Other Materials to Include with your Application

In some circumstances, you may need to submit a high school transcript or an official GED transcript.

Depending on your residency status, you may need to submit additional documents.

You can also choose to submit official test scores, a résumé and up to two letters of recommendation.

Choose Which Location You Want to Attend

Admission deadlines and processes can vary depending on which campus you are applying to. Explore our locations and the application information for each one.

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College Station, Texas

Texas A&M University’s main campus in College Station is located in the heart of the Houston-Dallas-Austin triangle. Here, you’ll build lasting relationships with friends and professors. You’ll also find out about the traditions that bind all Aggies together and make this university so special. Not only that, you’ll receive a top-quality education that will prepare you for any career path you choose.

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the Higher Education Center at McAllen campus

McAllen, Texas

One of our newest facilities is the Higher Education Center at McAllen, which opened in fall 2018. The center serves students in the Rio Grande Valley by providing access to top-tier academic programs close to home. Degree programs range from agricultural economics and engineering to public health and construction science.

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Galveston, Texas

Texas A&M University at Galveston, known as the island campus, is leading the development of the blue economy in the Gulf of Mexico. This branch campus offers a unique blend of marine and maritime programs, including majors in science, business, engineering, liberal arts and transportation.

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Doha, Qatar

Texas A&M University at Qatar is our branch campus in Doha, Qatar. The university offers six undergraduate degrees — including Bachelor of Science degrees in several engineering concentrations — and a graduate program. Courses are taught in English in a coeducational setting.

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Finding Out if You're Admitted

We begin making admissions decisions in late September. See the “What happens after I apply?” section of our freshman application page to learn about tracking your application status or about admission decision appeals.

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Texas A&M University offers prospective students their own advisors, specific to where they call home. If you have questions about the application and admissions process, connect with the advisor closest to you.

Texas A&M Supplemental Essays 2023-24

Texas a&m supplemental essays 2023-24.

If you’re thinking about how to get into Texas A&M, you’ve probably come across the Texas A&M supplemental essays. Texas A&M is one of the top public universities in the country (currently ranked #20 by U.S. News). As such, the Texas A&M application is comprehensive, requiring students to respond to multiple Texas A&M essay prompts. The Texas A&M admissions essays are a critical part of your application narrative. The prompts allow you to provide valuable information to Admissions about why you would be a good candidate for admission.

Writing strong responses to the Texas A&M admissions essays can be tough. Throughout this article, you’ll find tips for how to respond to each of the Texas A&M supplemental essays. This includes specific details about each of the Texas A&M essay questions and things to keep in mind when writing. We’ll also discuss what the Texas A&M admissions committee is looking for when it comes to reviewing these essays. And finally, we talk more generally about how to get into Texas A&M beyond just the Texas A&M supplemental essays. We’ll give you key information about application deadlines and other Texas A&M admission requirements.

Ready to learn more about the Texas A&M admissions essays? Let’s dive in! 

Texas A&M Admission Requirements Quick Facts:

Texas a&m admission requirements: quick facts.

  • Texas A&M Acceptance Rate: 63% – U.S. News rates Texas A&M as a more selective school.
  • One long essay (max. 750 words)
  • Two short answer questions (max. 250 words each)
  • One Optional Essay (max. 250 words)
  • Common Application
  • Engineering Early Action Deadline: October 15th
  • Regular Decision Deadline: December 1st
  • Texas A&M Essay Tip: Start Early! There are many Texas A&M supplemental essays to complete for the Texas A&M admission requirements. The more time you give yourself to work on them, the better your essays will be.

Please note that essay requirements are subject to change each admissions cycle, and portions of this article may have been written before the final publication of the most recent guidelines. For the most up-to-date information on essay requirements, check the university’s admissions website.

How many essays does Texas A&M require?

For the 2023-2024 application cycle, there are three required Texas A&M admissions essays. In addition to the required essays, the Texas A&M essay prompts include one optional question. Students may answer if they feel the prompt is relevant to their life experience.

We will go into more detail with each of the Texas A&M essay prompts later on in this article. And, we’ll offer specific tips for how to answer each of the different Texas A&M essay prompts. 

How long do the essays for Texas A&M have to be?

Each of the Texas A&M essay prompts has a certain maximum word count that you must stay within. The first of the Texas A&M essay prompts has a maximum word count of 750 words. This means that your response to this Texas A&M essay should be absolutely no longer than 750 words. You don’t need to get as close to 750 words as possible in your long Texas A&M essay. However, you should also not submit a Texas A&M essay that is too short either. About 600-750 words is a good length to shoot for in this Texas A&M essay.

The shorter Texas A&M admissions essays have more strict word counts. Responses to these Texas A&M supplemental essays should not be more than 250 words. For these shorter Texas A&M essays, using as much of the word count as possible is beneficial. At the same time, make sure the words you use have purpose in providing new and relevant information. When writing a personal essay for college, be sure to pay close attention to maximum word counts.

Texas A&M Essay Prompt – Tell your story

Texas a&m university essay prompt #1, tell us your story. what unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today.

The first of the Texas A&M supplemental essays asks students to share some opportunities or obstacles that they’ve faced. The purpose of this Texas A&M essay is to help the admissions committee learn more about the writer’s resilience. They want to see how they behave in the face of adversity, specifically during their high school years. While exciting, college represents a significant challenge in a student’s life. The Texas A&M supplemental essays provide students the opportunity to demonstrate how they have overcome challenges in their lives.

Brainstorming Ideas

The most important step in writing the Texas A&M supplemental essays is the brainstorming phase. Start by coming up with a list of challenges you have faced in your life. Then determine which one or two topics you want to focus on for your Texas A&M supplemental essays.

It can be very tempting to write your Texas A&M essays about all of the challenges you have faced. But in fact, it is better to focus on one or two specific examples. That way you can provide more engaging details and evidence about the moments you choose. And, you can avoid simply recycling information from the rest of your application. 

Connecting to Character Traits

Here’s another helpful way to brainstorm for your Texas A&M essays. Think of three character traits you would like for your Texas A&M admissions essays to say about you. Then, use the challenges you thought of earlier to illustrate those characteristics.

For example, maybe you would like to demonstrate strong leadership qualities in your Texas A&M essays. So, you may describe how, despite setbacks, you put on a successful school dance as head of the prom committee. Or maybe you want your Texas A&M supplemental essays to showcase your interest in community service. In that case, you may write about how you organized a fundraiser after a natural disaster struck your neighborhood. 

Telling a Story

So, you’ve determined what you want to write about in your Texas A&M essay. Now you need to think about how you want to tell the story of these challenges to your reader. Remember that your reader does not know you or your background outside of what you write in your Texas A&M essays. Be sure to pick the details that are most relevant to write about.

Make sure the focus of your Texas A&M essays is on you and what you felt and accomplished.

Avoid simply listing facts that your reader can find elsewhere in your application. Instead, think about showing the reader your character through the actions you describe.

Texas A&M Essay Prompt #2 – Life Event

Texas a&m university essay prompt #2, describe a life event which you feel has prepared you to be successful in college..

The second of the Texas A&M supplemental essays asks students to reflect on a single life event. Specifically, one that has helped them to prepare for and be successful in college. This event can be anything you want it to be. However, make sure it’s a different experience than the one you wrote about in the other Texas A&M essays. This event should also demonstrate your college readiness by showcasing your maturity, academic skills, leadership, or resilience. 

As with the other Texas A&M admissions essays, your writing should focus on one defining event. Remember, this is one of the Texas A&M essays with a more limited word count. So, be sure to focus on telling a specific story of the specific moment in your life. You want your reader to feel like they’re experiencing the life event with you, so illustrate your points with vivid information.

Concurrently, use the details to illustrate the larger point that you would be a good fit for Texas A&M. No matter what the prompt for a personal essay for college actually says, they’re all asking “are you a good fit?” Each of your Texas A&M admissions essays should provide the reasons why you deserve admission to Texas A&M.

Choosing a topic for your Texas A&M essay

Deciding your topic for your Texas A&M supplemental essays is your first hurdle. For your Texas A&M essays, it is important to choose a moment that is personal and meaningful to you. With open-ended Texas A&M essay prompts, it’s tempting to write about what you think the admissions committee will find impressive. However, it’s always better to write about your authentic interests and let your true character shine through in your writing.

There is no specific formula for choosing your topic for the Texas A&M supplemental essays. Just make sure your topic is new and has not been discussed already in other parts of your application. And make sure you are writing about your passions in your Texas A&M supplemental essays.

Any experience can be compelling, so long as you make it clear why you’ve chosen to discuss it. For example, you may describe how an improv comedy show going badly wrong taught you how to handle adversity, think on your feet, and use creativity in a difficult situation.

Still need help coming up with a topic for your Texas A&M supplemental essays? Check out this webinar or this article for additional resources.

Texas A&M Essay Prompt #3 – Impactful Person

Texas a&m university essay prompt # 3, tell us about the person who has most impacted your life and why..

This is arguably the hardest of the required Texas A&M essay prompts. That’s because it asks students to write about a topic other than themselves. The Texas A&M supplemental essays are all about getting to know the applicants on a more personal level. However, this is not easy to do when you’re writing about someone else. Therefore, it is important to both answer the prompt while keeping the focus on you.

The first step to writing this essay is choosing the person that it is going to be about. This is not about finding the most famous or well-recognized person you know. It’s about examining your life and identifying those who have genuinely pushed you to be the best version of yourself. You also want this person to have impacted your life recently so you can show details from your high school years. Or, if they are from your childhood, show how their influence has stayed with you during your high school years.

Let’s say you’ve found the person you will write about. Think about what you need your reader to know about this person in order to understand who they are. Remember that you have limited space in your Texas A&M supplemental essays. Avoid using too much of it simply describing who your person is. The central focus of your Texas A&M essays should be on you, the applicant. So, your job is twofold. Describe the person who has most impacted your life in your Texas A&M essays. Then, focus on what you learned from them and how you’ve used their influence in your academics, extracurriculars, or school community. 

How do I write the Texas A&M essay?

The Texas A&M supplemental essays will take time to complete. So, the best advice we have is to start your Texas A&M essays early. The Common App opens on August 1st, which is also when the Texas A&M essay prompts become visible. It’s never too early to start planning your responses to the Texas A&M essays! Often picking the topics for your Texas A&M essays can be the most difficult part of the process. Give yourself plenty of time to choose what your Texas A&M supplemental essays will be about.

We also recommend writing multiple drafts of your Texas A&M supplemental essays. And, it’s beneficial to seek help from others throughout the writing process from a teacher, parent, or college advisor. Sharing your Texas A&M essays can help you clarify your ideas and improve the grammar of your writing. And, a trusted editor may catch errors you did not see or offer insights you had not previously thought of. For additional tips and help on writing college essays, check out tips for writing better essays!

Optional Texas A&M Essay

Texas a&m university optional essay prompt, if there are additional personal challenges, hardships, or opportunities (including covid related experiences) that have shaped or impacted your abilities or academic credentials, which you have not already written about , please note them in the space below..

In addition to the required Texas A&M supplemental essays, there is also an optional Texas A&M essay. This is the most open-ended of the Texas A&M essay prompts. It asks students to describe any challenges they have faced, particularly those which may have negatively impacted their academic performance. This is the only one of the Texas A&M supplemental essays that is optional. However, it could still be well worth writing for many students.

The optional prompt for the Texas A&M essays is a great place to explain worrisome aspects of your application. Here, you can address any potential red flags directly with the admissions committee. Perhaps your extracurricular resume is not as strong as those of other applicants. But, that’s because you need to spend time after school taking care of younger siblings while your parents work late. Or, perhaps your grades dipped towards the C-range for a semester while you were dealing with a close personal loss.

This optional choice in the Texas A&M essay prompts gives you the opportunity to provide context. Providing details regarding these unflattering parts of your application can only benefit you. Don’t hesitate to show Texas A&M Admissions why they should still consider you for admission despite these facts.

Is this optional essay really optional?

Many students wonder whether the optional Texas A&M essay is truly optional. We recommend that you complete all the required Texas A&M supplemental essays and also the optional essay if you have a personal challenge that applies to the prompt. Do the optional essay only after you have finished all of the other required Texas A&M supplemental essays. Starting with these essays ensures you are prioritizing the Texas A&M admissions essays that are required for your application. The optional Texas A&M essay can be a helpful addition to your other Texas A&M essays. Especially if you have some extenuating circumstances that affect other areas of your application. 

So yes, the last of the Texas A&M essay prompts is truly optional. But, responding to this prompt is a good way to communicate additional details about your personal situation to the admissions committee. Completing all the Texas A&M essay prompts not only shows the school that you are a hard worker. It can also help them get to know you better and explain any anomalies in your otherwise stellar application.

Are the Texas A&M supplemental essays important?

The Texas A&M supplemental essays are an important part of your Texas A&M admissions application . Your Texas A&M essays are your only opportunity to give Admissions information beyond your grades and extracurricular activities. The Texas A&M essays also provide important information to the admissions committee about your readiness for college. And whether you would be a good fit for the culture of Texas A&M.

Strong responses to the Texas A&M supplemental essays can help increase your chances of admission to Texas A&M. These Texas A&M admissions essays are your golden opportunity to stand out from the rest of the applicants. Plan to spend ample time on your Texas A&M supplemental essays. They’ll likely be the most time-consuming portion of crafting your application.

When are essays for Texas A&M applications due?

Students need to submit their Texas A&M supplemental essays by December 1st. So, be sure to satisfy all of the Texas A&M admissions requirements ahead of the deadline. The deadline is different for students applying for the Early Admission Deadline for the College of Engineering. If that’s you, your Texas A&M admissions essays must be in by October 15th. For more information about the timeline and deadlines for your application, check out their admissions website !

Five Tips for Writing the Texas A&M Essays

Texas a&m university essay writing tips, 1. start early.

Because there are so many Texas A&M supplemental essays, get started on them as early as possible. This is especially true if you want to complete all of the Texas A&M essay prompts, including the optional one. You’re probably not going to put all of your best ideas into your first draft of the Texas A&M supplemental essays. Setting aside time for multiple drafts will help strengthen the writing of your Texas A&M admissions essays. 

2. Brainstorm ideas before writing

The Texas A&M admissions essays require personal reflection and thought to answer effectively. Because of this, take time to write down some of the most important events and people in your life. That way, you have a bank of topics from which to pull for your Texas A&M supplemental essays. (And you can choose the very best ones to answer the Texas A&M essay prompts). The Texas A&M essays are not long enough to capture every one of your unique life experiences and qualities. Choosing a few to focus on will help streamline your essays!

3. Show, don’t tell

Following this guideline can strengthen not only your Texas A&M admissions essays but also your writing in general. The idea is to use relevant examples to demonstrate the qualities showcased in your Texas A&M essays. These stories are powerful tools because they do two things. One, they help your reader see the kind of person you’ve become. Two, they provide perspective into the kind of student you would be at Texas A&M.

4. It’s all in the details 

This tip is related to the last, because no personal essay for college would be complete without vivid, specific details. These details help separate your essay from the crowd and allow the reader to transport themselves into your memories. The more descriptive and specific your language, the better your message will come across to your readers. Avoid stringing together several different stories with only surface-level descriptions for each one. When responding to the Texas A&M essay prompts, use as much descriptive language as possible!  

5. Ask for help

The Texas A&M supplemental essays are not easy. Writing college essays is a skill and is very different from writing a paper for class. So, it can be helpful to have some other people that you trust edit and review your essay. They might even catch mistakes in your Texas A&M supplemental essays or see improvements that you would not have considered. Just make sure that anyone you ask for help is not writing the Texas A&M supplemental essays for you! Admissions officers are trained to look for essays written by parents or siblings. Nothing someone else writes will come close to the power of your original, authentic voice.

Texas A&M Supplemental Essays – Final Takeaways

The Texas A&M essays are one of the most difficult parts of the Texas A&M admission requirements. However, with the proper preparation and guidance, anyone can write strong responses to the Texas A&M essay prompts. Any personal essay for college is important. So be sure to put your best foot forward in your Texas A&M supplemental essays. 

We at CollegeAdvisor are here to help you with your Texas A&M admissions essays. Our advisor network includes Texas A&M graduates who have personal experience with writing Texas A&M essays. By signing up for a CollegeAdvisor.com account, you get access to individual coaching for your personal essay for college. (And help from admissions experts and our Essay Editing team!) To register for an account and get help with your Texas A&M supplemental essays, click here .

This essay guide was written by senior advisor, Alex Baggott-Rowe . Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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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

Early Action

October 15

Regular Decision

December 15

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 .

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College Essays

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The ApplyTexas college application contains many essay prompts, and each of the most popular colleges in Texas has different requirements for which essays they expect applicants to answer.

So how do you get advice on writing your best ApplyTexas essays, no matter which school you're applying to? Look no further than this article, which completely unpacks all possible ApplyTexas essay prompts. We'll explain what each prompt is looking for and what admissions officers are hoping to learn about you. In addition, we'll give you our top strategies for ensuring that your essay meets all these expectations and help you come up with your best essay topics.

To help you navigate this long guide, here is an overview of what we'll be talking about:

What Are the ApplyTexas Essays?

Comparing applytexas essay prompts a, b, and c, dissecting applytexas essay topic a, dissecting applytexas essay topic b, dissecting applytexas essay topic c, dissecting applytexas essay topic d.

  • Dissecting the UT and Texas A&M Short Answer Prompts
  • Briefly: ApplyTexas Essay Topic E (Transfer Students Only)

The ApplyTexas application is basically the Texas version of the Common Application , which many US colleges use. It's a unified college application process that's accepted by all Texas public universities and many private ones. (Note that some schools that accept ApplyTexas also accept the Common App.)

The ApplyTexas website is a good source for figuring out whether your target college accepts the ApplyTexas application. That said, the best way to confirm exactly what your school expects is to go to its admissions website.

Why Do Colleges Want You to Write Essays?

Admissions officers are trying to put together classes full of interesting, vibrant students who have different backgrounds, strengths, weaknesses, goals, and dreams. One tool colleges use to identify a diverse set of perspectives is the college essay .

These essays are a chance for you to show admissions officers those sides of yourself that aren’t reflected in the rest of your application. This is where you describe where you've come from, what you believe in, what you value, and what has shaped you.

This is also where you make yourself sound mature and insightful—two key qualities that colleges are looking for in applicants . These are important because colleges want to enroll students who will ultimately thrive when faced with the independence of college life .

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Admissions staff want to enroll a diverse incoming class of motivated and thoughtful students.

ApplyTexas Essay Requirements

There are four essay prompts on the ApplyTexas application for first-year admission (Topics A, B, C, and D). For Topics A, B, and C, there are slight variations on the prompt for transfer students or those looking to be readmitted. We’ll cover each variation just below the main topic breakdown. There are also several short-answer prompts for UT Austin and Texas A&M , as well as Topic D for art and architecture majors and  Topic E for transfer students only . Although there are no strict word limits, colleges usually suggest keeping the essays somewhere between one and one and a half pages long.

All Texas colleges and universities have different application requirements, including which essay or essays they want. Some schools require essays, some list them as optional, and others use a combination of required and optional essays. Several schools use the essays to determine scholarship awards, honors program eligibility, or admission to specific majors.

Here are some essay submission requirement examples from a range of Texas schools:

  • You are required to write an essay on Topic A .
  • You also have to answer three short-answer prompts (250–300 words each) .
  • If you're applying for a studio art, art education, art history, architecture, or visual art studies major, you'll have to write a short answer specific to your major .
  • UT Austin also accepts the Common App.

Texas A&M

  • If you're an engineering major, you'll have to respond to  a short-answer prompt .
  • Texas A&M also accepts the Common App .

Southern Methodist University

  • You must write an essay on Topic A .
  • You may (but do not have to) write an essay on Topic B .
  • You also have to answer two short-answer prompts .
  • SMU also accepts the Common App and Coalition App and has its own online application, so you have the option to pick and choose the application you want to fill out .

Texas Christian University

  • You must write an essay on any of the topics (A, B, or C) .
  • TCU also accepts the Common App and Coalition App has its own online application, so it's another school for which you can choose the application you want to use.

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The essays required as part of each admissions application differ from college to college. Check each institution's website for the most up-to-date instructions.

Want to write the perfect college application essay?   We can help.   Your dedicated PrepScholar Admissions counselor will help you craft your perfect college essay, from the ground up. We learn your background and interests, brainstorm essay topics, and walk you through the essay drafting process, step-by-step. At the end, you'll have a unique essay to proudly submit to colleges.   Don't leave your college application to chance. Find out more about PrepScholar Admissions now:

Three of the ApplyTexas essay topics try to get to the heart of what makes you the person you are. But since Topics A, B, and C all focus on things that are essential to you as a person, coming up with a totally unique idea for each can be difficult—especially since on a first read-through, these prompts can sound really similar .

Before I dissect all of the ApplyTexas essay prompts, let's see how A, B, and C differ from one another. You can then keep these differences in mind as you try to think of topics to write about.

ApplyTexas Prompts

Here are the most recent prompts for Topics A, B, and C on the ApplyTexas application.

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

Most students have an identity, an interest, or a talent that defines them in an essential way. Tell us about yourself.

You've got a ticket in your hand. Where will you go? What will you do? What will happen when you get there?

How to Tell Topics A, B, and C Apart

One helpful way to keep these topics separate in your mind is to create a big-picture category for each one: Topic A is outside, Topic B is inside, and Topic C is the future .

In other words, Topic A is asking about the impact of challenges or opportunities on you and how you handled that impact. Topic B is asking about your inner passions and how these define you. Finally, Topic C wants to know where you're going from here. These very broad categories will help as you brainstorm ideas and life experiences you can use for your essay .

Although many of the stories you think of can be shaped to fit each of these prompts, think about what the experience most reveals about you. If it’s about how your external community shaped you, that'd probably be a good fit for Topic A. If it’s a story about the causes or interests that you're most passionate about, save it for Topic B. If it’s primarily about an event that you think predicts your future, it'll likely work well for Topic C.

(Note: if you are a transfer student writing the essay variation for Topics A, B, or C, keep in mind that these variations still ask you about the outside, inside, or future respectively.)

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Your years-long passion for performing in theater productions is an appropriate subject for ApplyTexas Topic B essays.

Now, we'll thoroughly deconstruct everything you need to know about Topic A, the first ApplyTexas essay prompt.

What’s the Prompt Asking, and How Should You Answer It?

This prompt wants to see how a particular external experience as a high school student has shaped you . The prompt uses the phrase "your story," signaling that admissions staff want to know what you believe has had the biggest impact on you.

Step 1: Describe Your Experience

The first part of the prompt is about identifying and describing specific experiences you've had as a high school student. You don't want your essay coming across too vague, so make sure you're focusing on one or two specific experiences, whether they've been positive or negative. The prompt suggests zeroing in on something "unique," or something that has affected you in a way it hasn't impacted anyone else.

You'll want to choose an opportunity or challenge that you can describe vividly and that's really important to you. In other words, it   needs to have had a significant impact on your personal development.

It should also be an experience that has been part of your life for a while . You're describing something that's affected you "throughout your high school career," after all.

Step 2: Explain How This Experience Shaped You

You shouldn't just describe your experience—you also need to discuss how that experience affected you as a person . How did this particular opportunity or difficulty turn you into the person you are today?

It's best if you can think of one or two concrete anecdotes or stories about how your chosen experience(s) helped shape you. For example, don't just say that a public piano recital made you a hard-working person— describe in detail how practicing diligently each day, even when you weren't feeling motivated, got frustrated by particular parts of the piece you were performing, and experienced stage fright showed you that working toward your goals is worthwhile, even when it's hard.

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Elaborating on how a specific challenge or obstacle that you faced during your high school career helped shape your current perspective and personality is one option for Topic A essays.

What Are Readers Hoping to Learn About You?

Admission staff are looking for two main things. First, they want to see that you can be mature and thoughtful about your surroundings and events in your life . Are you curious about the world around you? If you've really reflected on your experience, you'll be able to describe the people, places, and events that have impacted you as a high school student in a nuanced, insightful way.

Second, they want to see how you stand out from other applicants . This can be accomplished in one of two ways: (1) you can emphasize how you are somehow different because of your experience and how it impacted you, or (2) you can emphasize how you learned positive qualities from the event that differentiate you from other students. Basically, how did your experience turn you into a special, interesting person?

How Can Your Essay Give Them What They Want?

How can you make sure your essay is really answering the prompt? Here are some key strategies.

#1: Pick a Specific Experience

You'll need to select a particular opportunity or obstacle to zero in on. Opportunities include travel, internships, volunteer or paid jobs, academic events, and awards. Challenges might include competitions, performances, illnesses, injuries, or learning something new. Remember, you'll want to focus on one or two particular events or experiences that have truly contributed to your personal growth .

As you're choosing the experiences you want to write about, think about significant things that happened to you in connection with those events. Remember, you'll need to get beyond just describing how the opportunity or challenge is important to you to show how its impact on you is so significant .

#2: How Did This Experience Shape You?

You then need to consider what about your experience turned you into a person who stands out . Again, this can be about how you overcame the difficulty or how the opportunity fostered positive qualities or traits in you that would make you an appealing member of the college's student body. You want to make sure you have a clear message that links your experience to one, two, or three special traits you have.

Try to think of specific stories and anecdotes related to the event. Then, thoughtfully analyze these to reveal what they show about you. Important adults in your life can help you brainstorm potential ideas.

#3: Think of the Essay Like a Movie

Like a good movie script, a college essay needs characters, some action, and a poignant but ultimately happy ending . When you’re planning out your personal statement, try to think of the story you’re telling in movie terms. Ensure that your essay has the following features:

  • Setting: As you're describing your experience, taking time to give a vivid sense of place is key. You can accomplish this by describing the actual physical surroundings, the main "characters" in your community, or a combination of both.
  • Stakes: Movies propel the action forward by giving characters high stakes: win or lose, life or death. Even if you are describing your experience in positive terms, there needs to be a sense of conflict or dynamic change. In the anecdote(s) you've selected to write about, what did you stand to gain or lose?
  • External conflict resolution: If there's an external conflict of some kind (e.g., with a neighbor, a family member, a friend, or a city council), you need to show some level of resolution.
  • Internal conflict resolution: Inner conflict is essentially about how you changed in response to the event or experience. You'll need to clearly lay out what happened within you and how those changes have carried you forward as a person.

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Describing your feelings before, during, and after the opportunity or challenge is a crucial element of a Topic A college essay.

#4: Add Details, Description, and Examples

Your essay will really stand out if you add effective examples and descriptions.

For example, imagine Karima decides to describe how learning to navigate public transit as a high school first-year student made her resourceful and helped her explore the city she grew up in. She also discusses how exploring the city ultimately changed her perspective. How should she frame her experience? Here are some options:

I was nervous about taking the El by myself for the first time. At the station, there were lots of commuters and adults who seemed impatient but confident. At first, I was very afraid of getting lost, but over time, I became as confident as those commuters.

I felt a mixture of nerves and excitement walking up the Howard red line turnstile for the first time. What if I got lost on my way to the museum? I was worried that I would just seem like a nuisance to all of the frowning commuters who crowded the platform. If I needed help, would they help me? Was I even brave enough to ask? When the metal doors opened, I pressed my nails into my palms and rushed in after a woman with a red briefcase. Success! At least for the first step. I found a sideways-facing seat and clutched my macrame bag with my notebook and sketching supplies. A map hung above my seat. Pressing my finger to the colorful grid, I found my stop and counted how many I still had to go. I spent the entire train ride staring at that map, straining my ears for everything the conductor said. Now, when I think about the first time I rode the El by myself, I smile. What seemed so scary at the time is just an everyday way to get around now. But I always look around on the platform to see if any nervous kids linger at the edges of the commuter crowds and offer them a smile.

Both versions set up the same story plotwise, but the second makes the train ride (and therefore the author) come alive through the addition of specific, individualizing details , such as the following:

  • Visual cues: The reader "sees" what the author sees through descriptions such as "frowning commuters who crowded the platform," "woman with a red briefcase," and "colorful grid."
  • Emotional responses: We experience the author’s feelings: she "felt a mixture of nerves and excitement." She wonders if she's brave enough to ask for help. The train ride was "so scary at the time" but feels "everyday" now.
  • Differentiation: Even though the commuters are mostly a monolithic group, we get to see some individuals, such as the woman with a red briefcase.

ApplyTexas Topic A Essay Ideas

There's no one best topic for this essay prompt (or any other), but I've included some potential ideas below to help you get started with your own brainstorming:

  • Describe a time you organized the people around you to advocate a common local cause.
  • Hone in on a particular trip with one or more family members.
  • Identify a time when you were no longer in your comfort zone. Describe how you adapted and learned from that experience.
  • Discuss being a minority in your school or neighborhood.
  • Describe going through a cultural or religious rite of passage as a high school student.
  • Elaborate on how you moved from one place to somewhere totally different and handled your culture shock.

ApplyTexas Topic A for Transfer, Transient, or Readmit Students

If you are applying to transfer or to be readmitted, you likely already have some college experience. So in this case, ApplyTexas offers a personal statement option that allows you to write about your life beyond your high school years. This option still asks you to demonstrate what in your experience has turned you into a unique individual. But if, for instance, you left college and now are reapplying, you’ll want to address how some aspect of that experience made an impact on who you are now. Otherwise, follow the advice above for the standard Topic A prompt.

Here’s the current Essay Topic A prompt for transfer applicants:

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

Want to build the best possible college application?   We can help.   PrepScholar Admissions combines world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies. We've guided thousands of students to get into their top choice schools, from state colleges to the Ivy League. We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit and are driven to get you admitted to your dream schools. Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in:

Next up, let's go through the same process for ApplyTexas Topic B, taking it apart brick by brick and putting it back together again.

What’s the Prompt Asking?

At first glance, this prompt seems pretty vague. "Tell us about yourself" is not exactly the most detailed set of instructions. But if we dig a little deeper, we can see that there are actually two pretty specific things this question is asking.

#1: What Defines You?

This prompts posits that "most students"—which likely includes you!—have some kind of defining trait . This could be "an identity, an interest, or a talent," so you need to express what that defining trait is for you specifically.

For instance, are you an amazing knitter? Do you spend your free time researching cephalopods? Are you a connoisseur of indie movies or mystery novels? Or maybe you have a religious, cultural, ethnic, or LGBTQIA+ identity that's very important to you. Any of these things could plausibly be the main, framing theme of your essay.

#2: How Does That Defining Trait Fit Into "You" Overall?

Even though you have some kind of defining trait, that's not the entirety of you. Essentially, you need to contextualize your defining trait within your broader personality and identity. This is where the "tell us about yourself" part comes in. What does your defining trait say about you as a person? And how does it fit into your overall personality, values, and dreams?

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In a Topic B college essay, you could potentially describe your knowledge of chess and how it exemplifies your talent for thinking several steps ahead.

Admissions staff are hoping to learn two main things:

#1: What You're Passionate About

It's essential that this essay communicates genuine passion for whatever you write about. College is a lot of work, and passion is an important driving force when things get busy. Therefore, readers are looking for students who are really engaged in the world around them and excited about specific causes and activities!

#2: How You View Yourself (and How Successfully You Can Communicate That)

A strong, well-developed sense of self goes a long way toward helping you weather all the changes you're going to experience when you attend college. Even though you'll change and grow a lot as a person during your college years, having a sense of your own core traits and values will help those changes be exciting as opposed to scary .

Colleges are looking for a developed sense of self. Additionally, they are looking for students who can communicate messages about themselves in a clear, confident, and cohesive way .

The challenge with this prompt is giving a complete picture of you as a person while still staying on message about your defining trait. You need to be focused yet comprehensive. Let's explore the best ways to show off your passion and frame your identity.

#1: Define the Core Message

First, you need to select that defining trait . This could be pretty much anything, just as long as you're genuinely invested in this trait and feel that it represents some core aspect of you.

It should also be something you can describe through stories and anecdotes . Just saying, "I'm a redhead, and that defines me" makes for a pretty boring essay! However, a story about how you started a photography project that consists of portraits of redheads like you and what you learned about yourself from this experience is much more interesting.

Be careful to select something that presents you in a broadly positive light . If you choose a trait that doesn't seem very serious, such as your enduring and eternal love of onion rings, you risk seeming at best immature and at worst outright disrespectful.

You also want to pick something realistic —don't claim you're the greatest mathematician who ever lived unless you are, in fact, the greatest mathematician who ever lived (and you probably aren't). Otherwise, you'll seem out of touch.

#2: Fit Your Message into the Larger Picture

Next, consider how you can use this trait to paint a more complete picture of you as a person . It's great that you're passionate about skiing and are a member of a ski team, but what else does this say about you? Are you an adventurous daredevil who loves to take (reasonable) risks? Are you a nature lover with a taste for exploration? Do you love being part of a team?

Select at least two or three positive messages you want to communicate about yourself in your essay about your key trait.

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In a Topic B essay, a student could connect their long-time passion for cooking to their penchant for adding their unique touch to every project they take on.

#3: Show, Don't Tell

It's much more interesting to read about things you do that demonstrate your key traits than it is to hear you list them. Don't just say, "Everyone asks me for advice because I'm level-headed and reasonable." Instead, actually describe situations that show people asking you for advice and you offering that level-headed, reasonable advice.

#4: Watch Your Tone

It's important to watch your tone as you write an essay that's (pretty overtly) about how great you are. You want to demonstrate your own special qualities without seeming glib, staid, self-aggrandizing, or narcissistic .

Let’s say Andrew wants to write about figuring out how to grow a garden, despite his yard being in full shade, and how this desire turned into a passion for horticulture. He could launch into a rant about the garden store employees not knowing which plants are right for which light, the previous house owner’s terrible habit of using the yard as a pet bathroom, or the achy knee that prevented him from proper weeding posture.

Alternatively, he could describe doing research on the complex gardens of royal palaces, planning his garden based on plant color and height, using the process of trial and error to see which plants would flourish, and getting so involved with this work that he often lost track of time.

One of these approaches makes him sound whiny and self-centered, whereas  the other makes him sound like someone who can take charge of a difficult situation .

ApplyTexas Topic B Essay Ideas

Again, there's no single best approach here, but I've outlined some potential topics below:

  • Are you known for being really good at something or an expert on a particular topic? How does this impact your identity?
  • Discuss how you got involved in a certain extracurricular activity and what it means to you. What have you learned from participating in it?
  • Describe something you've done lots of research on in your free time. How did you discover that interest? What have you learned as a result?
  • What's your most evident personality trait? How has that trait impacted your life? (You can ask friends and relatives for help with this one.)
  • Relate the importance of your LGBTQIA+ identity.
  • Discuss your religious or cultural background and how this defines you.
  • Describe your experience as a member of a specific community.

ApplyTexas Topic B for Transfer, Transient, or Readmit Students

The ApplyTexas variation on Topic B is specifically designed for two different possible application situations. The first is for people who are applying as nondegree-seeking or postbaccalaureate students (aka “transient students”). In this case, they ask you to discuss the courses you want to take and what you hope to accomplish if you are admitted. That means they still want you to focus this essay on what you are passionate about, as mentioned above, but they expect that passion to be based on courses the university offers more directly.  

The second is for students who are reapplying after being suspended for academic reasons. In this situation, they ask you to describe any actions you have taken to improve your academic performance and to give them a reason why you should be readmitted. You’ll still need to focus on your positive traits in this variation, so this can be a tricky task. As in the example above, you’ll need to watch your tone and not come across as whiny. Instead, confront the cause of your academic suspension and what you learned from that experience; then, turn it into a newfound strength. Maybe you learned new study habits you can describe for them. Maybe working full-time while you were suspended improved your work ethic. Whatever you choose, show how a negative situation changed into a positive learning experience for you, and focus on the better person you are now because of it. 

Here’s the current prompt for Essay Topic B for transfer applicants:

If you are applying as a former student and were suspended for academic reasons, describe briefly any actions you have taken to improve your academic abilities and give reason why you should be readmitted. If you are applying as a nondegree-seeking or postbaccalaureate application, briefly describe the specific objectives you wish to accomplish if admitted, including the courses in which you would like to enroll.

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Now, we can take apart Topic C to get a good handle on how to tackle this future-facing essay.

You've got a ticket in your hand—where will you go? What will you do? What will happen when you get there?

If ApplyTexas Topic A and Topic B were all about your past experiences, Topic C wants you to give readers a glimpse of your imagined possibilities .

There are basically two potential approaches to this question. We'll break them down here.

Option 1: Describe Your Long-Term Goals

One approach to this prompt is to use your essay as a chance to describe your long-term goals for your career and life .

For some students, this will be a straightforward endeavor. For example, say you’ve always wanted to be a doctor. You spend your time volunteering at hospitals, helping out at your mom’s practice, and studying biology. You could easily frame your "ticket" as a ticket to medical school. Just pick a few of the most gripping moments from these past experiences and discuss the overall trajectory of your interests, and your essay would likely be a winner!

But what if you’re not sure about your long-term goals yet? Or what if you feel like you really don't know where you're going next week, let alone next year or 10 years from now? Read on for Option 2.

Option 2: Demonstrate Thoughtful Imagination

Although you can certainly interpret this as a straightforward question about your future, you can also use it as a chance to be more imaginative.

Note that this entire question rests on the metaphor of the ticket. The ticket can take you anywhere; you decide. It could be to a real place, such as your grandmother's house or the Scottish Highlands or the Metropolitan Museum. Or it could be somewhere fantastical, such as a time machine to the Paleolithic.

The important point is that you use the destination you select—and what you plan to do there—to prove you're a thoughtful person who is excited about and actively engaged with the world around you .

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The destination you choose to write about, whether realistic or fantastical, should be clearly linked to a specific goal or set of goals that you wish to pursue or are currently pursuing.

If you're on a direct path to a specific field of study or career, admissions officers definitely want to know this. Having driven, goal-oriented, and passionate students is a huge plus for any college. If this sounds like you, be sure your essay conveys not just your interest but also your deep love of the subject, as well as any related clubs, activities, or hobbies you’ve done during high school.

If you take the more creative approach to this prompt, however, realize that in this essay (as in all the other ApplyTexas essays),  the how matters much more than the what . Don't worry that you don't have a specific goal in mind yet. No matter where your eventual academic, career, or other pursuits might lie, every activity you've done up to now has taught you something, whether that be developing your work ethic, mastering a skill, learning from a mentor, interacting with peers, dealing with setbacks, understanding your own learning style, or persevering through hardship. Your essay is a chance to show off that knowledge and maturity.

So no matter what destination you choose for your ticket (the what ), you want to communicate that you can think about future (and imagined!) possibilities in a compelling way based on your past experiences (the how ).

Whether you take the ideas of "where you are going" and "what you are doing" in a more literal or more abstract direction, the admissions committee wants to make sure that no matter what you study, you'll be able to get something meaningful out of it . They want to see that you’re not simply floating through life on the surface but are actively absorbing the qualities, skills, and know-how you'll need to succeed in the world.

Here are some ideas for how to show that you have thoughtful and compelling visions of possible futures.

#1: Pick Where You're Going

Is this going to be a more direct interpretation of your goals (my ticket is to the judge's bench) or a more creative one (my ticket is to Narnia)? Whichever one you choose, make sure that you choose a destination that is genuinely compelling to you . The last thing you want is to come off sounding bored or disingenuous.

#2: Don’t Overreach or Underreach

Another key point is to avoid overreaching or underreaching. For instance, it’s fine to say that you’d like to get involved in politics, but it’s a little too self-aggrandizing to say that you’re definitely going to be president of the United States. Be sure that whatever destination you select for your ticket, it doesn’t come off as unnecessary bragging rather than simple aspiration .

At the same time, make sure the destination you've chosen is one that makes sense in the context of a college essay. Maybe what you really want is a ticket to the potato chip factory; however, this essay might not be the best place to elaborate on this imagined possibility.

While you can of course choose a whimsical location, you need to be able to ground it in a real vision of the kind of person you want to become . Don't forget who your audience is! College admissions officers want to find students who are eager to learn . They also want to be exposed to new thoughts and ideas.

#3: Flesh It Out

Once you've picked a destination, it's time to consider the other components of the question: What are you going to do once you reach your destination? What will happen there? Try to think of some key messages that relate back to you, your talents, and your goals .

#4: Ground Your "Journey" in Specific Anecdotes and Examples

The way this question is framed is very abstract, so ground your thoughts about your destination (whether it's more straightforward or more creative) in concrete anecdotes and examples that show you're thoughtful, engaged, passionate, and driven.

This is even more important if you go the creative route and are writing about an unusual location. If you don't keep things somewhat grounded in reality, your essay could come across as frivolous. Make sure you make the most of this chance to share real-life examples of your desirable qualities.

Imagine Eleanor’s essay is about how she wants a ticket to Starfleet Academy (for the uninitiated, this is the fictional school in the Star Trek universe where people train to be Starfleet officers). Which essay below conveys more about her potential as a student?

My ticket is to Starfleet Academy. There, I would train to become part of the Command division so I could command a starship. Once I was captain of my own starship, I would explore the deepest reaches of space to interact with alien life and learn more about the universe.

I've loved Star Trek since my dad started playing copies of old episodes for me in our ancient DVD player. So if I could have a ticket to anywhere, it would be to Starfleet Academy to train in the command division. I know I would make a superb command officer. My ten years of experience in hapkido have taught me discipline and how to think on my feet. Working as a hapkido instructor in my dojo the past two years has honed my leadership and teaching qualities, which are essential for any starship commander. Additionally, I have the curiosity and sense of adventure necessary for a long career in the unknown reaches of space. Right now, I exercise my thirst for exploration through my photography blog. Using my DSLR camera, I track down and photograph obscure and hidden places I find in my town, on family trips, and even on day trips to nearby cities. I carefully catalogue the locations so other people can follow in my footsteps. Documentation, after all, is another important part of exploring space in a starship.

Both versions communicate the same things about the imagined destination, but the second essay does a much better job showing who Eleanor is as a person. All we really learn from the first excerpt is that Eleanor must like Star Trek .

We can also infer from version 1 that she probably likes leadership, exploration, and adventure because she wants to captain a starship, but we don't really know that for sure. Admissions officers shouldn't have to guess who you are from your essay; your essay should lay it out for them explicitly and articulately.

In the second essay, by contrast, Eleanor clearly lays out the qualities that would make her a great command officer and provides examples of how she exemplifies these qualities . She ties the abstract destination to concrete activities from her life, such as hapkido and photography. This provides a much more well-rounded picture of what Eleanor could bring to the student body and the school at large.

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Eleanor's essay about her desire to explore the final frontier creatively illustrates her curiosity and leadership potential .

ApplyTexas Topic C Essay Ideas

I've come up with some sample essay ideas for the two different approaches to this prompt.

Possibility 1: Your Concrete Goals

  • Describe your goal to pursue a particular academic field or career and discuss how specific classes or extracurricular activities ignited that passion
  • Discuss how your plans to pursue politics, project management, or another leadership role were fostered by a first experience of leadership (this could be a straightforward leadership position in a club or job or a more indirect or unplanned leadership experience, such as suddenly having to take charge of a group).
  • Discuss how your desire to teach or train in the future was sparked by an experience of teaching someone to do something (e.g., by being a tutor or by helping a sibling deal with a particularly challenging class or learning issue).
  • Describe your goal to perform on stage, and discuss how your past experiences of public creativity (e.g., being in a play, staging an art show, performing an orchestra, or being involved in dance,.) led you to this goal

Possibility 2: Creative/Abstract Destination

  • What would you do if you could visit the world of a favorite childhood book, movie, or TV series? What qualities does that show about you?
  • Is there a relative or friend you would like to visit with your ticket?
  • Is there a particular historical period you would like to time travel to?
  • Is there a destination you've always wanted to go to that you've read about, heard about, or only conjured up in dreams or in a moment of creativity?

Remember to tie your imaginative destination to concrete details about your special qualities!

Topic C for Transfer, Transient, or Readmit Students

ApplyTexas offers a Topic C alternative in case there is personal information you want them to consider along with your application, such as why you are transferring to a new school. They still want you to focus on the future, but they encourage discussing any hardships, challenges, extenuating circumstances, or opportunities that have affected your abilities and academic credentials (in a positive way). They also want you to discuss how these circumstances can help you contribute to a diverse college community. In this case, this variation is not fundamentally different from the ticket question; it just asks for a more specific focus. So if this variation applies to you, use the advice above for question C option one. 

Here’s the current prompt for Essay Topic C for transfer applicants:

There may be personal information that you want considered as part of your admissions application. Write an essay describing that information. You might include exceptional hardships, challenges, or opportunities that have shaped or impacted your abilities or academic credentials, personal responsibilities, exceptional achievements or talents, educational goals, or ways in which you might contribute to an institution committed to creating a diverse learning environment.

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Would you use your ticket to visit Renaissance Italy, a journey you metaphorically hope to take as a history major?

If you're applying to one of several fine arts fields, you might have to write this essay.

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

If you’re applying to study architecture, art, or art history, one of the essays you will likely have to write is this one. This essay topic is trying to ask as broadly as possible about an experience with art that has moved you in some way. This means that your options for answering the question are quite varied. So what are the two different parts of this prompt? Let's take a look.

Part 1: Observation and Reaction

Think of a time you experienced that blown-away feeling when looking at something human made. This is the reaction and situation the first part of the essay wants you to recreate. The prompt is primarily interested in your ability to describe and pinpoint exactly what quality made you stop in your tracks. The huge set of inspiring object options the prompt offers tells us that your taste level won't be judged here.

You can focus on a learning experience, which includes both classes and extracurricular activities, or you can focus on a direct experience in which you encountered an object or space without the mediation of a class or teacher. The only limit to your focus object is that it is something made by someone other than you. Your reaction should be in conversation with the original artist, not a form of navel-gazing.

The key for this part of the essay is that your description needs to segue into a story of change and transformation . What the essay topic is asking you to show isn’t just that you were struck by something you saw or learned about, but that you also absorbed something from this experience that impacted your own art going forward.

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Did seeing the Angkor Wat Temple during a trip abroad with your family foster your intellectual passion for Southeast Asian art or religious monuments?

Part 2: Absorption

This brings us to the second part of the essay prompt: this is where you need to move from the past into the present — and then at least gesture meaningfully toward the future.

It’s one thing to look at a piece of art, such as a sculpture or architectural form, and feel moved by its grace, boldness, or vision. But it’s a sign of a mature, creative mind to be able to take to heart what is meaningful to you about this work and then transmute this experience into your own art or your interpretation of others' creative works.

This essay wants to see that developing maturity in you ; therefore, you should explain exactly how your own vision has changed after this meaningful encounter you've described. What qualities, philosophy, or themes do you now try to infuse into what you create or how you analyze art?

More importantly, this essay prompt asserts that being affected by something once isn’t enough. That’s why in this second part of the essay,  you also need to explain what you’ve been doing to keep having similarly moving encounters with other creative works .

You have some choice, too, when it comes to answering, "What have you done to prepare yourself for further study in this area?" For example, you could describe how you’ve sought out other works by the same artist who moved you the first time. Or you could describe investigating new media or techniques to emulate something you saw. Or you could discuss learning about the period, genre, school, or philosophical theory that the original piece of art comes from to give yourself a more contextualized understanding.

If you’re planning an academic career in the visual arts or architecture, then you’re entering a long conversation started by our cave-painting ancestors and continuing through every human culture and society since.

This essay wants to make sure that you aren’t creating or interpreting art in a vacuum and that you have had enough education and awareness to be inspired by others. By demonstrating how you react to works that move you—not with jealousy or dismissal but with appreciation and recognition of another’s talent and ability—you're proving that you're ready to participate in this ongoing conversation.

At the same time, this essay is asking you to show your own creative readiness.  For example, describe not only the work you have produced but also your ability to introduce new elements into that work—in this case, inspired by the piece you described. This way, you can demonstrate that you aren’t a one-note artist but are mature enough to alter and develop what you make. Or if you want to major in art history or art education, relate how your perspective on a particular piece of art or architecture is shaped by your unique perspective, based on your experiences, education, and cultural identity.

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A student might write their Topic D essay on how Michelangelo's Madonna della Pietà   has influenced their own artistic renderings of youth and beauty in grief.

What are some best practices for teasing out the complexities of art in written form? Here are some helpful tips as you brainstorm and write your essay.

#1: Pick One Piece of Art or Learning Experience

Once you’ve chosen between these two contexts, narrow down your selection even further . If you're writing about an educational encounter, don’t forget that it can come from an informal situation as well. For example, you could write about something you learned on your own from a documentary, a museum visit, or an art book.

If you're writing about a direct experience with art, don't necessarily fixate on a classic piece . Alternatively, you could discuss a little-known public sculpture, a particularly striking building or bridge you saw while traveling, or a gallery exhibition.

Whatever you end up writing about, make sure you know some of the identifying details . You don’t need to know the answers to all the following questions, but do your best to research so you can answer at least two or three of them:

  • Who is the artist?
  • Where is the piece on display?
  • What kind of work is it?
  • With what materials was it made?
  • When was it made?

#2: Figure Out Why You Were Struck by This Particular Work

The make-it-or-break-it moment in this essay will be your ability to explain what affected you in the object you're writing about . Why is it different from other works you’ve seen? Were you in the right place and time to be moved by it, or would it have affected you the same way no matter where or when you saw it? Did it speak to you because it shares some of your ideals, philosophies, or tastes—or because it was so different from them?

Be careful with your explanation because it can easily get so vague as to be meaningless or so obscure and "deep" that you lose your reader. Before you start trying to put it down on paper, try to talk out what you plan to say either with a friend, parent, or teacher. Do they understand what you’re saying, and do they believe you?

#3: Make a Timeline of Your Own Creative Works

When you think about what you've been making or thinking about making during your high school career, what is the trajectory of your ideas? How has your understanding of the materials you want to work with or study changed? What message do you want your works to convey, or what message in others' works most resonate with you? How do you want your works to be seen or engaged with by others? What is the reason you feel compelled to be creative or involved in the arts?

Now that you’ve come up with this timeline, see whether your changes in thought overlap with the art experience you're planning on describing . Is there a way you can combine what was so exciting to you about this work with the way you’ve seen your own ideas about art evolve?

#4: Use a Mix of Concreteness and Comparisons in Your Description

Just as nothing ruins a joke like explaining it, nothing ruins the wordless experience of looking at art as talking it to death does. Still, you need to find a way to use words to give the reader a sense of what the piece that moved you actually looks like —particularly if the reader isn't familiar with the work or the artist that created it.

Here is my suggested trick for writing well about art. First, be specific about the object. Discuss its colors, size, what it appears to be made of, what your eye goes to first (e.g., bright colors versus darker, more muted ones), what it represents (if it’s figurative), where it is in relation to the viewer, whether or not you can see marks of the tools used (e.g., brush strokes or scrapes from sculpting tools).

Second, step away from the concrete, and get creative with language by using techniques such as comparative description. Use your imagination to create emotionally resonant similes. Is there a form of movement (e.g., flying, crawling, or tumbling) that this piece feels like? Does it remind you of something from the natural world (e.g., a falling leaf, a forest canopy being moved by wind, waves, or sand dunes shifting)?

If the work is figurative, imagine what has been happening just before the moment in time it captures. What happened just after this point? Using these kinds of nonliteral descriptors will let your reader understand both the actual physical object and its aesthetic appeal.

Dissecting the UT and Texas A&M Short-Answer Prompts

Both UT Austin and Texas A&M require short answers as part of their first-year applications. For both schools, some prompts are required by all applicants, whereas others are required by those applying to certain majors or departments.

We'll go over the UT Austin prompts, followed by the Texas A&M prompt.

UT Austin Short-Answer Prompts

UT Austin requires three short answers from all first-year applicants and also offers an optional prompt. Each short answer should be approximately 250–300 words , or one paragraph.

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

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

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

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

What Are These UT Austin Short-Answer Prompts Asking?

Obviously, these short-answer prompts are asking four different things, but they do have some similarities in terms of their overall goals.

These prompts basically want to know what you can offer UT Austin and why you'd be a great fit as a student there . They also want to know why you chose UT Austin and your specific major.

In other words, all these prompts essentially work together as a "Why This College?" essay .

How Can You Give UT Austin What They Want?

Admissions officers will be looking for evidence that you're genuinely interested in the school, the major you've chosen, and the career you want to pursue . Make sure to identify features of the program that appeal to you. In other words, why UT Austin? What makes you a good fit here?

Be as specific as possible in your responses. Since you won't have much room to write a lot, try to focus on a particular anecdote, skill, or goal you have.

Admissions officers also want to see that you have an aptitude for your chosen career path , so if you have any relevant work, research, or volunteer experience, they definitely want to know this! It's OK to take a broad view of what's relevant here.

Finally, they're looking for individuals who have clear goals as well as a general idea of what they want to do with their degree . Are you interested in working with a specific population or specialty? Why? What led you to this conclusion?

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Texas A&M Engineering Prompt

All engineering applicants to Texas A&M must submit an esssay responding to 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?

What Is This Texas A&M Engineering Prompt Asking?

The engineering prompt wants to know two essential things:

  • What are your future goals for your specific field of interest (i.e., the kind of engineering field you want to go into or are considering going into)?
  • What environmental or external factors (e.g., a person, a mentor, a volunteer experience, or a paper or book you read) contributed to your development of these goals?

How Can You Give Texas A&M What They Want?

Be as specific as possible in your response. For the engineering prompt, what admissions officers want to know is simply what your biggest engineering ambition is and how you came to have this goal.

You'll want to be as specific as possible. Admissions officers want to see that you have a clear future in mind for what you want to do with your engineering degree. For example, do you plan to go on to a PhD program? Why? Do you have a particular career in mind?

In addition, make sure to specify the main inspiration for or motivation behind this goal. For instance, did you have a high school teacher who encouraged you to study engineering? Or perhaps you decided on a whim to take a computer science class, which you ended up loving.

Remember that the inspiration for your engineering goals doesn't have to be limited to something school-related. If you get stuck, think broadly about what initially got you interested in the field.

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Briefly: ApplyTexas Essay Topic E (Transfer Students)

US transfer students and international transfer students must typically submit an additional essay responding to the following prompt (or must submit an essay on one of the topic variations listed above ).

Choose an issue of importance to you—the issue could be personal, school related, local, political, or international in scope⁠—and write an essay in which you explain the significance of that issue to yourself, your family, your community, or your generation.

What's the Prompt Asking?

This prompt, which is intended for transfer students, essentially wants to know what hardship, challenge, or social issue has affected you on a personal level (or a larger group you're part of) and why you think this particular issue is so important to you .

For example, maybe you identify as LGBTQIA+ and have personally experienced discrimination in your local community because of your sexual orientation or gender identity. Or perhaps you grew up in a wealthy family but have begun to see recently how widespread the issue of homelessness really is and now are making a more conscious effort to find ways to remedy this problem in your own community.

The issue you choose doesn't have to relate to a wider social issue; it could be a learning disability you have, for instance, or the fact that you no longer share the same religious beliefs as your  family.

The most important part of this question is the connection between the issue and yourself . In other words, why is this issue so important to you ? How has it affected your life, your goals, your experiences, etc.?

This essay is a way for admissions officers to get to know you and what matters to you personally on a much deeper level than what some of the other essay topics allow, so don't be afraid to dive into topics that are very emotional, personal, or special to you .

Furthermore, be sure to clearly explain why this particular issue—especially if it's a broader social issue that affects many people—is meaningful to you . Admissions officers want to know about any challenges you've faced and how these have positively contributed to your own growth as a person.

The Bottom Line: Tips for Writing ApplyTexas Essays

The ApplyTexas application contains four essay prompts (Topics A, B, C, and D), with different schools requiring different combinations of mandatory and optional essays . There are also short-answer prompts for UT Austin, as well as a Topic E only for transfer students.

One way to keep these three similar-sounding essay topics (A, B, and C) separate in your mind is to create a big-picture category for each one:

  • Topic A is about your outside .
  • Topic B is your inside .
  • Topic C is about your future .

Now, let's briefly summarize each essay topic:

Essay Topic A

  • Overview:  Describe any unique experiences you've had as a high school student and how these have shaped who you are as a person.
  • Pick a specific aspect of your experience.
  • Describe how it made you special.
  • Describe the setting, stakes, and conflict resolution.
  • Add details, description, and examples.

Essay Topic B

  • Overview:  Describe a defining trait and how it fits into the larger vision of you.
  • Define the core message.
  • Fit that core message of yourself into the larger picture.
  • Show things about yourself; don’t tell.
  • Watch your tone to make sure that you show your great qualities without seeming narcissistic, boring, glib, or self-aggrandizing.

Essay Topic C

  • Overview:  Describe "where you are going" in either a literal, goal-oriented sense or a more imaginative sense.
  • Pick where you’re going, but don’t over- or underreach.
  • Flesh out your destination. How does it relate back to you?
  • Ground your “journey” in specific anecdotes and examples.

Essay Topic D

  • Overview:  Describe being affected by a work of art or an artistic experience to make sure that you are ready to enter a fine arts field.
  • Pick one piece of art or one specific experience of learning about art.
  • Figure out exactly why this work or event struck you.
  • Examine your own work to see how this artwork has affected your creativity or engagement with art or art history.
  • Use a mix of concrete descriptions and comparisons when writing about the piece of art.

Short-Answer Prompts

  • Overview: Specific to UT Austin applicants
  • Describe your relevant experiences and interests up to this point.
  • Describe what about the program appeals to you and how you will use your degree (i.e., your future goals).
  • Treat the prompts as parts of a "Why This College?" essay.

Essay Topic E (Transfer Students)

  • Overview: Specific to US and international transfer applicants
  • Pick an issue that means a lot to you and has had a clear effect on how you see yourself.
  • Emphasize how this issue or how you've treated this issue has ultimately had a positive impact on your personal growth.

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What's Next?

Curious about the other college essay choices out there? If your target college also accepts the Common Application, check out our guide to the Common App essay prompts to see whether they would be a better fit for you.

Interested to see how other people tackled this part of the application? We have a roundup of 100+ accepted essays from tons of colleges .

Stuck on what to write about? Read our suggestions for how to come up with great essay ideas .

Working on the rest of your college applications? We have great advice on how to find the right college for you , how to write about your extracurricular activities , and how to ask teachers for letters of recommendation .

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points?   We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download them for free now:

Anna scored in the 99th percentile on her SATs in high school, and went on to major in English at Princeton and to get her doctorate in English Literature at Columbia. She is passionate about improving student access to higher education.

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Texas A&M Undergraduate College Application Essays

These Texas A&M college application essays were written by students accepted at Texas A&M. All of our sample college essays include the question prompt and the year written. Please use these sample admission essays responsibly.

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College Application Essays accepted by Texas A&M

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Without maps, we all would be lost in life. We rely on road maps, key maps, and even Mapquest to find our way to various destinations. My 4-H career and personal life can be related to a the common Texas road map. I have traveled miles down...

El Carmen April Marie Zwerneman

This summer, I had the opportunity to escape from the routine of daily life and spend a week in Mexico. However, this week was no Acapulco vacation. I journeyed alongside several dozen members of my youth group to El Carmen, a small village on...

A Man With No Shoes Joseph Linneman Saenz

Full of innocence, I lay in my bed on a Saturday morning, relaxing after a difficult week at school. Suddenly I was awakened as the intercom in my room crackled to life. My parents often used the intercom, but calls this early in the morning were...

Tristan Joseph Linneman Saenz

On the first day of history class at Texas A&M, I took a seat in an empty row, placed my books on my desk, and watched the other students trickle into the classroom. One student in particular caught my attention. He appeared slightly...

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Recent Questions about Texas A&M

The Question and Answer section for Texas A&M is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

texas a and m admission essay

Texas A&M University Catalogs

Application information.

Students can apply for undergraduate admission to Texas A&M University by using any one of several application services.

You may access the appropriate undergraduate application from the Texas A&M University admissions website http://admissions.tamu.edu .

Texas A&M University has several conveniently located Prospective Student Centers throughout the state, staffed with advisors ready to serve you. Please contact the center nearest you to learn more about admissions, financial aid, academic programs and student services. Texas A&M also has advisors who serve the Brazos Valley, Central Texas and El Paso areas as well as advisors throughout the U.S. to assist out-of-state applicants.  Visit the website admissions.tamu.edu/connect for more details.

Aggieland Admission Center 1 Texas A&M University 109 John J. Koldus Building 1265 TAMU College Station, TX 77843-1265 (979) 458-0950

Corpus Christi Regional Prospective Student Center 1 5350 South Staples, Suite 442 Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (361) 289-7905

Dallas/Fort Worth Regional Prospective Student Center 1 3900 Arlington Highlands Blvd., Suite 273 Arlington, TX 76018 (817) 375-0960

Houston Regional Prospective Student Center 1 1225 North Loop West, Suite 200 Houston, TX 77008 (713) 454-1990

Laredo Regional Prospective Student Center 1 6401 Arena Road, Suite 5A Laredo, TX 78041 (956) 795-0412

Rio Grande Valley Regional Prospective Student Center 1 500 N Jackson Rd, Suite A-7 Pharr, TX 78577 (956) 683-8647

40 NE Loop 410, Suite 605 San Antonio, TX 78216 (210) 212-7016

Se habla español. 

The admission guidelines presented here are for admission to the Spring, Summer or Fall 2024 semester. While they are the best guide available, admission criteria are subject to change. The Office of Admissions website ( http://admissions.tamu.edu ) contains the admission policies and procedures in effect for 2024 admission.

Types of Admission and Application Calendars

Admission Calendar
At the Time of Application Term Opening Date Closing Date
An applicant who:
• is a citizen or permanent resident of the United States or qualifies for Texas residency based on Senate Bill 1528
• is a degree-seeking applicant and is without college credit
• is still in high school, with or without college credit
Spring 2025

Fall 2025
Aug. 1, 2024
Aug. 1, 2024
Oct. 15, 2024
Dec. 1, 2024
An applicant who:
• is a citizen or permanent resident of the United States or qualifies for Texas residency based on Senate Bill 1528
• is a degree-seeking applicant
• has graduated from high school or equivalent
• has enrolled in a post-secondary institution after graduation from high school
• does not have a bachelor’s degree
• does not qualify for readmission
Spring 2025

Summer/Fall 2025
Aug. 1, 2024
Jan. 1, 2025
Oct. 15, 2024
Mar. 1, 2025
An applicant who:
• is not a citizen or permanent resident of the United States (or applicant for permanent residency) and does not qualify for Texas residency based on Senate Bill 1528
• after high school graduation has never enrolled at a university as an undergraduate degree-seeking student
Spring 2025

Fall 2025

Spring 2026
April 1, 2024
Aug. 1, 2024
April 1, 2025
Aug. 1, 2024
Dec. 1, 2024
Aug. 1, 2025
An applicant who:
•is not a citizen or permanent resident of the United States (or applicant for permanent residency) and does not qualify for Texas residency based on Senate Bill 1528
•is an applicant seeking a bachelor’s degree
•has graduated from high-school or equivalent
•has enrolled in a post-secondary institution, and
•is not eligible for readmission (has never enrolled at Texas A&M University as an undergraduate degree-seeking student).
Spring 2025

Summer 2025
Fall 2025

Spring 2026
April 1, 2024
Aug. 1, 2024
Aug. 1, 2024
April 1, 2025
Aug. 1, 2024
Nov. 1, 2024
Mar. 1, 2025
Aug. 1, 2025
An applicant who:
• is a former degree-seeking Texas A&M undergraduate student (including an international student)
• does not have a bachelor’s degree
• did not officially register for the previous semester (excluding summer sessions) at Texas A&M
Readmission does not include applicants whose only previous enrollment at Texas A&M has been as a non-degree student.
Spring 2025

Summer 2025
Fall 2025
Aug. 1, 2024
Jan. 1, 2025
Jan. 1, 2025
Nov. 1, 2024
April 1, 2025
July 1, 2025
An applicant who:
• has a bachelor’s degree
• wishes to pursue a second undergraduate degree
Spring 2025

Summer/Fall 2025
Aug. 1, 2024
Jan. 1, 2025
Oct. 15, 2024
March 1, 2025
An applicant who:
• does not wish to pursue a degree at Texas A&M
• wishes to take specific undergraduate coursework
Spring 2025

Summer/Fall 2024
Summer 2025 only
Aug. 1, 2024
Jan. 1, 2025
Jan. 1, 2025
Oct. 15, 2024
March 1, 2025
April 1, 2025
An applicant who:
• is a high school junior or senior in the Bryan/College Station area
• has an SAT score of 1270, or an ACT score of 27
• has completed all levels of related coursework offered at their high school
Each student is eligible to take 1 (one) course per fall or spring semester, and course registration will be completed by the TAMU advisor. No summer classes are offered at this time. Classes will be held on the Texas A&M University campus. Students and their parents/guardians will be responsible for any lodging or transportation considerations.
Admission for this program is on a space-available basis. The applicant pool is competitive, and admission into this program is not guaranteed.
Spring 2025

Fall 2025
Aug. 1, 2024
Jan. 1, 2025
Nov. 1, 2024
July 1, 2025

An applicant who has enrolled in a post-secondary institution since high school graduation, with or without credit earned, must apply as a transfer applicant.

Items Necessary to Complete an Application File

Please see the Readmission, Post-baccalaureate or Non-degree sections for other items required to complete the transfer application for those types of admission. U.S. citizens completing a non-U.S. high school program should refer to International Admissions for questions concerning transcripts, examination results, and foreign credentials.

An application is reviewed to make a decision about admission after all items listed below have been received. The items must be received by the appropriate closing date to qualify for consideration for admission.

In addition, freshman applicants must show proof of meeting the State of Texas Uniform Admission Policy to qualify for review. If you attend an out-of-state high school or are a home-schooled student, you are exempt from the Uniform Admission Policy.

Application submitted electronically via the Common Application or ApplyTexas 

Application fee (check, money order, visa, mastercard, discover or american express)—all fees are nonrefundable.

  • Domestic Undergraduate - $75
  • International - $90

Guidelines for requesting application fee waivers:

  • Fee waivers are not available for international students.

Freshman Waivers

Applicants who qualify for federally funded free/reduced lunch programs may qualify for a fee waiver. Students must certify their eligibility on the application by answering Texas A&M's fee waiver question.  Please see our admissions website,  http://admissions.tamu.edu/apply/freshman , for additional  instructions for requesting a waiver.  Checking the fee waiver box on the application will not satisfy the fee waiver requirement.

Transfer or Readmit Waivers

To request a fee waiver, please provide your Student Aid Report (SAR), found within your current FAFSA, or a copy of an award letter from your current institution. The Office of Admissions does not have access to your FAFSA or SAR, you must provide a copy as part of your application file.  Checking the fee waiver box on the application will not satisfy the fee waiver requirement.

Please see our admissions website,  http://admissions.tamu.edu/apply/transfer , for additional information.

  • Freshman applicants are required to complete Essay Topic A.
  • Transfer applicants are required to complete Essay Topic A.

SAT or ACT Scores

Texas A&M University is test optional and does not require ACT or SAT scores for freshman applicants.  The submission of test scores is strongly encouraged but will not create any unfair advantage or disadvantage for those students who provide them.   

We encourage students who have test score to send them.

  • Scores should be sent directly from the testing agency and must be received by the posted deadline to be considered.
  • The SAT code is 6003; the ACT code is 4198.
  • Test scores must be from a test date within five years of the date of planned enrollment.
  • The highest test score from one test date will be used in our review for admission. Texas A&M does not combine test scores from different test dates.   

Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR)

  • Domestic freshman applicants are required to fill out and submit the Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR) indicating coursework, credits earned, grades, graduation plan/diploma type, grade point average and a numerical class rank (if available) at least through their junior year. Students should have a copy of their high school transcript available to use as a reference when filling out the SRAR. If admitted, the applicant will be required to submit a final transcript with graduation date by August 15 . Discrepancies between a student's SRAR and official final transcript will be thoroughly reviewed; depending on findings, this could result in a student's admission being rescinded. Freshman applicants who have already graduated from high school must also provide an official high school transcript with a graduation date as part of the application file.
  • Access to the SRAR will be available on our admissions website when the application opens.
  • Domestic applicants attending an international school which follows an academic curriculum patterned after the U.S. education system may fill out the SRAR.
  • International students studying in the U.S. are required to fill out the SRAR.
  • International students studying outside the U.S. are required to fill out the SRAR and provide official academic records, see International Admission Criteria for details.
  • The Office of Admissions reserves the right to require official transcripts from any student; students should check the Applicant Information System to ensure completion of their file.
  • Freshman and transfer applicants who have graduated from high school at the time of application should submit an official high school transcript that includes grades and credits for all completed coursework, a numerical class rank (if available), date of graduation and graduation plan completed, or a certificate verifying completion of a GED program. 
  • Post-baccalaureate applicants are not required to submit a high school transcript as part of the application file. Readmit applicants may be required to submit a final high school transcript if one is not currently on file with the university.
  • To be considered official, a transcript must bear an original signature of a school official or an original school seal.
  • Applicants who have attended high school both in the U.S. and out of the U.S. may complete the SRAR provided the courses and grades are present on the U.S. transcript; otherwise, official transcripts are required. Details for providing international transcripts can be found under International Admission Criteria.
  • For students enrolled in the U.S., copies of official transcripts from other countries will be accepted provided the copies are on file and verified by the U.S. institution. 
  • Faxed or emailed copies are not official and will not be accepted.
  • Students graduating from a Texas high school who rank in the top ten percent must provide both the Self-Reported Academic Record and a high school transcript noting the student’s rank and class size or a transcript with a letter from the school on school letterhead signed by a school official noting the student's rank and class size to qualify for automatic admission. Documents may be uploaded in the Applicant Information System for processing. 
  • Texas A&M's Office of Admission will assign a ranking to students from non-ranking high schools.

Official College Transcripts

  • An official transcript is required from every post-secondary institution attended even if the applicant did not earn credit, receive a course grade or the course is not transferable. Coursework from one college posted on the transcript of another college will not satisfy this requirement. Failure to acknowledge attendance and provide transcripts from all schools attended may be considered a fraudulent admissions application resulting in a denial of the application. A college transcript for dual credit coursework earned in high school must also be provided.
  • Official paper transcripts are to be sent by the sending institution in a sealed envelope. The transcript will not be considered official if the student has had access to the transcript.
  • Requirements for submitting international transcripts can be found under International Admission Criteria.
  • Faxed copies are not official and will not be accepted.
  • For students enrolled in the U.S., copies of official transcripts from other countries will be accepted provided the copies are on file and verified by the U.S. institution.

Lawful Permanent Residents of the United States

An applicant who has applied for or been granted Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status in the United States by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is eligible to submit an application as a Domestic Applicant. To qualify, you must include one of the following with the application:

  • a copy of both sides of the DHS-issued Permanent Resident Card, or
  • the I-551 Entry Stamp and Immigrant Visa in the passport, or
  • an approved I-797 Notice of Action or I-797C Notice of Receipt.

If your parent is also a permanent resident, a copy of the parent’s proof of LPR status will be necessary to determine in-state residency for tuition purposes.

Note: If you have applied for adjustment of status to Lawful Permanent Residency and have not received your LPR card or Notice of Action that says Notice Type: Approval Notice, you will be considered an international student once you are admitted to the University. There are certain requirements that international students must fulfill in order to enroll. Please contact International Student and Scholar Services at https://global.tamu.edu/isss for more information about these requirements.

Required Immunizations

Texas Education Code (TEC) 51.9192 requires all entering students (under the age of 22) to provide evidence of vaccination against bacterial meningitis received within the last 5 years or a signed affidavit declining the vaccine at least 10 days prior to the start of classes for any given semester. Learn more about bacterial meningitis at http://admissions.tamu.edu/meningitis .

Notification of Application Status

Check the Applicant Information System (AIS) at applicant.tamu.edu to verify your application has been received and to determine if any credentials are missing or are incomplete. Please allow at least two weeks to process credentials.

The Office of Admissions will make every effort to inform applicants of incomplete files through AIS. If incomplete credentials are received within one month of the closing date, there may not be sufficient time for the Office of Admissions to notify applicants. All items necessary to complete an admission file must be received by the Office of Admissions by the closing date (not postmarked) to assure consideration for admission.

Required Coursework

Applicants who graduate from an accredited Texas public or private high school applying to Texas A&M University must have completed the Foundation High School Program preferably with the Distinguished Level of Achievement and at least one endorsement.  The high school curriculum should be noted on the official high school transcript. Please visit https://admissions.tamu.edu/resources/future-students/college-readiness for a complete description of coursework including information for home-schooled and out-of-state applicants.

State of Texas Uniform Admission Policy

Texas Education Code (TEC) 51.803-51.809 ( State of Texas Uniform Admission Policy ) requires that all freshman applicants meet one of the following college readiness standards in order to be eligible to be considered for admission at a Texas four-year public institution.

  • SAT – 480 EBRW and 530 Math for tests taken after February 2016
  • ACT – 18 English, 22 Reading, 22 Mathematics and 23 Science
  • Successfully complete the State of Texas foundation, recommended or advanced/distinguished high school program or complete the portion of the program that was available to them; or
  • Successfully complete a curriculum that is equivalent in content and rigor to the foundation, recommended or advanced/distinguished high school program at a high school that is exempt from offering such programs.

Students attending an out-of-state/out-of-country high school or home school are exempt from the Uniform Admission Policy.

Additional Information for Freshman Applicants

  • Extracurricular activities including time commitment and duration of involvement
  • Leadership and/or exceptional talent as shown in extracurricular activities and/or work
  • Community/volunteer work including time commitment and duration of involvement
  • Awards and achievements earned while in high school
  • Employment and/or internships including dates of work and hours per week
  • Family educational background and household income
  • Number of people in household
  • Essay Topic A

Topic A on the application is required. 

Freshman Admissions

When all credentials necessary to complete a freshman applicant’s file are received during the admission application period, one of the following criteria will be used to determine who will be offered admission:

  • Top 10% Applicants from Texas High Schools Applicants who are Texas residents or who are enrolled in recognized public or private high schools in Texas with a rank in the top 10% of their high school graduating class, on or before the admissions deadline, will be automatically admitted to Texas A&M University if they have successfully met the State of Texas Uniform Admission Policy and have successfully completed the recommended or distinguished graduation plan or the foundation distinguished plan. Choice of major is not guaranteed. Applicants must submit all required credentials and a high school transcript verifying top ten percent ranking by the closing date in order to qualify for automatic admission.
  • Review Applicants Applicants not meeting the above requirements for automatic admission but who have met the state of Texas Uniform Admission Policy will be considered for admission by holistic review of their application file, provided they submitted all required credentials by the closing date.

Information for all Freshman Applicants

  • All applicants should use the application questions and the essay to present their academic background and personal strengths as well as personal circumstances.
  • Letters of recommendation are optional. If an applicant chooses to submit letters of recommendation, only the first two received will be considered. The most helpful letters are from individuals who know the applicant well and who can write about what distinguishes the individual from other applicants in the areas of leadership, exceptional talent or special circumstances. Photocopies are acceptable.
  • A competitive applicant who cannot be admitted to a major due to restricted enrollment will be offered admission to their second major choice. If the second major choice is full, then an alternate major must be chosen by the applicant after admission to the university.

Notice of Admission Decision

Texas A&M University receives many more academically prepared applicants for admission than we can accommodate. Admission decisions are made beginning September 1 and continue throughout the application period. A final decision may not be announced until early December for spring admission or late March for summer or fall admission. A limited number of applicants may be offered provisional admission that requires the successful completion of a summer school program at Texas A&M. In addition, some applicants may be considered for the Texas A&M Higher Education Center at McAllen , Texas A&M Blinn TEAM Program ,  Texas A&M Engineering at Blinn ,  Texas A&M Engineering at Galveston , Texas A&M Engineering at McAllen , or the Program for System Admission .

Suspected Fraudulent Admission Applications

Applicants for admission to Texas A&M University should be aware that the information submitted as part of the application process will be relied upon by University officials to determine their status for admission and residency for tuition purposes. By signing and submitting an admission application, the applicant certifies that the information in, and submitted with, the application is complete and correct and may be verified by Texas A&M University.

All students applying to Texas A&M University 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 which may include rejection of the application, withdrawal of any offer of acceptance, cancellation of enrollment or any other appropriate disciplinary action. In all instances of disciplinary action, the application fee is non-refundable.

Pursuant to 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 officials  or law enforcement officers in the course of their duties.
  •  Furnishing false information to and/or withholding information from any  University official ,  faculty member , office, or law enforcement officers in the course of their duties.
  •  Forgery, alteration, possession, 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.

For prospective undergraduate students (admitted but not enrolled), the initial determination of whether an individual has submitted a fraudulent application will be made by the Director of Admissions Operations, with a right of appeal to the Executive Director of Admissions. All appeals will be considered by the Admissions Decisions Appeals Committee and a recommendation made to the Executive Director of Admissions.  For prospective graduate students, initial appeals will be made to the Dean of the Graduate and Professional School.

Enrolled students suspected of violating Student Rules will be reported to the Student Conduct Office.

Any University official who suspects that a prospective student or enrolled student has submitted a fraudulent admission application must notify the Executive Director of Admissions. 

Residence Requirement for Baccalaureate Degree

A student must complete at least 25% of semester credit hours applied to a baccalaureate degree in residence at Texas A&M University. 

Upper-level Residence Requirement: A minimum of 36 semester credit hours of 300-level and/or 400-level coursework must be successfully completed in residence at Texas A&M University to obtain a baccalaureate degree. 

  • For the Bachelor of Science in Nursing - RN to BSN Track, a minimum of 30 semester credit hours of 300-level and/or 400-level coursework must be successfully completed in residence at Texas A&M University.  In all cases, a minimum of 12 of these 300-level and/or 400-level semester hours must be in the major.
  • Students participating in TAMU off-campus study programs approved by the student's college may apply upper division credits earned in the programs towards the upper-level residence requirement. A maximum of 18 semester hours, including hours transferred from another institution as a part of these programs, may be applied. 

Abbreviations for Texas A&M Colleges and Majors

Abbreviations
  Abbrev.
AG
Agribusiness AGBL
Agricultural Communications and Journalism AGCJ
Agricultural Economics AGEC
Agricultural Leadership and Development ALED
Agricultural Science AGSC
Agricultural Systems Management AGSM
Agriculture and Life Sciences AGLS
Animal Science ANSC
Biochemistry BICH
Bioenvironmental Sciences BESC
Biological and Agricultural Engineering BAEN
Ecology and Conservation Biology ECCB
Entomology ENTO
Financial Planning FINP
Food Science and Technology FSTC
Forensic and Investigative Sciences FIVL
Genetics GENE
Horticulture HORT
Hospitality, Hotel Management and Tourism HMGT
Nutrition NUTR
Plant and Environmental Soil Sciences PSSC
Poultry Science POSC
Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management RWFM
Turfgrass Science TGSC
AR
Architecture ARCH
Construction Science COSC
Landscape Architecture LAND
Urban and Regional Planning URPN
AT
Anthropology ANTH
Applied Mathematics APMT
Biology BIOL
Chemistry CHEM
Classics CLSS
Communication COMM
Economics ECON
English ENGL
Environmental Geosciences ENGS
Environmental Studies ENST
Geographic Information Science and Technology GIST
Geography GEOG
Geology GEOL
Geophysics GEOP
History HIST
Journalism JOUR
Mathematics MATH
Meteorology METL
Microbiology MBIO
Modern Languages (French, German, Russian) MODL
Molecular and Cell Biology BMCB
Neuroscience-Behavioral and Cognitive NRSC
Neuroscience-Molecular and Cellular NRSC
Ocean Studies OCNS
Oceanography OCNG
Philosophy PHIL
Physics PHYS
Psychology PSYC
Sociology SOCI
Spanish SPAN
Statistics STAT
Telecommunication Media Studies TCMS
University Studies USEH, USLA, USSC
Women's and Gender Studies WGST
Zoology ZOOL
BA
Business Administration (Accounting, Business Honors, Finance, Management, Management Information Systems, Marketing, Supply Chain Management) BUAD
Business BUSI
(Dallas campus) DN
Dental Hygiene DDHS
ED
Human Resource Development HRDV
Education (Early Childhood-6; Middle School; Special Education; Bilingual Education) EDUC
Kinesiology (Aplied Exercise Physiology, Basic Exercise Physiology, Exercise & Sport Science, Motor Behavior) KINE
Learning Technology and Performance Systems LTPS
Secondary Education
Sport Management SPMT
EN
Aerospace Engineering AERO
Architectural Engineering AREN
Biological and Agricultural Engineering BAEN
Biomedical Engineering BMEN
Chemical Engineering CHEN
Civil Engineering CVEN
Computer Engineering (Computer Science track) CPEN
Computer Engineering (Electrical Engineering track) CPEN
Computer Science CPSC
Computing COMP
Data Engineering DAEN
Electrical Engineering ELEN
Electronic Systems Engineering Technology ESET
Environmental Engineering EVEN
Industrial Distribution IDIS
Industrial Engineering INEN
Information Technology Service Management ITSV
Interdisciplinary Engineering ITDE
Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering Technology MMET
Materials Science and Engineering MSEN
Mechanical Engineering MEEN
Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology MXET
Nuclear Engineering NUEN
Ocean Engineering OCEN
Petroleum Engineering PETE
GB
International Affairs INTA
Political Science POLS
NU
Nursing NURS
PV
Dance Science DANS
Performance and Visual Studies PVST
Visualization VIZL
PH
Public Health PHLT
VM
Biomedical Sciences BIMS

See this catalog pertaining to your major for the specific science.

Choice available for transfer applicants only. Nursing and Dental Hygiene applicants must have completed or be enrolled in pre-requisite courses at the time of application. Courses may be completed at any accredited college or university.

All new students to the College of Architecture, Mays Business School, and School of Public Health enter the lower level.

Requires CHEM 120 ; MATH 168 , MATH 151 .

The curriculum leading to a professional degree in Architecture begins in the four-year undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree program. This degree provides entry to the Master of Architecture program.

No spring transfer admission.

Choice not available for transfer applicants.

All students seeking elementary teacher certification will complete a baccalaureate degree in Education. There is no major in Secondary Teacher Education. All students seeking secondary certification (except those preparing to teach physical education or health) will major in an academic discipline other than Education (i.e., mathematics, English, computer science, biology, etc.) and take appropriate coursework for teacher certification in the School of Education and Human Development.

Apply through College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

Pre-veterinary medicine is not offered at Texas A&M. If you plan to apply to the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program, you should select a major that would be a good vocational choice if you do not later enter the DVM program. Any major may be selected; however, some curricula more closely parallel courses that must be completed before applying to the DVM program than others.

Change of Curriculum to Another Campus

In addition to main campus, Texas A&M offers certain undergraduate degrees at its branch campuses, Galveston and Qatar, and the Higher Education Center at McAllen.  While enrolled as a student in residence at any one of the Texas A&M locations, students may apply for a change of curriculum to another location for a future semester. Students must comply with the established change of curriculum procedures and requirements of their desired major, department, and college, and space must be available. Final approval is granted by the academic dean or departmental advisor for that major.

Transfer Admissions

Transfer applicants will be reviewed and receive a decision from the Office of Admissions provided they submit all required credentials by the closing date. 

Recommended/required coursework for all majors is available on the Transfer Course Sheets at http://admissions.tamu.edu/transfer/majors . Students are strongly encouraged to follow the guidelines and complete both the required and recommended courses as outlined on the Transfer Course Sheets and in the catalog. Applicants who begin a set of courses which have a two-semester sequence are encouraged to complete both courses in the sequence before planning to transfer to Texas A&M.

Admission Criteria

  • Transfer applicants should have at least a 2.5 grade point average (GPA) on at least 24 graded semester hours of transferable coursework at the time of application to be competitive for admission.
  • Transfer admission decisions are made based on the college or major requested and are competitive; thus, admission standards may change from one semester to another. Preference is given to the applicant with the highest grade point average (GPA) and the most courses completed for the major designated on the application. 
  • Applicants who drop or withdraw from courses frequently and who do not routinely achieve satisfactory grades will be at a disadvantage in the review for admission.
  • Spring grades may be used in the fall admission decision if requested by the Review Committee or in instances where the student did not meet the university requirements for review. Spring transcripts must be received by June 1 for review with spring grades. A complete application must be on file by March 1 to be considered for fall admission and to qualify for spring grade review. Spring grade review is not available for all applicants and is not an option for students studying outside the U.S.
  • The entire application, including essay topic A, is considered in the review process.
  • Some colleges consider second choice majors and some do   not  consider second choice majors. This is noted on the Transfer Course Sheets. The admission decisions follow the guidelines presented in the Transfer Course Sheets and the College Specific Information provided in the catalog. Space may be limited for those being reviewed for their second choice.   

Automatic Transfer Admission through SB 175

A transfer applicant who graduated from a Texas high school and ranked in the top 10% of their high school qualifies for automatic transfer admission to a 4-year university under the provisions of SB 175 if they meet the following guidelines:

  • The applicant must have graduated in the top 10% of his or her high school graduating class from a Texas high school not more than 4 years prior to the semester for which the student is applying. The top 10% ranking must be stated on the final high school transcript, or the applicant must have been previously offered admission under the Top 10% rule to the institution to which the applicant seeks admission as a transfer student.
  • The applicant must complete the core curriculum at a public junior college or other public or private lower-division institution with a 2.5 GPA on a four-point scale or equivalent.
  • Transcript should note core completion.
  • The applicant must expressly and clearly claim in the application that he or she is seeking admission under the transfer Top 10% rule (SB 175).
  • The applicant must provide all of the documents required for transfer admission to Texas A&M by the posted deadline. Transfer requirements can be found at http://admissions.tamu.edu/apply/transfer .

Applicants qualifying for transfer Top 10% admission under SB 175 will be admitted to Texas A&M but the choice of major is not guaranteed. Students desiring admission to Business or Engineering are encouraged to select a second choice major of interest due to the limited enrollment capacity in these colleges.

For information concerning the Transfer Top 10% Admission, please see http://www.collegeforalltexans.com/ .

College Specific Information

College of agriculture and life sciences.

Transfer admission requirements vary for the different academic programs offered by the College. Transfer admission decisions are made by major and are competitive. Most majors have required and recommended coursework to be completed by the student prior to application. It is highly recommended that prospective students contact the academic advisor for the major of interest to inquire about specific transfer admission requirements. Students should also refer to the Texas A&M University Admissions website  to review the Transfer Course Sheets for each major. Also, note that transfer admission GPA requirements vary by major and several exceed the minimum 2.5 GPA. Completion of the essay indicating why the major was selected and how a degree in this major will help meet career goals is required. For more information on transfer guidelines, coursework and contact information for all academic advisors, refer to the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences website .

College of Architecture

Applicants must have completed 24 hours of transferable coursework at the time of application, and it is recommended that these courses be selected from the degree program described elsewhere in this catalog. The essay is an important component in the review process and should explain why the applicant is interested in either the Architecture, Construction Science, Landscape Architecture or Urban and Regional Planning degree. Depending on the program of interest, applicants with less than a 3.0 GPA are rarely admitted. For more information, visit the College of Architecture  website .

Enrollment in Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Urban and Regional Planning is driven by available studio space. Additionally, there are eight sequential studios in those degree programs which makes it difficult for students that transfer with more than 36 hours to graduate in a timely manner.

Admissions-4Column
Degree Applicable Majors Courses TCCNS Number
Architecture Architecture , , , ENGL 1302, MATH 1324, PHYS 1401
Construction Science Construction Science , , ENGL 1302, MATH 1324, PHYS 1401
Urban and Regional Planning, Landscape Architecture Landscape Architecture, Urban and Regional Planning , , or Core Science ENGL 1302, MATH 1324

MATH 1324 from some colleges will not be a direct equivalent to  MATH 140  at Texas A&M University but will satisfy the core math requirement for this major.

College of Arts and Sciences

Competitive applicants will apply with at least 24 hours of graded transferable coursework and a minimum GPA of 2.5 at the time of application. Transfer admission GPA requirements vary by major, with the majority requiring at least a 3.0 to be competitive for transfer admission consideration. Applicants should complete the essay indicating why they are interested in admission into their selected major. Applicants who have special or extenuating circumstances they wish to share are encouraged to address these within the essay(s) as well.  Academic performance in courses relevant to the student’s prospective major are considered in admissions decisions. STEM majors pay close attention to performance in required math and science courses. Majors may have prerequisites that must be met prior to admission. The College of Arts and Sciences will consider second-choice majors. Students with 90 hours of college credit may not be considered for transfer admission to some majors. Refer to this catalog for all electives in each curriculum. For more information about majors, programs and curricular requirements, please refer to this catalog, the Transfer Course Sheets , and the College of Arts and Sciences  website .

See below for courses required for STEM related majors:

Admissions-2Column
Applicable Majors Courses
Environmental Studies (ENST) BS At least one course selected from: GEOG 1302, 1303, GEOL 1303 and 1103, 1403 or other introductory courses in the Geosciences (Geography, Geology, Atmospheric Science, Oceanography) Two Math courses: MATH 1324 and 1325 One Science course selected from: BIOL 1306 and 1106, 1406 CHEM 1311 and 1111, 1411
Environmental Geosciences (ENGS) BS At least one course selected from: GEOG 1302, 1303, GEOL 1303 and 1103, 1403 or other introductory courses in the Geosciences (Geography, Geology, Atmospheric Science, Oceanography) Two Math courses: MATH 2413 and 2414 One Science course selected from: BIOL 1306 and 1106, 1406 CHEM 1311 and 1111, 1411 PHYS 1301 and 1101, 1401
Geography (GEOG) BS University Studies - Geography (USGE) BS Geographic Information Science and Technology (GIST) BS One course selected from: GEOG 1301, 1302 or 1303, or the equivalent to (Earth System Science) Two Math courses: MATH 1324 and 1325 One Science course selected from: BIOL 1306 and 1106, 1406 GEOL 1403 CHEM 1311 and 1111, 1411 PHYS 1301 and 1101, 1401
Geology (GEOL) BA GEOL 1303 and 1103 or 1403 Two Math courses: MATH 1324 and 1325 One Science course selected from: BIOL 1306 and 1106, 1406 CHEM 1311 and 1111, 1411, 1412 PHYS 1301 and 1101, 1401
Geology (GEOL) BS GEOL 1303 and 1103 or 1403 These four Math/Science courses: MATH 2413, 2414, CHEM 1411, 1412
Geophysics (GEOP) BS GEOL 1303 and 1103 or 1403 These four Math/Science courses: MATH 2413, 2414; PHYS 2325 and 2125, PHYS 2326 and 2126
Meteorology (METR) BS MATH 2413, 2414; PHYS 2425, CHEM 1411, 1412 (These courses must be completed with a B or better.)
Oceanography (OCNG) BS MATH 2413, 2414; CHEM 1411, 1412; PHYS 2325, 2326; BIOL11106, 1306 (These courses must be completed with a C or better.)
Admissions-3Column
Course Number Course Title TCCNS Number
Introductory Biology I BIOL 1306 and 1106, 1406
Introductory Biology II BIOL 1307 and 1107, 1407
Fund. of Chem. I CHEM 1311 and 1111, 1411
Fund. of Chem. II CHEM 1312 and 1112, 1412
Engineering Math I MATH 2413
Engineering Math II MATH 2414
Admissions-3Column
Course Number Course Title TCCNS Number
Fund. of Chem. I CHEM 1311 and 1111, 1411
Fund. of Chem. II CHEM 1312 and 1112, 1412
Composition ad Rhetoric ENGL 1302
History of the U.S. HIST 1301
History of the U.S. HIST 1302
Engineering Math I MATH 2413
Engineering Math II MATH 2414

Mathematics

Admissions-3Column
Course Number Course Title TCCNS Number
Composition and Rhetoric ENGL 1302
Scientific/Technical Writing ENGL 2311
History of the United States HIST 1301
Engineering Math I MATH 2413
Engineering Math II MATH 2414
and Newtonian Mechanics for Engineering and Science/Lab PHYS 2325 and 2125, 2425
and Electricity and Magnetism for Engineering and Science/Lab PHYS 2326 and 2126, 2426
Admissions-3Column
Course Number Course Title TCCNS Number
Fund. of Chem. I CHEM 1311 and 1111, 1411
Composition and Rhetoric ENGL 1302
History of the United States HIST 1301
Engineering Math I MATH 2413
Engineering Math II MATH 2414
and Newtonian Mechanics for Engineering and Science/Lab PHYS 2325 and 2125, 2425
and Electricity and Magnetism for Engineering and Science/Lab PHYS 2326 and 2126, 2426

 Statistics

Admissions-3Column
Course Number Course Title TCCNS Number
Public Speaking SPCH 1315
Structured Programming in C BCIS 1420, COSC 1420
Composition and Rhetoric ENGL 1302
Engineering Math I MATH 2413
Engineering Math II MATH 2414
and Newtonian Mechanics for Engineering and Science/Lab PHYS 2325 and 2125, 2425
and Electricity and Magnetism for Engineering and Science/Lab PHYS 2326 and 2126, 2426

A grade of B or better is required on all courses. Requirements also include a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or better.

Must be completed with a C or better.

Meets major requirement. May be taken as time permits.

Mays Business School

Mays Business School offers transfer admission to the most competitive applicants. The transfer admission process identifies applications that evidence outstanding accomplishments, including academic credentials using the following guidelines.

Mays admits transfer applicants for summer or fall admission.  No spring transfer admission is available. 

Applicants are expected to have completed and excelled in substantially all of the Required Coursework. Applicants need a grade of A in most courses and a high overall GPA to be competitive.  Applicants desiring to major in business are encouraged to plan early and incorporate the Required Coursework listed below into their curriculum prior to applying. It is especially important to have credit for both required math courses before applying.

Required Coursework differs based on the applicant’s intended program and the number of hours completed at the time of application. Applicants applying for Bachelor of Business Administration (BUAD) with less than 30 hours completed are expected to have both required math and economics courses completed or in progress at the time of application. BUAD Applicants with more than 30 hours completed are expected to have all Required Coursework completed or in progress upon application. 

The entire record is reviewed for consistency in coursework and grades. Successful applicants include carefully written essays that demonstrate clarity of purpose, creativity, and an advanced writing style. Applicants are encouraged to use the required essay as an opportunity to identify their past accomplishments, discuss what they hope to study at Texas A&M University, and describe how their undergraduate business education will help them meet their goals after graduation. Applicants who have special circumstances they wish to have considered are urged to share all pertinent information, with appropriate documentation, in their essay(s).

REQUIRED COURSEWORK FOR ADMISSION:  Priority courses to be completed before transfer application to Mays Business School are:

Admissions-3Column
Course Number Course Title TCCNS Number
Introductory Accounting - Financial ACCT 2301, ACCT 2401
Introductory Accounting - Managerial ACCT 2302, ACCT 2402
Statistical Methods for Business BUSI 2305
Principles of Economics - Microeconomics ECON 2302
Principles of Economics - Macroeconomics ECON 2301
Fundamentals of Information Systems BCIS 1305
Mathematics for Business and Social Sciences MATH 1324
Business Calculus MATH 1325

In lieu of MATH 1324 and MATH 1325, Mays accepts MATH 2414 and MATH 2413, respectively.

College of Education and Human Development

Transfer admission requirements vary for the different academic programs offered by the College of Education and Human Development (SEHD). Transfer admission decisions are made by major and are competitive. All majors have required coursework to be completed by the student prior to application. It is highly recommended that prospective students contact the SEHD Undergraduate Prospective Student Office to inquire about specific transfer admission requirements. Students should also refer to the Texas A&M University Admissions website at  http://admissions.tamu.edu/transfer/majors  to review the Transfer Course Sheets for each major. Also, note that transfer admission GPA requirements vary by major and several exceed the minimum 2.5 GPA. Completion of the essay indicating why the major was selected and how a degree in this major will help meet career goals is required. For more information on transfer guidelines, coursework and contact information for the SEHD Undergraduate Prospective Student Office refer to the following website  https://education.tamu.edu/contact-us/   or email  [email protected] .

College of Engineering

Applicants should complete at least 24 hours of graded, transferable coursework at the time of submitting their application, all with a grade of C or better. Transfer admission GPA requirements vary by major, with the majority exceeding the minimum requirements for transfer admission consideration to Texas A&M. Transfer admission course requirements also vary by major. 

Prospective transfer students should review the College of Engineering website for more information about each major. Transfer Course Sheets are available for each major in the College of Engineering to provide guidance on specific transfer admission requirements.

Field of Study Curricula

A Field of Study Curriculum is a set of courses that will satisfy lower-division requirements for a baccalaureate degree in a specific academic area at a general academic teaching institution. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board publishes information about Board-approved Field of Study Curricula ( www.highered.texas.gov/ ). Texas A&M University complies with requirements outlined in 19 Texas Administrative Code §4.32 regarding transfer of course credit for completed or partially-completed Field of Study Curricula. Per 19 Texas Administrative Code §4.32, following the receipt of credit, “the student may be required to satisfy the remaining course requirements in the field of study curriculum of the receiving institution, or to complete additional requirements in the receiving institution's program, as long as those requirements do not duplicate course content already completed through the field of study curriculum.”

Notification of Admission Decisions

Transfer admission decisions are made through a competitive review process. Applicants are notified of the admission decision on a rolling basis throughout the application season. For those applicants requested to submit spring grades for fall consideration, decisions should be announced by early July.

Additional Information for Transfer Applicants

  • All applicants are encouraged to view the  Transfer Course Sheets  posted on the admissions website for information concerning required courses and GPA requirements for admission to a specific major. 
  • A 2.0 GPA or better on coursework in progress during the semester (excluding summer terms) immediately prior to enrollment at Texas A&M is a condition of admission.
  • Failing grades, repeated courses, WF, Incomplete, etc.
  • Grades reported as Incomplete are computed as Fs.
  • Plus and minus grade designations are not used; C+ is computed as a C, B- as a B, etc.
  • Credit by examination courses which are transcripted from other colleges or universities may be transferred if sequential coursework with credit is also indicated. If there is evidence that the credit by examination courses are part of the student’s program of study at that institution, credit will be awarded for those courses that meet the transfer guidelines. Note: Credit by examination will not count toward the 24 hours required for consideration for admission.
  • Coursework taken as credit-by-exam must be listed as a specific course and course number on an official college transcript to be considered for transfer of credit.

Transfer Course Credit Policies

Transfer credit on coursework complete at the time of application to Texas A&M University is determined when an official transcript from the originating institution is presented as part of the application for admission or readmission process. An official transcript is required from every post-secondary institution attended (including dual credit earned in high school) even if the applicant did not earn credit, receive a course grade or the course is not transferable.

The transfer of course credit is determined by the Office of Admissions on a course-by-course basis by application of policies set under the guidance of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, the Texas Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers, and under the guidance of faculty within the academic colleges. Credit submitted for transfer must be on an official transcript received by the Office of Admissions from the Registrar of the institution where the credit was earned. Course content will be determined from the catalog description or the syllabus. The transferability of courses will be based on the criteria below. All criteria are intended to be considered together; for example, criteria 10 may be qualified by criteria 7.

Undergraduate course credit will only be evaluated and posted for undergraduate applicants and undergraduate students, not for graduate level applicants.

Credit from Institutions Accredited by One of the Institutional Accrediting Agencies

  • The course is applicable to a bachelor’s degree at Texas A&M.
  • The course is similar to a course or courses offered for degree credit by Texas A&M.
  • The course content is at or above the level of the beginning course in the subject matter offered by Texas A&M.
  • A course that is intended for use in a vocational, technical or occupational program will not typically transfer. In certain cases, credit for occupational skill courses will be considered. Transfer of this credit requires that the student’s Texas A&M major is engineering technology or industrial distribution or that the student’s major department and dean approve the course for use in the student’s degree program after enrollment.
  • Credit for support courses such as Math, Science and English intended specifically for use in an occupational program will not be transferred.
  • Credit for courses must be shown on the official transcript in semester hours or in units that are readily converted to semester hours.
  • A graduate-level course will not be transferred for undergraduate credit unless approved for use in the student’s undergraduate degree program by the student’s major department and Dean. This also applies for a course offered in a professional degree program such as Nursing, Law, or Medicine.
  • Credit by examination courses which are transcripted from other colleges or universities may be transferred if sequential coursework with credit is also indicated. If there is evidence that the credit by examination courses are part of the student’s program of study at that institution, credit will be awarded for those courses that meet our transfer guidelines.
  • Courses similar to ones offered by Texas A&M at the junior or senior level transfer by title only. Such courses may be used in the student’s degree program only if approved by the Department Head and Dean of the student’s major field. Validation of such credit, either by examination or the completion of a higher level course, may be required.
  • A field experience, internship or student teaching course may be transferred by title only.
  • Credit for cooperative education will not be transferred.
  • A course that is substantially equivalent to a Texas A&M lower level course transfers as an equivalent course. Two or more courses may be combined to form one or more equivalent courses. If there is doubt about the equivalency of a course, the Texas A&M department offering the course subject matter may be asked to determine if the course is equivalent. STEM courses are often referred to the departments for evaluation.
  • As a general policy, credit for admission will be given for transfer work satisfactorily completed with a passing grade at another properly accredited institution.
  • Grade Point Average (GPA) for any period shall be computed by dividing the total number of semester hours of transferable courses for which the student received grades into the total number of grade points earned in that period. Credit hours to which grades equivalent to Texas A&M grades of W, WF, F, I or U are assigned shall be included; those having grades equivalent to Texas A&M grades of WP, Q, S, X and NG shall be excluded.
  • In any case where a decision cannot be made using the above criteria, the Office of Admissions will determine the transfer of credit based on University policy, previous actions of the University and prior experience.

Resolution of Transfer Disputes for Lower Division Courses Between Public Institutions in Texas

The following procedures shall be followed by public institutions of higher education in the resolution of transfer credit disputes involving lower-division courses:

  • If an institution of higher education does not accept course credit earned by a student at another institution of higher education, the receiving institution shall give written notice to the student and to the sending institution that transfer of the course credit is denied. A receiving institution shall also provide written notice of the reasons for denying credit for a particular course or set of courses at the request of the sending institution.
  • A student who receives notice as specified in subsection 1 may dispute the denial of credit by contacting a designated official at either the sending or the receiving institution.
  • The two institutions and the student shall attempt to resolve the transfer of the course credit in accordance with the rules and guidelines of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB).
  • If the transfer dispute is not resolved to the satisfaction of the student or the sending institution within 45 days after the date the student received written notice of denial, the institution that denies the course credit for transfer shall notify the Commissioner of its denial and the reasons for the denial.

The Commissioner of Higher Education or the Commissioner’s designee shall make the final determination about the dispute concerning the transfer of course credit and give written notice of the determination to the involved student and institutions.

Credit from Non-accredited Schools

Students who transfer to Texas A&M from an institution of higher education that is not accredited by one of the institutional accrediting agencies may validate the work taken at the institution by one of the following methods upon admission:

  • Successful completion of a comprehensive departmental examination or nationally standardized examination that is approved by the department.
  • Successful completion of a higher level course in the same subject area when approved by the Department Head and the Dean of the college or school.

Credit will be given to students transferring from non-accredited public colleges in Texas for work completed with grades of C or better if they earn a grade point of 2.0 (C average) on the first 30 hours of residence work at Texas A&M.

Credit from Foreign Institutions

Transfer work from institutions that do not follow the United States educational system with instruction in English will be evaluated on an individual basis. A-level examinations with a grade of C or better will result in the award of transfer credit. We do not award credit for Baccalaureate II examinations. Credit will be given for work satisfactorily completed at international institutions offering programs recognized by Texas A&M. Official transcripts which include a listing of courses completed, terms of attendance, credit, and grades awarded submitted directly from the Office of the Registrar must accompany any request for transfer credit. Transfer work will be awarded by course title unless previous arrangements have been made using the Texas A&M University Transfer Credit Study Abroad Pre-Approval Form. Courses must be equivalent in character and content to courses offered at Texas A&M. Credit will not be awarded from international institutions which are not academically accredited by the Ministry of Education or other appropriate authority in the home country.

No English composition courses will be transferred from institutions located in non-English speaking countries. American history and American political science (government) courses will not transfer from foreign institutions.

Courses taken at language training centers or language institutes are generally not awarded transfer credit. A transcript from such an institution must be issued through the Office of the Registrar at a Texas A&M recognized university, institute or language training center. Credentials of all language training centers and institutes are carefully reviewed.

Credit for Military Experience

State law (Texas Education Code Section 51.3042) and Texas A&M University policy awards credit for military service to eligible veterans. To receive credit, student veterans must submit proof of eligibility to the Office of Admissions.  Up to 12 hours of general elective credits may be awarded, as needed for the student’s degree plan.

Proof of eligibility includes:

  • DD Form 214 showing 1 year active duty and an honorable discharge OR
  • Military orders OR
  • Disability discharge documentation AND
  • Documentation of high school completion (final high school transcript or General Educational Development certificate)

Military transcripts are evaluated at the time of application and credit for military experience/training is awarded based on recommendations contained within the Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services published by the American Council on Education (ACE).  Texas A&M University will award KINE 198 and KINE 199 credit for completion of Basic Training if applicable to a student's degree plan.  Credit under this policy does not prohibit Texas A&M University from awarding additional credit.  The Military Transcript Credit Appeal form shall be provided to the Office of Admissions with approval of the academic advisor and veteran. 

  • Official military transcript (JST or CCAF)

Military Service Credits are irrevocable once awarded. Potential consequences should be identified and understood before a request is submitted. Students must consult their academic advisor for advice on the number of credits from military service that can be used in their degree program to avoid excess credit accumulation and possible negative effects.

Extension and Correspondence Courses

Students may apply a maximum of 30 semester hours of approved extension class work and correspondence study toward a degree. Students may apply up to 12 hours of correspondence credit earned through an accredited institution toward the requirements for an undergraduate degree, even though Texas A&M does not offer courses by correspondence.

Correspondence courses taken through the Defense Activity for Nontraditional Education Support (DANTES) may be accepted and included in the 12 hours allowed.

In order for a student in residence at Texas A&M to receive credit for correspondence work toward a bachelor’s degree, he or she should:

  • obtain advance written permission from the Dean of their college or school;
  • present appropriate evidence of having completed the course.

Testing Services is authorized to act as an agent to receive correspondence courses.

International Admission Criteria

Transcripts/examination results.

Official academic records (transcripts, marksheets, diplomas, etc.) are required for all secondary and any university coursework completed. Records should include all courses taken in high school and every college or university the applicant has attended.

Official records require the original school seal or an original signature of a school official (Registrar, Principal, Headmaster or Director of Student Records, Controller of Examinations, or the Ministry of Education). Official records should be mailed from the school directly to Texas A&M University, Office of Admissions. Examination results should be sent directly from the examination agency. In addition to the original records in a language other than English, Texas A&M requires official translations in English. Translations sent directly from the institution attended or from a recognized translator will be accepted. Transcript evaluations that include a certified copy of the original transcript and a word-for-word translation from an evaluation service that is a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services are strongly recommended and will allow faster processing of files. We recommend a document-by-document evaluation (with a GPA) for high school credentials and a course-by-course evaluation for college/university transcripts from non-U.S. institutions. Credential evaluations that include a word-for-word translation will be considered as an official translation but will NOT  be accepted as a substitute for required transcripts. For students enrolled in the United States, we will accept copies of official transcripts from other countries that are on file and verified by the U.S. institution. Unofficial photocopies, fax copies, and notarized copies of records, examination results, or translations will not be accepted. Uploaded transcripts and diplomas indicating graduation from secondary school (final high school transcripts) will not be accepted. These transcripts must be mailed. 

Admission Criteria for International Applicants with U.S. Based Credentials

International applicants who are completing their education at an institution that is accredited by the U.S. will be reviewed in accordance with the guidelines determined for domestic admission. However, these applicants must still meet international deadlines and testing requirements. (See item 2 below.)

Admission Criteria for International Applicants with Foreign Credentials

International applicants who are completing their education at an institution that is not accredited by the U.S. will be reviewed based on the following criteria:

  • International applicants are expected to complete an educational program that will allow them to be considered for admission to a university in their home country. Examples include the completion of Grade 13, Form 6 or 3 A-level exams following the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE). Predicted A-level exam results must be received by the application closing date.
  • Applicants must submit proof of high school graduation, typically a diploma, leaving certificate, or official examination results. Students that complete the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) exam must provide the necessary information for Texas A&M to verify the WAEC results, typically a WAEC scratch card or results checker, by the application closing date.
  • Successful applicants will rank near the top of their country’s educational system (B average or better) and score well above average on national exams.
  • Secondary school courses: Appropriate college preparatory coursework is required.
  • TOEFL internet-based test score of 80 or higher (taken within two years of date of intended enrollment)
  • IELTS with a 6.0 overall band score (taken within two years of date of intended enrollment)
  • SAT Evidence Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) score of 560 or higher 
  • ACT English score of 21 or higher
  • Completed all four years of high school within the U.S.
  • Transfer from an accredited U.S. institution of higher education with at least 30 semester credit hours including the equivalent to Texas A&M’s ENGL 103 or ENGL 104 with a grade of C or better. 
  • Please view the admissions website for information concerning acceptable English language testing for 2024.
  • Leadership positions held
  • Honors/awards received
  • Major national, state or Texas A&M scholarships received

Additional Requirements for International Applicants After Admission

If admitted, international students should review the International Student Services Channel, howdy.tamu.edu - Applicant tab, for next steps concerning enrollment at Texas A&M University. Additional information is available on the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) website.

Scholarship Information for International Students

There are a limited number of scholarships, fellowships, grants and loans available to international students, both in the admission process and throughout their enrollment. Some of these come from academic departments, particularly for graduate applicants, but there are also forms of financial aid available through International Student Services and Scholarships & Financial Aid. International applicants with financial need are encouraged to complete the International Student Financial Aid Application (ISFAA) . This form must be resubmitted annually for continued consideration for aid.

One special opportunity that a student may be eligible for upon admission to Texas A&M University is the Texas/Mexico Education Scholarship. Texas law allows a limited number of admitted applicants who are citizens of Mexico, and who can document financial need, to pay the same tuition as the residents of the State of Texas. For more information regarding how to apply for this scholarship, please refer to International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) website.

For additional information regarding financial assistance and other scholarships available to International Students, please contact:

Scholarships & Financial Aid Texas A&M University P. O. Box 30016 College Station, TX 77842-3016 (979) 845-3236 [email protected] http://financialaid.tamu.edu

For additional information, please contact:

International Student and Scholar Services Office Pavilion Room 110 Texas A&M University 1226 TAMU College Station, TX 77843-1226 USA (979) 845-1824 Fax (979) 862-4633 [email protected] http://iss.tamu.edu

Admission Criteria for Other Application Types

Readmission criteria.

Admission decisions for readmission are based on the following:

  • GPA on Texas A&M coursework;
  • GPA on coursework since leaving Texas A&M;
  • desired major; and
  • information presented in the application and essay/statement of purpose.

If you were previously admitted but did not enroll and attend class through the official census date, you do not qualify as a readmit, and you must apply as either a freshman or transfer student.

If you were previously enrolled at Texas A&M but did not attend class through the official census date of the previous long semester, then you must apply for readmission.

Transcripts from institutions attended since the last enrollment at Texas A&M are required as follows:

Readmission Transcripts
If Desired Readmission Term Is Must Have Transcripts Through
2025 Spring semester 2024 Summer session
2025 Summer semester 2024 Fall semester
2025 Fall semester 2025 Spring semester if applying after June 1

Post-baccalaureate Undergraduate Criteria

Admission is limited and intended for applicants with a degree who wish to apply for further study at the undergraduate level to pursue a second bachelor’s degree.

Additional requirements to complete a post-baccalaureate application:

  • an official transcript indicating the receipt of a recognized baccalaureate degree
  • a statement of purpose explaining why enrollment at Texas A&M is necessary
  • official transcripts from all colleges attended (official high school transcript not required)

Admission decisions for post-baccalaureate undergraduates consider:

  • GPA on transferable college coursework
  • completion of prerequisite coursework
  • information presented in the application

Priority is given to qualified applicants for their initial degree; therefore, post-baccalaureate undergraduate admission may be limited or may not be available . Mays Business School and the School of Public Health  do not  consider applicants for post-baccalaureate study. Students are encouraged to contact the major to determine if post-baccalaureate study is allowed. See the Classification section of this catalog for the enrollment rights and privileges of this classification.

Undergraduate Non-degree Criteria

Admission is limited and intended for applicants with a high school diploma (with the exception of High School Enrichment Program participants) or for degree applicants who do not intend to pursue a baccalaureate degree at Texas A&M. This includes:

  • local residents or University employees taking courses on a part-time basis
  • applicants completing established Texas A&M University requirements for teacher or other certification
  • applicants completing a prescribed set of courses as preparation for application to graduate study or professional programs (i.e., medical school, veterinary school, law school or CPA exam)
  • others as deemed appropriate by the Office of Admissions and the college or program of admission

Additional requirements to complete an undergraduate non-degree application:

  • a statement of purpose explaining why enrollment at Texas A&M is desired
  • an official college transcript showing the latest collegiate coursework attempted or a complete, official high school transcript if no college work has been attempted after high school graduation
  • additional information presented in the application may be considered

Priority is given to qualified applicants for their initial bachelor’s degree; therefore, non-degree admission may be limited or not available. Students are encouraged to contact the major to determine if non-degree seeking study is allowed for any given semester. See the Classification section of this catalog for the enrollment rights and privileges of this classification.

Transient Session Only Criteria

Admission is considered for applicants who wish to attend summer only, present appropriate credentials for the level of specified coursework, and apply within the processing period for the specific session. The School of Public Health does not allow transient admission. Students are encouraged to contact the major to determine if transient study is allowed.

Additional requirements to complete transient session only application:

High School Enrichment Program

Texas A&M University is pleased to offer the High School Enrichment Program (HSEP) for qualified high school students in the Bryan/College Station area that will provide college credit and may also provide credit toward high school graduation. Admission for this program is on a space-available basis. The applicant pool is competitive, and admission into this program is not guaranteed.

This program provides a chance to further your knowledge in a subject you have completed in high school and earn valuable credit for graduation at both levels. For example, if you are interested in Physics and you have completed all of the classes your high school offers, you may qualify to continue to study Physics at the college level.

To be considered for this program, students must have completed all levels of related coursework offered at their high school. Each student is eligible to take one course per fall or spring semester, and course registration will be completed by the Texas A&M departmental advisor. No summer classes are offered at this time. Classes will be held on the Texas A&M campus, and students and their parents/guardians will be responsible for any transportation considerations.

Eligibility requirements:

  • You must be a junior or senior in high school in the Bryan/College Station area.
  • You must have a minimum SAT score of 1270 or an ACT score of 27.
  • You must provide a recommendation form from your high school counselor to participate.

Academic Fresh Start Policy

Applicants for admission or readmission to Texas A&M may choose to have academic coursework that was completed at least 10 years prior to their term of application removed from consideration in the admission decision (Texas residents only). All other admission requirements apply. Should a Fresh Start applicant be admitted, he or she will forfeit all credit earned prior to 10 years from the term of admission. Academic Fresh Start must be requested as part of the application process. It cannot be requested after an applicant is admitted or enrolled. 

Academic work done subsequent to ten years will be used in the evaluation of the applicant for admission.  Applicants with subsequent coursework are required to submit the transfer application along with transcripts for all college level coursework as well as all additional required documents by the posted deadline. If a student does not have coursework subsequent to ten years, he or she will be considered for admission based on the guidelines for new entering freshmen.  See https://admissions.tamu.edu/apply/academic-fresh-start for additional requirements. 

Admitted Fresh Start applicants have “Academic Fresh Start” indicated on their official Texas A&M transcript, are required to satisfy TSI requirements, and will follow the academic requirements of the Undergraduate Catalog of record for the term of admission.

Forfeited coursework cannot be considered as prerequisites but placement examinations are allowed for courses which were not considered for admission because of the Fresh Start Policy. Once admitted on Academic Fresh Start, the applicant or student cannot subsequently request that the Fresh Start policy restrictions be removed.

If an applicant has used the Academic Fresh Start Policy at a previous school, the Academic Fresh Start will remain in effect at Texas A&M upon transfer.

Note: For financial aid purposes all previously taken coursework will be included when evaluating aid eligibility.  In addition, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) does not recognize the Academic Fresh Start program.  Students cannot be certified for courses they have successfully completed.  Students using VA educational benefits should coordinate with the Veterans Services Office.  

Entry to a Major – College of Engineering

Students in General Engineering , Texas A&M Engineering at Blinn ,  Engineering at Galveston , Engineering at McAllen , or the Texas A&M Engineering Academy Programs  pursue a common first year engineering curriculum to provide them opportunities to explore the various engineering  majors . Students are introduced to the different engineering majors in the first year engineering courses, ENGR 102 , ENGR 216/PHYS 216 and ENGR 217/PHYS 217 . Additionally, students are encouraged to leverage additional resources, including the Career Center, faculty, and academic advisors, to gain more information about engineering majors. Students must complete the following first year engineering curriculum requirements over the course of at least two semesters before applying to an engineering major: two engineering courses, two math courses, and two science courses. 

The entry-to-a-major (ETAM) process  enables students to take ownership of their future by identifying at least three majors that are a good match for their academic and career goals. The ETAM process is designed to place students in the highest rank major possible based upon academic performance, ETAM application content, and program capacities.  Students are encouraged to be in a major as early as possible. Students in  General Engineering ,  Texas A&M Engineering at Blinn ,  Engineering at Galveston ,  Engineering at McAllen , or the  Texas A&M Engineering Academy Programs must be in a major by the end of the fourth semester.

Transfer students are admitted directly to a degree granting major through the admissions process.

Upper-Level Entry to the College of Architecture, Mays Business School, and Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences-Biomedical Science

Transfer students.

Transfer students, who meet the University entrance requirements and who desire to enter a major field of study in the College of Architecture, will be admitted based on available space and current College of Architecture entrance criteria. Following admission, some departments place transfer students on a 2.5 GPA probation for a minimum of 12 credit hours to substantiate competency in required lower-level courses. Departments with lower-level classification will admit transfer students into the school with a lower-level classification. Students may apply for upper-level status after at least one semester at Texas A&M University.

Change of Major

Students currently enrolled in another major at Texas A&M University with fewer than 60 hours who desire to change their major field of study into the College of Architecture must fill out a Change of Curriculum application found on the Howdy portal under the "My Record" tab. See Student Rule 5. 

The best-qualified applicants will be admitted based on the number of spaces available in their program of choice . Enrollment in Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Urban and Regional Planning is driven by available studio space. Additionally, there are eight sequential studios in those degree programs which makes it difficult for students that transfer with more than 36 hours to graduate in a timely manner.

Lower-level business (BUAD) students are encouraged to complete the freshman and sophomore sequence of courses as listed under Program Requirements.

The Upper-Level (UL) entry requirements and application procedures are as follows:

Course List
Code Title Semester Credit Hours
Introductory Accounting3
Principles of Economics3
Principles of Economics3
Mathematics for Business and Social Sciences3
Business Calculus3
  • Submitted application for UL admission no later than preregistration for the expected UL entry term. NOTE:  For summer UL entry, all requirements must be completed BEFORE the first class day of the FIRST SUMMER SESSION.
  • BUAD students may preregister for UL business courses in the semester for which they have applied for UL. However, students who fail to complete UL requirements shall not be permitted to remain registered in UL business classes.
  • Transfer Students:  Transfer students admitted to Mays Business School enter as lower-level business (BUAD) students until they complete all requirements listed previously in item 1, at which time they may apply for admission to an UL major. Transfer students may immediately apply for UL when admitted to Mays Business School if, and only if, they meet all UL requirements at that time.
  • On-Campus Change of Major Students:  Texas A&M students who change major into Mays Business School from another college or department at the University will enter as lower-level business (BUAD) students until they complete all requirements listed previously in item 1. Change of major students who, when admitted to the business school, qualify to apply for admission to an UL major may do so.
  • Junior- and Senior-Level Business Courses: Preference for available seats in junior- and senior-level business courses will be given to students who have been admitted to an UL major in Mays Business School. All ineligible students who preregister for UL business classes are subject to cancellation of their registration in these courses.

College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences

Course List
Code Title Semester Credit Hours
  • A minimum of 55 completed semester hours with a cumulative overall TAMU Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.5 or better.
  • Process: Each student upon completing 55–65 semester credit hours must have a degree audit to verify upper-level eligibility.  (All students are required to submit a completed degree planner yearly between March 1 and September 30. Students are encouraged to submit their planners prior to September 1).
  • The Biomedical Sciences Program will continue to accept changes of major into BIMS according to current Texas A&M University policy, but restrict changes of major into the upper-level courses (BIMS) according to the criteria listed in item 1. Students in other majors requesting a change of major to the BIMS program must fulfill the criteria in item 1. In addition, the dean must verify availability of resources necessary to insure the student’s full-time enrollment in required upper-level courses prior to admission to upper-level status. If such courses are not available, the student will be denied admission to Biomedical Sciences.
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0 in CBK courses with a grade of B or better in each completed course if taken at a 2-year college. A grade of C or better is accepted from a 4-year college.
  • Transfer students admitted under another major and wishing to change into BIMS must complete one semester of graded coursework at Texas A&M University with a cumulative overall TAMU GPA of 2.5, as well as meet change of major requirements for current students.
  • Texas A&M University change of majors must have at least 55 semester credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
  • Students seeking readmission will be considered on a case-by-case basis, according to current catalog policy. No quotas will be placed on readmission; however, the decision to readmit will be dependent on resource availability and University policy.
  • Any BIMS student admitted to upper-level courses who then falls below the 2.5 GPA requirement will not be considered in good academic standing in their major and will be placed on college probation. Students who achieve less than an overall TAMU GPA of 1.0, in any semester, are not eligible for college probation or grade warning status.  All Biomedical Sciences majors must follow established probation rules for the Biomedical Sciences Program.
  • The Dean, Director or Department Head will reserve the right to waive CBK or GPA requirements within the criteria established in Texas A&M University Student Rules.
  • No courses other than,,,,, or research/directed studies courses can be taken S/U to be used in the BIMS or USVM degree plans.
  • BIMS/USVM probation is determined at the end of both Fall and Spring semesters. Students not meeting acceptable GPA requirements (cumulative 2.5 BIMS majors with 55 or more hours or cumulative 2.0 for USVM majors/BIMS majors with less than 55 hours) will be placed on probation for one semester. Students who achieve less than a cumulative TAMU GPA of 1.0 in any semester (BIMS or USVM) are not eligible for college probation or grade warning status. Any written correspondence from Texas A&M University regarding suspension supersedes departmental probation terms.
  • Students may only attempt Biomedical Science courses a total of three times.

Texas Success Initiative (TSI)

The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) was instituted to ensure that students enrolled in Texas public colleges and universities possess the necessary academic skills to perform effectively in college and to provide diagnostic information about reading, writing and mathematics skills of each student. All undergraduate students who did not meet one of the allowed exemptions must take the approved TSI Assessment.

Students who do not meet established cutoff scores or other approved exemptions for the TSI Assessment are required by Texas law to be enrolled in, and actively attend, an academic skills course and/or program each semester prior to completing all TSI requirements. Academic skills courses in each of the three TSI areas are offered by Texas A&M. Failure to meet the attendance requirements of the academic skills course may result in withdrawal from Texas A&M. The hours for these courses will not count toward any degree program but may count toward determining full-time status.  See  https://asc.tamu.edu/TX-Success-Initiative for specific information.

Upload your official SAT/ACT/TSI Score Report to AIS and save as Test Scores . You can also send your scores directly from the testing agency (College Board, Accuplacer, etc.) to Texas A&M. Exempting documentation may also be included with the official high school transcript.

NOTE: FAILURE TO SUBMIT TSI SCORES OR OTHER EXEMPTING DOCUMENTATION (SAT/ACT SCORES) WILL RESULT IN A REGISTRATION HOLD.

Students required to take the TSI Assessment can also provide their score reports to the Academic Success Center at Texas A&M University at the address below.

Academic Success Center 1133 TAMU College Station, TX 77843-1133

More information can be obtained from testing centers at most Texas public colleges and universities or by contacting:

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board P.O. Box 12788 Austin, TX 78711-2788

Undergraduate Studies’ units have modified services available to students enrolled via distance education, at branch campuses, or at other instructional locations.

College of Dentistry – Caruth School of Dental Hygiene

Basis for acceptance.

All applicants will be considered using the following criteria. In addition, the applicant must be able to perform the essential functions required in the curriculum. The quality of the applicant’s academic achievement is a prime consideration. A grade point average (GPA) is computed based on all courses taken in college.

Preference for admission is given to students with:

  • A cumulative GPA and Science GPA indicating ability to succeed in the program.
  • Attention given to detail when completing the application.
  • A comprehensive biographical sketch that includes information that will help the Admissions Committee know the applicant better. Details about the dental hygiene procedures that have been observed, a description of the community service projects in which you have participated and information concerning your interests, abilities and attitudes that have motivated you to make the commitment required for a career in dental hygiene are examples of information that might be included.

The application deadline is January 5. The Office of Recruitment and Admissions encourages applicants to submit the online application forms by December 1. All materials related to the application must be received in the Office of Recruitment and Admissions by February 1.

  • Application for Admission
  • Secondary Application
  • List of courses in progress and those planned prior to enrollment in the dental hygiene program
  • Biographical sketch
  • Application Fee ($35.00)
  • Photograph sized 2 X 2 (does not have to be a passport picture - can be regular photograph cut down)
  • Transcripts from high school and all colleges attended (if you attended a foreign high school, you do not have to submit a copy)
  • Scores from Texas Success Initiative (TSI). (Or if exempt, SAT/ACT or TAAS– usually scores are listed on high school transcript; you do not have to submit scores separately.)
  • Observation Verification Form (minimum 16 hours required)
  • Recommendations: these evaluation forms should be completed by 1) a college instructor, 2) a dental hygienist and 3) an individual who has known applicant for some time; for example, an employer or supervisor.
  • An application is valid for one academic year only.
  • Official transcripts are required and will be accepted only when sent directly from each school the applicant has attended.
  • It is the responsibility of the applicant to keep the application file current. Failure to supply grades, transcripts or recommendations may be perceived as an indication that the applicant is no longer interested in admission.

Processing of applications begins the year prior to entrance into the professional program and continues until the class is filled. The applications are evaluated, and an invitation for an interview may be extended. The purpose of the interview is to determine the applicant’s knowledge of the dental hygiene profession. It also provides an opportunity for the applicant to see the facility, meet with the Admissions Committee and to ask questions about the Caruth School of Dental Hygiene program.

All prospective students are encouraged to contact the college with questions regarding prerequisite courses or the program.

To Access the Dental Hygiene Application Forms:

The applicant will need to create an account on the Banner Admissions Management Framework (BAMF) website . The applicant will be required to complete and submit the School of Dentistry Dental Hygiene Application, the Secondary Application and the Ethnicity Form.

The application for the Dental Hygiene Program will be available on the BAMF website from July 15 to January 5.

Download Forms (Adobe PDF files):

The Evaluation Form and Observation Verification Form are available for download. You will need to print these forms and submit them with signatures through regular mail.

  • Evaluation Form – top section to be filled in by applicant
  • Observation Verification Form

Mail forms and transcripts to:

Office of Recruitment and Admissions Texas A&M University College of Dentistry 3302 Gaston Avenue, Room 525 Dallas, TX 75246-2013 USA

Transfer Credit

Transfer credit will be determined by each component in conjunction with the staff of the college on a course-by-course basis from official transcripts submitted in the competitive admissions process. Course content will be determined by the catalog course description or course syllabus.

Course acceptability is guided by these criteria:

  • They are acceptable as credit for a bachelor’s degree at a regionally accredited institution.
  • Course content is at or above the level of courses specified in the requirements for admission.
  • Courses intended for use in a vocational, technical or occupational program normally do not transfer; general courses within this type of program may transfer.
  • Credit on the transcript must appear in semester hours or credits that may be converted to semester hours.
  • Credit by examination courses may be transferred if accepted by another college and followed by sequenced coursework.
  • Equivalency of coursework is determined by content found in catalog course descriptions or syllabi of courses. In case of doubt, departmental faculty will determine equivalency. The final determination is left to the Program Director.
  • As a general policy, coursework with a passing grade may be transferred, but the applicant must keep in mind that admission to the hygiene program is on a competitive basis and grades of F are calculated into the grade point average.
  • Course hours will be evaluated on a course-by-course basis but will be transferred as a block of hours, and the grades do not calculate into the GPA for the hygiene program.
  • Online courses are accepted.
  • Typically, credit will not be given for courses completed at institutions not accredited by a regional accrediting agency.
  • The college does not accept non-credit coursework to be used in lieu of coursework taken for academic credit.

Dental Hygiene Program (BS)

Admission
Category Requirement
Application Fee $35 non-refundable fee
Admission Standards Completion of required courses with GPA as high as possible. Admission is competitive.
Use of High School Record No
Number of Articulation Agreements and Requirements for Admission Not applicable
TOEFL** Not applicable
Other Requirements Three LOR required and TSI assessment. Interview; comprehensive biographical sketch; and 16 hours of verified observation of a dental hygienist

College of Nursing

Three different tracks lead to a baccalaureate degree in nursing. The traditional BSN track is for students seeking their first degree in college. The second-degree BSN track (post-baccalaureate) is for individuals who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in another field of study. The RN to BSN track is for registered nurses who hold an associate degree in nursing. Prerequisite courses, which are the essential foundation for nursing, must be completed before entry into upper-division nursing courses through a competitive admission process. In addition, all students must meet the core curriculum requirements for Texas A&M University if not already completed at another institution. 

The following documents are required for an application to be considered complete and eligible for review:  

Application  

Application fee  

Official college transcript(s)  

Timed verbal and written assessment  

Completion of prerequisite courses by the time of enrollment with a grade of C or better  

Admissions Assessment (HESI A2) entrance exam required for traditional and second-degree BSN applicants only 

Reference and professional resume required for RN to BSN applicants only  

RN to BSN applicants must provide proof of RN licensure in good standing  

Copy of permanent resident card, if applicable  

Official TOEFL Scores are required for international applicants and must be taken within the past two years. Test scores must be sent directly from the testing agency to be considered official.  

The most current information regarding application to nursing can be found on the   College of Nursing   (SON) website. Applications must be received by the posted deadline. No late documents will be accepted. Admission to the college is competitive. At the time of application, students must be enrolled in or have completed all prerequisite course requirements which includes University Core Curriculum and nursing prerequisites. Admission offers may be made to students finalizing courses and will be contingent upon successful completion of all prerequisite requirements and students presenting a clear criminal background check and a negative drug screen.  

If the student completed a core curriculum from another Texas public institution in a previous degree program, they are not required to complete the college’s Core Curriculum. Students transferring from out of state, from a private institution, those with an international degree or anyone with concerns about this requirement, please contact an academic advisor at the College of Nursing for further clarification. Students will not be considered for admission unless the required coursework will be completed by the time of enrollment.  

Additional Requirements for International Applicants and Applicants with Foreign Credentials

In addition to each program's stated application requirements, applicants with foreign transcripts must also include a transcript evaluation from an evaluation service which is a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services. A course-by-course listing that reflects U.S. grade point equivalencies and semester credits is required. These reports must be sent directly from the evaluation agency in the original sealed envelope to NursingCAS. Send to: NursingCAS, P.O. Box 9201, Watertown, MA 02471. If sent via UPS or FEDEX, send to NursingCAS Transcript Department, 311 Arsenal Street, Suite #15, Watertown, MA 02472. Students may wish to speak with an advisor to determine transfer credits based on results of the evaluation.  

If admitted to the College of Nursing, applicants with foreign transcripts must submit the native language transcript along with an official English translation. These documents must include all original seals and/or signatures and be approved by the Texas A&M Office of Admissions prior to enrollment in the program.  

English Proficiency and other Requirements for International Applicants

Applicants whose native language is not English are required to submit proof of English proficiency to be eligible for review. English proficiency can be demonstrated through various criteria. See more on this requirement on the  international admissions website . International applicants will be expected to present declaration of finances, F-1 travel documents and additional documentation upon acceptance to the College of Nursing. All deadlines required by the Office of International Student Services must be met.  

College of Nursing (Health Science Center)

Traditional, second degree and rn to bsn.

Admission
Category Requirement
Applications & Fee • Non-refundable fee set by NursingCAS
• $75 Paid through Apply Texas Application
Admission Standards • Admission is competitive.
• Required minimum grade of “C” in each of the prerequisite courses.
Use of High School Record • Not used for admission purposes but required upon acceptance
Articulation Agreements • South Texas College, Blinn College, and Angelina College
TOEFL • See website for additional information
Other Requirements • Entrance exam for pre-licensure applicants; Reference and Professional Resume for RN to BSN applicants; Timed verbal and written assessments may be required through Kira Talent portal.

Course Credit

Testing services.

Testing Services serves as the center for credit by examination, placement testing and correspondence testing, as well as national standardized testing. Other services include posting of test scores and evaluation of tests for college credit.

Credit by Examination

Undergraduate students at Texas A&M may earn course credits by demonstrating superior achievement on tests offered through several examination programs. Credit by examination is available to freshmen who plan to enter the University and to students who are currently enrolled. Credit earned by examination does not contribute to a student’s grade point ratio. The University awards credit for scores on certain tests published by the Advanced Placement Program (AP), the College Level Examination Program Computer-Based Testing (CLEP CBT), the SAT Subject Tests, DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSST) and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program. Texas A&M also offers qualified students opportunities to earn credits by taking departmental examinations prepared by the faculty. Information concerning credit by examination may be obtained from Testing Services , (979) 845-0532.

Please note these regulations concerning credit by examination:

  • Test scores and/or credit eligibility must be reported formally to Testing Services for credit by examination to be awarded. Credit is posted to the academic record once appropriate scores are received by Testing Services, the student has officially enrolled in the University and the student has accepted the credit. For information regarding current procedures for accepting credit, please visit the Testing Services website.
  • Students may not receive credit by examination for courses that are prerequisites to courses for which they already have credit except with the approval of the department authorizing the examination.
  • A student may not have credit posted for credit by examination for a course in which he or she is currently registered. If a student has acquired a grade or exercised First-Year Grade Exclusion on a course, then the student will not be eligible to take the equivalent departmental exam. Eligibility will not be affected if a student has a Q, W or NG in a course.
  • Please note that once any credit has been accepted it cannot be removed.

Advanced Placement Program (AP)

Examinations offered by the AP Program are administered during late spring by high schools. Students usually take the examinations after completing Advanced Placement courses, although experience in an AP course is not required. Interested students should contact their high school counselors for information concerning registration and test sites. High school students and currently enrolled students should have the College Board forward their scores to Testing Services, institution code: 6003. Advanced Placement scores of entering freshmen are generally received in July. Students will need to log onto their Howdy portal under My Records and then Credit by Exam to accept the credit earned via AP tests. Testing Services suggests visiting with your advisor before you accept credit.

The following list includes all AP examinations currently accepted for credit.

AP Exams
AP Examination Minimum Score Required Texas A&M Course(s) Credit Hours
African American Studies 3 3
AP Pre-Calculus 3 3
AP Research 3 See academic advisor up to 3 hours
AP Seminar 3 See academic advisor up to 3 hours
Art History 3 3
4 , 6
Biology 3 3
4 , 8
Calculus AB 3 3
4 4
Calculus BC 3 4
4 , 8
Chemistry 3 4
4 , 8
Chinese 3 , 8
4 , , , 14
Comparative Governments 3 3
Computer Science A 3 4
Computer Science Principles 3 4
Economics: Macroeconomics 3 3
Economics: Microeconomics 3 3
English Lang. and Comp. 3 3
4 , 6
English Lit. and Comp. 3 3
4 , 6
Environmental Science 3 3
European History 3 3
French Language 3 , 8
4 , , , 14
German Language 3 , 8
4 , , , 14
Human Geography 3 3
Italian Language 3 , 8
4 , , , 14
Japanese Language 3 , 8
4 , , , 14
Latin 3 , 8
4 , , , 14
Macroeconomics 3 3
Microeconomics 3 3
Music Theory 3 PERF 102 3
Physics 1 3 4
4 4
Physics 2 3 4
4 4
Physics C: Mechanics 3* and 3 or 4
Physics C: Elect. and Magnetism 3* and 3 or 4
Psychology 3 3
Spanish Language 3 , 8
4 , , 11
5 , , , 14
Spanish Literature 3 3
5 , 6
Statistics 3 3
Studio Art: Drawing 3 3
4 , 6
Studio Art: 2-D 3 3
4 , 6
Studio Art: 3-D Design 3 3
U.S. Government and Politics 3 3
U.S. History 3 , 6
World History 3 3

Students must consult their academic advisor for advice on the number of credits that can be used in their degree program to avoid excessive credit accumulation and possible negative effects.

Variable credits up to a maximum of 3 credit hours.  Students must consult their academic advisor for advice on the number of credits that can be used in their degree program to avoid excessive credit accumulation and possible negative effects.

Engineering majors should accept credit for PHYS 206 and PHYS 207 only, (not 226 and 227) a 2 hour lab is required for their degree plan

For instructions on accepting AP credit, please visit T esting Services .

College Level Examination Program Computer-Based Testing (CLEP CBT)

CLEP CBT tests are designed to evaluate nontraditional college-level education such as independent study, correspondence work, etc. Both enrolled undergraduate students and entering freshmen may receive CLEP CBT credit for the courses which are listed below. Only examination titles below are currently accepted. The minimum scores listed below are based on the current version of CLEP CBT Examinations. Students will need to log onto their Howdy portal under My Records and then Credit by Exam to accept the credit earned via CLEP tests. Testing Services suggests visiting with your advisor before you accept credit.

CLEP Exams
CLEP CBT Subject Examination Minimum Score Required Texas A&M Course(s) Credit Hours
Algebra 50 3
American Government 50 3
Calculus with Elementary Functions 50 or 4
Chemistry 45 4
50 , 8
Financial Accounting 50 3
History of the United States I: Early Colonization to 1877 50 3
History of the United States II: 1865 to the Present 50 3
Human Growth and Development 50 or 3
Information Systems and Computer Applications 50 3
Macroeconomics 50 3
Microeconomics 50 3
Pre-Calculus 50 4
Psychology, Introductory 50 3
Sociology, Introductory 50 3
Western Civilization I: Ancient Near East to 1648 50 3
Western Civilization II: 1648 to Present 50 3

For instructions on accepting CLEP credit, please visit Testing Services .

Dantes Subject Standardized Tests (DSST) Program

The DSST Program is available to all interested persons. Enrolled undergraduate students and entering freshmen may receive DSST credit for the courses listed below. For more information about the test, please contact Testing Services.

DSST Exam
DSST Examination Minimum Score Required Texas A&M Course(s) Credit Hours
Art of the Western World 50 , 6
Astronomy 48 3
Business Law II 52 3
Lifespan Develop. Psyc. 47 3
Principles of Statistics 48 or 3,4

International Baccalaureate (IB)

Texas A&M University, in compliance with SB111, will grant at least 24 semester credit hours of course-specific college credit in subject-appropriate areas on all International Baccalaureate (IB) exam scores of 4 or above as long as the incoming freshman has earned an IB diploma. While some course credit will be awarded regardless of a student’s IB diploma status, some course credit at Texas A&M University may be subject to the successful completion of the IB diploma.

Entering freshman students should submit their International Baccalaureate transcript to Texas A&M University, institution code: 01355, for review. Students should contact Testing Services regarding their eligibility for course credit. Students should work with an academic advisor to determine the use of the IB credits in their individual degree plan and the impact accepting the credit may have upon tuition rebate eligibility, tuition charges for excessive total hours, and preparedness for sequential coursework based on IB test scores. Students will need to log onto their Howdy portal under My Records and then Credit by Exam to accept the credit earned via IB tests. Testing Services suggests visiting with your advisor before you accept credit.

Texas A&M University will notify IB applicants of their eligibility to receive credit by posting information on the website,  Testing Services , and by establishing links to other web pages.

The evaluation of IB courses in order to identify the appropriate course credit is continuing and will be posted as it becomes available. The following list includes all IB examinations currently accepted for credit.

IB Exam
IB Higher Level Examination Minimum Score Required Texas A&M Course(s) Credit Hours
Arabic: Language A or B SL 4 4
5 , 8
6 , , 11
7 , , , 14
Arabic: Language A or B HL 3 4
4 , 8
5 , , 11
6 , , , 14
Biology SL 4 3
Biology HL 4 4
5 , 8
Business Management SL 4 3
Business Management HL 4 3
Chemistry SL 4 / 4
Chemistry HL 4 4
5 , 8
Chinese: Language A or B HL 3 4
4 , 8
5 , , 11
6 , , , 14
Chinese: Language A or B SL 4 4
5 , 8
6 , , 11
7 , , , 14
Classical Greek: A or B SL 4 4
5 , 8
6 , , 11
Classical Greek HL 3 4
4 , 8
6 , , 11
Computer Science SL 4 4
Computer Science HL 4 4
Economics SL 4 3
Economics HL 4 3
English: Lang. A SL 4 3
English: Lang. A HL 4 3
5 , 6
Environmental Systems 4 3
French: Lang. A or B SL 4 4
5 , 8
6 , , 11
7 , , , 14
French: Lang. A or B HL 3 4
4 , 8
5 , , 11
6 , , , 14
Fundamentals of Music 5 PERF 102 6
Further Mathematics SL 4 3
5 4
Geography SL 4 3
Geography HL 4 3
German: Lang. A or B SL 4 4
5 , 8
6 , , 11
7 , , , 14
German: Lang. A or B HL 3 4
4 , 8
5 , , 11
6 , , , 14
History HL
Africa 4 3
Americas 4 3
5 , 6
E & SE Asia and Oceania 4 3
Europe 4 3
South Asia & Middle East 4 3
History SL
Islamic History 4 3
Info Tech in a Global Society SL 4 3
Info Tech in a Global Society HL 4 3
Italian: Lang. A or B SL 4 4
4 , 8
6 , , 11
7 , , , 14
Italian: Lang. A or B HL 3 4
4 , 8
5 , , 11
6 , , , 14
Japanese: Lang. A or B SL 4 4
5 , 8
6 , , 11
7 , , , 14
Japanese: Lang. A or B HL 3 4
4 , 8
5 , , 11
6 , , , 14
Latin SL 4 4
5 , 8
6 , , 11
7 , , , 14
Latin HL 3 4
4 , 8
5 , , 11
6 , , , 14
Mathematics SL 4 4
Mathematics HL 4 4
Mathemathics: Analysis & Approaches SL 6 3
Mathematics: Analysis & Approaches HL 4 or 5 3
Mathematics Analysis & Approaches HL 5 4
5 , 8
Mathematics: Analysis & Approaches HL 6 or or 3, 4, 4
Mathematics Applicatioms & Interpretations SL 6 3
Mathematics Applications & Approaches HL 5 or 6 3
Mathematics Applications & Approaches HL 6 4
Mathematical Methods SL 4 3
5 4
Mathematical Studies SL 4 3
5 4
Music SL 4 PERF 201 3
Music HL 4 PERF 201 3
Other Languages SL 4 4
5 8
6 11
7 14
Other Languages HL 3 4
4 8
5 11
6 14
Philosophy SL 4 3
Philosophy HL 4 3
Physics SL 4 4
Physics HL 4 , 4
Psychology SL 4 3
Psychology HL 4 3
Russian: Language A or B SL 4 4
5 , 8
6 , , 11
7 , , , 14
Russian: Language A or B HL 3 4
4 , 8
5 , , 11
6 , , , 14
Social and Cultural Anthropology SL 4 3
Social and Cultural Anthropology HL 4 3
Spanish: Lang. A or B SL 4 4
5 , 8
6 , , 11
7 , , , 14
Spanish: Lang. A or B HL 3 4
4 , 8
5 , , 11
6/7 , , , 14
Visual Arts SL 4 3
Visual Arts HL 4 3

Credit for MATH 151 may be substituted for  MATH 142  or MATH 171 . 

For instructions on accepting IB credit, please visit Testing Services .

SAT Subject Tests

Credits are offered to entering freshmen who score high on the SAT Subject Tests. High school students who are interested in taking these tests should contact their school counselors or write College Board ATP, Box 592, Princeton, NJ 08541.

SAT Tests
Subject Test Minimum Score Required Texas A&M Course(s) Credit Hours
Chemistry 630 4
French 640 4
740 , 8
German 630 4
740 , 8
Italian 630 4
750 , 8
Latin 630 4
730 , 8
Physics 680 , 8
Spanish 630 4
750 , 8

The minimum score required is based on the re-centered scale. Students who took tests before April 1, 1995, should contact Testing Services to determine the minimum score required. For instructions on accepting SAT Subject credit, please visit Testing Services .

Departmental Examinations for Entering Freshmen and Currently Enrolled Students

Qualified entering freshmen may take departmental tests after being officially admitted into Texas A&M University. Currently enrolled students can also take the exams throughout the year. Contact  Testing Services for registration information. The tests are prepared by participating Texas A&M departments. Current offerings include:

Course List
Code Title Semester Credit Hours
Fundamentals of Chemistry I4
Fundamentals of Chemistry II4
Algebra (Available to entering freshman only during the summer before beginning classes at Texas A&M)3
Business Calculus (Available to entering freshman only during the summer before beginning classes at Texas A&M)3
Engineering Mathematics I (Available to entering freshman only during the summer before beginning classes at Texas A&M)4
Engineering Mathematics II (Available to entering freshman only during the summer before beginning classes at Texas A&M)4
Calculus I (Available to entering freshman only during the summer before beginning classes at Texas A&M)4
Calculus II (Available to entering freshman only during the summer before beginning classes at Texas A&M)4
Engineering Mathematics III (Available to entering freshman only during the summer before beginning classes at Texas A&M)3
College Physics4
College Physics4
Newtonian Mechanics for Engineering and Science (Non-engineering majors also qualify for credit)3
Electricity and Magnetism for Engineering and Science (Non-engineering majors also qualify for credit) 3

Graduate Admission

For information related to  graduate admission, please contact:

Office of Graduate Admissions Texas A&M University P.O. Box 40001 College Station, TX 77842-4001 (979) 845-1060 [email protected] http://admissions.tamu.edu/apply/graduate

Please reference the  Texas A&M University Graduate and Professional Catalog on this  website .

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Texas A&M University 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Regular Decision: 

Regular Decision Deadline: May 1

You Have: 

Texas A&M University 2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanation

The Requirements: Two required essays of 250 words each; one optional essay of 250 words

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Oddball , Additional Information

Describe a life event which you feel has prepared you to be successful in college. (250 words)

This prompt is incredibly vague, which is kinda awesome because it sets you up to talk about almost anything you want. Which life event has sparked personal growth? What do you think it takes to be successful and how do you embody those qualities? Maybe a parent’s fragile health situation challenged you to take on more responsibilities than the average teenager, preparing you for the hard work ahead. Or perhaps you learned to love your football team’s playback sessions, as they forced you to routinely examine your mistakes, welcome constructive criticism, and guide you toward self-improvement. Whatever story you choose to tell, be sure to infuse it with personal details that no one else could include in their essay.

Tell us about the person who has most impacted your life and why. (250 words)

Who is the first person to come to mind when you read this prompt? The person you write about can be someone in your immediate circle, larger network, or on the world stage. Remember that the person you choose is going to say a lot about what you value and respect in others. Maybe an adult in your life has served as a mentor and role model for you, or perhaps the person who has impacted you most is a close friend and confidant. Once you identify the person you’d like to write about, be sure to summarize who they are to you, how they have impacted your life, and how you’ve changed as a result of knowing them.

If there are additional personal challenges, hardships, or opportunities (including COVID related experiences) that have shaped or impacted your abilities or academic credentials, which you have not already written about, please note them in the space below. (250 words)

Let us start by saying: this prompt is not for everyone. If your GPA has not dramatically increased or decreased during your high school career, move along. If, on the other hand, you’re thinking, “Yes! An opportunity for me to explain!” then read on.  Your transcripts are like Garfield Minus Garfield . Sure, we can see that something’s changed from frame to frame, but we don’t know why. Grades need context. Admissions doesn’t know why or how things happened—good or bad—so ake a look at your grades and note any anomalies or odd jumps/drops. Think back to that time in your life and tell your story. Maybe your family struggled with financial instability or the loss of a loved one. Maybe you started meeting virtually with a tutor and climbed from a fall semester C in geometry to a spring semester A. No matter your story, you are not alone in your journey of ups and downs—high school is a veritable war zone of distractions and possibilities. And, remember, everyone loves a comeback. 

About Kat Stubing

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texas a and m admission essay

  • PreMed Communities
  • Pre-Medical (MD)
  • MD Medical School-Specific Discussions Prior Years

2023-2024 Texas A&M

  • Thread starter wysdoc
  • Start date Mar 17, 2023

texas a and m admission essay

Plain-spoken Texan

  • Mar 17, 2023

ClashRoyaleKing

ClashRoyaleKing

Medical school applicant.

  • May 6, 2023

My grandpa was a teacher at this university for several years and is one of the big reasons I am applying here as an out of state applicant. Would it be worth it to write about this relation to Texas A&M in my optional essay? I cannot seem to find a good place for this in the secondaries that were posted last year.  

dklinsmann said: My grandpa was a teacher at this university for several years and is one of the big reasons I am applying here as an out of state applicant. Would it be worth it to write about this relation to Texas A&M in my optional essay? I cannot seem to find a good place for this in the secondaries that were posted last year. Click to expand...
  • May 16, 2023

I'm not sure it would be a good idea unless the only school you're applying to via TMDSAS is A&M. All schools are going to receive the optional essay, including ones that aren't TAMU.  

  • May 17, 2023
reese2023 said: I'm not sure it would be a good idea unless the only school you're applying to via TMDSAS is A&M. All schools are going to receive the optional essay, including ones that aren't TAMU. Click to expand...

Full Member

  • May 24, 2023

Just got a secondary invite btw. So check y’all’s emails!  

yearofmagicalthinking

Good luck everyone!! @wysdoc 1. As a physician, you never know what type of patient you will serve. From your past experiences, please describe or highlight factors or situations that demonstrate your ability to work with individuals from multicultural communities. (3500 chars max) 2. The Texas A&M School of Medicine embraces the Aggie Core Values of Respect, Excellence, Leadership, Loyalty, Integrity and Selfless Service. Please elaborate on personal characteristics, values, accomplishments and/or any experiences that you feel will help to demonstrate your potential to contribute to the school and to the profession of medicine. (3500 chars max) 3. Describe any circumstances indicative of some hardship, such as, but not limited to, financial difficulties, personal or family illness, a medical condition, a death in the immediate family or educational disadvantage not mentioned in your primary application essays. What strategies have you used to address these circumstances? (3500 chars max) 4. OPTIONAL QUESTION: List the area (or areas) of medicine that appeals to you and briefly explain. (Limit your explanation to 50 words or 250 characters total) Do not leave blank. If not applicable, please so indicate.  

Thanks, @yearofmagicalthinking I want to comment that the A&M deans DO NOT see that final question as optional and would be really puzzled if there are "NO" areas of medicine that currently interest you. I believe there is a sample list of types of practice affiliated with this question. Is question #3 about possible hardships required, or optional?  

stere0psis

wysdoc said: Thanks, @yearofmagicalthinking Is question #3 about possible hardships required, or optional? Click to expand...

thematrixcitizenkane

I noticed the first prompt changed from last year's secondaries. However, in my mind it mostly seems like the same question (e.g. it would warrant the same stories, anecdotes, experiences, etc.). Is this accurate or is this question asking something totally different? For reference last year's secondary was: 1. Describe briefly any experiences and/or skills that have made you more sensitive or appreciative of other cultures or the human condition. (3500 characters)  

thematrixcitizenkane said: I noticed the first prompt changed from last year's secondaries. However, in my mind it mostly seems like the same question (e.g. it would warrant the same stories, anecdotes, experiences, etc.). Is this accurate or is this question asking something totally different? For reference last year's secondary was: 1. Describe briefly any experiences and/or skills that have made you more sensitive or appreciative of other cultures or the human condition. (3500 characters) Click to expand...
wysdoc said: You are probably right that your responses could cover the same ground. I know a lot of applicants were confused about what the wording of the prior prompt meant. Click to expand...
thematrixcitizenkane said: Thanks! I was mainly confused about the "individuals from multicultural communities" part. I might be overthinking it, but do we have to talk about experiences where we worked with individuals who are a part of multiple cultures or merely a [single] culture that differed from our own, if that makes sense? Click to expand...

crazyfish123

For questions one, does multicultural explicitly refer to people from different cultures/countries? Or could I discuss interacting with diverse groups like the LGBTQ community and homeless community?  

crazyfish123 said: For questions one, does multicultural explicitly refer to people from different cultures/countries? Or could I discuss interacting with diverse groups like the LGBTQ community and homeless community? Click to expand...

Multiculturalism - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics

www.sciencedirect.com

Admissions advisor

  • May 26, 2023
tcc926818 said: It is required, yes. Click to expand...

forums.studentdoctor.net

ARTICLE PUBLISHED: Other Impactful Experiences

forums.studentdoctor.net

deleted1158460

Mr.Smile12 said: Question #3. Remember that the prompt asks you not to repeat information in your primary application. I do not think TMDSAS has "Other Impactful Experiences" (please correct if it does), but keep in mind the character length is longer than the AMCAS prompt (and I think it's optional). I don't believe the school can access your AMCAS. ARTICLE PUBLISHED: Other Impactful Experiences Updating, the article is out https://www.studentdoctor.net/2023/06/08/other-impactful-experiences-essay-exploring-your-unique-story/ forums.studentdoctor.net Click to expand...
wysdoc said: TMDSAS schools don't see your AMCAS application or its essays. AMCAS did add the optional essay "other impactful experiences". TMDSAS has an optional essay (2500 characters) which could be used to discuss hardships, but which is pretty open and can be used to write about almost anything that's important about you or to you. Click to expand...

purkinjekitty

purkinjekitty

“Describe any circumstances indicative of some hardship, such as, but not limited to, financial difficulties, personal or family illness, a medical condition, a death in the immediate family or educational disadvantage not mentioned in your primary application essays. What strategies have you used to address these circumstances?” I’m having trouble navigating this essay without breaking the “not mentioned” rule. The primary unfortunately offered me every opportunity to “mention” all of these hardships, but TMDSAS being so short, didn’t offer me much to expand on. If anyone has any past experiences with writing this, would it be fair game to describe a circumstance in greater detail/different angle? I did have a death in my immediate family, but I mention it during a paragraph in my PS as my motivation for medicine (but did not expand or reference upon it afterwards). appreciate any insight.  

purkinjekitty said: “Describe any circumstances indicative of some hardship, such as, but not limited to, financial difficulties, personal or family illness, a medical condition, a death in the immediate family or educational disadvantage not mentioned in your primary application essays. What strategies have you used to address these circumstances?” I’m having trouble navigating this essay without breaking the “not mentioned” rule. The primary unfortunately offered me every opportunity to “mention” all of these hardships, but TMDSAS being so short, didn’t offer me much to expand on. If anyone has any past experiences with writing this, would it be fair game to describe a circumstance in greater detail/different angle? I did have a death in my immediate family, but I mention it during a paragraph in my PS as my motivation for medicine (but did not expand or reference upon it afterwards). appreciate any insight. Click to expand...
wysdoc said: Yes, you can expand on it or bring out different aspects in this essay. Be sure to focus on the "how did you handle this" part. While it's good to follow the rules & all, they are not heartless and don't expect someone to have more than one serious life event to talk about in essays. Click to expand...
  • May 28, 2023

Anyone's TMDSAS application verified yet? If so, when did you submit?  

cranberrylimeade

cranberrylimeade

I’m going to be a doctor.

Has anyone successfully gotten a secondary fee waiver here? MSAR says they have them. I’ve wasn’t able to get in contact with them at all last cycle but would love to know if anyone knows the best way to reach out other than email!  

futuredoc456

Heya has anyone's secondary been marked as completed? Mine says my LOR's weren't recieved but shows that they were on 5/9.  

futuredoc456 said: Heya has anyone's secondary been marked as completed? Mine says my LOR's weren't recieved but shows that they were on 5/9. Click to expand...
wysdoc said: For a lot of these things a human being in the office staff has to manually check things off in your student application portal. If you know the letters went to TMDSAS, it is now just the mechanics of things getting updated. Don't call & ask the school unless you see nothing happening for another 3 weeks. Click to expand...
cranberrylimeade said: Has anyone successfully gotten a secondary fee waiver here? MSAR says they have them. I’ve wasn’t able to get in contact with them at all last cycle but would love to know if anyone knows the best way to reach out other than email! Click to expand...
wysdoc said: It is up to you to look at each school’s page to see if they offer secondary fee waivers, and ask for one if they do Click to expand...
cranberrylimeade said: Yes, they do according to the MSAR and I both emailed and called them last cycle to try to get one. I just wanted to see if anyone has had any success as I’ve been unable to get a response. Click to expand...

BitofNothin

  • May 29, 2023

Prompt 3 has got me pretty lost, I don't feel like I have any extenuating circumstances of the caliber of their listed examples. Would talking about having a friend with a drug addiction be weird as an answer? It just doesn't feel like it compares to an illness/death or financial troubles, but I don't know what else I could talk about that comes close to that level of hardship...  

Deltasidearm

Deltasidearm

Howdy! I am a current medical student at A&M and am happy to answer any questions throughout the year when I have time! Feel free to quote, mention, or PM me to get my attention.  

Deltasidearm said: Howdy! I am a current medical student at A&M and am happy to answer any questions throughout the year when I have time! Feel free to quote, mention, or PM me to get my attention. Click to expand...
dklinsmann said: What was the standard patient interview part like? Click to expand...

medstudent13579

medstudent13579

Deleted1164884.

  • May 31, 2023

When is the earliest an interview invite goes out usually?  

medmagician123 said: When is the earliest an interview invite goes out usually? Click to expand...
wysdoc said: They have to read your primary, secondary, and a few dozen or hundred other people's before they make interview decisions. Here is the first date all the schools started last year. #2 I'll set up a similar page sometime in July and do the same thing. Click to expand...

sdfwr312

  • Jun 2, 2023

I haven't yet received a secondary from Texas A&M even though I applied when the TMDSAS submission opened and my app was transmitted more than a week ago. Did I get screened out? I am a reapplicant. I am also not getting secondaries from other schools that have already sent them out.... I've checked my spam  

sdfwr312 said: I haven't yet received a secondary from Texas A&M even though I applied when the TMDSAS submission opened and my app was transmitted more than a week ago. Did I get screened out? I am a reapplicant Click to expand...
  • Jun 5, 2023

For A&M - is it okay if I submit the secondaries 2 weeks (14 days) after receiving it? Is that something that could be looked down on or it considered fine.  

  • Jun 6, 2023
hornzup said: For A&M - is it okay if I submit the secondaries 2 weeks (14 days) after receiving it? Is that something that could be looked down on or it considered fine. Click to expand...

I received a text message saying my app was transmitted and to check email for secondary, but I can't find email. Any suggestions of where it may be? Yes I checked spam  

How do I send my letters of recommendation to A&M? I'm applying thru AMCAS and they don't use the AMCAS letter service... Is it something I do after I receive my secondaries?  

BitofNothin said: How do I send my letters of recommendation to A&M? I'm applying thru AMCAS and they don't use the AMCAS letter service... Is it something I do after I receive my secondaries? Click to expand...
SWR1913 said: I received a text message saying my app was transmitted and to check email for secondary, but I can't find email. Any suggestions of where it may be? Yes I checked spam Click to expand...

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ACD, TAMU-SA Announce Promise-to-Promise Partnership

June 11, 2024

District Communications

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The Alamo Colleges District (ACD) and Texas A&M University-San Antonio (TAMU-SA) today announced an expanded transfer agreement that will allow eligible students to start at any of the five Alamo Colleges and seamlessly transfer to TAMU-SA to complete a four-year degree while having educational costs covered at both institutions.

The Promise-to-Promise partnership will also allow for automatic admission from ACD to TAMU-SA.

AlamoPROMISE is a program that provides tuition-free college education at one of the five Alamo Colleges to 20 school districts and partners, including 73 San Antonio-area high schools and programs, as well as private, charter, and home schools in Bexar County.

TAMU-SA’s Jaguar Promise program is a transformational initiative that provides free tuition, fees, and a $300 book stipend per semester for eligible first-year and transfer students.  

“The Promise-to-Promise partnership between ACD and TAMU-SA is a testament to our shared commitment to making higher education accessible for all students," said Dr. Mike Flores, Alamo Colleges District Chancellor. "By providing more seamless transfer pathways and covering educational costs at both institutions, we are removing financial barriers and opening doors for our students to achieve their academic and career goals."

The expanded transfer agreement between ACD and TAMU-SA builds upon an agreement signed in Fall 2019 that established a formal transfer partnership between the two institutions.

The Promise-to-Promise partnership is just one component of a strategy developed by ACD and TAMU-SA to provide students with a more seamless transfer pathway between the two institutions.

Other seamless transfer tracks include: 

  • Jag Path Program: For first-year students applying to TAMU-SA who may not qualify for direct admission. Students who accept the Jag Path Program offer are dually accepted to ACD for the fall term without completing an application to ACD.
  • Jag Bound for ACD students: ACD students who apply during the fall or spring term, have yet to attend another college/university, express their intention to transfer to TAMU-SA by the end of their first term at ACD, and enroll in 60 semester credit hours. 
  • Seamless Three Tier Transfer Program: For high school students from identified ISDs who complete dual enrollment with ACD, earn an Associate of Arts in Teaching or an Associate of Arts/Associate of Science, and are admitted to TAMU-SA to finish their Bachelor's Degree in Education, Child Development, or another agreed-upon track.

Alamo Colleges transfer student Aubri Lalinde will be among the first eligible students admitted to TAMUSA under the newest Promise-to-Promise program. She is a first-generation college student who recently graduated from Palo Alto College with an Associate of Arts in Business Administration. 

Lalinde said she was thrilled when she learned about Promise-to-Promise, as a way to further her education and help her and her son form a better future.

“Texas A&M University-San Antonio and our great partners in the Alamo Colleges share a mission of service to students and to our community. The Promise-to-Promise partnership is a product of our mutual commitment to opening as many pathways and points of entry for students as possible to put their academic goals within reach,” said Texas A&M University-San Antonio President Salvador Hector Ochoa.

“A&M-San Antonio is a place where access meets opportunity and with the Promise-to-Promise, we’re removing financial and procedural barriers to access so that these students, who come to us so well prepared by our colleagues in the Alamo Colleges, can pursue the educational opportunities that a four-year university has to offer them.”

About 75% of Alamo Colleges students transfer to four-year universities to complete their degrees. During academic year 2023, 2,007 students transferred from the Alamo Colleges and enrolled at TAMUSA.

Over the past five years, approximately 83% of the students who transferred to TAMU-SA were affiliated with Alamo Colleges. 

The new Promise-to-Promise partnership strengthens the collaborative student support system across the partnering institutions. It will ultimately help thousands of students save money and reduce the time it takes to complete a bachelor’s degree.

This partnership is the second such expanded partnership for the Alamo Colleges. In 2022, ACD established a similar partnership with the University of Texas at San Antonio’s Bold Promise Program. For more information, visit alamo.edu/tamusa .

At the Alamo Colleges District, high quality education and affordable costs provide exceptional value to students and alumni who are major contributors to the economy and culture of the community.

Established as a stand-alone university in 2009, Texas A&M University-San Antonio is a comprehensive four-year public university that reflects the culturally diverse, heritage-rich community it serves.

Situated on nearly 700 acres in South San Antonio, the University offers 39 undergraduate degrees and 23 graduate degrees to about 7,620 students.

A&M-San Antonio is home to the Henry G. Cisneros Institute for Emerging Leaders, the Cyber Engineering Technology/Cyber Security Research Center, and the Mays Center for Experiential Learning and Community Engagement.

The University holds the Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) designation and is one of 39 higher education institutions in the U.S. to have received the certification from Excelencia in Education for its support of Latino student success. More than 77 percent of A&M-SA students identify as Hispanic, and approximately 72 percent are the first in their families to attend college.

A&M-San Antonio is a military-embracing institution; the University was recently awarded the 2023 Gold Veteran Education Excellence Recognition Award (VEERA) from the Texas Veterans Commission. Visit for more information. #onamission

  • State Department’s IDEAS Program Awards ACD Grant
  • ACD and YMCA of Greater San Antonio Launch Strategic Partnership
  • Alamo Colleges, Texas A&M University-San Antonio Announce Promise-to-Promise Partnership

COMMENTS

  1. Freshman

    A freshman applicant is a current high school student (with or without college credit) or a high school graduate with no college credit earned after high school graduation. Join the Aggie Family Texas A&M University is home to more than 70,000 students enrolled in undergraduate, graduate and professional programs studying business, engineering, liberal arts, nursing and much more.

  2. How to Write the Texas A&M University Essays 2023-2024

    Texas A&M University has three required essay prompts on its application. You are asked to write about your personal story, a life event that has prepared you for success in college, and a person who has profoundly impacted your life. There is also an optional essay prompt about any additional challenges or opportunities you have had to overcome.

  3. 2 Terrific Texas A&M Essay Examples by an Accepted Student

    Essay Example 2 - A Teacher's Impact. Prompt: Tell us about the person who has most impacted your life and why. (250 words) Walking into my first class of senior year, Securities and Investments, I thought, "Just another class with just another basic teacher.". Mr. Anderson was standing outside the classroom, I walked in and saw no one ...

  4. Texas A&M University's 2023-24 Essay Prompts

    250 Words. If there are additional personal challenges, hardships, or opportunities (including COVID related experiences) that have shaped or impacted your abilities or academic credentials, which you have not already written about, please note them in the space below. Read our essay guide to get started. Submit your essay for free peer review ...

  5. Entry to a Major Essays

    Instructions & Guidance. There are three essay portions to the application: "Statement of Purpose," "Outstanding Achievements" and "Additional Information.". Although "Outstanding Achievements" and "Additional Information" are optional, it is highly recommended that you complete these essays. This application uses plain text ...

  6. How to Apply as a Freshman

    College Station Spring 2025 Apply from Aug. 1, 2024-Oct. 15, 2024. College Station Fall 2024 The application period was Aug. 1, 2023-Dec. 1, 2023. College Station Early Action Engineering Deadline (Fall 2024) The application deadline was Oct. 15, 2023.

  7. College Readiness

    With that in mind, Texas A&M University offers resources to make your admissions process simpler, so you can focus on your college transition. Essay Tips ... Some fairs offer additional information sessions on specific topics like financial aid, scholarships, admissions essays, etc. These sessions are opportunities to hear from the admissions ...

  8. Texas A&M Essay Guide 2021-22

    According to the Texas A&M essay requirements, all applicants to the School of Engineering must respond to a second prompt and write a total of two Texas A&M admissions essays. Neither of the Texas A&M essay prompts has word counts, so there is no specific word limit for your Texas A&M essays. Because this question is more straightforward, we ...

  9. Where You Belong

    Texas A&M helps send well-rounded individuals into the world. You'll learn the skills necessary for your degree and grow in leadership, communication and teamwork. Students from across the world call Aggieland their home — if you want to not only change the world, but improve it, Texas A&M is Where You Belong. Tags:

  10. Texas A&M Supplemental Essays Guide

    About 600-750 words is a good length to shoot for in this Texas A&M essay. The shorter Texas A&M admissions essays have more strict word counts. Responses to these Texas A&M supplemental essays should not be more than 250 words. For these shorter Texas A&M essays, using as much of the word count as possible is beneficial.

  11. How to Write the Texas A&M Supplemental Essays: Examples + Guide 2023/2024

    how to write Texas A&M Supplemental Essay Prompt #2. Describe a life event which you feel has prepared you to be successful in college. (10-250 words for Common App; max 592 for ApplyTexas) You might panic at the two different (like, really different) word counts for the same essays in the different portals.

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

    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.

  13. How to Write Perfect ApplyTexas Essays

    Texas A&M. You are required to write an essay on Topic A. If you're an engineering major, you'll have to respond to a short-answer prompt. Texas A&M also accepts the Common App. Southern Methodist University. You must write an essay on Topic A. You may (but do not have to) write an essay on Topic B. You also have to answer two short-answer prompts.

  14. Apply Now

    Information shared in Essay A and the Engineering Essay. Engineering applicants will be considered for the following programs: ... 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 ...

  15. Texas A&M: Admission Requirements 2023

    The SAT requirements for Texas A&M are a 1160 to 1370 composite score, combining the reading and writing and math sections together. If your SAT is lower than suggested at the time you apply, you may have to perform above average on your other standardized tests or have spectacular extracurricular activities to compensate.

  16. Texas A&M Undergraduate College Application Essays

    Join Now to View Premium Content. GradeSaver provides access to 2362 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 11008 literature essays, 2770 sample college application essays, 926 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, "Members Only" section of the site! Membership includes a 10% discount on all editing orders.

  17. Academic Advice: Scholarship Essays

    Academic Advice: Scholarship Essays. Published on 07/15/2021 08:57 AM. With most university scholarship applications opening in the fall and outside scholarships having deadlines throughout the year, it can be overwhelming writing scholarship essays. Whether it's nerves on when to get started, what to include, or how much to write, students ...

  18. Apply

    We offer various alternatives to our traditional admissions process to help you succeed. Academic Fresh Start Applicants wishing to enroll 10+ years after last attending college. Non-Degree Seeking Applicants requesting to take courses without pursuing a degree. Post-Baccalaureate Applicants planning to pursue a second bachelor's degree.

  19. Admission < Texas A&M Catalogs

    Transfer applicants are required to complete Essay Topic A. SAT or ACT Scores. Texas A&M University is test optional and does not require ACT or SAT scores for freshman applicants. ... Applicants for admission to Texas A&M University should be aware that the information submitted as part of the application process will be relied upon by ...

  20. 2023-24 Texas A&M Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

    Texas A&M University 2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanation. *Please note: the information below relates to last year's essay prompts. As soon as the 2024-25 prompts beomce available, we will be updating this guide -- stay tuned! The Requirements: Two required essays of 250 words each; one optional essay of 250 words.

  21. Applicant Information System

    The Applicant Information System (AIS) allows you to see exactly where your application is in the process. The HOWDY portal is a one-stop site for news, resources, and student information. Note: Graduate applicants to the Texas A&M University School of Law, Mays Business School, DVM and TAMU Health programs do not have access to AIS.

  22. Texas A&M Admissions

    We want to hear from you! Sign up below to receive admissions information, important announcements and special event invitations from Texas A&M and learn more about life in Aggieland. YES! SEND ME MORE INFORMATION. Texas A&M University is home to more than 70,000 students engaged in over 200 fields of study.

  23. 2023-2024 Texas A&M

    Mar 17, 2023. #1. 2023-2024 Texas A & M Secondary Essay Prompts: (Question #1 has changed from last year) **Regular MD interviews are remote (online)**. 1. As a physician, you never know what type of patient you will serve. From your past experiences, please describe or highlight factors or situations that demonstrate your ability to work with ...

  24. College Essay Format: Top Writing and Editing Tips for 2024

    As part of the application process, many schools ask for an essay to accompany the standard academic and personal information they require. At its core, your college application essay tells a story that offers admissions officers a glimpse into who you are, beyond your grades, extracurricular activities, and test scores.

  25. Alamo Colleges, Texas A&M University-San Antonio Announce Promise-to

    The Alamo Colleges District (ACD) and Texas A&M University-San Antonio (TAMU-SA) today announced an expanded transfer agreement that will allow eligible students to start at any of the five Alamo Colleges and seamlessly transfer to TAMU-SA to complete a four-year degree while having educational costs covered at both institutions. The Promise-to-Promise partnership will also allow for automatic ...