University of Texas at Austin: MS Programs, Eligibility, Fees (Visa)

The University of Texas at Austin stands among the top 30 National Universities, offering an impressive array of 139 postgraduate programs across 237 disciplines. With a substantial research expenditure of $1.06 billion in 2023, the university demonstrates its commitment to academic excellence and innovation.

Your journey to joining UT Austin's diverse community of over 53,000 students starts with understanding the comprehensive admission process. In fact, with a competitive acceptance rate of 29% and strong career outcomes - 93% of graduates finding employment within two years - the university presents a compelling opportunity for ambitious students. The average starting salary of $53,512 per year further validates the value of a UT Austin degree.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about MS programs at UT Austin, including admission requirements, visa processes, and financial considerations. Whether you're interested in computer science, engineering, or business programs, you'll find detailed information to help navigate your application journey.

UT Austin Overview: Rankings and Academic Excellence

Ranked as the top public university in Texas, UT Austin consistently demonstrates academic prowess across global education rankings. The university's commitment to excellence reflects in its prestigious position among world-class institutions.

Global and National Rankings of UT Austin

UT Austin holds the 7th position among public universities in the United States. Additionally, the university ranks 30th nationally according to U.S. News & World Report's 2025 rankings. The institution maintains strong standings across multiple international ranking systems, securing the 52nd position in Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024.

The Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) places UT Austin at 18th globally for 2024, showing an improvement from 19th position in 2023. Moreover, the university ranks 35th in the Center for World University Rankings 2024, demonstrating its consistent presence among top-tier educational institutions.

University of Texas Austin QS Ranking

In the QS World University Rankings 2025, UT Austin stands at 66th position globally. While this represents a slight shift from its previous ranking of 58th, the university maintains exceptional performance in specific disciplines. Notably, the McCombs School of Business ranks 6th nationally, while the Cockrell School of Engineering holds the 10th position.

Subject-specific excellence shines through various rankings:

• College of Pharmacy - 3rd nationally
• School of Information - 6th in Library and Information Sciences
• School of Social Work - 7th nationally
• Jackson School of Geosciences - 8th for Earth Sciences

Academic Structure and Departments

UT Austin's academic framework encompasses more than 170 undergraduate areas of study. The university structure includes 13 colleges and schools, offering over 100 graduate fields of study. Notable academic units comprise:

• Cockrell School of Engineering
• College of Natural Sciences
• McCombs School of Business
• School of Architecture
• Dell Medical School
• Graduate School

Research Facilities and Opportunities

As a research powerhouse, UT Austin maintains over 200 dedicated research units and centers. The university's research infrastructure includes four major core facilities:

1. Animal Resources Center (ARC)
2. Center for Biomedical Research Support (CBRS)
3. Microelectronics Research Center (MRC)
4. Texas Materials Institute (TMI)

The Texas Advanced Computing Center stands out as a world-renowned leader in high-performance computing, data analysis, and visualization. Additionally, several research groups report directly to the Vice President for Research, Scholarship and Creative Endeavors, although most units operate within individual colleges and schools.

Subject-specific rankings highlight UT Austin's research strengths, particularly in:

• Physics - 31st globally
• Chemistry - 38th globally
• Mathematics - 40th globally
• Education and Educational Research - 40th globally

The university's research excellence extends across various fields, with notable rankings in Computer Science (69th), Energy and Fuels (83rd), and Engineering (89th). These achievements underscore UT Austin's position as a leading research institution, offering students access to cutting-edge facilities and diverse research opportunities.

MS Programs Offered at University of Texas at Austin

Master's programs at UT Austin offer diverse opportunities across multiple disciplines, ensuring students receive specialized education aligned with their career goals. From computer science to interdisciplinary studies, each program maintains rigorous academic standards.

MS Program at UT Austin	Duration	Estimated Tuition Fees (USD) per Year
Master of Science in Computer Science	Typically 1.5 to 2 years	$20,000 - $40,000
Master of Science in Business Analytics (STEM)	Typically 1 year	$30,000 - $50,000
Master of Science in Finance	Typically 1 year	$30,000 - $60,000
Master of Science in Information Studies	Typically 1.5 to 2 years	$25,000 - $50,000
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering	Typically 1.5 to 2 years	$20,000 - $45,000
Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering	Typically 1.5 to 2 years	$20,000 - $45,000

University of Texas Austin MS in CS

The Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) program welcomes students with bachelor's degrees in computer science or equivalent backgrounds. The department presents three distinct paths:

• On-campus research track (thesis and no-thesis options)
• Online professional master's degree
• Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI)

The on-campus MSCS requires 30 hours of coursework. Students pursuing the online MSCS program gain expertise in advanced operating systems, programming languages, and machine learning. Subsequently, the MSAI program focuses on natural language processing, reinforcement learning, computer vision, and deep learning.

Engineering and Computer Science Programs

The Cockrell School of Engineering presents comprehensive master's programs across various specializations:

• Electrical and Computer Engineering with nine academic tracks
• Engineering Management (hybrid program combining management and technical courses)
• Materials Science and Engineering
• Petroleum Engineering
• Semiconductor Science and Engineering

These programs emphasize practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. For instance, the semiconductor program provides hands-on experience in cleanrooms and standard fabrication equipment.

Business and Management MS Degrees

McCombs School of Business offers specialized master's programs designed for professional advancement.

Key programs include:

• Business Analytics (MSBA)
• Information Technology and Management (MSITM)
• Business Administration (MBA)

The MSBA program accepts applications for summer terms, with deadlines varying for international and U.S. applicants. Therefore, these programs blend business essentials with specialized knowledge, preparing graduates for leadership roles.

Science and Mathematics Graduate Programs

The College of Natural Sciences hosts an extensive array of master's programs:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Astronomy
• Biochemistry
• Chemistry
• Marine Science
• Mathematics
• Statistics and Data Sciences

Each program incorporates research opportunities and specialized coursework. Furthermore, students can enhance their expertise through concentration options in data analysis, ethics, and project management.

Interdisciplinary MS Options

UT Austin's interdisciplinary programs allow students to customize their academic journey.

The university offers several portfolio options:

• Applied Statistical Modeling
• Computational Medicine
• Ethical AI
• Nanoscience and Nanotechnology
• Pharmacoengineering
• Robotics
• Scientific Computation

These programs enable students to combine courses from different departments, creating a unique educational experience tailored to specific career goals. As a result, graduates develop broad understanding across multiple disciplines while maintaining depth in their primary field of study.

Each master's program maintains specific admission requirements and deadlines. For instance, engineering programs typically have December deadlines, whereas business programs offer multiple application rounds throughout the year.

Admission Requirements for MS Programs

Securing admission to graduate programs at UT Austin requires meeting specific academic benchmarks and submitting comprehensive documentation. Understanding these requirements helps streamline your application process.

Academic Prerequisites and GPA Requirements

To qualify for graduate admission, candidates must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or an equivalent degree from a foreign academic institution. The Graduate School mandates a minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

Specifically, this GPA requirement applies to:

• Upper-division coursework (junior and senior-level courses)
• Any completed graduate work
• Overall undergraduate performance

If your GPA falls below these thresholds, you can still submit an application alongside a letter explaining any circumstances affecting your academic performance. Each department maintains specific prerequisite coursework requirements, hence consulting with your intended program becomes essential.

GRE/GMAT Score Expectations

Most graduate programs at UT Austin require either GRE or GMAT scores. Key testing considerations include:

• Complete all test sections during your designated testing date
• Use institution code 6882 for GRE and TOEFL submissions
• For GMAT, use code 396-44-45

Test scores remain valid for five years from the testing date. However, certain programs offer test waivers based on specific criteria. For instance, the McCombs School of Business accepts expired test scores and considers merit-based test waivers.

English Proficiency Tests (TOEFL/IELTS/DET)

International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through standardized tests.

The minimum acceptable scores are:

• TOEFL iBT: 79 points
• IELTS Academic: Overall band of 6.5

Important considerations for English proficiency tests:

• Institutional TOEFL (ITP) scores are not accepted
• TOEFL Essentials and Duolingo scores are not recognized
• IELTS General Training scores are invalid

Exemptions apply for applicants from qualifying countries or those who completed three years of study in U.S. high schools.

Supporting Documents (SOP, LORs, Resume)

A complete application package requires several supporting documents that showcase your qualifications:

Letters of Recommendation (LOR)

• Most programs require three recommenders
• Recommendations are submitted electronically
• Choose recommenders who can evaluate your work performance
• Provide recommenders with relevant materials and sufficient time

Statement of Purpose Your statement should effectively communicate:

• Personal motivations
• Academic goals
• Graduate school preparation
• Program fit

Additional Requirements:

• Professional resume highlighting relevant experience
• Official transcripts from all attended institutions
• Program-specific essays or writing samples
• Research statements (if applicable)

Remember to submit all documents through the official application portal. After submission, track your application status through MyStatus, which offers self-service features for managing recommendation requests.

Application Process and Deadlines

Navigating the graduate application process at UT Austin involves multiple steps, starting with the submission of your application through the official portal. Understanding the timeline and requirements ensures a smooth application journey.

Application Portal and Submission Guidelines

The graduate application process begins with submitting your application through the official portal. Once submitted, applications typically take 72 hours to load into the UT Austin system. After submission, you'll receive MyStatus login credentials within 2-3 business days.

Before uploading documents, you must complete two essential steps:

• Pay the application fee through MyStatus
• Wait for fee payment verification (2-3 business days)

Document Upload Guidelines:

• Submit materials well ahead of deadlines
• Allow 2-3 business days for document verification
• Avoid sending paper copies as they delay processing

Program-specific Deadlines

For Spring 2025 graduates, the Master's Graduation Application submission window spans from January 13, 2025, to April 4, 2025. Missing these deadlines postpones degree conferral to a subsequent semester.

Key deadlines for doctoral candidates pursuing Spring 2025 graduation:

• Dissertation defense deadline: April 11, 2025
• Final dissertation submission: April 25, 2025 by 3 p.m. CDT

Document Verification Process

Upon receiving your application materials, the Office of Graduate Admissions evaluates and forwards them to your chosen graduate program. The verification process includes:

1. Initial document review
2. Graduate Studies Committee evaluation
3. Final approval by the dean

Important Verification Notes:

• Document uploads require 2-3 business days for processing
• Materials received near deadlines may face longer processing times
• Application materials can take up to 10 business days to appear on MyStatus

Tracking Your Application Status

MyStatus serves as your primary tool for monitoring application progress.

Through this secure portal, you can:

• Track submitted materials
• Upload required documents
• Confirm application completeness
• Access admission decisions

The application status updates reflect various stages:

• Application Received
• Admission Review
• Application Complete
• Additional Documents Required
• Graduate Committee Review
• Graduate Final Review

Once the Graduate Studies Committee makes a decision, they forward it to the Office of Graduate Admissions for final approval. No decision correspondence arrives by mail - all official notifications appear on MyStatus.

For enrollment verification needs, the university provides official certifications confirming:

• Attendance status
• Degrees awarded
• Current enrollment
• Expected graduation dates
• Academic standing

Remember that applications completed near deadlines may experience longer processing times. Consequently, submitting your application and supporting documents well in advance ensures thorough consideration of your candidacy.

Tuition Fees and Financial Considerations

Understanding the financial aspects of graduate education at UT Austin requires careful consideration of tuition, living costs, and available funding options. Since financial planning plays a crucial role in your academic journey, let's examine the key components.

Program-wise Fee Structure

The cost structure varies significantly based on your chosen program and residency status. For graduate programs, tuition ranges between INR 3,060,057 and INR 3,254,132. Students pursuing specialized degrees face different fee structures:

• MA Economics: INR 3,466,916 annually
• MSc Mechanical Engineering: INR 2,258,039 annually
• MSc Electrical and Computer Engineering: INR 931,522 annually

Certain programs maintain distinct fee structures. For example, the two-year MSISP program costs INR 3,797,120, payable in semester installments of INR 759,424. Upon admission, students must submit a non-refundable deposit of INR 84,380 toward their first tuition payment.

Estimated Living Expenses in Austin

Beyond tuition, understanding living expenses helps create a realistic budget. The estimated annual living expenses, excluding tuition, range from INR 1,553,106 to INR 1,885,565. These costs encompass:

• Housing and meals
• Books and supplies
• Transportation
• Personal expenses
• Health insurance

The university calculates a Cost of Attendance (COA) that combines tuition and basic living expenses. This figure serves as the maximum limit for financial aid eligibility, ensuring students receive appropriate support without exceeding their needs.

Scholarships and Financial Aid Options

UT Austin offers various financial support options through the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid. Primary funding sources include:

Merit-based Scholarships:

• International Merit Scholarships: Up to INR 843,804 annually
• International Opportunity Grant: Up to INR 421,902 annually
• Jerry D. Wilcox Community Engagement Scholarship: INR 295,331

Department-specific Awards:

• Departmental scholarships with varying amounts
• Program-specific fellowships
• Research grants

Graduate Assistantships and Work Opportunities

Graduate students can access several employment opportunities that provide both financial support and professional experience. Teaching Assistantships (TAs) and Graduate Research Assistantships (GRAs) offer valuable benefits:

• Tuition Reduction Benefit for qualifying positions
• In-state tuition rates for nonresident teaching assistants
• Professional development opportunities
• Stipend payments through university payroll

Undoubtedly, fellowship recipients often receive additional benefits:

• Tuition coverage
• Required fee payments
• Monthly stipends
• No service requirements

Important considerations for assistantships include:

• Half-time appointments qualify for tuition benefits
• Earnings must be reported on FAFSA renewals
• Adjustments to other financial aid may occur

For international students, part-time work opportunities exist through work-study programs. These positions allow students to:

• Gain relevant work experience
• Participate in community service
• Balance academic commitments
• Generate income for educational expenses

Visa Process for International Students (And Indians)

Obtaining a student visa marks a crucial step in your journey to study at the University of Texas at Austin. Most international students enter the United States through F-1 or J-1 student status, with F-1 being the predominant choice.

F-1 Student Visa Requirements

The F-1 visa process begins after receiving your Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility) from UT Austin.

Essential requirements include:

• Valid passport extending at least six months into the future
• Proof of funding through personal resources, department support, or sponsoring agencies
• Demonstrated intent to return to your home country post-graduation
• Full-time enrollment commitment

Dependents, such as spouses or children, can accompany F-1 students under F-2 dependent visas, albeit with certain restrictions on employment and full-time study.

Documentation Needed for Visa Application

A complete visa application package requires several key documents:

• Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application)
• SEVIS fee payment receipt (INR 29,533.16 for F-1 students)
• Student Visa application fee (INR 17,297.99)
• Original Form I-20 from UT Austin
• Financial documentation
• Two passport-style photographs meeting U.S. Department of State specifications

Canadian citizens, though exempt from visa requirements, must pay the SEVIS fee prior to entering the United States.

Visa Interview Preparation Tips

Preparing thoroughly for your visa interview enhances success chances. Key considerations include:

• Schedule appointments early, considering potential wait times
• Maintain original documentation readily accessible
• Present clear ties to your home country
• Demonstrate sufficient financial resources
• Prepare concise answers about your academic goals

Background checks routinely accompany visa applications, occasionally causing delays spanning several months. Immediately inform International Student and Scholar Services about significant processing delays.

Post-Arrival Immigration Compliance

Upon arrival at UT Austin, maintaining valid immigration status requires adherence to specific guidelines:

• Enroll full-time every fall and spring semester
• Complete enrollment by the 12th class day
• Obtain ISSS approval before reducing course load
• Maintain valid passport and I-20 documentation

Failing to meet these requirements might lead to SEVIS record termination. Additionally, students transferring from other U.S. institutions must complete their SEVIS transfer within 15 days of UT Austin's program start date.

International students seeking employment opportunities must understand work authorization requirements. On-campus employment remains permissible, yet off-campus work necessitates specific authorization through programs like Curricular Practical Training or Optional Practical Training.

Remember that visa stamps remain valid solely for U.S. entry. Once inside the country, your I-94 status, valid passport, and unexpired I-20 maintain your legal presence. Nonetheless, departing students need valid visa stamps for re-entry, often requiring renewal at U.S. embassies abroad.

Financial Aid and Scholarships for University of Texas Austin

Financial support at UT Austin encompasses diverse funding options, from federal aid to institutional scholarships. The Graduate School administers numerous awards supporting both prospective and current students, alongside faculty and staff members.

Graduate students seeking financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access federal, state, and institutional aid programs. Upon receiving your financial aid package, you'll need to accept it through the Financial Aid Notification (FAN) system to initiate the disbursement process.

Types of Financial Support

The university offers multiple funding channels:

• Federal and State Programs: Available through FAFSA completion
• Institutional Aid: Managed by individual departments
• Merit-based Awards: Recognizing academic excellence
• Need-based Assistance: Supporting students with financial constraints

Scholarship Opportunities

Several prestigious scholarships cater to specific student groups:

Familia Cueva Sada Scholarship: Awards INR 405,026 for engineering, medical, or natural sciences students. Eligibility requires:

• Full-time enrollment
• Good academic standing
• Registration in qualifying programs

African Leadership Bridge Endowed Scholarship: Provides INR 421,902 with tuition waiver. Recipients must:

• Maintain 3.0 GPA
• Demonstrate financial need
• Have African educational background

Iimura Peace Endowed Scholarship: Offers INR 421,902 for students promoting peace in Asia. Requirements include:

• Minimum 2.0 GPA
• East Asian or Asian educational background
• Service project completion

Emergency Financial Support

The university maintains two essential loan programs:

• Tuition Loans: Maximum INR 421,902
• Emergency Cash Loans: Maximum INR 42,190

These loans carry a 5.75% annual interest rate, requiring repayment within three months for tuition loans and one month for emergency cash assistance.

International Student Aid

The General ISSS Financial Aid grant provides INR 4,000 per semester for international students demonstrating financial need. Additional support includes:

• On-campus employment opportunities (20 hours/week)
• Merit-based scholarships covering half of intensive tuition
• Country-specific financial aid through embassies
• Private organization funding opportunities

External Funding Resources

International students can explore funding through various channels:

• Home country government programs
• Private organizations
• Religious groups
• U.S. government aid for specific countries
• Educational loans with U.S. citizen guarantors

Financial Aid Management

After receiving financial aid, maintaining eligibility requires:

• Meeting academic progress standards
• Maintaining full-time enrollment
• Completing required documentation
• Following visa compliance guidelines

The university's cost of attendance compares favorably with peer institutions. Nevertheless, financial aid packages may undergo adjustments to ensure compliance with federal and state requirements, especially when scholarships exceed the cost of attendance or financial need.

For optimal financial planning, utilize resources like:

• FinAid
• International Student.com
• International Scholarships
• Scholarship Experts
• International Education Financial Aid (IEFA)

University of Texas at Austin (Summary)

The campus of UT Austin is home to over 1300 clubs and organizations along with more than 70 fraternities and sororities. 

University of Texas at Austin	Campus Details
Location	Austin, Texas, USA
Campus Size	431 acres
Type	Public Research University
Establishment	Founded in 1883
Notable Buildings	Tower, UT Austin Law School, Blanton Museum of Art
Student Enrollment	Over 50,000 students (Undergraduate and Graduate)
Academic Facilities	18 colleges & schools, over 170 academic programs
Libraries	Over 10 libraries, including the Perry-Castañeda Library
Recreational Facilities	Gregory Gym, Student Recreation Center, and outdoor spaces
Research Institutes	Over 100 research centers in various fields
Transportation	Shuttle services, bike share, and UT Austin campus shuttle

Application Process - University of Texas at Austin

After accepting applications, UT Austin makes admission decisions in about three to four weeks.
Application Fee: $90 | For MBA (dual programs with MBA), it is $200 | for MPA, it is $125 

Category	Details
Decision Timeline	3 to 4 weeks after submission
Application Fee	$90 (Standard), $200 (MBA Dual), $125 (MPA)
Requirements	Application forms, transcripts, test scores, recommendation letters, statement
Deadlines	Varies by program (typically December for Fall intake)
International Students	TOEFL/IELTS required (or proof of English proficiency)
Financial Aid	Merit-based and need-based scholarships are available

PG Programs Admission Requirements

• Academic transcripts (GPA of at least 3.0 out of 4.0, which is equivalent to 83% to 86%
• Standardized Test Scores of GRE/GMAT/ACT/SAT
• Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
• Financial documents /Documents of sponsorship
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• A copy of the Passport 
• English Language proficiency test scores:

• • For TOEFL iBT, a minimum score is 79
  • For IELTS, a minimum score is 6.5

UG Programs Admission Requirements

• Filled out Application 
• Academic Transcripts
• SAT: a minimum score of 1070
• Personal Essay
• Two Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
• Résumé
• English Language proficiency test score

• • For TOEFL iBT, a minimum score is 79
  • For IELTS, a minimum score is 6.5

*Get expert coaching services from Y-Axis professionals to ace your scores.

UT Austin Tuition Fees

Here are the Cost of Attendance at UT Austin:

School	PG Yearly Tuition Fee (USD)
Cockrell School of Engineering	45,685
College of Education	43,982
College of Fine Arts	45,549.6
College of Liberal Arts	43,555
College of Natural Sciences	44,163
College of Pharmacy	45,440
Jackson School of Geosciences	44,905
LBJ School of Public Affairs	44,941.5
McCombs School of Business	43,044
Moody College of Communication	45,014.5
School of Architecture	45,647
School of Information	46,304
School of Nursing	45,708
Steve Hicks School of Social Work	45,416
School of Undergraduate Studies	NA

Scholarships Provided at UT Austin

UT Austin provides students with a limited number of scholarships. The university offers Jerry D. Wilcox Community Engagement Scholarship which is valued at $3,500.

• With the International Education Fee Scholarship, the tuition fee for four years is covered

Scholarship Type	Details	Amount
International Merit Scholarships	Awarded based on academic excellence	Up to $10,000 per year
Graduate Fellowships	For graduate students based on academic and research excellence	Varies, often full tuition and stipend
International Opportunity Grant	For students with demonstrated financial need	Up to $5,000 per year
Departmental Scholarships	Available through specific departments for international students	Varies by department
External Scholarships	Scholarships from external organizations or agencies	Varies (can be substantial)

Work-study Program at UT Austin

Part-time work is offered to financially underprivileged students, enabling them to make money to cover their education costs. Under the work-study program, students can participate in community service and work relevant to their subject. Work-Study can be availed by full-time as well as part-time students.

The university hosts a Job Fair, allowing students to look for part-time jobs or for forging connections with possible employers, both on-campus and off-campus.
 

Alumni at the University of Texas at Austin

 The university has 500,000 alumni members who are well-networked. 

Some benefits that UT Austin can avail are:

• Arts & Entertainment
• Financial Services
• Insurance
• Savings and Special Access
• Sports & Travel

Placements at the University of Texas at Austin

UT Austin houses 15 centers for career growth and aids students to look for proper internships or jobs in the US. It also conducts workshops for writing résumés and learning interview techniques. 

Close to 75% of the university’s graduates have landed full-time jobs immediately after graduation. 

Related Articles:

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE	LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION	OVERSEAS EDUCATION LOAN
COUNTRY SPECIFIC ADMISSION	COURSE RECOMMENDATION	DOCUMENT PROCUREMENT

Conclusion

UT Austin stands as a premier destination for graduate education, offering exceptional value through its diverse MS programs, strong research infrastructure, and consistent top-tier rankings. The university's comprehensive support system, from admission guidance to financial aid options, helps students navigate their academic journey effectively.

Starting salaries averaging $53,512 and a 93% employment rate within two years after graduation demonstrate the real-world value of a UT Austin degree. Though admission requirements remain competitive with a 29% acceptance rate, careful preparation and timely submission of application materials significantly enhance your chances of success.

Remember that early planning proves essential, particularly for international students managing visa requirements and financial documentation. The university's extensive scholarship offerings, assistantship opportunities, and various funding options make quality education accessible despite the investment required.

Whether pursuing computer science, engineering, business, or interdisciplinary studies, UT Austin provides the academic foundation and professional connections needed for career advancement. Consider your program options carefully, prepare your application thoroughly, and take advantage of available resources to join the university's dynamic community of over 53,000 students.