Deep in the heart of Texas lies one of the nation’s most legendary rivalries: the University of Texas at Austin (also called UT) versus Texas A&M University. With big attitudes and even bigger campus lore, both schools have developed distinct identities and fiercely loyal fan bases in their own right. Whether you’re considering the academic prestige, world-class athletic programs, or deeply rooted traditions, both institutions stand as strong pillars of higher education in the Lone Star State.
But how do you choose between these two exceptional universities? For students, the decision goes beyond epic football games and iconic mascots. Picking the “best fit” school means finding a place that aligns with your academic goals, personal values, and future aspirations.
Let’s break down what makes UT and Texas A&M unique, and help you uncover which one might be the best fit for you.
Finding Your Best Fit
Choosing the right college is one of the most important decisions a student can make. It’s not just about rankings or reputation—it’s about finding the school where you’ll thrive academically, socially, and emotionally during a critical juncture in your new adult life. At Empowerly, we specialize in helping students identify their unique needs—whether they’re looking for research opportunities, a specific campus vibe, or flexible financial aid options.
Committed to starting your dreams in Texas? For students weighing UT and Texas A&M, factors like campus culture, program strengths, and even location can make all the difference.
We’re here to help! Empowerly’s personalized counseling helps demystify this process, guiding you toward the school that’s the perfect match for your individual goals.
A Brief History of UT and Texas A&M
Next, let’s compare the facts. If you’re serious about enrolling in a top school in Texas, these two universities are worth considering for your list. Let’s start with introductions…
University of Texas at Austin
The Austin campus is known for its strengths in business, engineering, and the arts.
- Founder: Established in 1883, UT is the flagship institution of the University of Texas system.
- Public/Private: Public research university.
- Mission & Values: Committed to academic excellence, innovation, and providing access to a world-class education.
- Location: Situated in Austin, Texas—a vibrant, eclectic city known for its music scene and tech startups.
- Size of Campus: Spanning over 430 acres, the urban campus is a mix of historic and modern architecture.
- Size of Student Body: Approximately 42,000 students.
Texas A&M University
Texas A&M is renowned for engineering, agriculture, and veterinary sciences, with strong paths to both industrial and research-based careers.
- Founder: Established in 1876, Texas A&M was the first public institution of higher education in Texas.
- Public/Private: Public land-grant, sea-grant, and space-grant research university.
- Mission & Values: Built on a foundation of leadership, service, and integrity.
- Location: Located in the aptly named College Station, Texas, offering a close-knit college-town atmosphere.
- Size of Campus: Encompassing over 5,200 acres, it’s one of the largest campuses in the U.S.
- Size of Student Body: Over 57,000 students.
Compare and Contrast
How do these two titans compare to one another? Let’s look deeper into what sets each of these unique campuses apart.
Feature | UT Austin | Texas A&M |
| Tuition (In-State) | $28,928/year | $28,158/year |
| Student Body | 42,000 students | 57,000 students |
| Location | Urban (Austin) | College Town (College Station) |
| Strengths | Business, Engineering, Arts | Engineering, Agriculture, Vet Sciences |
Prestige and Ranking
The University of Texas at Austin (UT) is widely regarded as one of the nation’s premier public universities, consistently ranking among the top 10 public institutions in the United States. Its McCombs School of Business and School of Law are especially noteworthy, drawing students from across the globe.
Texas A&M University, while slightly lower on the rankings scale, is a powerhouse in its own right, frequently landing in the top 25 public universities. A&M stands out in fields like engineering, agriculture, and veterinary sciences, cementing its reputation as a leader in technical and applied disciplines.
Acceptance Rates
UT’s selective admissions process reflects its elite status, with an acceptance rate of approximately 29%. The competition is particularly fierce for out-of-state applicants and highly sought-after majors like computer science and business. On the other hand, Texas A&M offers a broader acceptance rate of around 60%, though certain programs—such as engineering—remain highly competitive. Both schools emphasize academic rigor, extracurricular involvement, and leadership qualities in their holistic admissions reviews.
Average Cost of Attendance
Cost is a significant factor for many students. For the most accurate numbers, you can use the tuition calculator tool on the schools’ pages to customize your projected bill.
- UT’s in-state tuition averages $28,928 per year, while out-of-state students face costs of approximately $58,176 annually.
- Texas A&M offers slightly lower in-state tuition at $28,158 per year, with out-of-state costs estimated at $55,608 annually.
However, that doesn’t have to be the total amount that you (or your family) end up paying. Both universities are committed to affordability and provide a range of scholarships and financial aid options to support their students. For in-state applicants, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s programs, like the Texas Grant, can further offset expenses.
Sports
Sports are central to campus life at both institutions, but the rivalry runs especially deep in football. UT’s Texas Longhorns are a storied program with a rich history of success (in basketball, as well). Football game days at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, aka DKR, showcase proud waves of burnt-orange Longhorn pride.
Texas A&M’s Aggies are exceptionally passionate about athletics, with unique traditions like the 12th Man—a testament to the school’s unmatched spirit of camaraderie. Midnight Yell Practice, where thousands of fans gather to rehearse chants, is another iconic Aggie ritual. Game days will find the student body at Kyle Field, the fourth-largest stadium in the NCAA (and the largest college stadium in the state).
Whether you’re a Longhorn or an Aggie, you’ll be joining a community of fans who truly take their school spirit to the next level. Get ready to give your best “yee-haw!”
Student Life
The student experience at UT and Texas A&M offers two distinct yet equally vibrant atmospheres. At UT, students can join organizations like Texas Spirits or the Texas Blazers to connect with peers while serving the community. Texas A&M offers robust leadership programs like Fish Camp, designed to welcome freshmen into Aggie traditions and help them transition into college life.
UT thrives in the heart of a bustling urban center, giving students access to the live music, tech industry, and creative culture of Austin, known as the “Live Music Capital of the World.”
In contrast, Texas A&M offers a more traditional college-town experience in College Station. Here, the focus is on close-knit communities, rich traditions, and a welcoming environment. Both universities boast a range of student organizations, Greek life options, and events to keep students engaged and connected.
Student Outcomes
Graduates from both universities enjoy strong career prospects and access to influential alumni networks.
- UT is celebrated for its focus on entrepreneurship and innovation. It consistently ranks as one of the top schools for producing venture capital-backed entrepreneurs (PitchBook, 2023). Programs like the Texas Innovation Center and the McCombs School of Business regularly rank among the nation’s best (U.S. News & World Report, 2023), further strengthening its reputation as a hub for innovation.
- Texas A&M University, on the other hand, is renowned for producing graduates with technical expertise and leadership skills. The Dwight Look College of Engineering ranks among the nation’s top engineering programs (ASEE Engineering by the Numbers Report, 2023), while Texas A&M’s agricultural and life sciences programs are among the largest and most respected in the U.S. Additionally, the university has a strong legacy of preparing leaders in public service through its Corps of Cadets, which has produced numerous military and government officials.
Both universities provide robust career services, job fairs, and internship opportunities to set their students up for long-term success. Whether you’re drawn to UT’s entrepreneurial spirit or Texas A&M’s focus on technical fields and leadership, both institutions equip their students with the resources and networks to succeed in today’s competitive job market.
Help! How Do I Choose Between UT vs. Texas A&M?
So, we’ve covered the facts about UT vs. Texas A&M: rankings, costs, campus culture, and outcomes. Ready to discover which Texas university is the best fit for you? In the next section, we’ll cover some of the most important aspects of your college experience to consider when making your big decision.
Before we continue with the details, though, consider making a detailed list of your priorities—academic programs, campus culture, financial aid, and location preferences. Reflect on your individual needs as a student. Tailoring your decision to your unique situation will ensure the best fit.
Academic Priorities
Your intended major should heavily influence your choice. If your interests lie in technology, liberal arts, or the fine arts, UT’s diverse academic offerings and connections to Austin’s thriving industries make it an excellent choice. On the other hand, Texas A&M is an ideal destination for students pursuing engineering, agriculture, or veterinary medicine, thanks to its renowned programs and state-of-the-art facilities.
Even if you’re undecided, you’ll want to go the extra mile and compare interdisciplinary pathways at each school. UT Austin offers unique programs like Plan II Honors, which combines liberal arts and sciences, while Texas A&M’s Engineering Honors Program allows students to work on industry-sponsored projects. These specialized paths can provide a distinct edge in competitive job markets.
Cost and Financial Aid
Scholarships and grants can make a substantial difference, so explore all options at both institutions. Texas A&M is known for its Corps of Cadets scholarships and Aggie Ring programs, while UT offers merit-based awards and grants for academically talented students.
For in-state students, both schools provide significant value, but it’s still important to compare financial aid packages.
Campus Culture
Consider where you’ll feel most at home.
UT’s dynamic, urban environment appeals to those who thrive in fast-paced settings, while Texas A&M’s community-oriented campus offers a more traditional college experience. According to NCES.gov, the student populations differ slightly as well: UT welcomes a slightly higher percentage of out-of-state students than Texas A&M.
Think about whether you value the diversity and opportunities of city life or the close connections and traditions of a smaller town.
Student Outcomes
Reflect on your long-term goals and how each school aligns with them. Examine career placement rates, industry partnerships, and average starting salaries for graduates in your field of interest. Both schools have active alumni networks, but their focuses differ: UT’s alumni are often concentrated in entrepreneurial and creative industries, while Texas A&M graduates frequently excel in technical and public service careers.
Fun fact:
UT Austin’s alumni network includes notable figures like Michael Dell, founder of Dell Technologies, and actor Matthew McConaughey, reflecting its diverse strengths in business and the arts. Texas A&M’s alumni have shaped industries through figures like NASA astronaut Michael Fossum and Rex Tillerson, former CEO of ExxonMobil and U.S. Secretary of State.
Final Tip: Visit Both Campuses
There’s no substitute for experiencing campus life firsthand. Schedule visits to both UT and Texas A&M to see which feels like the better fit. Attend information sessions, interact with students and faculty, and explore the surrounding areas to get a sense of the culture.
On the other hand, if traveling isn’t feasible, take advantage of virtual tours and online Q&A sessions to gather valuable insights. When attending any kind of tours, prepare specific questions about your academic program, campus life, and housing. Don’t hesitate to ask current students or staff for their honest opinions about day-to-day life at each campus.
Building a Future in Texas
Both UT and Texas A&M are outstanding institutions that have shaped Texas and the nation. But the right choice comes down to one thing: finding the school where you’ll thrive. At Empowerly, we’re here to help you navigate this life-changing decision. Book a consultation with us today to get started!
