The University of Texas will automatically accept the top 8% of Texas high school graduates – not 10% – according to a new rule set to begin with current high school juniors. The change is designed to open some slots for outstanding students who don’t graduate at the top of their class, with admission decisions based on a “holistic review” of students, according to the school’s president.
It’s uncertain yet how this will affect LHHS grads, though many believe it will increase the chances for kids from strong schools, such as LH and Highland Park, offering multiple college-prep and Advanced Placement courses. Many LH students hope the new rule will result in a real-live person evaluating their entire resume, including their solid A average (not enough to land them in the top 10%) and additional activities, leadership, and service. The change is likely to encourage students riding the 10% line to challenge themselves with tougher coursework, free now from the worry of falling out of the top 10%. UT admissions rules have generated lively discussion here in the past.
Other public colleges in Texas will continue to automatically accept students graduating in the top 10%.
