frequently
asked questions
faq topics
The Basics
What is the University of Austin (UATX)?
UATX is a university committed to the fearless pursuit of truth.
What do you stand for?
In a word: truth. In a few more words: the fearless pursuit of truth. But perhaps you'd like a slightly longer answer: UATX is committed to freedom of inquiry as the precondition for the pursuit of truth. Others have abandoned this core mission of the university. The pursuit of truth is the very foundation of our university and the reason we believe the most curious, innovative scholars and students are joining us.
Do you have a physical location?
Yes. Our campus is located at 522 Congress Ave, STE 300, Austin, TX 78701. We are planning to develop a residential campus in the greater Austin area and have begun the master-planning process.
Land? Brick-and-mortar? Are you serious? Isn’t everything online now?
We are old school. We believe human beings think and learn better when they gather in person, in dedicated locations—where they are, to some extent, insulated from the quotidian struggle to make ends meet, and where there is no fundamental distinction between those who teach and those who learn, beyond the extent of their knowledge and wisdom.
Does the University of Austin have any political or religious affiliations?
No. UATX will remain independent of any political, religious, or other external interest groups.
Is the University of Austin public or private? Non-profit or for-profit?
UATX is a private, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Why Austin?
Texas is experiencing a historic boom in talent and capital. Austin, in particular, is a hub for builders, innovators, and real-world change-makers—the kind of people we aim to attract and the community we want to contribute to.
What is the role of your advisors?
UATX is fortunate to have a diverse board of advisors, who offer advice and expertise across many areas. They are united in their commitment to academic freedom, their belief in the need for reform in higher education, and their aim toward restoring open inquiry and civil discourse. Our advisors are not always in full agreement with each other or all of the choices we make as an institution. This is exactly what we hope for given our commitment to rigorous thinking and spirited debate.
Nearly every university says it stands for freedom of inquiry. what will be different about your university?
We mean it. We are alarmed by the rising tide of illiberalism and censoriousness prevalent in America’s universities. We are motivated to reverse this trend, for the good of society. We know there are students, teachers, and citizens who still believe in the core purpose of higher education: the pursuit of truth. That’s why we are building UATX. At each stage of the launch of our university—from hiring staff to building the curriculum to admitting students and hiring faculty—we ask ourselves, “Are we serving the pursuit of truth?”
Accreditation
Is the University of Austin accredited?
The University of Austin is engaged in the Middle States Commission on Higher Education’s (MSCHE) process for determining its readiness for candidate for accreditation status. MSCHE is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education to conduct accreditation and pre-accreditation (candidacy status) activities for institutions of higher education throughout the United States. Accreditation is a multi-year process that all universities must continually undergo. Graduating a first class of undergraduate students is normally a prerequisite for completing the first accreditation cycle.
Can I apply to graduate school with a UATX degree before the university is accredited?
Yes—potentially. The University of Austin is executing agreements with other institutions to recognize its degrees prior to full accreditation. These agreements are intended to ensure eligibility for graduate and professional programs. We are working with accreditors to ensure our students graduate with a degree from an accredited institution. If accreditation is granted soon after graduation, it may apply retroactively to include the first graduating class. University of Austin degrees are designed to meet accreditation standards. We’re also securing articulation agreements with other universities to ensure our graduates are recognized for their academic rigor and are eligible for graduate and professional programs.
If I withdraw and transfer to another college, will my UATX credits be recognized?
Currently, UATX credits are not transferable. However, UATX is working to establish articulation agreements with other institutions so that credits may be recognized before full accreditation. Check back for updates and a list of partner institutions.
When do you expect to complete the accreditation process?
Accreditation is a five to seven-year process universities must continually undergo. The graduation of a first class of undergraduates is normally a prerequisite for accreditation. We expect the first accreditation cycle to have been completed between 2028 and 2031. After that, UATX, like every other American university, will undergo a new cycle of accreditation every 5, 7, or 10 years, depending upon the accreditation body’s rules.
Will accreditation apply retroactively to The University of Austin's first graduating class?
We are working with the accreditors to maximize the chances that our students will graduate with a degree from an accredited institution. If our official accreditation happens shortly after graduation, there are paths possible wherein it would apply retroactively to include the graduation date of the first class. The degrees that our students will earn will meet the high standards demanded by accreditors. In addition, we are also working on articulation agreements with other universities, so that our graduates are recognized as having met high academic standards upon matriculation and would be eligible to apply to graduate school at these universities.
Academics
Does the University of Austin accept AP or IB credit?
The University of Austin does not award college credit for AP or IB exams or coursework. However:
- Students may use AP/IB scores to place out of certain course requirements (subject to departmental approval)
- AP/IB scores may be submitted as admissions materials under the regular admissions track
What degrees do you offer?
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board has granted a Certificate of Authority to UATX to award the degree listed below: Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies. This certificate does not constitute accreditation; the issuance of this certificate attests only that the institution has met the Board's standards established for nonexempt institutions. Questions or complaints about this institution should be addressed to: Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711, 512.427.6200
Does the University of Austin offer online classes?
We believe that real education is most effectively achieved in face-to-face human communities. Our classes meet almost exclusively in person, though sometimes we employ online instruction to supplement our coursework.
What is the basic structure of the undergraduate program?
UATX’s undergraduate program immerses students in a vibrant community that emphasizes academic rigor, civil discourse, and intellectual risk-taking. Intellectual Foundations (Years 1-2): Our Intellectual Foundations program challenges freshmen and sophomores to confront timeless questions from antiquity to the present. Through close reading and analysis of foundational/canonical texts, UATX’s freshmen and sophomores learn to challenge their beliefs, advance ideas, and solve complex problems. Small, discussion-based seminars cultivate a shared intellectual culture, while weekly lectures encourage students to synthesize ideas across epochs and disciplines. Junior Fellowship (Years 3-4): During their junior and senior years, UATX undergraduates will serve as Junior Fellows, developing specialized knowledge in one or more of our Academic Centers. As the intellectual hubs of UATX, Academic Centers differ from traditional academic departments in being a combination of interdisciplinary research institutes, think tanks, and startup incubators. Students collaborate with accomplished scholars and researchers in the Center for Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics (CSTEM), the Center for Economics, Politics, & History (CEPH), and/or the Center for Arts & Letters (CAL). During this time, students choose to specialize in one or more areas of study. Polaris Project (Years 1-4): In partnership with scholars and industry leaders, every UATX student spends four years creating and pursuing with purpose a project of significant import for the common good. In so doing, students will cultivate skills, discipline, and prudence by overcoming real-world challenges.
Are you hiring professors?
Yes, we are currently accepting faculty applications. If you are a professor in the job market, we are eager to hear from you. See our Careers page for a list of current openings, and sign up for our email list and select “faculty opportunities” to be alerted when more positions become available.
Costs & financial aid
What is the cost of enrollment?
All students in the Class of 2029 will receive a full-tuition Founders Scholarship beginning Fall 2025. The scholarship is valued at $180,000 over four years. Students are responsible for the following estimated costs:
-Students Fees: $1,050
-Housing: $14,750
-Meals: $6,000
-Books & Supplies: $1,200
-Travel & Transportation: $1,000
-Miscellaneous: $500
Total Estimated Cost: $24,500/year
What if I can’t afford the University of Austin? Are there scholarship and financial aid opportunities?
Yes! In addition to the Founders Scholarship, UATX offers:
- Need-based grants
- University-funded work-study
- Merit-based awards
- Lonsdale Magaro Build Scholarship: Students with top test scores (SAT 1500+, ACT 34+, or CLT 108+) can apply for the most prestigious scholarship: an unconditional, $98,000 award over four years for students who want to build great companies and solve real-world problems. Scholars receive personal mentorship from top entrepreneurs and investors, including Joe Lonsdale and Alex Magaro. The ideal candidate is strong in STEM, committed to liberty and innovation, and wants to make a big impact on America’s future. Note the Lonsdale Magaro Build Scholarship will be awarded in addition to the Founders Scholarship. See here for terms and conditions. Students who are awarded the Lonsdale Magaro Build Scholarship are not eligible for any additional merit-based financial aid.
- Merit-First Scholarships: This merit-based scholarship program rewards exceptional performance on standardized tests, affirming UATX’s commitment to intellectual excellence and academic rigor. Awards are granted independent of financial need, ensuring that high-achieving students are recognized solely for their academic performance.
- All incoming undergraduate students are welcome to apply so long as they scored above 1460 on the SAT, 33 on the ACT or 105 on the CLT. Note Merit Scholarships are awarded for the first year only based on standardized test scores. To continue receiving merit scholarships in subsequent years, students must reapply annually, and awards will be determined solely based on academic performance at UATX (GPA).
See the Costs, Scholarships, and Financial Aid page for details.
*Total annual aid awarded to each student cannot exceed the total annual cost of attendance ($69,500); this includes the Founders Scholarship, Build Scholarship, additional merit-based and need-based scholarships, and other financial aid.
What are the terms and conditions for the Founders Scholarship?
- Automatically awarded to all admitted students
- Covers tuition only (not fees, housing, or other costs)
- To claim, students must accept admission and pay the non-refundable enrollment deposit by the deadline
- Non-deferrable — deferral results in loss of the scholarship and all aid
- Withdrawing or transferring results in forfeiture of unused funds
Continued eligibility requires good standing. Violations of the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Code of Conduct, or other serious misconduct may result in suspension, revocation, or forfeiture of the scholarship See the Academic Catalog for more details.
What are the terms and conditions for the Lonsdale Magaro Build Scholarship?
- Exclusive to UATX undergraduates
- Cannot be deferred; deferral results in forfeiture
- Withdrawals or transfers result in forfeiture of remaining funds
- Ongoing eligibility requires good standing and adherence to university conduct policies
For full terms, consult the Academic Catalog or Office of Financial Aid.
Does the University of Austin offer need-based and merit-based financial aid?
Yes. UATX provides need-based grants and university-funded work-study positions for eligible students. Federal financial aid is not available. Merit-based awards are also granted independent of financial need, ensuring that high-achieving students are recognized solely for their academic performance. Merit-based scholarships are awarded on top of the four-year, full-tuition Founders Scholarship every enrolled student receives.
All incoming undergraduate students are welcome to apply so long as they scored above 1460 on the SAT, 33 on the ACT, or 105 on the CLT. Eligibility for merit-based scholarships will be determined based solely on the standardized test score submitted at the time of the application for admission. No administration of a standardized test after the submission of the admission application will be accepted for scholarship evaluation. Note Merit Scholarships are awarded for the first year only based on standardized test scores.
To continue receiving merit aid in subsequent years, students must reapply annually, and awards will be determined solely based on academic performance at UATX (GPA). Students who are awarded the Lonsdale Magaro Build Scholarship are not eligible for any additional merit-based financial aid. Students are not eligible to receive more aid or scholarships than the total cost of attendance ($69,500).
Does the University of Austin participate in Federal Student Aid (FSA) programs? Can students use 529 college savings plans?
No. UATX is not currently designated as an “eligible institution” by the U.S. Department of Education and does not offer federal aid (e.g., Pell Grants, loans).
However, students may still be able to use 529 college savings plans—consult a tax advisor.
Finances
Will the University of Austin receive public funding?
Tuition is entirely free for students enrolling in Fall 2025, thanks to the Founders Scholarship (valued at $130,000 over four years). Students are responsible for the following estimated annual cost: Student Fees: $1,050Housing: $16,500Meals: $6,000Books & Supplies: $1,200Travel & Transportation: $1,000Miscellaneous: $500Total Estimated Cost: $26,250/year
UATX is building a financial model that does not rely on public funding. As a new institution, UATX is not immediately eligible for public funding but it does plan to establish eligibility for such funding at the appropriate time.
So how will you have the money to run a university?
Launching a new university in today’s highly regulated environment is an expensive undertaking. UATX’s supporters and friends have and continue to make the creation of its vision possible with their generous support. UATX has set an initial fundraising goal of $250 million by the fall of 2024 and is well on its way to achieving it.
Don't universities cost billions of dollars to found?
If we were mimicking the traditional model of higher ed, then yes, starting a new university would cost billions. But we’re not doing that. It is true that a good education doesn’t come cheap, but we know that we can do better than the status quo. At UATX, we want to make sure every dollar spent advances the education of our students. Building a university from the ground up affords us the opportunity to reexamine the legacy practices of universities and dramatically slash the cost of university administration, ensuring funds are directed as much as possible to academics. UATX is developing a new financial model that reverses higher ed’s bureaucratic bloat, improves student experience, and keeps fees to a minimum.
How can I support the University of Austin?
You can support us financially by going to our Support Us page. You can also email us at donate@uaustin.org to connect with our advancement team and find out about becoming a UATX Founder (visit our campaign page to learn more). Or you can send a check to: University of Austin, 522 Congress Ave, STE 300, Austin, TX 78701. Make checks payable to “UATX.” UATX is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Contributions to UATX may be tax-deductible for income, gift, and estate tax purposes. Consult with your advisor on specific tax deductibility. UATX’s federal tax identification number is 87-1925354.
I don't have money to donate, but I want to help. What can I do?
We’re grateful for gifts of any size, but there is plenty you can still do if you have no funds to spare. UATX is at its core a community project. You can engage with our growing library of online content. Watch our videos. Share them. Post about us on social media and forward our emails. Tell your friends and family about us. And if you know any smart, fearless scholars or students, send them our way.
Merit-first admissions
Are you currently accepting student applications?
Yes! Apply here to join us this Fall 2025 or next year (2026-27).
What is the University of Austin's Merit-First Admissions Policy?
If you scored 1460+ SAT, 33+ ACT, or 105+ CLT, you are automatically admitted (pending basic eligibility and an integrity check). If you scored below those thresholds, we’ll evaluate you based on test scores and AP/IB results. Applicants for Fall 2025 who scored below those thresholds must list up to three verifiable achievements, each stated in a single sentence. Matriculated students are eligible for Founders Scholarships, which cover full tuition. Founders Scholarships are awarded to students in the Class of 2030 on a first-come, first-served basis; all students in the Class of 2029 will be awarded Founders Scholarships. See our admissions policy for additional information.
What is an integrity check?
The integrity check confirms, at the discretion of the Admission Committee, that each admitted student meets our high standards, including honesty, responsibility, and readiness. We confirm the integrity of each application. This check is not used for academic evaluation — it’s to ensure we can trust you as a member of our community. It includes:
- One recommendation letter from someone who knows you well and can speak to your character
- Disclosure of any past disciplinary, criminal, or ethical issues
- If concerns arise, we may request an interview to verify submitted information
Providing false information or omitting key facts may result in denial or revocation of admission. If already enrolled, this may lead to forfeiture of deposit, tuition, fees, and scholarships, and dismissal without credit.
What if my test scores don't arrive in time?
Given the short turnaround required to receive and verify scores, you must request that standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, or CLT) be sent to the University immediately after submitting your application. We understand that some students may experience delays in the delivery of standardized test scores or other time-sensitive materials.
You may request a case-by-case extension of the enrollment deposit deadline if you can provide proof that you have requested your official test scores be sent to the University of Austin within 24 hours of the deadline.
To request an extension, email admissions@uaustin.org with:
- A brief explanation of your situation
- Proof of your request to have your test scores sent (e.g., confirmation from the testing agency)
Extension requests must be submitted within 24 hours of the enrollment deposit deadline. We will respond to each request within 48 hours.
I was denied admission. Can I reapply to UATX?
Yes. We make it easy to reapply. If you were denied for Fall 2025, you may apply for Fall 2026 admission. Simply submit a new application and be sure to include any new materials (e.g. updated test scores).
For the Fall 2026 cycle, denied or waitlisted applicants may be reconsidered if they submit updated test scores. If you are denied or waitlisted for Fall 2026, we encourage you to retake a standardized test. If you score higher, simply submit your improved test score within your current application and don't forget to send us your improved verified score from the testing company. Applications may be reopened or reconsidered if test scores improve.
Does the University of Austin accept transfer students?
No. UATX does not currently accept transfer credits. All applicants must apply as first-year students. However, previously completed coursework may, with departmental approval, be used to place out of specific course requirements.
Does the University of Austin accept international students?
Not at this time. All applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. UATX plans to accept international students once all legal and regulatory requirements are met.
Can an applicant defer UATX’s offer of admission?
Yes. Students may defer enrollment to the immediately following academic year (Fall term only).
Deferrals beyond one academic year require a new application.
Deferring students forfeit all previously awarded financial aid and must reapply for aid if enrolling in a future year.
If I matriculate and graduate from UATX, what will my undergraduate degree be?
All UATX students currently earn a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies.
How can I visit UATX or speak with a current student?
You can:
- Sign up for a campus tour
- Apply to attend a summer program
Request a Zoom conversation with a current faculty member or student. Request a Zoom conversation with a current faculty member or student.
Contact: admissions@uaustin.org
Can I submit an application without a test score?
Applications may be submitted without test scores, but they will not be considered complete until a test score is received.
Applicants may submit updated test scores from subsequent test dates. Applications may be reopened or reconsidered if test scores improve. Denied or waitlisted applicants may also be reconsidered if they submit updated test scores. All admissions decisions are final as of August 1, 2026.
Superscoring: UATX uses superscores to evaluate test performance.
Essay/Writing Sections: Not considered in evaluation.
Does the University of Austin accept AP or IB credit?
The University of Austin does not award college credit for AP or IB exams or coursework. However:
- Students may use AP/IB scores to place out of certain course requirements (subject to departmental approval)
- AP/IB scores may be submitted as admissions materials under the regular admissions track
Student Life
What is UATX’s student housing policy?
All undergraduates must live in university-designated housing for their first two years. Shared accommodations should be expected.
Exceptions are made on a case-by-case basis for students with medical or other special circumstances.
What is the University of Austin’s immunization policy?
UATX complies with all federal, state, and local vaccination laws. A bacterial meningitis vaccine is required for all students unless a valid state-recognized exemption applies.
For details, see the Texas Department of State Health Services.
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