UATX is Tuition-Free
At the University of Austin, every admitted and enrolled student receives free tuition. There are no hidden fees. Here’s why.
UATX collects a $500 non-refundable enrollment deposit due August 1. This secures your spot in the class and is strictly non-refundable.
All admitted, deposited students in good standing may take up to 180 credits (sufficient for graduation) over four years without paying any tuition.
All costs listed below reflect estimated annual expenses for a full-time student. Additional aid is available to those of high financial need.
Billed Expenses
| Expense | Estimated Cost | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $0 | UATX charges no tuition for up to 180 credits taken over four years by full-time undergraduates. |
| Housing* | $16,546 | Required housing for all first- and second-year students. 12 month lease. |
Additional Expenses
| Expense | Estimated Cost | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Meals* | $6,000 | The University does not offer a meal plan. Estimate based on three meals per day. |
| Books & Supplies* | $1,200 | Includes cost of books, school supplies, etc. |
| Travel & Transportation* | $1,000 | Covers both travel home and local transportation. |
| Miscellaneous* | $500 | Covers various personal expenses (e.g., clothing, dry cleaning, recreational activities in Austin, etc.). |
| Total Estimated Cost | $25,323 | |
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Overview
Scholarships and additional aid are entirely grant-based (no repayment required) and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Funding is limited and secured only once the admission deposit is paid.
Lonsdale Magaro Build Scholarship
Students with top test scores (SAT 1500+, ACT 34+, or CLT 105+) may apply for UATX’s most prestigious award: an unconditional $100,000 scholarship over four years for those who aspire to build companies and solve real-world problems. Scholars receive personal mentorship from leading entrepreneurs and investors, including Joe Lonsdale and Alex Magaro. Ideal candidates are strong in STEM, committed to liberty and innovation, and eager to make a major impact on America’s future.
This scholarship may be awarded in addition to free tuition. Apply here.
All financial aid except for the Lonsdale Magaro Build Scholarship is limited to the maximum cost of attendance.
Additional Aid
Need-based grants for housing, meals, books, and travel are available to students who meet need criteria. Funding is limited, awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, and secured only with a deposit. Apply here.
Eligibility & Requirements
New Students: Family AGI must be below $125,000. Independent students (24+, married, or veterans) may exclude parental data.
Continuing Students: Must remain in good standing; university housing is not required.
Renewal: Annual reapplication required.
Aid Calculation & Adjustments
Awards scale down as AGI approaches $125k. Reductions to your calculated AGI include:
High-Cost Metros: 10% reduction.
Dependents: 10% reduction for two dependents, 20% for three dependents, and up to 50% for six or more.
Additional relevant factors may be considered in some situations.
Process & Deadlines
Apply: Submit the financial aid form, including the most recent 1040 tax return.
Deadlines: New students (April 30), Continuing (May 1).
Finalization: Offers are non-binding until admission is accepted, the deposit is paid, and verification is complete.
Appeals
Appeals are submitted to fa@uaustin.org. Appeals Committee reviews and adjudicates within 5 business days.
Housing (2026-2027)
UATX partners with Union on 24th for 12-month student leases running from August 22, 2026, to July 31, 2027, with a monthly rent of $1,378.87.
Students lease directly with Union and are responsible for all parking, insurance, damages, and utility overages billed through the resident portal. Students are required to live in the dorms as Freshmen and Sophomores.
Cost Breakdown:
Base Rent: $1,378.87/month ($16,546 total).
Utilities: $60/month allowance included; overages billed to tenant.
Insurance: Required. Available through Union ($14.50/month) or 3rd parties (e.g., Lemonade).
Parking: $200/month (optional).
Tenants without a guarantor must pay two months’ rent upfront.
No other deposit, admin, or application fees for this term.
Key Housing Deadlines:
July 15, 2026: August rent due.
Sept 1, 2026: September rent due (subsequent payments due the 1st of each month).