The Basics
What is the University of Austin (UATX)?
University of Austin (UATX) is a non-profit 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.
A campus? 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.
Do you have a physical campus?
Yes. Our campus is located at 522 Congress Ave, STE 300, Austin, TX 78701.
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 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
University of Austin is a Candidate institution and a member of the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE or the Commission) www.msche.org. University of Austin’s accreditation status is Candidate for Accreditation. The Commission’s most recent action on the institution’s accreditation status on August 28, 2025 was to grant candidate for accreditation status. MSCHE is recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education to conduct accreditation and pre-accreditation (candidate status) activities for institutions of higher education including distance, correspondence education, and direct assessment programs offered at those institutions. The Commission’s geographic area of accrediting activities is 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. For more information, read more here.
If I withdraw and transfer to another college, will my UATX credits be recognized?
Currently, UATX credits are not transferable.
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. UATX is on track to be accredited in spring 2028. 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, 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.
Academics
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?
The curriculum blends the classical wisdom of the “Great Books” with modern expertise in economics, data science, and AI. Undergraduates complete a rigorous 15-course core that spans from Homer and Shakespeare to advanced computer science. Through intimate 5:1 ratio seminars, students are challenged to debate ideas, defend their positions with facts, and uphold high academic standards. This education culminates in Polaris Projects, where students gain real-world experience by launching companies or working alongside industry builders.
Are you hiring professors?
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?
UATX is tuition free—forever. We know it is hard to believe, but it’s true. Rather than miring our students in debt, we have changed the value proposition. Our students’ success is our success.
UATX undergraduates are only responsible for the following estimated costs:
-Housing: $16,623
-Meals: $6,000
-Books & Supplies: $1,200
-Travel & Transportation: $1,000
-Miscellaneous: $500
Total Estimated Cost: $25,323/year
What if I can’t afford the University of Austin? Are there scholarship and financial aid opportunities?
Yes! In addition to the full tuition coverage, UATX offers:
- Need-based grants
- Lonsdale Magaro Build Scholarship: an unconditional $100,000 award over four years for students who want to build great companies and solve real-world problems.
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 ($25,323); this includes any scholarships and need-based and other financial aid. All scholarships are awarded only when a student deposits and meets all eligibility requirements.
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. Students must also maintain a CSA of 83 or higher. 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. In addition to being permanently tuition-free for all students, UATX provides need-based grants and the Lonsdale Magaro Build Scholarship. Federal financial aid is not available.
You may send any additional financial aid questions to fa@uaustin.org.
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).
UATX is working hard to enable students to use 529 college savings plans.
Finances
Will the University of Austin accept federal aid?
No. We will never take government money. UATX’s financial model doesn’t socialize risk or inflate prices. We believe in the promise of America as a nation of builders and innovators. That means we won’t limit our freedoms or burden students by accepting federal aid.
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, including most recently Jeff Yass’s $100 million gift.
Don't universities cost billions of dollars to found?
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.
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. Spots are limited, so early application and deposit are encouraged. See our admissions policy for additional information.
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?
Applicants who are denied or waitlisted may be reconsidered if they submit updated test scores. If this applies to you, we encourage you to retake a standardized test. If your score improves, submit your new test score through your current application or email it to admissions@uaustin.org. Be sure to have the testing agency send your official verified score directly to UATX. Applications may be reopened or reconsidered once improved scores are received.
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 may 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?
How can I visit UATX or speak with a current student?
Request a Zoom conversation with a member of the Admissions staff, a current faculty member, or a student by emailing admissions@uaustin.org.
Can I submit an application without a test score?
You must (1) self-report a test score (SAT, ACT, or CLT) when submitting your application and (2) have your official score report sent directly from the testing agency. Your application will not be considered complete until the official scores are received.
Applicants may submit updated test scores from later test dates. Applications may be reopened or reconsidered if new scores are higher. Denied or waitlisted applicants may also be reconsidered if they submit improved test scores.
Superscoring: UATX evaluates applicants using superscores for the SAT and ACT. The CLT does not offer superscoring.
Essay/Writing Sections: These sections are not considered in the admissions evaluation.
Does the University of Austin accept AP or IB credit?
- 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.