Texas Tech University

Texas Tech admitted about 69.1% of applicants in the most recent cycle, drawing roughly 38,600 applications and enrolling around 7,600 first-year students. The university also offers assured admission to applicants who finish in the top of their high school class, so strong students often clear the bar well before the holistic review.

Texas Tech is moderately selective rather than highly competitive, admitting roughly 69% of applicants. Class rank, GPA, and the rigor of your course load count as very important factors, so a solid record in challenging classes positions you well. Programs such as engineering and nursing apply additional criteria beyond the general admission standard.

Out-of-state applicants face slightly tighter odds than Texas residents but still get in at a high rate. For Fall 2025, Texas Tech admitted about 71% of in-state applicants and 65% of out-of-state applicants. Out-of-state students make up only about 8% of the first-year class, and state residency does not factor into the admission decision.

Enrolled first-years average about a 3.64 high school GPA, and admitted students typically land in the 3.5 to 4.0 range. Texas Tech weighs academic GPA, class rank, and course rigor as very important factors. Among enrolled first-years, 54% ranked in the top quarter of their graduating class and 84% in the top half.

A 1200 sits near the top of Texas Tech's range and makes you a competitive applicant. The middle 50% of enrolled first-years scored 1110–1260 on the SAT and 23–28 on the ACT, so a 1200 lands above the median. A score in this band also helps you clear the test thresholds tied to assured admission for students outside the top tenth of their class.

Yes, Texas Tech is test-optional, so you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores. Among enrolled first-years who did submit, the middle 50% scored 1110–1260 on the SAT and 23–28 on the ACT. Submitting strong scores can still help, since they support assured admission for applicants who are not in the top tenth of their class.

Annual tuition and required fees run about $11,852 for Texas residents and $24,152 for out-of-state students. Non-resident students who earn at least $1,000 in competitive Texas Tech scholarships qualify for an out-of-state tuition waiver that drops their rate toward the in-state price. About 48% of first-years receive need-based grant aid, with an average aid package near $14,521.

Yes, Texas Tech rates the application essay as an important factor in its review, alongside recommendations and extracurricular activities. The essay carries the most weight for applicants who fall outside the assured-admission thresholds, where the holistic read decides the outcome. A specific, well-revised essay gives you a real chance to add context to your grades and stand out.

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