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UT Austin McCombs MBA Program Overview (2025)
The McCombs School of Business, established in 1922, is the business school of The University of Texas at Austin, a public research university founded in 1883. Located in Austin, Texas, McCombs offers undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs, serving approximately 13,000 students annually. The school is renowned for its strong emphasis on entrepreneurship, management consulting, clean technology, innovation leadership, and supply chain and operations management. In 2024, U.S. News & World Report ranked McCombs' undergraduate business program 6th nationally, with its accounting program securing the top spot. The Full-Time MBA program is designed to support career exploration, advancement, transition, and entrepreneurship, offering a flexible curriculum with over 20 concentrations, 14 of which are STEM-certified. In 2024, McCombs received a $20 million donation from alumna Mindy Hildebrand, leading to the official naming of the Hildebrand MBA program. This contribution aims to enhance leadership programming and establish the Hildebrand Scholars initiative, initially focusing on Full-Time MBA students.
UT Austin McCombs MBA Acceptance Rate
The McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas at Austin does not publicly disclose the acceptance rate for its Full-Time MBA program. However, available data provides insight into the program's selectivity. The Class of 2026 has an average undergraduate GPA of 3.48 and an average GMAT score of 704. Additionally, The Princeton Review reports an acceptance rate of 38% for McCombs' MBA program. Prospective MBA applicants are encouraged to review the class profile and admission statistics to assess their competitiveness.
Read: UT Austin McCombs MBA Acceptance Rates
UT Austin McCombs Class Profile (2025)
- Location: Austin, TX
- Class Size: 241 students
- Average Work Experience: 5.9 years
- Average GMAT Score: 704
- Average GRE Scores: Verbal 160, Quantitative 161
- Average Undergraduate GPA: 3.46
- Age: Average 29 years
- Age Range (Middle 80%): 25–32 years
- Gender Diversity: 35% women
- International Students: 26%
- U.S. Minority Students: 35%
- Underrepresented Minority (URM) Students: 18% (of U.S. citizens and permanent residents)
- First-Generation College Students: 20%
- U.S. Military Service: 14% (active duty or veterans)
- Undergraduate Majors:
- Business/Economics: 35%
- STEM: 32%
- Humanities: 13%
- Other Majors: 20%
- Consortium Members: 37 students
- Forté MBA Fellows: 61 students
- Dual Degree Students: 15 individuals pursuing dual degrees
Each year, UT Austin's McCombs School of Business admits a diverse and talented group of students into its MBA program, and the Class of 2025 is no exception. With an average GMAT score of 704 and an average undergraduate GPA of 3.46, these metrics reflect the cohort's academic excellence and potential to make significant contributions to the business world. The class is also highly diverse, with students hailing from various industries and backgrounds.
UT Austin McCombs MBA Cost — Tuition & Fees
Pursuing an MBA at the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin involves several financial considerations, including tuition, fees, and additional expenses. Below is a detailed breakdown of the estimated costs for the Full-Time MBA program for the 2024-2025 academic year.
Tuition & Fees:
- Texas Residents: $53,818 per year
- Non-Texas Residents: $59,684 per year
Note: Tuition rates are subject to change and may vary based on legislative actions or university policies.
Estimated Additional Expenses:
- Housing & Food: Approximately $17,300 per year
- Transportation: Approximately $1,740 per year
- Books & Supplies: Approximately $1,247 per year
- Personal/Miscellaneous: Approximately $4,634 per year
These estimates provide a comprehensive view of the anticipated annual costs associated with the Full-Time MBA program.
Total Estimated Annual Cost:
- Texas Residents: Approximately $78,739
- Non-Texas Residents: Approximately $84,605
This total includes tuition, fees, and the additional expenses listed above.
Financial Aid & Scholarships:
McCombs offers various financial aid options, including merit-based scholarships ranging from $2,000 to full tuition. All admitted students are automatically considered for these scholarships; no separate application is required. Additionally, U.S. citizens and permanent residents may be eligible for federal loans, while international students are encouraged to explore loan options through the Financial Aid Office.
Additional Considerations:
- Laptop Requirement: Students are expected to have a laptop computer, with estimated costs around $2,500.
- Health Insurance: Health insurance costs may vary; students should budget accordingly.
- International Students: Additional expenses may include international student service fees and foreign health insurance.
Prospective students are advised to review the latest information on the McCombs School of Business website and consult the Financial Aid Office for personalized guidance.
Please note that all costs are subject to change, and it's essential to verify the most current information when planning your educational expenses.
UT Austin McCombs MBA Employment Report
- Job Offers: 86% of students seeking employment received job offers within three months after graduation.
- Job Acceptances: 85% of those seeking employment accepted positions within the same timeframe.
- Average Base Salary: $151,178
- Average Signing Bonus: $31,003
Industry Placement:
- Consulting: 30% of graduates; average base salary of $172,556
- Technology: 22% of graduates; average base salary of $137,777
- Financial Services: 17% of graduates; average base salary of $158,000
- Energy: 6% of graduates; average base salary of $137,222
- Retail: 5% of graduates; average base salary of $137,857
Geographic Distribution:
- Southwest: 66% of graduates, with 98% of these positions located in Texas
- West: 14%
- Northeast: 8%
- Mid-Atlantic: 4%
- South: 4%
- Midwest: 3%
Job Function Distribution:
- Consulting: 30%
- Finance: 28%
- Marketing/Sales: 21%
- General Management: 18%
Sources of Employment:
- School-Facilitated Resources: 78% of graduates secured positions through resources provided by McCombs, including internships, corporate partnerships, and the alumni network.
UT Austin McCombs Application Overview
The McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin offers a variety of MBA programs tailored to different professional needs and career stages.
UT Austin McCombs Programs & Degrees
- Traditional, Full-Time MBA: A two-year program designed for professionals seeking to advance or pivot their careers.
- Executive MBA: Tailored for seasoned executives, this program emphasizes leadership and strategic management.
- Evening MBA: Designed for working professionals, this program offers evening classes to accommodate full-time employment.
- Deferred MBA Program: The UT Austin McCombs School of Business offers a deferred MBA program for exceptional undergraduate students who want to secure their spot in the MBA program before gaining work experience. The program allows students to pursue their undergraduate degrees while also preparing for their future MBA studies.
- MBA at Houston: A weekend-based program aimed at professionals in the Houston area.
- MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth: A weekend program catering to professionals in the Dallas/Fort Worth region.
- MSx Program: Specialized master's degrees in fields like Business Analytics, Finance, and Technology Commercialization.
- Joint Degrees: Opportunities to combine the MBA with other graduate degrees, such as JD/MBA, MBA/MPH, and MBA/MA.
UT Austin McCombs Deadlines
For the Full-Time MBA program, the application deadlines for the 2024-2025 admissions cycle are:
- Round 1: Application Due: October 15, 2024; Decision Delivered: December 17, 2024
- Round 2: Application Due: January 15, 2025; Decision Delivered: March 27, 2025
- Round 3: Application Due: April 1, 2025; Decision Delivered: April 29, 2025 (Final deadline for international applicants)
- Round 4: Application Due: May 15, 2025; Decision Delivered: June 5, 2025
Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM Central Time on the deadline date for each round.
UT Austin McCombs MBA Requirements
- Application Checklist:
- Standardized Test Scores: GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment (EA) scores are required. Test waivers may be available under specific conditions. Transcripts: Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate coursework.
- Resume: A current professional resume detailing work experience and achievements.
- Essays: Three required essays, each with a 250-word limit, addressing specific prompts.
- Letters of Recommendation: One professional recommendation is required.
- Video Assessment: Applicants must complete a video assessment consisting of prompted questions.
- Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of $200.
- UT Austin McCombs Essays:
- Essay 1: "At Texas McCombs, we do things a little differently. We embrace those who take the initiative and forge new paths. What ambitious goal or change do you aim to achieve with an MBA, and why is Texas McCombs your ideal launch pad?" (250 words)
- Essay 2: "Here, you are what’s next. At this pivotal crossroads where you’re deciding your future path, the Texas McCombs MBA experience will equip you with the tools and mindset to make 'what’s next' happen in your career. Please share unique qualities you possess that highlight your potential to shake up the status quo in your professional life." (250 words)
- Essay 3: "The Texas McCombs community is passionate and driven, known for its collaborative spirit. Tell us about a time when you worked with others to achieve a shared goal. What did you learn about yourself through this experience?" (250 words)
Read: UT Austin McCombs MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples
- UT Austin McCombs Interview:
- Video Assessment: After submitting the application and paying the fee, applicants have seven days to complete a video assessment consisting of seven question prompts, each allowing for a three-minute response.
- Optional Interview: Applicants are invited to complete an optional interview with a current McCombs MBA student. This is an opportunity to showcase interpersonal skills, reaffirm motivation, and learn more about the McCombs community.
Read: How to Nail Your UT Austin McCombs MBA Interview: Overview, Questions, & Tips
- UT Austin McCombs Letters of Recommendation: The UT Austin McCombs requires one recommendation letter from a person who has supervised your work or assessed your performance. The Admissions Committee only accepts one letter per application and does not allow additional recommendations.
During the application process, you can invite your recommender to submit their recommendation through the online system. It is strongly advised to choose a professional recommender, such as a direct supervisor, indirect supervisor, or client. If you cannot request a letter from your direct supervisor or believe another recommender is more suitable, explain your reasoning in the optional essay statement. Once the recommendation letter is submitted, you will receive an automated confirmation email. Your recommender will be asked to evaluate specific competencies and traits and answer three targeted questions in the recommendation form.
Letter of Reference Questions:
- Please provide a brief description of your interaction with the applicant and, if applicable, the applicant's role in your organization. (50 words)
- How does the performance of the applicant compare to that of other well-qualified individuals in similar roles? For example, what are the applicant's principal strengths? (Recommended word count: 500 words)
- Describe the most important piece of constructive feedback you have given the applicant. Please detail the circumstances and the applicant's response. (Recommended word count: 500 words)
Learn more here: How to Get the Perfect MBA Recommendation Letter—With Examples. Also, click here for our free Leland Recommender Prep Template.
UT Austin McCombs Program Overview
The UT Austin McCombs MBA program is a comprehensive and rigorous program that prepares students for leadership roles in the business world. The program is designed to provide a solid foundation in business fundamentals while also offering opportunities for specialization and experiential learning.
Required Curriculum
UT Austin McCombs's MBA core curriculum is purposefully designed to develop the essential skills that leaders need to make informed decisions, analyze data, communicate effectively, and execute strategic visions for change. The core curriculum offers rigorous coverage of key functional areas with interrelated classes that build upon and complement each other.
First-Year Course Breakdown
Fall
- Financial Management
- Statistics
- Marketing Management
- Operations Management
- Strategic Career Planning
Spring
- Strategic Management
- Custom Core #2 (second of four Custom Core* classes)
- Custom Core #3 (third of four Custom Core* classes)
- Custom Core #4 (fourth of four Custom Core* classes)
- Elective
Second Year
In the second year, students have the opportunity to customize their MBA experience by choosing from a wide range of elective courses. These electives allow students to explore areas of interest and gain expertise in specific fields. The second year also includes a capstone project where students apply their knowledge and skills to solve real business problems.
Read: MBA Application Deadlines of the Top 25 Business Schools (2024-2025)
UT Austin McCombs MBA Curriculum & Class Structure
The McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin offers a comprehensive MBA program designed to equip students with essential business skills and leadership capabilities. The curriculum emphasizes both foundational knowledge and opportunities for specialization, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for diverse business challenges.
Year 1
Fall Semester:
- Financial Accounting
- Financial Management
- Statistics
- Microeconomics
- Marketing Management
- Operations Management
- Strategic Career Planning
- Custom Core #1 (first of four Custom Core classes)
Spring Semester:
- Strategic Management
- Custom Core #2 (second of four Custom Core classes)
- Custom Core #3 (third of four Custom Core classes)
- Custom Core #4 (fourth of four Custom Core classes)
- Elective
Note: Custom Core classes are selected from a set of core courses customized for your academic and career goals.
Year 2
In the second year, students have the opportunity to tailor their MBA experience by choosing from over 100 elective courses. This flexibility allows students to delve deeper into areas of interest and gain specialized expertise. Additionally, experiential learning opportunities enable students to apply their knowledge to real-world business scenarios, further enhancing their practical skills.
How to Get Into UT Austin McCombs
Demonstrate Leadership and Initiative
McCombs values applicants who have taken proactive roles in their professional and personal lives. To stand out, highlight experiences where you have led teams, initiated projects, or driven meaningful change. Whether it’s in your workplace, a nonprofit, or an entrepreneurial venture, show how your leadership made a measurable impact. Use concrete examples that illustrate your ability to solve problems, influence others, and navigate challenges.
Maintain a Strong Academic Record
A solid academic background, particularly in quantitative courses, is essential for demonstrating your ability to handle the rigorous MBA curriculum. If you have coursework in finance, economics, statistics, or data analytics, be sure to emphasize your proficiency. If your GPA is lower than ideal, a high GMAT or GRE score can help offset it. Additionally, consider taking supplemental courses in quantitative subjects to strengthen your application.
Craft Compelling Personal Essays
Your essays are your opportunity to provide a personal and authentic narrative about your career goals and why McCombs is the right fit for you. Clearly articulate your aspirations and connect them to specific aspects of the McCombs MBA program, such as faculty, coursework, or experiential learning opportunities. Use storytelling techniques to make your essays engaging and memorable. Instead of general statements, share specific moments that shaped your ambitions and demonstrate how McCombs will help you achieve them.
UT Austin McCombs Notable Alumni & Faculty
Alumni
- Michael Dell: Founder and CEO of Dell Technologies.
- Red McCombs: Co-founder of Clear Channel Communications and namesake of the McCombs School of Business.
- Rex Tillerson: Former CEO of ExxonMobil and 69th U.S. Secretary of State.
Faculty
- Cynthia Beath: Professor Emerita known for her research in information systems and services.
- Gay Gaddis: Entrepreneur and founder of T3, recognized for her contributions to marketing and leadership.
- Donald Evans: Former U.S. Secretary of Commerce and alumnus, contributing insights from his extensive experience in business and government.
Get Into UT Austin McCombs With the Help of Experts
The UT Austin McCombs MBA application process is highly competitive, and working with an experienced admissions consultant can make all the difference. Expert coaching provides personalized guidance, helping applicants refine their essays, strengthen their resumes, and prepare for interviews. By leveraging insights from professionals who understand the admissions process inside and out, you can maximize your chances of securing a spot at McCombs.
Here are three of the most popular MBA admissions consultants for UT Austin McCombs. Browse all here:
- Austin P. — A former McCombs admissions officer with years of experience guiding applicants, Austin specializes in crafting compelling personal narratives and optimizing application strategies.
- Devery D. — An MBA admissions expert with a track record of success, Devery helps applicants navigate the McCombs admissions process by refining their essays, strengthening their interview skills, and positioning their work experience effectively.
- Cassandra D. — A seasoned consultant who has helped numerous MBA candidates gain admission to top MBA programs, Cassandra focuses on storytelling, leadership experience, and crafting applications that resonate with McCombs' values.
FAQs
What is the average GMAT or GRE score for admitted students?
- While specific averages may vary each year, the admissions committee considers a range of scores. It's advisable to check the latest class profile for up-to-date statistics.
Is work experience required for admission?
- Yes, applicants are typically expected to have a minimum of two years of full-time professional work experience before enrolling.
Are interviews a mandatory part of the application process?
- Interviews are by invitation only and are extended after an initial review of the application materials.
What financial aid options are available for MBA students?
- McCombs offers various scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships. Additionally, students may explore federal and private loan options.
Can I apply to multiple MBA programs at McCombs simultaneously?
- Applicants are generally advised to apply to the program that best fits their career goals, as simultaneous applications to multiple programs are not encouraged.
Does McCombs accept transfer credits from other MBA programs?
- Transfer credits are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, but acceptance is rare due to the integrated nature of the McCombs curriculum.
What career services are available to MBA students?
- McCombs provides comprehensive career services, including career coaching, workshops, employer networking events, and job search resources.
Are there opportunities for international exposure during the MBA program?
- Yes, McCombs offers global opportunities such as study abroad programs, international internships, and global consulting projects.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio in the MBA program?
- The program maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio to ensure personalized attention and mentorship opportunities.
How does McCombs support entrepreneurship among MBA students?
- The school offers resources like the Herb Kelleher Center for Entrepreneurship, startup incubators, and venture capital investment competitions to foster entrepreneurial initiatives.
