Aggie Agony...What's Happening with Acceptances to Texas A&M?

Here we go again. Another application season of countless Texas A&M rejections. Well, they aren't full rejections since most applicants that I'm aware of are at least being offered PTA, but for the kids hoping that they'd get a full admit, it's heartbreaking news. And, it's only going to get worse.

In 2010 about 23,000 first-time students applied to Texas A&M. This year 36,000+ students applied. The hard reality for many Aggie legacies is that they are now competing with a lot more people for those coveted freshman spots. And, the competition is getting tougher and tougher.

This class was the last to have the academic automatic admission policy whereby students in the 1st quarter with a 1360 SAT or 30 ACT (with minimum subscore requirements) were automatically accepted. While the move to a completely holistic review process, similar to that of UT-Austin, may help some students, it's my belief that this is just a reflection of the necessity to control numbers and retain flexibility in admitting others with other than academic credentials.

I wouldn't be surprised if it's not too far in the future that Texas A&M is allowed to lower its auto-admit cap based on Texas House Bill 588 (otherwise known as the 10% rule). Last year, 63% of the incoming freshman were ranked in the top 10% while 92% were in the top quarter. The bill allows for a cap at 75%.

The great news is that there are plenty of other great universities with great traditions and programs. Check out my blog from this time last year on this same topic and the other options recommended. 

It's the start of application season for current juniors, the class of 2021, and calculated planning is key to creating the greatest possible opportunities...not to mention keeping peace within the family too! Texas applications open as early as July 1st, and the process can often seem overwhelming. I offer comprehensive college application planning and preparation (including coaching on the essays) both in-person and online. I still have a few spots left in my class of 2021 applicant pool and offer a free initial consultation.