Thank you for your interest in the Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) Program at The University of Texas at Austin. Our admissions team is committed to supporting prospective students throughout the application process and looks forward to reviewing your materials. Admission to the MSSW Program is competitive and requires acceptance by both the UT Austin Graduate School and the School of Social Work through a single online application. We encourage applicants to apply early and ensure all requirements are completed by the final deadline.
Professional behavior and ethical responsibility begin with the application process. All applicants and students are expected to act in accordance with the NASW Code of Ethics from their first engagement with our program. This includes demonstrating honesty, empathy, compassion, and respect for others. These values are central to professional social work practice and essential to a strong learning environment.
Our program is committed to preparing the next generation of social workers across both clinical and administration and policy practice areas. While many of our students focus on clinical practice, all are trained to be leaders who understand and work within the systems that impact individual and community well-being. We prepare clinical social workers to meet growing needs in healthcare, behavioral health, schools, and related settings. At the same time, we emphasize systems-level change through strategy, coalition building, and collaboration across sectors. Students are expected to approach challenges thoughtfully and to work across areas of difference with professionalism and mutual respect. They learn to navigate institutional structures, build alliances, and lead with ethical integrity. Whether providing direct services or shaping organizational practices, our graduates are prepared to lead and make a lasting impact.
Admission to our program is highly competitive. Each year, we receive applications from many well-qualified candidates. While we appreciate each applicant’s experiences and strengths, the number of available spaces is limited. As a result, not all qualified applicants can be admitted. This is not a reflection of an individual’s potential or commitment. All admissions decisions are final. We encourage applicants to remain dedicated to their goals and to continue growing as leaders in the field of social work.
About the Program
MSSW Program Goals
- Graduates will practice professional social work utilizing advanced knowledge and skills in Clinical Social Work or Administration and Policy Practice.
- Graduates will develop and apply a commitment to critical inquiry and knowledge acquisition and development.
- Graduates will be able to discuss their understanding of the dynamics of populations at risk and implement social justice strategies to redress inequities and oppression within individual, family, group, community, and organizational contexts.
These goals are achieved through a course of study consisting of a foundation curriculum required of all students, followed by a group of courses in one of two areas of concentration selected by the student: Clinical Social Work or Administration and Policy Practice. The Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) Program at the University of Texas at Austin is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
Review the MSSW Handbook.
Learn About The Program
Let us help you decide if our MSSW Program is right for you.
- Learn more about the UT School of Social Work’s Core Values.
- Request an Information Packet.
- Browse the MSSW Program Requirements
- View the Recorded Information Session
- Review Graduate School Admission Requirements.
- Find MSSW Program tuition rates and cost of attendance.
Admission Requirements
To apply to the MSSW Program at UT Austin, you must meet the admission requirements of both the UT Graduate School and the School of Social Work.
Program Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree
From an accredited U.S. institution or equivalent international degree. - GPA
Minimum 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) in upper-division (junior/senior) coursework and any completed graduate work. - Professional Experience
Volunteer or paid work in social work or a related field is required. - Recommendations
Three required. Submitted through the online application system. - Statement of Purpose
Three required. A fourth statement is required if your GPA is below 3.0. - Resume
Submit a professional resume. - Transcripts
Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended. - Statistics Course
One introductory statistics course (grade C or higher) covering inferential applications. Online courses are accepted if shown on an official transcript. Certificates are not accepted. - GRE
Not required. However, GRE scores may strengthen applications with lower GPAs or non-traditional transcripts. - Application Fee
$65 (non-refundable). The School of Social Work does not offer application waivers.
Additional Program Requirements for Special Applicant Groups:
LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY
International Applicants: Submit official TOEFL or IELTS scores to show English proficiency.
PRACTICUM EVALUATION
Post-BSW Applicants, only: BSW graduates submit final evaluation; current BSW students submit mid-term practicum evaluation by March 31st.
SYLLABI
Transfer Applicants, only: Upload course syllabi through MyStatus under “Miscellaneous Admissions Documents” after submitting your application.
International Applicants, Transfer Students, Post-BSW Program & Dual Degree Program
International Applicants
International students applying to The University of Texas at Austin must submit either an official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score report demonstrating an adequate knowledge of English.
The Institutional TOEFL (ITP) and the IELTS General Training are not accepted. We do not accept Duolingo scores.
The minimum scores considered acceptable for admission by the Graduate School are:
TOEFL: 79 on the Internet-based test (iBT)
IELTS: An overall band of 6.5 on the Academic Examination
Scores must be sent to the university by the testing agency (self-reported scores are not accepted). The Educational Testing Service (ETS) institution code for UT Austin is 6882. There is no institutional code for the IELTS examination. To fulfill the requirement with scores from the IELTS, please use the IELTS electronic score delivery service to send your scores to the “University of Texas at Austin” account.
Transfer Applicants
To transfer into the MSSW Program:
- You must have attended a CSWE accredited program.
- Up to 24 credit hours may be transferred, if approved.
- A minimum of 36 credit hours must be completed at UT Austin.
Required Documents:
- List of Courses: In your application, include the courses you wish to transfer with grades and semesters.
- Letter of Good Standing: Request this from your current program director. Must be on university letterhead and emailed to: ssw-admissions@austin.utexas.edu.
- Course Syllabi: Upload through MyStatus under “Miscellaneous Admissions Documents” after submitting your application.
Post-BSW Program
The Post-BSW Program at the University of Texas at Austin School of Social Work is designed for applicants who already hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE accredited program. This accelerated track allows eligible students to earn a Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) in a shorter timeframe, typically 1+ year (42–48 credit hours).
Practicum Evaluation Requirement
To verify your eligibility for the Post-BSW Program, we require submission of your practicum evaluation:
- If you already hold a BSW:
Submit your final practicum evaluation by December 1. - If you are currently completing your BSW:
Submit your mid-term practicum evaluation by March 1.
How to Submit:
Upload your document via MyStatus under “Miscellaneous Admissions Documents.”
Questions?
Contact us at ssw-admissions@austin.utexas.edu
Dual-Degree Application Instructions
🎓 Thinking About a Dual Degree?
If you’re applying for a dual-degree program, here’s what you need to know:
Step 1: Apply to Both Programs
You must apply separately to each program.
- One application to the MSSW program using the dual-degree application
- One application to the partner program (e.g., Business, Law, Public Health)
You must be accepted by both to begin the dual-degree program.
📄 Application Guidelines by Program
Submit Two Applications (MSSW Dual-Degree & Partner Program):
– MSSW/MBA: McCombs School of Business
– MSSW/JD: UT Austin School of Law
– MSSW/MPH: UT Health Houston School of Public Health
– MSSW/MDiv: Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary
Submit One Application (MSSW Dual-Degree):
– MSSW/MPAff: LBJ School of Public Affairs
– MSSW/MA: Teresa Lozano Long Institute of Latin American Studies
** These programs (MPAff & MA) use the MSSW dual-degree application as their graduate application. You only need to submit it once, but must still be accepted by both programs. **
Step 2: Choose a Start Program
If you’re accepted by both programs, you’ll need to decide which one to start in your first year.
📣 Be sure to communicate with both programs to plan your schedule and enrollment.
🔁 Step 3: If Not Accepted to Both
If you’re not admited to both programs, you’re encouraged to reapply during the next admissions cycle.
📌 Special Note: Post-BSW Dual Degree Applicants
If you’re applying as a Post-BSW student, you must submit two applications:
– The Post-BSW MSSW application
– A separate application to the partner program
Helpful Resources
International Student and Scholar Services
The university’s office of International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) is a resource to admitted students. The ISSS can assist you with questions about topics ranging from immigration status to housing.
Office of Graduate Admissions
The Office of Graduate Admissions assists international applicants with the graduate admissions process.
Admission Procedures
Required Documents
Statement of Purpose
You will receive an email within 1-2 business days after submitting your application confirming receipt and providing you with your UT EID and a temporary password. The email will also include a link to My Status where you can upload your statement of purpose.
To apply to this program, you will need to submit a statement of purpose comprised of three prompts. You are advised to upload one document with individual responses to each prompt.
Please note: The Admissions Review Committee members are required to report certain information as mandated reporters.
Mandatory Reporter.
Beginning January 1, 2020, Texas Senate Bill 212 requires all employees of Texas universities, including faculty, report any information to the Title IX Office regarding sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence and stalking that is disclosed to them.
Texas law requires that all employees who witness or receive any information of this type (including, but not limited to, written forms, applications, one-on-one conversations, and class assignments) must be reported.
If you would like to speak with someone who can provide support or remedies without making an official report to the university, please email advocate@austin.utexas.edu. For more information about reporting options and resources, please visit http://www.titleix.utexas.edu, contact the Title IX Office via email at titleix@austin.utexas.edu, or call 512-471-0419.
Conditional Admission Statement
If your upper-division GPA is below 3.0, you must submit a Conditional Admission Statement (300–500 words) as part of your application.
Why This Is Needed:
-Your GPA does not meet the minimum requirement for direct admission.
-The School of Social Work must petition the Graduate School on your behalf for conditional admission.
What to Include in Your Statement:
Any special experiences or circumstances that help explain your academic performance.
A clear plan for how you will overcome challenges and succeed in the MSSW program if admitted.
🚫 Note: If you do not submit this statement, your application will be considered incomplete.
Resume
A professional resume is required as part of your MSSW application.
What to Include:
Your resume should highlight your professional and relevant social service experience, including both paid and unpaid work.
Resume Guidelines:
- Submit a professional, polished resume in PDF format only.
- Use the DiNitto Center for Career Services’ Resume Guide for tips and examples.
- Do not include photos, your Social Security number, or other sensitive information.
- Proofread carefully to ensure your resume is error-free.
Recommendations
You must submit three (3) letters of recommendation as part of your MSSW application.
Who to Choose:
Select individuals who know you well and can speak to your:
- Skills and achievements.
- Commitment to social justice.
- Readiness for graduate-level work.
Strong recommenders may include:
- Professors who can speak to your academic abilities.
- Supervisors or colleagues from relevant paid or unpaid work.
🚫 Do not use personal references (like friends or family)—they cannot provide an objective evaluation.
How It Works:
- You’ll list your three recommenders in the application.
- After you submit your application, the university will contact them directly to request their letters.
📝 Choose wisely—strong, thoughtful recommendations can make a big difference.
Transcripts
- Submit official transcripts from every senior college or university you have attended.
- Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution where the courses were taken, regardless of whether they appear on another school’s transcript.
- Ensure all previously attended institutions are listed in your application.
- Failure to disclose all colleges or submit required transcripts may be considered a deliberate omission and may result in the cancellation of your application or the withdrawal of an admission offer.
Official Test Scores (GRE / TOEFL / IELTS)
GRE (Graduate Record Examinations)
The GRE is optional for admission. However, submitting scores may strengthen your application, especially if:
- You have a GPA below 3.0, or
- You’re submitting non-traditional academic records.
If you choose to submit GRE scores, request that your official score report be sent to: - The University of Texas at Austin, ETS Institution Code: 6882
English Proficiency Requirements (International Applicants)
Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency by submitting official test scores from one of the following:
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
Scores must be sent directly from ETS to The University of Texas at Austin. ETS Code: 6882
**The Institutional TOEFL (ITP) and the IELTS General Training are not accepted. We do not accept Duolingo scores.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
The UT School of Social Work, in partnership with the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid, offers a variety of scholarships for both incoming and current students. All scholarship applications are submitted through the LASSO (Longhorn Awards and Student Scholarship Opportunities) system.
Prospective MSSW students are encouraged to complete a LASSO application to be considered for school-specific scholarships.
LASSO Instructions:
- Log into LASSO
- Update Academic Year to 2026-2027
- In Type to Filter, search “SSW-UT School of Social Work Scholarship Application – MSSW”
Merit-based scholarships: Apply December 1 through January 5.
Need-based and professional interest scholarships: Apply December 1 through February 1.
To be considered for need-based scholarships, students must also complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) at studentaid.gov using UT Austin’s school code: 003658.
Students who do not submit a FAFSA will still be considered for scholarships that do not require demonstrated financial need. However, submitting a FAFSA is strongly recommended to maximize eligibility for a broader range of funding opportunities.
Scholarship awards are based on merit, financial need, and professional interests, and play a vital role in supporting and recruiting talented MSSW students.
Funded Practicum Education
The Practicum Education Office offers several Funded Practicum Education Programs. During practicum education, students participate in academic internships at community agencies. Here, they develop and enhance their social work skills under the guidance of experienced social workers. Additionally, students attend a practice course and practicum seminar to reflect on and learn from their internship experiences.
The following Practicum Education Programs require the submission of an application. Please contact each program for information about their application requirements.
· Earl Maxwell Scholars Program
· The Gerontology Resources and the Aging Community in Education Scholars Program (GRACE)
· St. David’s Foundation Bilingual Social Work Scholars Program
Student Employment
Graduate students are encouraged to explore academic and non-academic employment opportunities at the UT School of Social Work and within the university.
For more information visit:
Helpful Resources
Cost of Attendance
The cost of attendance (COA) is an estimate of what it costs the typical student to attend the UT School of Social Work. Your COA covers both your tuition and basic living expenses, including housing and food, books and supplies, transportation and travel costs, and personal expenses. To calculate your COA visit Cost & Tuition Rates.
My Status
MyStatus offers applicants secure, individualized information from initial application submission to the final admission decision and beyond. Use it to track the receipt of submitted application materials, to upload required supporting documents, to confirm that your application file is complete, and to get your decision.
What I Owe
There are several ways to pay for your UT education. Find information here on how to pay online, in person or by mail, using financial aid or outside loans.
LASSO FAQ
Frequently asked questions by students about the LASSO scholarship management system.
Texas OneStop
A central location to have questions answered regarding financial aid, billing, payment, registration, and records.
Admission Process and Certificate Program Connection
Timeline
The admissions process follows a structured timeline. Application review begins in December, and admission decisions are released in March. Admitted students must confirm their intent to enroll by responding to their offer no later than April 15.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply for scholarship opportunities. Scholarship applications may be submitted through LASSO between December 1 and January 5. Please refer to the Financial Aid and Scholarships section for instructions.
While the program does not offer full-ride scholarships, awards are available to incoming students based on merit, financial need, and area of interest as part of the program’s recruitment efforts.
Review Process
Applications are reviewed holistically, considering individual merit, academic and professional interests, and comparison to the overall applicant pool. To be considered for admission, all required application materials must be received by December 1. Once submitted, the application enters a multi-level review process. During this time, the applicant’s MyStatus portal will display the status as “In Review” until an official admission decision is made.
After submission, applicants will receive an acknowledgment letter confirming that their application is being processed. This letter will indicate whether the application is Complete, meaning it is ready to proceed through the review process, or Incomplete, meaning required documents are missing and must be submitted immediately to avoid delays. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit any missing materials as soon as possible.
Applicants to the Post-BSW program must also submit their mid-term evaluation by March 31. If an applicant selects the incorrect program during the application process, they will be notified and asked to submit a new application to the appropriate program.
Incomplete or incorrect applications will not be considered for admission. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all required materials are submitted by the stated deadline.
Application Decision
To officially join the program, applicants must be admitted by both the UT Austin Graduate School and the School of Social Work and must complete all compliance requirements before the first day of class.
✔️ Admission Offer
Admitted applicants will receive an email from the Director of Admissions with a link to view and respond to their offer letter. All responses must be submitted by April 15. If no response is received by the deadline, the offer may be rescinded.
To accept your offer:
- Click the response link in your admission letter.
- Sign in using your UT EID and password to confirm your acceptance.
- Log in to What I Owe and pay the $150 enrollment deposit to reserve your spot. Enrollment deposit waivers are not available.
To decline your offer:
- Use the response link in your admission letter.
- Reply to the offer email to notify the program that you are declining admission.
If you need to make changes to your program, contact the admissions office at SSW-admissions@austin.utexas.edu. This includes requests to switch program length (e.g., from full-time to part-time).
If you have submitted a transfer request, confirm with the admissions office that your materials, including syllabi from a CSWE-accredited graduate program and a letter of good standing, have been received.
❌ Denied Admission
Applicants who are not admitted will be notified by email and through their MyStatus portal. Due to limited space, the Admissions Committee may need to decline strong candidates. Admission is highly competitive, and not all qualified applicants will be admitted. All decisions are final.
⏳ Waitlist Information
Applicants placed on the waitlist have submitted strong applications but cannot be offered admission at this time due to limited space. If space becomes available, waitlisted applicants may still be considered. If no offer is made by the end of the application cycle, admission will be denied for that term.
⚠️ Note: All admissions decisions submitted to the graduate dean are final and not subject to appeal.
FUTURE LONGHORN
✅ You’ve Confirmed Admission — Now Prepare for Your First Semester
🗂 Complete Compliance Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Who do I contact?
Dante Vargas, Senior Program Coordinator for Recruitment and Community Engagement,is available to assist you from the moment you start exploring the program until you submit your application. Once admitted, Dante will be your main point of contact for orientation and the St. David’s Bilingual Scholars program.
Megan Keller, Administrative Associate in the Admissions Office,is available to assist you with any questions you may have about the program and to provide support before, during, and after you submit your application. She can also help with questions about your application status and guide you through using the MyStatus portal.
Lorena Sánchez, Director of Admissions,provides ongoing support to prospective students from recruitment through the application process and admission decisions, and all the way through orientation. Once you attend orientation and advising, you are officially considered a student. At this point, support transitions from the Admissions Office to the MSSW Program staff.
Marian Mahaffey, the Graduate Program Administrator,is your first point of contact to address your educational needs while you are enrolled in the MSSW Program. Each semester, students are required to attend an advising session to ensure that all their academic needs are met.
What is an Information Session?
Prospective students are encouraged to view our recorded MSSW Information Session to learn about the MSSW Program, admission requirements, and the application process.
The recorded session offers a comprehensive overview and addresses common questions.
Do you have a list of statistics courses that meet the program requirements?
Some examples of courses that satisfy our requirements:
- Elementary Statistical Methods
- Social Statistics Statistics/Research Design
- Intro Stats for Behavioral Science
- Psychological Statistics
- Social Work Statistics
- Applied Probability and Statistics
- Intro to Statistics for Biosciences
Contact Megan Kellerwith specific questions regarding meeting the statistics course requirement.
MSSW Information Sessions
Learn more about the MSSW Program at the School of Social Work by watching our Recorded Information Session. This session covers everything you need to get started, including:
- What makes our MSSW program unique
- Admissions requirements and deadlines
- Curriculum and practicum education
- Dual degree and certificate options
- Student support and career resources
After watching, feel free to schedule a one-on-one meeting with Dante Vargas, our Senior Program Coordinator for Recruitment and Community Engagement. He can answer your questions and help you decide if the MSSW Program is the right fit for your goals.
📧 Contact Dante at dante.vargas@austin.utexas.edu
We’re here to support you throughout your journey!