Prospective Students

Thank you for your interest in pursuing a graduate education in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin. The Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering has a supportive community dedicated to finding solutions to help improve society and is committed to attracting more of the best and brightest students from diverse backgrounds.

We offer two graduate programs - in Mechanical Engineering and in Operations Research and Industrial Engineering — that provide fundamental depth with research-based education and training in a variety of fields. For questions regarding the graduate programs please visit our website.

Application Fee Waiver for Graduate Applicants

In addition to the application fee waiver provided by Graduate School, the ME Department has a limited number of awards to encourage applications to the Department. These awards are mainly financial need based but could also be given to outstanding candidates who are applying to or have received certain fellowships. Preference will be given to those applicants interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in Fall 2026.

The survey to request a waiver of the application fee will open on August 1, 2025.

Please note this is an opportunity separate from the Graduate School application fee waiver. You may apply to both Graduate School and the ME Department. If you have any questions about this survey, please contact the ME Graduate Office at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Do not contact the Graduate School Admissions Office as they do not manage this application.
 

 

Fall 2025 Information Session for Mechanical Engineering applicants

Planning for graduate school doesn’t have to be daunting! Attend an online information session to learn about ME program requirements, funding opportunities, and how to strengthen your application. Prospective PhD and MS applicants are encouraged to attend.

Fall 2025 information sessions will be posted in July 2025. 

 

Discover Mechanical Engineering (ME) at the University of Texas at Austin

October 30 - November 1, 2025 in Austin, Texas

Application Information for Discover ME for Prospective Graduate Students

Discover ME will provide a select group of prospective students with an opportunity to learn about the resources and opportunities available for ME graduate study at UT Austin. You will visit several research labs, interact with faculty members, and meet current ME graduate students. A schedule of last year's event can be found here. A final schedule will be emailed to accepted applicants in September 2025. The event is free of charge for invited students.

The application for Discover ME 2025 will open in August 2025. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Discover ME

Am I eligible to attend Discover ME?

Any prospective student interested in ME graduate study at UT Austin can apply to attend. Preference will be given to current undergraduate juniors and seniors from accredited universities and colleges in the U.S. who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Preference will also be given to those applicants interested in pursuing a Ph.D.

What is the cost to attend the event?

The event will be free of charge to all invited students. Airfare, accommodations, and meals will be provided.

How do I apply? When is the deadline to apply?

A survey must be completed to apply. The deadline to submit the survey is September 5, 2025. Be prepared to submit the following information:

  • A resume or CV
  • A short statement on your interest in ME at UT Austin
  • Any test scores (i.e. GRE, TOEFL/IELTS) - optional
Is an application required?

An application is required as only a select number of students will be invited to attend. Please only submit one application. Multiple applications will not be considered.

How do I let you know if I have a dietary restriction or need accessibility accommodations?

Please include this information in your application.

Is there a dress code?

While there is no dress code for the event, Discover ME involves many opportunities to meet with faculty. You may consider packing casual items for Thursday and Saturday and dressy casual items for Friday. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as UT is a big campus and you will move between multiple buildings and locations on all three days.

Where should I stay? Are there other travel details I should know?

The department will work with invited students to book airfare and accommodations. Students will receive more specific details closer to the event.

Note: that students should expect to share a hotel room with a fellow prospective student. If you have any questions, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

I have questions about COVID-19 health and safety.

Your health and safety are our top concern. Please visit our Protect Texas Together website for more details.

Who can I contact with questions?