What You Should Know About Georgia Tech University 

Georgia Institute of Technology, commonly known as Georgia Tech, is one of the most prestigious public research universities in the United States. Founded in 1885 and located in Atlanta, Georgia, the university is known for its academic rigor, leadership in science and engineering, and long-standing commitment to innovation. Alongside MIT and Caltech, Georgia Tech is often considered one of the “Big Three” technological universities in the U.S.

Academic Reputation and Specialized Programs

Georgia Tech consistently ranks among the top engineering and technology-focused institutions in the world. The university is home to several high-impact research centers, including the Aerospace Systems Design Laboratory (ASDL), which has supported critical U.S. government initiatives such as commercial aircraft innovation, lunar and Mars mission budgeting for Congress, and advanced fighter jet development for the U.S. Air Force.

Georgia Tech comprises six academic colleges:

• College of Engineering
• College of Computing
• College of Sciences
• College of Design
• Scheller College of Business
• Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts

Popular and highly regarded majors include industrial engineering, biomedical engineering, aerospace engineering, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, mathematics, and architecture.

Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Georgia Tech is located in Atlanta, often referred to as the “Capital of the New South.” The city is a major economic hub with a diverse industrial base and serves as the headquarters for over 100 major companies, including Coca-Cola, Delta Airlines, UPS, Home Depot, and IHG Hotels. Of the Fortune 500 companies, 430 maintain branch offices in the area. Atlanta’s economy supports a wide range of industries from manufacturing to IT, offering students valuable internship and job opportunities.

Programs 

Georgia Tech offers several distinct programs that add value to the undergraduate experience:

• Co-op Program: This program allows students to gain real work experience by completing a minimum of three semesters of paid employment related to their major. Students remain enrolled as full-time students during their work periods and can choose from domestic or international employers. The program is free and supported by faculty advisors.
  
• Research Opportunities: Georgia Tech maintains strong ties with Emory University and provides students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research, especially in medical and biomedical fields. Emory’s medical facilities are among the best in the southeastern United States.
  
• Support for Women in STEM: Through initiatives like Women in Engineering and the Female Engineer Association, Georgia Tech encourages high school girls to pursue degrees in science and engineering. These programs, combined with rising interest in the Scheller College of Business, have helped improve the gender ratio on campus.

While Georgia Tech offers strong peer support, it’s worth noting that the academic environment is highly competitive. Approximately 26% of undergraduate courses have over 50 students, contributing to a rigorous atmosphere that motivates students to perform at a high level.

Admissions Overview

Georgia Tech remains highly selective. In the most recent admissions cycle:

• Total applicants: more than 60,000
• Acceptance rate: 16%
• Early Action deadline: October 15
• Regular Decision deadline: January 6
• Application platforms: Common App and Coalition App
• Application fee: $75
• Letters of recommendation: Counselor letter required; one teacher recommendation is optional
• Interviews: Not required; international students may submit InitialView or Vericant interviews

Academic Expectations

Applicants must demonstrate strong academic preparation. Georgia Tech requires submission of SAT or ACT scores. Mid-50% score ranges are as follows:

• SAT: 1330–1530
  
  • Reading: 650–740
  • Math: 680–790
  • 77% of applicants submitted scores
    
• ACT: 28–34
  
  • English: 28–35
  • Math: 27–35
  • Writing: 8–9
  • 35% of applicants submitted scores
    

Other important academic expectations:

• GPA (average admitted): ~4.14 (weighted)
  
• College prep courses required:
  
  • English: 4 years
  • Math: 4 years
  • Science: 4 years (including 1 year of biology and 2 lab sciences)
  • Social Studies: 3 years
  • Foreign Language / American Sign Language / Computer Science: 2 years
    

For international students, the following minimum English proficiency scores are recommended:

• TOEFL: 69 minimum, 79+ recommended
• IELTS: 6.0 minimum, 6.5+ recommended
• SAT EBRW: 480+
• ACT English: 17+
  

Cost of Attendance

The annual cost for two semesters at Georgia Tech varies by residency status:

Expense Category	Georgia Residents	Out-of-State Students	International Students
Tuition	$10,512	$33,596	$34,572
Mandatory Student Fees	$1,496	$1,496	$1,696
Books and Supplies	$800	$800	$800
Housing	$7,864	$7,864	$7,864
Meal Plan	$6,132	$6,132	$6,132
Personal/Miscellaneous	$2,800	$2,800	$2,800
Transportation	$550	$950	$950
Total Estimated Cost (Per Year)	$30,154	$53,638	$54,814

Georgia Tech stands out as a leading destination for students who are passionate about engineering, technology, and innovation. With research opportunities, a vibrant urban setting, and strong career support systems, Georgia Tech offers students the tools to thrive in their academic and professional lives.

At Ivy Talent, we help students develop application strategies that showcase their strengths, align with institutional priorities, and maximize admissions outcomes. If Georgia Tech is on your list, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.