HackUTD Zero Day

Neon city skyline at night under a full moon, an MMXXVI tower lit at the left.

A blank glowing billboard on a wall between skyscrapers, strung with cables.

Priority deadlineOctober 3, 2026

Silhouetted figures on a rain-slicked street lined with red neon.

About the event

What is HackUTD

HackUTD is the largest 24 hour university hackathon in North America: a weekend-long event where students build apps, hardware and more. It is a venue for self-expression and creativity through technology. People with varying technical backgrounds, from universities all over the US, come together, form teams around a problem or an idea, and build something from scratch. Whether you are a frequent hackathon attendee or just getting started, we would love to see what you can make.

Pipework running beneath the city street.

A neon-lit subway platform, a train stopped at it with its doors closed.

1200+Hackers
30+Universities
200+Projects

Countdown

Until HackUTD 2026 · University of Texas at Dallas

--Days
--Hours
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Keynote speaker

To be announced

Day-of schedule, all times CT. Events are subject to change.

The event schedule has not been published yet. Check back soon.

FAQ

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When and where is HackUTD this year?
November 7th and 8th in the ECSW building at UT Dallas! The full schedule and parking details will be sent to attendees closer to the event.
How much does it cost?
HackUTD 2026 will be completely free to hackers!
Can I participate if I have never hacked?
Everyone is welcome to come, and no experience is necessary to attend! We host workshops to introduce new hackers to industry programs and technologies, and we have a Beginner track for first-time hackers.
What is a hackathon?
A hackathon is a competition where you and your team build a software project from scratch over the course of a weekend and compete against other groups for prizes. Sponsors also run workshops, events, and activities throughout the weekend to help you learn more about the field of technology!
When can I apply, and what's the priority deadline?
Applications are open now! Apply by October 3rd to be considered in our first round of decisions. Priority applicants also get first consideration for travel reimbursement and get sent to sponsors early for on-site interview opportunities.
I got accepted! Do I need to do anything?
Yes! After getting accepted, you'll need to RSVP by the deadline to lock in your spot. If we don't hear from you we'll release your seat to someone else.
How big can a team be, and what if I don't have one?
Teams can be 1 to 4 people, and going solo is completely fine. We'll have a team building session at the start of the hackathon for anyone who needs help finding a team, and there's a Best Solo Hack prize if you'd rather work alone.

What do I need to bring, and can I sleep there?
You just need a laptop, charger, and a hacking spirit! ECSW is open all night and we have designated sleeping rooms with the lights off and silence enforced, as well as showers available at anytime. We suggest you bring a change of clothes, toiletries, and a pillow or blanket. We provide internet and free food/drinks throughout the event!
I have another question, or I want to volunteer or sponsor.
Email hello@hackutd.co or DM us @hackutd on Instagram! Mentor and volunteer applications open soon, so follow us to be notified.
Does HackUTD cover travel?
HackUTD does do partial and full travel reimbursement! Select the travel reimbursement option on your application to be considered. Apply by the October 3rd priority deadline for the best chance. Since funds are limited, we cannot guarantee everyone who applies travel reimbursement. Local airports are Dallas Lovefield(DAL) and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport(DFW). The DART silver line goes directly from DFW to the UTD Campus.
Does HackUTD accept walk-ins?
For people who don't get accepted but would still like to attend, we historically accept walk-ins. If there is extra capacity then walk-ins will be admitted on a first-come first-serve basis. We anticipate taking walk-ins again this year but it will be subject to venue capacity!
I have dietary restrictions or need an accommodation. Who do I talk to?
Tell us on your application and we'll make sure you're covered. For anything specific, email us at hello@hackutd.co and we'll sort it out before the event.
Who can participate?
Any currently enrolled student, undergrad or grad, from any school. Additionally, graduates less than 1 year out from their graduation date may apply. You don't have to attend UTD and you don't have to be a CS major. High school students are welcome if you're 18 or older by November 7th. If you're under 18, you'll need a guardian present at the event at all times and a signed parent or guardian form, which we'll send you if accepted.

FAQ

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Connect with our team at hello@hackutd.co

Ask a question

What is HackUTD

Countdown

To be announced

Schedule and challenge tracks

Sponsors

Sponsors

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