Free College Applications for Texas Students
Texas students can apply to the state’s public universities and community colleges for free Oct. 13-19. Application fees at public schools will be waived for in-state students during the second full week of October each year under a new law. Students must submit their application through ApplyTexas, an online college application portal for the state’s public schools.
Eligibility and Requirements
All Texas residents applying for undergraduate admission, including first-time college students and transfer students, can participate. Students must be lawfully present in the U.S. to qualify. Graduate program applications are not covered during free application week.
“Texas prioritizes opportunities for students to pursue the best education they need to succeed in high-demand, good-paying jobs after graduation … By supporting our students today, we are investing in a stronger Texas tomorrow,” Gov. Greg Abbott said in a release.
Background and Initiative
The initiative comes amid a push by Texas leaders to prepare more students for the workforce and make higher education more accessible. College application fees are often a barrier to higher education for students. Texas public schools typically charge $75 per application. Qualifying students can apply for an application fee waiver at some schools, depending on their financial need.
Related
Millions of Texas residents can now go to college for free at some schools, including Texas Christian University and those in the University of Texas System. College leaders hope the initiatives, which are based on family income level, will help all Texans afford higher education.
Financial Aid and Support
Lawmakers also earmarked $328 million for the state’s financial aid programs earlier this year. The DMN Education Lab deepens the coverage and conversation about urgent education issues critical to the future of North Texas.
The DMN Education Lab is a community-funded journalism initiative, with support from Bobby and Lottye Lyle, Communities Foundation of Texas, The Dallas Foundation, Dallas Regional Chamber, Deedie Rose, Garrett and Cecilia Boone, Judy and Jim Gibbs, The Meadows Foundation, The Murrell Foundation, Ron and Phyllis Steinhart, Solutions Journalism Network, Southern Methodist University, Sydney Smith Hicks, and the University of Texas at Dallas. The Dallas Morning News retains full editorial control of the Education Lab’s journalism.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the free college application week in Texas is a great opportunity for students to apply to public universities and community colleges without incurring application fees. This initiative is part of a larger effort to make higher education more accessible and affordable for Texas residents. With the support of lawmakers and college leaders, millions of Texans can now pursue higher education without the burden of application fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is eligible for the free college application week?
A: All Texas residents applying for undergraduate admission, including first-time college students and transfer students, are eligible to participate.
Q: How do I apply for the free college application week?
A: Students must submit their application through ApplyTexas, an online college application portal for the state’s public schools.
Q: Are graduate program applications covered during the free application week?
A: No, graduate program applications are not covered during the free application week.
Q: How much are college application fees in Texas?
A: Texas public schools typically charge $75 per application.
Q: Are there any other initiatives to make higher education more affordable in Texas?
A: Yes, lawmakers have earmarked $328 million for the state’s financial aid programs, and some schools offer free tuition to students based on family income level.
