Top 5 Tuition-Free Online Colleges in Texas

Colleges and universities have been trying to reduce attendance costs by offering financial aid, tuition freezes, flat rates, lower-cost courses, online courses and programs, and tuition-free degree options.

College surcharges and fees are often listed under tuition but are used to cover attendance fees which will vary depending on the school and the student.

It's crucial to understand that free college in Texas may be free of tuition, but that doesn't mean it's free of expenses.

Online Colleges and Universities with Free Courses

The best options for free college in Texas are listed below. You may also consider tuition-free online colleges in Dallas. It's essential to read the cost estimator carefully because tuition-free doesn't mean zero cost.

1. Angelo State University

As a public university part of the Texas Tech University System, Angelo State University prides itself on 42% of students graduating debt-free.

They offer 52 online programs from undergraduate to graduate and certificate programs.

With the Blue and Gold Guarantee, tuition and mandatory fees are covered by gift aid (grants, scholarships, exemptions, and/or waivers), meaning repayment is unnecessary.

One primary requirement is to be a Texas resident entering freshman from high school.

2. Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State University is a public university with a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs that are available 100% online.

Some of their online programs that require classroom or laboratory attendance.

SHSU's Bearkat Promise guarantees all participants enough grant funding to cover the cost of mandatory tuition and fee for fifteen hours per semester.

To be eligible you must be entering as a freshman or transfer student.

3. Stephen F. Austin University

Stephen F. Austin is a public university that offers online classes, certificate programs, and 32 online degree programs.

With the SFA Purple Promise Guarantee Program, first-year students eligible for the program will have their balance for tuition and regular fees not covered by other financial assistance programs.

The Purple Promise Guarantee Program funds will be automatically applied to eligible students without the need to apply.

4. Texas Tech University

Offering a variety of online courses and programs, Texas Tech University has much to offer any student.

Red Raider Guarantee offers new entering freshmen and transfer students with an associate degree meeting qualifications to receive funds to pay tuition and mandatory fees for up to thirty credit hours per year.

Accredited by the Southern Association of College and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

5. University of Houston

24 online programs are available at the University of Houston. Among online graduate education programs, it is proudly ranked number 10.

Low and middle-income families are benefited from the Cougar Promise program, which covers mandatory fees and tuition for eligible students.

The Cougar Promise's qualifications have been updated recently to assist more students. If a student has child support in arrears, they will immediately lose their eligibility for the Cougar Promise.

Accredited by the Southern Association of College and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). UH is a viable option for students looking for tuition-free online colleges near Houston.

How to Make College Free

When looking for ways to attend a free college in Texas, prospective students have a variety of options available.

Apply for Grants

Grants are given to students with financial difficulties to cover some school costs through the federal or state government and do not need to be paid back.

Confirm your eligibility by completing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online. In addition, check if your state has an application for a student aid program.

Apply for Scholarships

Scholarships are a way to pay for college without having to repay them. They can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand or for your total education.

Academic achievement or a combination of academic and special interests can lead to merit-based scholarships.

Others are motivated by a unique or financial need.

Get Tuition Reimbursement from an Employer

Some or all of the costs an employee will incur during their schooling can be covered by companies through tuition reimbursement programs.

The logistics of this program vary from one company to another, so speaking to HR for more details is encouraged.

Look into Tuition and Fee Waivers

Fee waivers assist students eligible to pay for pre-college exams (i.e., SAT, NMSQT, and AP exam) fees.

Check the websites of some colleges to find out if they offer application fee waivers. Tuition waivers are typically included in a financial aid package.

Companies and other programs outside of student financial aid can also provide tuition waivers.

Find a Free or Low-Cost Degree in Texas Today

As college tuition increases, individuals gather to create more accessible educational opportunities. Online education provides flexibility to make accessibility easier.

Advantages can be gained by obtaining a college education with a free college in Texas. Prior to starting, a person must review the programs and their requirements.