10 Colleges in Texas With Academic Forgiveness Programs

Texas colleges and universities offer several pathways for students who want to move beyond earlier academic struggles and return to school with a stronger GPA. For many students, these policies can provide another opportunity to qualify for admission, improve academic standing, or continue toward degree completion after time away from college.

Texas is unique because public colleges and universities are legally required to offer some form of Academic Fresh Start under Texas Education Code § 51.931. While policies vary by college, these academic forgiveness programs are designed to help eligible students move forward academically by limiting the impact of older coursework. Below, we’ll explain what academic forgiveness is and how it works in Texas.

What Is Academic Forgiveness?

Academic forgiveness is a policy that allows colleges to reduce or remove the GPA impact of previous coursework after students meet certain eligibility requirements. In Texas, many public institutions use Academic Fresh Start policies that allow students to apply for admission or reenrollment without older coursework being counted toward admissions or GPA calculations.

Texas colleges may also offer additional policies like grade replacement or course forgiveness for repeated classes. Academic Fresh Start programs generally apply to coursework completed a certain number of years before reenrollment, while repeated-course policies focus on improving grades in individual classes. Even when coursework qualifies for forgiveness or Fresh Start consideration, the original grades usually remain visible on official transcripts as part of the student’s academic history.

Best Colleges With Academic Forgiveness Programs in Texas

Texas students have access to a wide range of academic forgiveness and Academic Fresh Start opportunities through public colleges and universities across the state. Because Texas law requires public institutions to offer some form of Academic Fresh Start, many schools provide pathways that can help students move beyond older academic records and continue toward a degree.

The schools below are all accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Since nearly all Texas public institutions must provide Fresh Start options under state law, this list represents only a fraction of the colleges and universities in Texas that offer academic forgiveness-related programs and policies.

1. Northeast Texas Community College

Northeast Texas Community College (NTCC) is located in Mount Pleasant, Texas, and offers associate degrees, workforce certificates, transfer pathways, and career training programs in areas like business, health sciences, criminal justice, education, and industrial technology. The college also provides flexible distance learning opportunities, helping it rank among the top online community colleges in Texas for students seeking affordable tuition and accessible scheduling options.

Northeast Texas Community College offers an Academic Fresh Start policy for eligible students returning after previous academic difficulties. Under Texas Fresh Start guidelines, students may apply to exclude older coursework from admissions and GPA considerations after meeting state and institutional requirements. Students should review the policy carefully, since Fresh Start decisions may affect transfer credits, degree applicability, and financial aid eligibility.

2. Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State University (SHSU) offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in fields like criminal justice, business, education, health sciences, psychology, and computer science. The university also supports online and hybrid learning opportunities for transfer students, working adults, and distance learners seeking greater flexibility. SHSU provides multiple degree completion pathways and public university tuition rates that may appeal to students returning after time away from school.

SHSU is located in Huntsville, Texas, and is often recognized for offering some of the most affordable online bachelor’s degrees in Texas. The university participates in the state’s Academic Fresh Start program, which may allow eligible students to seek admission without older coursework being counted toward GPA calculations. Students considering Fresh Start should review university and state guidelines carefully, since the policy may also affect transfer credits and previous coursework applicability.

3. Stephen F. Austin State University

Stephen F. Austin State University (SFASU) is located in Nacogdoches, Texas, and offers undergraduate and graduate programs in subjects like forestry, education, business, nursing, agriculture, and liberal arts. The university also provides online and hybrid learning opportunities that can support transfer students and adult learners returning after time away from college. SFA is known for its smaller campus environment and strong student support resources within the Texas public university system.

SFASU participates in the Texas Academic Fresh Start program for eligible students seeking admission after previous academic difficulties. Under the policy, older coursework completed before the Fresh Start eligibility period may be excluded from admissions consideration. Students should review university and state requirements carefully, since Academic Fresh Start decisions may affect transfer credits, degree applicability, and financial aid eligibility.

4. Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in fields like engineering, agriculture, business, health sciences, cybersecurity, and environmental sciences. The university also supports online and distance education opportunities for students seeking flexible learning pathways, including graduate and professional degree options for working adults. Texas A&M combines large-scale research opportunities with extensive academic and career support services.

Texas A&M University is located in College Station, Texas, and is frequently recognized among the best online colleges in Texas because of its wide range of distance education and professional learning programs. The university follows the state’s Academic Fresh Start policy, which may allow eligible students to apply for admission without older coursework being counted toward admissions GPA calculations. Because Fresh Start can affect previously earned credits and degree applicability, students should review the policy carefully before applying.

5. Texas State University

Texas State University is located in San Marcos, Texas, and offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in areas like education, business, public administration, computer science, health professions, and communication studies. The university also provides online and hybrid learning opportunities for transfer students, working adults, and students seeking more flexible scheduling options. Texas State serves a large student population and offers multiple pathways for returning learners to continue toward degree completion.

Texas State University maintains an Academic Forgiveness policy alongside participation in the state’s Academic Fresh Start program. Depending on eligibility requirements, students may be able to seek admission without certain older coursework being considered or improve academic standing through institutional forgiveness processes. Students should review all policy details carefully, since forgiveness and Fresh Start options may affect transfer credit evaluations, degree progress, and future academic planning.

6. Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs in fields like engineering, business, agriculture, health sciences, education, and media communication. Students can also pursue online and hybrid learning opportunities through Texas Tech Online, including degree completion and graduate programs designed for working adults and transfer students. The university provides extensive academic support resources and flexible scheduling options for returning learners.

Texas Tech University is located in Lubbock, Texas, and participates in the state’s Academic Fresh Start program for eligible students. Under the policy, qualifying applicants may seek admission without older coursework being counted toward admissions GPA calculations. Students considering Fresh Start should review institutional and state guidelines carefully, since participation may affect previously earned credits, transfer evaluations, and long-term degree planning.

7. Texas Woman’s University

Texas Woman’s University (TWU) is located in Denton, Texas, and offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in areas like nursing, education, occupational therapy, business, nutrition, and health sciences. The co-ed university also supports online and hybrid learning pathways for adult learners, transfer students, and working professionals seeking more flexible degree options. TWU is known for its strong health-related programs and supportive academic environment.

TWU participates in the Texas Academic Fresh Start program for students returning after previous academic challenges. Eligible applicants may request that older coursework be excluded from admissions consideration under state Fresh Start guidelines. Students should carefully review how the policy may affect transfer credits, prerequisite courses, and degree applicability before applying.

8. University of Houston

The University of Houston offers bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and professional programs in subjects like engineering, business, law, education, computer science, and public health. Students can also access online and hybrid learning opportunities designed for transfer students, graduate learners, and working adults balancing school with other responsibilities. UH serves one of the largest student populations in Texas and provides extensive academic advising and student support services.

The University of Houston is located in Houston and follows the state’s Academic Fresh Start policy for eligible students seeking a new academic beginning. Depending on state and university requirements, students may apply for admission without certain older coursework being included in admissions GPA calculations. Because Academic Fresh Start decisions can affect transferability and applicability of previous coursework, students should review policy details closely before enrolling.

9. University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at Austin is located in Austin, Texas, and offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in areas like engineering, computer science, business, natural sciences, education, and public affairs. The university also supports online and hybrid learning opportunities through selected graduate and professional programs. UT Austin is frequently recognized among the best STEM colleges in Texas because of its large research programs and wide range of science and technology degree pathways.

The University of Texas at Austin participates in the state’s Academic Fresh Start program for eligible transfer and returning students. Under Texas law, qualifying applicants may request that older coursework be excluded from admissions GPA consideration. Students considering Academic Fresh Start should carefully review how the policy may affect transfer credits, prerequisite completion, and future degree planning before applying.

10. University of Texas at San Antonio

The University of Texas at San Antonio offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in fields like cybersecurity, business, engineering, public health, education, and data science. Students can also access online and hybrid learning opportunities that support transfer students, military learners, and working adults seeking flexible degree pathways. UTSA emphasizes career-focused education and research opportunities within the University of Texas system.

The University of Texas at San Antonio is located in San Antonio, Texas, and follows the state’s Academic Fresh Start policy for eligible students returning after previous academic difficulties. Depending on state and university guidelines, students may apply for admission without certain older coursework being included in admissions GPA calculations. Because Fresh Start participation can affect previously earned credits and transfer evaluations, students should review institutional policies carefully before enrolling.

How We Rank Schools

To create this list, we review data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), along with program-level details published by each university. We also compare things like:

• Accreditation: We prioritize colleges and universities accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to help ensure academic quality, recognized degrees, and access to federal financial aid opportunities.
• Academic forgiveness policy: We evaluate each school’s Academic Fresh Start, academic forgiveness, grade replacement, or course forgiveness policy, including eligibility timelines, transfer credit rules, GPA standards, and residency requirements.
• Student outcomes: We consider factors like graduation rates, online learning availability, transfer pathways, program variety, and academic support services available to undergraduate and graduate students.

Learn more about our ranking methodology.

How Do Academic Forgiveness Programs Work in Texas?

Academic forgiveness programs in Texas often center around the state’s Academic Fresh Start law, which requires public colleges and universities to offer eligible students a way to apply for admission without certain older coursework being considered. In many cases, Academic Fresh Start applies to coursework completed 10 or more years before the student’s enrollment date. When approved, those older credits and grades are excluded from admissions GPA calculations at participating public institutions.

Some Texas colleges and universities also offer additional policies like grade replacement, course forgiveness, or institutional academic forgiveness for repeated coursework. These policies may allow students to improve their GPA by retaking classes in which they previously earned low grades. Depending on the school, limits may apply to the number of repeated courses or credits eligible for forgiveness.

Requirements can vary between institutions even though Academic Fresh Start is required statewide for public colleges. Students should also understand that Fresh Start decisions may affect transfer credits, prerequisite coursework, and degree applicability. In most situations, older grades still remain visible on official transcripts even if they are excluded from admissions or GPA calculations.

How To Apply for Academic Forgiveness in Texas

The process for requesting Academic Fresh Start or academic forgiveness in Texas depends on the college or university. While public schools follow state Fresh Start requirements, institutions may use different forms, deadlines, and review procedures.

1. Review your school’s Academic Fresh Start, grade replacement, or academic forgiveness policy.
2. Confirm that your older coursework meets the institution’s eligibility timeline requirements.
3. Review how Fresh Start may affect transfer credits, prerequisite courses, financial aid, and degree progress.
4. Meet with an admissions advisor, registrar representative, or academic counselor if you need guidance.
5. Complete the institution’s official Academic Fresh Start or forgiveness request form.
6. Submit all required transcripts and supporting documents before the deadline.
7. Monitor your student portal or email account for updates regarding admissions decisions or GPA adjustments.

Alternatives to Academic Forgiveness

Students who do not qualify for Academic Fresh Start may still have other options for improving their academic standing. Many Texas colleges allow repeated coursework that can help students improve GPA calculations without using a formal forgiveness policy. Tutoring services, academic recovery plans, and probation support programs may also help students strengthen future academic performance.

Community colleges can provide another affordable pathway for students rebuilding their academic record before transferring into a four-year university. Some students may also benefit from earning certificates, completing recent coursework with stronger grades, or focusing on transfer-friendly programs that place greater emphasis on current academic performance rather than older coursework alone.

FAQs About Academic Forgiveness Programs in Texas

Texas colleges and universities use a mix of Academic Fresh Start laws, institutional forgiveness policies, and course repeat rules to support returning students. Below, we’ll go over common questions about eligibility, transfer credits, transcripts, and tuition support opportunities in Texas.

How Does Academic Fresh Start Work in Texas?

Texas Academic Fresh Start allows eligible students applying to public colleges and universities to exclude certain older coursework from admissions GPA calculations. In most cases, the coursework must have been completed at least 10 years before the student enrolls under the Fresh Start policy.

While the grades may no longer count toward admissions consideration, the coursework generally still appears on official transcripts. Students should also understand that Fresh Start may affect transfer credits and prerequisite applicability.

Can I Repeat Classes Instead of Using Academic Fresh Start?

Many Texas colleges allow students to repeat courses to improve GPA performance without using the broader Academic Fresh Start process. Depending on the institution, repeated coursework may qualify for grade replacement or course forgiveness policies.

These options can be helpful for students who want to improve performance in only a few classes instead of excluding an entire block of older coursework. Schools may still place limits on repeated attempts and eligible credits.

Will Academic Fresh Start Affect Transfer Credits?

Yes, Academic Fresh Start may affect previously earned transfer credits and course applicability. Some coursework completed before the Fresh Start timeline may no longer count toward admissions, degree requirements, or prerequisite completion.

Because policies vary between institutions and programs, students should speak with admissions counselors or academic advisors before applying. Understanding these rules ahead of time can help prevent delays in degree progress.

Can You Get Free College in Texas?

Some Texas colleges and universities offer last-dollar promise programs that may reduce or eliminate tuition costs for eligible students after grants and scholarships are applied. These programs are especially common at public colleges and universities and may help qualifying students attend school at a lower out-of-pocket cost.

Students researching tuition-free online colleges in Texas may also find affordable online degree pathways paired with state aid, institutional grants, or promise programs. Eligibility requirements usually depend on residency, family income, FAFSA completion, and enrollment status.

Do Private Colleges in Texas Offer Academic Forgiveness?

Private colleges in Texas are not legally required to participate in the state’s Academic Fresh Start law. However, some private institutions may still offer academic forgiveness, grade replacement, or course repeat policies for eligible students.

Because policies differ significantly between schools, students should review the college catalog or contact the registrar’s office directly for the most accurate information. Private universities may also use different terminology than public institutions.

Explore Top Colleges in Texas

Find the perfect college by exploring the Texas schools with academic forgiveness programs highlighted on Learn.org. Reach out to individual schools to find out more about their admissions and forgiveness requirements.