How To Get Free College in Texas

A college education can make a significant contribution to your life and career outlook, but financing a college education can be a barrier for many students. Texas has made major strides toward making higher education more accessible through tuition-free programs and grants.

If you are considering attending college in Texas, it's important to understand your financial aid options for free and low-cost degrees. Saving money on a college degree can help you get ahead financially and avoid the stress of student debt.

Find out more about tuition-free online colleges in Texas, state and federal programs that offer free college in Texas, and identify colleges and universities that participate in these programs.

Is Community College Free in Texas?

Yes, community college can be free for some qualifying students in Texas. Students who demonstrate significant financial need and reside in the state of Texas may be able to receive a full tuition scholarship.

Many community college districts offer free tuition to all first-time freshmen who demonstrate financial need.

Learn more: How To Get Free Community College

Who Qualifies for Free College in Texas?

Texas has a wide range of educational grants, scholarships, and tuition waivers that can eliminate the cost of college. Each program will have different eligibility requirements based on the populations they are intended to support.

Students with exceptional academic performance, such as highest-ranking high school graduates and students enrolled in courses for dual high school and college-level credit, can generally have tuition fees covered. Other students who will likely qualify for free college in Texas include:

• individuals currently or formerly in foster care in Texas
• children of disabled firefighters and law enforcement officers, professional nursing program faculty, and clinical preceptors
• survivors of individuals in specific public servant positions
• firefighters enrolled in fire science courses
• peace officers and firefighters disabled in the line of duty (or enrolled in certain fire science courses, law enforcement, or criminal justice courses)
• senior citizens 65 or older (free tuition for six credit hours of auditing classes)
• blind or deaf students

Students can also benefit from certain military considerations. Some examples include:

• children of the military who are Missing in Action (MIA) or Prisoners of War (POW)
• orphans of members of the U.S. Armed Forces or National Guard
• members of the Texas National Guard
• Hazlewood exemption (for Texas veterans)

Students who don't qualify for one of these categories can still access free college through programs like the TEXAS grant, Aggie Assurance, and the Texas Tuition Promise. Students from low-income families will also typically qualify for free college in Texas.

What Is the Toward Excellence, Access, and Success (TEXAS) Grant?

The Toward Excellence, Access, and Success (TEXAS) grant is a program for students who do not already have a bachelor's degree. This tuition program supports Texan residents who otherwise would not be able to earn a degree.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible students must attend a public university in Texas or a health-related institution in Texas. Students must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• be a Texas resident
• be registered with the Selective Service or receive an exemption
• demonstrate significant financial need (such as low family income)
• be enrolled 3/4 time or more
• not already hold a bachelor's degree
• have not been convicted of a crime involving substances

Eligible Institutions

The institutions eligible to offer the TEXAS grant are public or health-related institutions in Texas. Lamar State College Port Arthur and Orange campus are not eligible to participate.

How To Apply for the TEXAS Grant

The application process starts with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA).

Once you have completed the FAFSA or TASFA, the financial aid team at your university will determine if you qualify for the TEXAS Grant. The application opens in October each year, and students should try to apply by January 15th if possible.

Tips for Making College Affordable

While Texas has many forms of financial aid and tuition-free programs, students must plan wisely to make college more affordable.

Contact the financial aid office at any potential university and ask them to help you identify all sources of financial assistance. Programs like the federal Pell Grant can reduce tuition costs significantly.

Attending a public college or university in your home state is typically the most affordable choice. Non-resident fees are typically higher, and out-of-state students may not qualify for as many state funding programs.

Transfer students should consider enrollment at universities with flexible transfer policies to make sure they don't have to pay for the same courses twice.

Tuition-Free Colleges in Texas

Here are some Texas colleges that offer free tuition programs.

1. Austin Community College District

Community colleges in the Austin Community College District (ACCD) offer completely tuition-free college for up to three years. There is no income limit, and all Texas residents with a high school diploma or GED are eligible.

Students can also access career guidance services and several other forms of student support for free. ACCD supports the personal and professional growth of its students with free, high-quality undergraduate degrees.

2. Houston Community College

Houston Community College is another prime destination for free college seekers. The Eagle Promise ensures that any tuition fees not covered by state or federal programs will be paid by the college.

Students will also receive free:

• $500 book allowance each semester
• financial coaching to help them complete their degree or certificate program debt-free
• priority registration beginning the second semester of attendance
• academic, career, and transfer counseling to help them reach their career and educational goals.

Students can apply for the Eagle Promise program through an easy online portal.

3. Alamo Colleges

The Alamo Colleges are a district of five community colleges located across San Antonio and its surrounding areas. These colleges include:

• Northeast Lakeview College
• Northwest Vista College
• Palo Alto College
• San Antonio College
• St. Philip's College

Texans who complete a high school diploma and enroll in any Alamo Colleges are eligible for the Alamo Promise. The Alamo Promise covers tuition for eligible students for up to three years.

The Alamo Promise is a last-dollar scholarship that covers any remaining mandatory fees after all federal and state financial aid has been applied.

FAQs About Free College in Texas

Here are some answers to common questions students might have about free college and financial assistance in Texas.

What Is the Texas Advance Commitment?

The Texas Advance Commitment (TAC) allows students at the University of Texas to complete a four-year degree for free.

Students must fill out the FAFSA or TASFA and have a family income of $65,000 or less. Students with a family income of under $125,000 will receive tuition support.

Is College Tuition Really Free in Texas?

Yes, many Texas colleges enable students to complete a college degree without paying full tuition costs or taking out student loans. State funding guarantee programs can allow full-time students who maintain a respectable GPA to study for free at state universities and public colleges.

How Does Texas' Free Tuition Policy Compare to Other States?

Texas' free tuition programs are as strong as any other state in the U.S. Texas colleges typically have affordable full-cost tuition rates, so financial aid can eliminate all costs for many students. The TEXAS Grant is a comprehensive program that supports the education of many students.