10 Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Texas

Millions of students rely on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to help them establish their eligibility for financial aid every year including Texas students. Financial aid is commonly used by students at on-campus universities; however, students enrolled online should still complete these documents even if they're pursuing an online program to earn their first degree or complete a four-year program.

Some online schools still differentiate between in-state tuition and out-of-state tuition rates; however, most online schools accept FAFSA to help make higher education more affordable. Prospective students should learn about online colleges in Texas and how to use FAFSA to qualify for grants, scholarships, and other free money programs.

10 Best Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Texas

FAFSA helps students determine eligibility for various financial aid options from the federal government, primarily grants and scholarships. Students have differing eligibility, and online schools do as well. Distance education programs must be accredited by a recognized body.

Most accredited online schools in Texas receive accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Accredited online colleges provide learners with the opportunity to complete degree programs or transfer to other schools.

Learn more about the accredited schools that accept FAFSA and offer online learners undergraduate and graduate degree options.

University of North Texas

The University of North Texas (UNT) offers 87 online degree programs for students to choose from including bachelor's and master's degrees in fields like business administration, criminal justice, and healthcare. Students can access many of the support resources available on-campus digitally to make learning more accessible.

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University is based in Lubbock, TX, but its online campus reaches across the state and beyond. TTU offers degrees, certificates, and other credentials that can help first-time students start their careers while providing opportunities for online students to advance or change careers. Many of the programs are offered as fully online courses or hybrid options to provide flexibility for learners.

Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State University (SHSU) is a public university with over 140 years of history. SHSU offers college students enrollment in 22 online learning undergraduate degree programs, with certificates and degree programs extending to master's and doctoral levels. SHSU is a research-focused university and online students are provided with opportunities to collaborate with in-person teams through hybrid schools or fully virtual options.

Lamar University

Lamar University offers courses ranging from certifications and associate degrees to online master's degrees in many fields of study. Lamar University's online education is consistently near the top of rankings from publications like U.S. News and World Report and Forbes. These online classes are designed for flexibility, allowing students to earn degrees on their schedule.

Texas A&M University-Commerce

The online degrees offered at Texas A&M University-Commerce include education, liberal arts, science, engineering, and more. There are also certificate programs that allow students to expand their knowledge and skill sets without pursuing additional degree programs.

University of Houston

The University of Houston offers 12 undergraduate and 51 graduate programs fully online. In addition to these full degree programs, UH offers 11 online minors to allow for specialization of majors. These programs are designed for students who have completed a two-year degree or are transferring to UH. First-year students can elect to take hybrid schedules, but UH doesn't currently offer full four-year programs offered online.

Parker University

Parker University has a main campus located in Dallas, but the school offers more online bachelor's degree programs than it does on-campus ones. Many courses offered at Parker have a technical or medical focus, with on-campus coursework being more focused on practical work like laboratory sciences. Parker's online higher education includes degrees in health sciences, integrative health, health information management, and more.

Angelo State University

Angelo State University has over 100 degree programs, with 54 offered online. The degree programs cover diverse subjects, including business administration, computer science, criminal justice, and more. The school also offers multiple certification programs that students can use to advance their careers after graduation.

Texas Woman's University

Texas Woman's University is a co-educational university located in Denton, TX. The school's online offerings are mostly graduate programs in fields like nursing and business; however, they do offer some accelerated programs that allow students to earn a bachelor's and a master's through 4+1 programs, where they take four years for a bachelor's degree and then one for their master's.

The University of Texas at El Paso

The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) offers associate, bachelor's, and master's level degrees to help students find the one that's right for their career goals. There are 29 fully online degree programs available to UTEP students, including STEM education, nursing, music, business administration, and construction management.

Applying for FAFSA in Texas

Applying for FAFSA in Texas is similar to the process in other states. Students who are U.S. citizens, residents, or non-citizen residents can fill out their forms to determine eligibility for financial aid. Some students who don't qualify for FAFSA can fill out the Texas-specific Texas Application for State Financial Aid. Students only file one form, but not both.

Eligibility

A student is eligible if they are a citizen, resident, or non-resident citizen who is a senior in high school or already attending college. Reward amounts will vary, but all students are eligible to apply.

Steps To Apply

Applying for FAFSA starts with collecting relevant financial documents for yourself and your family. The revised FAFSA includes 36 questions that must be answered to help determine financial eligibility. FAFSA forms can be completed in person, but most students submit the forms online. Once completed, benefits will be applied automatically.

Other Financial Aid Options for Online College in Texas

Beyond FAFSA, Texas students can access a range of financial aid opportunities designed to make online education more affordable. Below are several state-specific programs that can help you save on tuition and related expenses.

Texas Grant Program

The Texas Grant Program offers need-based funding to eligible Texas residents pursuing their first bachelor's degree, including those enrolled in approved online programs. You must complete the FAFSA and meet specific academic and financial criteria to qualify.

This grant can help pay for tuition, fees, and textbooks at public universities and colleges in Texas. Online learners attending state schools may receive the same level of support as on-campus students, depending on available funds.

Texas Public Educational Grant

The Texas Public Educational Grant (TPEG) provides financial aid to resident and nonresident students who demonstrate need. To be considered, you simply need to submit your FAFSA and indicate interest in state financial aid.

Funds are distributed directly by participating institutions, so award amounts vary by school. This program can significantly reduce the cost of online coursework at many public colleges and universities across the state.

Texas Tuition Equalization Grant

The Texas Tuition Equalization Grant (TEG) assists students attending private or nonprofit institutions in Texas. If you're enrolled in an online program at a qualifying private college, you may be eligible for financial support to help bridge the gap between public and private tuition rates.

Students must submit the FAFSA and demonstrate financial need to be considered. The TEG makes private online education more accessible for Texans who might otherwise find costs out of reach.

FAQs About Using FAFSA for College in Texas

FAFSA submission is a common part of the college application experience, but many Texas students still have questions about the form. Here are some answers to common questions about updating your forms and what happens after submission.

Do I Need To Update My FAFSA if My Financial Situation Changes?

You are responsible for updating your FAFSA with any changes, as they won't be automatically applied. Students who experience a decrease in income, divorce, new health issues, and more will need to update their forms quickly because they might be entitled to additional benefits and aid.

What Happens After I Submit My FAFSA for Texas Colleges?

Once you submit your FAFSA, many programs are automatically applied to your financial aid transcript. There are some additional grants and scholarships you'll want to apply for, but most calculations will be done for you based on your financial need and tuition costs at the schools you listed on your FAFSA document.

What if I Have Questions or Need Help With the FAFSA in Texas?

FAFSA is a federally coordinated program, so seeking help or getting answers won't change based on your residency. Studentaid.gov is the federal resource for students seeking loans, grants, or scholarships based on the results of their FAFSA form.

What Is the Deadline for the FAFSA in Texas?

The deadline for submitting FAFSA forms in Texas is April 15th. This is for students who are Texas Residents and plan to attend a Texas university or community college. If you are attending an online university based in another state, you will need to review the deadline for your state.

Find an Affordable Online College in Texas

Texas offers flexible and affordable paths to higher education through FAFSA and multiple state aid programs. Explore online colleges and degree options on Learn.org to find a program that fits your goals and financial situation.