Texas Students Can Apply to Public Colleges for Free Oct. 13–19

During a week in October, individuals living in Texas can apply to public colleges and universities within the state without incurring any application fees. The state's new initiative, Free College Application Week, will eliminate all application fees from October 13 to October 19.

The initiative, introduced by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB), seeks to enhance accessibility to higher education by removing a financial obstacle that can amount to hundreds of dollars for each student. The fee waiver is available for first-time college students, transfer students, and returning students who are applying to undergraduate programs at public colleges and universities in Texas.

Applicants are required to submit their materials through ApplyTexas, the centralized college application portal for the state. The waiver will be accessible starting at 12:00 a.m. on Oct. 13 and will remain available until 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 19, as stated by the THECB.

Following the passage of Senate Bill 2231 in May, a new initiative has been launched, designating a Free College Application Week to take place annually during the second whole week of October.

Governor Greg Abbott lauded the initiative, describing it as a commitment to Texas's future. “By supporting our students today, we are investing in a stronger Texas tomorrow,” Abbott stated in a release on Aug. 29. “Texas focuses on providing students with the best educational opportunities to ensure they can thrive in high-demand, well-paying careers after graduation.”

Lawmakers estimated in June that application fees typically range from $60 to $75 per institution, with the majority of students submitting applications to five to ten colleges. The new policy has the potential to result in significant savings for some families, amounting to several hundred dollars per year.

"The initiative to waive application fees creates opportunities for more students to pursue higher education," declared Texas Higher Education Commissioner Wynn Rosser.

The fee waiver is exclusively available to Texas residents applying for undergraduate admission at public institutions. According to THECB, this requirement does not pertain to international students, out-of-state residents, or individuals applying for graduate programs.

For detailed insights regarding residency requirements and eligibility, please visit the ApplyTexas website.