Texas Financial Aid

State grants, eligibility, deadlines, and strategies for Texas students

FAFSA deadline: January 15 (priority)

Texas offers several major grant programs for in-state students, with the TEXAS Grant being the flagship need-based program covering tuition and fees at public universities. Texas does not have a separate state aid application — filing the FAFSA is the primary step.

Texas grant programs

TEXAS Grant (Toward EXcellence, Access & Success)

Need-based

Up to $10,000/year at universities; up to $3,200/year at community colleges

Eligibility

  • Texas resident
  • Demonstrate financial need via FAFSA
  • Enroll at a public Texas college or university within 16 months of high school graduation
  • Complete the Recommended or Distinguished high school curriculum
  • No felony conviction or crime involving a controlled substance

Deadline: FAFSA priority deadline: January 15

Official info →

Texas Educational Opportunity Grant (TEOG)

Need-based

Up to $2,000/year

Eligibility

  • Texas resident
  • Demonstrate financial need via FAFSA
  • Enrolled at a Texas public community or technical college
  • Not awarded a TEXAS Grant

Deadline: Varies by institution — file FAFSA early

Official info →

Tuition Equalization Grant (TEG)

Need-based

Up to $5,000/year

Eligibility

  • Texas resident
  • Demonstrate financial need
  • Enrolled at an eligible private Texas college or university
  • Not a theology or divinity major

Deadline: Varies by institution

Official info →

Tips for maximising Texas aid

1

File your FAFSA by January 15 — Texas awards are first-come, first-served and funds run out quickly.

2

Complete the Recommended or Distinguished high school graduation plan to qualify for the TEXAS Grant.

3

If attending a community college, apply for TEOG even if you plan to transfer — it bridges the gap before transferring to a university with TEXAS Grant eligibility.

4

Texas public university tuition is set by each institution — compare net costs carefully since aid amounts vary.

5

The Hazelwood Act provides full tuition at Texas public schools for eligible veterans and their dependents — one of the most generous veteran education benefits in the country.

Educational guide only. State aid programs, amounts, and deadlines change annually. Always verify current information directly with Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and your college's financial aid office before making decisions.

Put this into action

Find colleges in Texas that fit your budget, or learn more about the FAFSA process.

KidToCollege is free to use and editorially independent. Data sourced from public records including IPEDS, Common Data Sets, College Board and FAFSA.gov. Always verify deadlines and requirements directly with institutions. Not a guarantee of admission or financial aid.