The state aid picture
Texas administers its state financial aid through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB), with need-based grants for different sectors of higher education. Students who aren't eligible for federal aid can apply using the Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA) instead of the FAFSA.
Need-based state grants
- TEXAS GrantThe state's main need-based grant (Toward EXcellence, Access & Success) for students at public universities.
- Texas Educational Opportunity Grant (TEOG)Need-based aid for students at public two-year (community/technical) colleges.
- Tuition Equalization Grant (TEG)Need-based aid for Texas residents attending private, nonprofit Texas colleges.
College savings (529 plan)
Texas offers the Texas College Savings Plan (a 529 investment plan) and the Texas Tuition Promise Fund (a prepaid tuition plan).
Loan forgiveness & service programs
Texas runs targeted loan repayment/forgiveness programs for high-need fields (such as teaching and nursing) through the THECB — check current programs and eligibility.
Applying & the state agency
Nearly all state aid starts with the FAFSA (or the TASFA). From there:
- File the FAFSA earlyIt's the trigger for state grants and many scholarships
- Register with the THECBCreate the state agency's student account to track and claim awards
- Confirm your detailsVerify residency, GPA, and enrollment as required
- Meet any extra requirementsSome programs need a separate form, GPA, or service commitment
- Reapply every yearState aid is awarded annually
Deadlines & timing
State deadlines are typically much earlier than the federal FAFSA deadline, and some aid is first-come, first-served until funds run out. File the FAFSA as soon as it opens (in the fall) and confirm the state's specific priority date.
Tips to maximize state aid
- File the FAFSA as early as possiblePriority deadlines and limited funds reward early filers
- Confirm your residency and eligibilityMost state aid is for residents attending in-state schools
- Maintain the required GPAMerit awards usually require you keep a minimum GPA to renew
- Use the state agency's portalTrack, confirm, and claim your awards there
- Check renewal rules each yearKnow what keeps your award going
Frequently asked questions
- How do I get Texas state aid?File the FAFSA (and any state form) by the deadline; the THECB administers the programs.
- Is it need-based or merit?Both — Texas offers need-based grants and merit scholarships.
- Are the deadlines earlier than federal?Usually yes — file early, as some aid is first-come.
- Can I use it out of state?Most Texas aid is for in-state schools; check each program.
- Does this list private scholarships?No — this guide covers official state programs only.
Key facts
- UniversitiesTEXAS Grant (need-based)
- Community collegeTEOG
- Private collegesTuition Equalization Grant
- 529Texas College Savings Plan (+ Tuition Promise Fund)
- AgencyTexas Higher Education Coordinating Board
Where to learn more
Confirm current programs, amounts, and deadlines with the state agency: