How Texas college aid works
If you live in Texas, the state runs its own college aid on top of federal aid. The one to know is the TEXAS Grant and TEOG, run by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. Here is what it is, who qualifies, when to apply, and how it fits with the FAFSA.
Texas's state aid programs
Texas's flagship state aid is the TEXAS Grant. It also offers the TEOG, administered by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.
TEOG covers community colleges, automatic-admission Top 10% students get priority at publics, and the TASFA mirrors the FAFSA for students without federal eligibility.
How to apply for Texas grants and aid
FAFSA/TASFA by the Jan 15 state priority deadline.
The FAFSA is the master form. Filing it early puts a student in line for federal Pell grants and work-study, and it starts most state and college aid too. Some state funds are first come, first served, so it is safer to file the week the FAFSA opens than to wait.
Lowering out-of-state tuition
As a Texas resident, you may also qualify for the Academic Common Market (SREB): In-state rates in southern states for approved majors your home state's public colleges don't offer. Participation varies by campus and major, so check the official program list.
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Common questions about Texas college aid
What is Texas's main state financial aid program?
Texas's flagship state aid is the TEXAS Grant and TEOG, administered by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. TEOG covers community colleges, automatic-admission Top 10% students get priority at publics, and the TASFA mirrors the FAFSA for students without federal eligibility.
When do you apply for Texas college aid?
FAFSA/TASFA by the Jan 15 state priority deadline. Exact dates shift every year, so confirm the current cycle on the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board site before you file.
Do you need the FAFSA for Texas state aid?
Yes. Filing the FAFSA (or your state's alternative application) is what starts your Texas state grant, and it also unlocks federal Pell grants and work-study. File it as early as you can.
State aid details verified as of September 4, 2026. Dates shift each cycle, so always confirm the current deadline on the official Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board site.