Scholarships in Texas: Types, Applications, and Top Universities

Pursuing higher education in Texas can be more affordable than you think, thanks to a range of scholarship opportunities available to students. From merit-based awards to financial need grants, Texas offers numerous paths to fund your academic journey.

This guide explores the different types of scholarships, walks you through the application process, and highlights some of the top universities in the state. Whether you’re a high school senior or a college student seeking additional support, this resource will provide essential insights to help you secure the funding you need.

Get ready to unlock opportunities that can shape your educational future.

Types of Scholarships Available in Texas

When considering higher education in Texas, students can access a variety of scholarships tailored to diverse needs and achievements. Here’s an overview of the primary types available:

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Merit-Based Scholarships

These scholarships reward students for academic excellence, leadership, or extracurricular involvement. For instance, the University of Texas at Austin offers the Presidential Scholars Program, granting $5,000 annually to students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement in high school.

Need-Based Scholarships

Designed to assist students facing financial challenges, these scholarships ensure that higher education remains accessible. The TEXAS (Towards EXcellence, Access and Success) Grant Program is a notable example, providing financial aid to students who exhibit financial need, making college more attainable.

University-Specific Scholarships

Many Texas institutions offer scholarships exclusive to their students. For example, Texas A&M University provides scholarships to students with specific last names, such as the Scarpinato scholarship, which covers a substantial portion of tuition costs.

Private and Community Scholarships

Various organizations, foundations, and community groups in Texas offer scholarships to support local students. The George and Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation, for instance, awards scholarships to Houston area high school seniors for undergraduate study, providing $20,000 over four years.

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Field of Study Scholarships

Certain scholarships are designated for students pursuing specific majors or careers. The Fifth-Year Accounting Student Scholarship Program offers $5,000 to Texas residents enrolled at least half-time in a college or university, who have completed 120 hours of coursework and plan to take the CPA exam to become a Certified Public Accountant.

Demographic-Specific Scholarships

Some scholarships aim to support students from particular backgrounds or communities. The Dallas Foundation awards the Dr. Dan J. and Patricia S. Pickard Scholarship to male African American students in Dallas County, providing $1,000 to support their educational pursuits.

Unconventional Scholarships

Beyond traditional criteria, there are scholarships based on unique traits or skills. For example, some institutions offer scholarships to students with specific last names, often set up by donors generations ago. These scholarships can range from small amounts to full tuition coverage.

Exploring these varied scholarship opportunities can significantly alleviate the financial burden of higher education in Texas. It’s beneficial for students to research and apply to those that align with their individual profiles and aspirations.

Merit-Based Scholarships in Texas

Merit-based scholarships in Texas recognize students for their academic achievements, leadership skills, artistic talents, and extracurricular accomplishments. Unlike need-based aid, merit scholarships are awarded based on performance, not financial need.

This type of scholarship is ideal for students who excel in academics, athletics, music, or community service. Here are some of the most well-known types of merit-based scholarships available in Texas:

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1. University-Sponsored Merit Scholarships

Many Texas universities offer scholarships specifically for high-achieving students. These scholarships often reward academic excellence, leadership, or exceptional talent. For instance, the University of Texas at Austin’s Presidential Scholars Program offers financial support to students with exceptional high school performance.

Similarly, Texas A&M University provides several merit-based awards, including the Academic Excellence Scholarship, which is automatically considered for students based on their high school grades, SAT/ACT scores, and leadership roles. These university-specific scholarships typically offer renewable funding for multiple years, provided students maintain a certain GPA.

2. State-Funded Merit Scholarships

The state of Texas also provides merit-based financial aid programs, such as the TEXAS (Towards EXcellence, Access, and Success) Grant. While primarily a need-based program, certain merit elements come into play, as students must demonstrate academic readiness by completing a college-prep curriculum in high school.

Another example is the Texas Armed Services Scholarship Program (TASSP), which rewards students committed to serving in the armed forces. This scholarship requires a nomination from a Texas legislator and a demonstration of leadership qualities, academic excellence, and physical fitness.

3. Private Merit Scholarships

Numerous private organizations and foundations across Texas offer merit-based scholarships to support students with impressive academic, artistic, or athletic abilities. For instance, the George and Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation Scholarship awards $20,000 to high-achieving high school seniors in the greater Houston area.

Other organizations, such as RaiseMe, allow students to earn “micro-scholarships” from Texas universities for specific achievements, like earning an A in a class or leading a club.

4. Talent- and Skill-Based Scholarships

Merit scholarships aren’t just for academics. Students with unique talents or skills can also access funding. For example, students pursuing degrees in fine arts, music, or theater may qualify for talent-based scholarships offered by specific colleges or arts organizations.

Texas Woman’s University provides scholarships for students who excel in creative writing, music, and other artistic fields. Similarly, student-athletes may receive scholarships from Texas colleges and universities through recruitment efforts, especially in NCAA-sanctioned sports.

5. National Merit Scholarships

Students in Texas who excel on the PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) may qualify for National Merit Scholarships, which are awarded to the top-performing students nationwide. Many Texas universities offer additional financial incentives or “matching scholarships” to National Merit Finalists and Semifinalists.

For instance, the University of Texas at Dallas offers a generous financial package for students who achieve National Merit Scholar status, often including full tuition, fees, and additional stipends for living expenses.

How to Qualify for a Merit-Based Scholarship in Texas

To increase their chances of receiving a merit-based scholarship, students should focus on maintaining high academic performance, participating in extracurricular activities, and showcasing leadership abilities.

It’s also crucial to submit scholarship applications early, as deadlines can vary depending on the scholarship provider. Students should prepare to submit letters of recommendation, transcripts, personal essays, and standardized test scores as part of their applications.

Need-Based Scholarships in Texas

Need-based scholarships in Texas are designed to support students who may face financial challenges in pursuing higher education. Unlike merit-based scholarships, these awards prioritize a student’s financial situation, although academic performance may still play a role in eligibility.

For many students, need-based scholarships are a lifeline, reducing the financial burden of tuition, fees, and other educational expenses. Here’s a look at some of the key need-based scholarships available in Texas:

1. TEXAS (Towards EXcellence, Access, and Success) Grant

The TEXAS Grant is one of the most well-known state-funded, need-based scholarships in Texas. It aims to help students from low-income households afford college education at public universities and colleges within the state.

To be eligible, students must have completed the recommended high school curriculum, demonstrate financial need (as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA), and enroll in a qualifying institution.

This grant can cover tuition and fees for up to 150 credit hours or until a bachelor’s degree is earned. Recipients must maintain satisfactory academic progress to keep their funding for subsequent years.

Who is Eligible?

• Texas residents enrolled at least half-time in a public university, college, or technical school
• Demonstrate financial need through FAFSA or the Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA)
• Must not have been convicted of certain drug-related crimes

How Much Can Students Receive?
The award amount varies depending on the type of institution attended (university, community college, or technical school) and available funding from the state. It can cover tuition, fees, and a portion of other education-related costs.

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2. Texas Public Educational Grant (TPEG)

The Texas Public Educational Grant (TPEG) is another state-supported, need-based scholarship available to students attending public universities, community colleges, and technical schools.

This grant is funded by student tuition payments, and individual schools determine how much aid to award. Since each institution manages its own TPEG program, eligibility requirements and award amounts can vary significantly.

Who is Eligible?

• Students enrolled at Texas public universities, community colleges, or technical schools
• Both in-state and out-of-state students can qualify, as long as they demonstrate financial need
• Must submit the FAFSA or TASFA (for non-citizen residents) to be considered

How Much Can Students Receive?
The amount varies by institution, as each school sets its own award limits. Typically, awards range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the availability of funds and the student’s financial need.

3. Federal Pell Grant

While not exclusive to Texas, the Federal Pell Grant is a critical need-based aid program for students across the U.S., including Texas. It’s funded by the federal government and awarded to low-income undergraduate students pursuing their first bachelor’s degree. Unlike loans, Pell Grants do not need to be repaid.

Who is Eligible?

• U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and certain eligible non-citizens
• Students pursuing their first undergraduate degree at a college, university, or technical school
• Demonstrate financial need based on FAFSA results

How Much Can Students Receive?
The maximum Pell Grant award for the 2024-2025 academic year is $7,395, but the actual amount depends on the student’s Expected Family Contribution (EFC), the cost of attendance, and whether the student is attending full-time or part-time.

4. Institutional Need-Based Scholarships

Many Texas colleges and universities offer need-based scholarships to students enrolled at their institutions. These scholarships are often funded by alumni donations, endowments, or state support.

Unlike the TEXAS Grant or TPEG, which have statewide eligibility criteria, institutional scholarships have their own unique requirements set by each school.

Examples of Institutional Need-Based Scholarships in Texas:

• The Longhorn Opportunity Scholarship (University of Texas at Austin): Offers financial support to students from high schools in underserved areas of Texas.
• Aggie Assurance (Texas A&M University): Covers tuition costs for students with household incomes below a certain threshold.
• Texas State Achievement Scholarship (Texas State University): Awards funds to students based on financial need and academic potential.

How Much Can Students Receive?
Award amounts vary depending on the university’s funding and the student’s level of need. Some of these scholarships can cover full tuition, while others provide smaller amounts to offset the cost of attendance.

5. Private and Nonprofit Scholarships

Beyond state and federal programs, private organizations and nonprofit foundations offer need-based scholarships for Texas students. These scholarships may be funded by businesses, philanthropic groups, or community organizations looking to give back to local students.

Notable Private Need-Based Scholarships in Texas:

• The George and Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation Scholarship: Provides $20,000 to students from the Houston area pursuing undergraduate degrees.
• The Dallas Foundation Scholarships: Offers multiple scholarships with eligibility criteria based on financial need, academic performance, and community involvement.
• Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF): While not exclusive to Texas, this national program supports Latino students with financial need.

How Much Can Students Receive?
Private need-based scholarships can range from small one-time awards of $500 to substantial four-year scholarships worth tens of thousands of dollars.

6. Work-Study Programs

While not a scholarship in the traditional sense, work-study programs are a form of financial aid that allows students to earn money for their education through part-time employment on campus or with approved community employers. Texas students can participate in either federal work-study or the Texas College Work-Study Program.

How It Works:

• Students must complete the FAFSA to qualify.
• Students are assigned part-time jobs at their college or with approved off-campus employers.
• Wages are typically paid directly to the student and can be used for tuition, fees, books, and living expenses.

How Much Can Students Earn?
The amount a student can earn depends on the work hours and the employer’s pay rate. Students generally work 10-20 hours per week, and hourly wages are often tied to minimum wage or slightly higher rates.

How to Apply for Need-Based Scholarships in Texas

1. Submit the FAFSA or TASFA: Most need-based scholarships require students to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) or TASFA (for Texas residents who are ineligible for FAFSA).
2. Apply Early: Many scholarships have limited funding, so early applicants often have a better chance of receiving aid.
3. Check with Colleges and Universities: Each institution offers its own need-based aid, and students should apply for as many internal scholarships as possible.
4. Look for Private and Local Scholarships: Local organizations, community groups, and nonprofits often offer scholarships for students from specific regions or demographic groups.

Minority Scholarships in Texas

Minority scholarships in Texas aim to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education. These scholarships are designed to support students from underrepresented racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds, as well as those with unique identities, such as first-generation college students or members of specific communities.

Such scholarships reduce financial barriers and empower students to achieve academic success. Here’s a look at some key minority-focused scholarship opportunities available in Texas.

1. Hispanic and Latino Scholarships

Texas is home to a large Hispanic and Latino population, and many scholarships are tailored to support students from these communities. These programs aim to increase the number of Hispanic graduates in fields like education, STEM, and business.

Notable Hispanic and Latino Scholarships in Texas:

• Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF): One of the most prominent programs, HSF offers scholarships ranging from $500 to $5,000 to students of Hispanic heritage pursuing a college education. The scholarship is open to high school seniors, undergraduates, and graduate students.
• League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) Scholarships: LULAC offers local and national scholarships through its LULAC National Scholarship Fund (LNSF). Awards are available to high-achieving students of Hispanic descent, with an emphasis on those who demonstrate financial need.
• La Unidad Latina Foundation Scholarships: This program provides financial support to Latino students enrolled in undergraduate or graduate degree programs, with awards typically ranging from $500 to $1,000.

How to Apply:
Most of these scholarships require applicants to submit personal essays, recommendation letters, and FAFSA or TASFA forms to demonstrate financial need. It’s also important to keep track of deadlines, as Hispanic scholarships often have early application dates.

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2. African American Scholarships

African American students in Texas have access to several scholarships focused on promoting Black excellence in higher education. Many of these programs aim to increase representation in underrepresented fields like STEM, law, and medicine.

Notable African American Scholarships in Texas:

• Dr. Dan J. and Patricia S. Pickard Scholarship (Dallas Foundation): This scholarship is awarded to African American male students in Dallas County. The program focuses on supporting students with financial need who have demonstrated a commitment to education and community service.
• United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Scholarships: While not exclusive to Texas, UNCF offers various scholarships for Black students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) or other accredited institutions in Texas. Awards vary in amount, but students often receive up to $10,000 annually.
• Ron Brown Scholar Program: This nationwide program provides $40,000 over four years to Black high school seniors who have demonstrated leadership, academic achievement, and a commitment to public service.

How to Apply:
African American students should seek out community organizations, local nonprofits, and Texas-based foundations, as many of these groups offer scholarships exclusively to local Black students. Applicants are usually required to submit transcripts, recommendation letters, and personal essays.

3. Scholarships for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Students

While Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) students often face financial challenges similar to other minority groups, there are fewer scholarships explicitly aimed at supporting this community. However, several national and Texas-based organizations offer AAPI scholarships to promote diversity on college campuses.

Notable AAPI Scholarships in Texas:

• Asian & Pacific Islander American (APIA) Scholarship Program: This program provides financial support to AAPI students across the U.S., including Texas. Award amounts range from $2,500 to $20,000 for undergraduate students.
• AAJA (Asian American Journalists Association) Scholarships: If you’re interested in media, communications, or journalism, this scholarship is a great option. The AAJA provides funding for Asian American students pursuing careers in media-related fields.
• OCA-Asian Pacific American Advocates Scholarships: OCA chapters across Texas offer local scholarships to AAPI students who demonstrate financial need, community service, and academic excellence.

How to Apply:
Students must meet heritage or ethnic background requirements and submit applications detailing their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and essays reflecting their identity as an AAPI student.

4. Native American Scholarships

Although Native American students are often underrepresented in higher education, there are scholarships dedicated to supporting Indigenous students in Texas. Some of these scholarships are exclusive to members of federally recognized tribes, while others are open to students with Native American ancestry.

Notable Native American Scholarships in Texas:

• American Indian College Fund (AICF): This national fund provides financial aid to Native American students attending tribal colleges and accredited universities, including those in Texas. Scholarships range from $500 to $2,000.
• Native American Scholarships from the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE): The BIE offers funding for Native American students attending colleges and universities. The awards are open to students who are members of federally recognized tribes.
• Tribal-Specific Scholarships: Some Native American tribes, like the Cherokee Nation and Navajo Nation, provide scholarships for their tribal members. Texas students with Native ancestry should research their tribe’s scholarship programs to see if they qualify.

How to Apply:
Applicants typically need to provide proof of tribal enrollment or documentation of Native ancestry. Students are also required to submit FAFSA or TASFA forms, transcripts, and personal essays.

5. LGBTQ+ Scholarships

For LGBTQ+ students, financial challenges are often exacerbated by discrimination or family rejection. Fortunately, many scholarships are designed to support LGBTQ+ students pursuing higher education in Texas.

Notable LGBTQ+ Scholarships in Texas:

• Point Foundation Scholarships: The Point Foundation is the largest LGBTQ+ scholarship fund in the U.S. It offers renewable scholarships to LGBTQ+ students who demonstrate academic excellence and community leadership.
• The LGBT Chamber of Commerce Foundation of Texas: This organization offers scholarships to LGBTQ+ students in Texas who have shown leadership in LGBTQ+ rights and advocacy.
• LEAGUE Foundation LGBTQ+ Scholarships: Open to graduating high school seniors who identify as LGBTQ+, this program provides scholarships of up to $2,500 for students pursuing higher education.

How to Apply:
Most LGBTQ+ scholarships require students to submit a personal essay that reflects on their experience as an LGBTQ+ individual. Applicants should emphasize their community involvement, leadership, and goals for the future.

6. First-Generation College Student Scholarships

While not tied to a specific racial or ethnic background, first-generation college students often face financial obstacles similar to minority students. Many scholarship providers in Texas recognize the challenges first-generation students face and offer funding to support their academic journeys.

Notable First-Generation Scholarships in Texas:

• Dell Scholars Program: While open to students of all backgrounds, the Dell Scholars Program prioritizes first-generation students who have faced financial or personal hardships. Winners receive $20,000 over four years, along with additional support for textbooks and laptops.
• First in Family Scholarships (College-Specific Awards): Many Texas universities, like Texas A&M and Texas Tech, offer special scholarships for first-generation college students. These scholarships recognize the unique hurdles faced by students who are the first in their families to attend college.

How to Apply:
To be considered a first-generation college student, applicants must be the first in their immediate family to attend a four-year university. Applications usually require FAFSA completion, transcripts, and essays that highlight the student’s motivation for pursuing higher education.

How to Find and Apply for Minority Scholarships in Texas

1. Start with National Scholarship Databases: Websites like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and UNCF list minority scholarships available nationwide and specific to Texas students.
2. Apply Early: Many scholarships have early deadlines, so students should begin the application process at least six months before the academic year starts.
3. Prepare Strong Essays and Recommendations: Many minority scholarships require essays about personal identity, cultural background, or career goals. Strong letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, or community leaders can also boost an application.
4. Seek Local Community Organizations: Texas-based organizations like the Dallas Foundation, Hispanic Heritage Foundation, and Asian Chamber of Commerce offer region-specific scholarships for minority students.

How to Apply for Scholarships in Texas

Applying for scholarships in Texas can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it becomes a manageable process. Scholarships can ease the financial burden of tuition, books, and living expenses, making higher education more accessible.

Whether you’re a high school senior, college student, or graduate student, following a step-by-step process will increase your chances of winning financial aid. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to apply for scholarships in Texas.

1. Identify the Types of Scholarships Available

Before you start applying, it’s important to understand the different categories of scholarships you may be eligible for. Scholarships are typically awarded based on factors like academic achievement, financial need, background, or field of study. Here are the key types of scholarships in Texas:

• Merit-Based Scholarships: For academic excellence, leadership, or artistic talent.
• Need-Based Scholarships: For students with financial need, determined by the FAFSA or TASFA.
• Minority Scholarships: For underrepresented groups, such as Hispanic, Black, Native American, and LGBTQ+ students.
• Demographic-Specific Scholarships: For specific groups like first-generation college students or children of veterans.
• Field-Specific Scholarships: For students pursuing degrees in high-demand fields, like STEM, nursing, or teaching.

Action Step: Make a list of scholarships you may be eligible for by searching databases like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and local resources specific to Texas, such as the Dallas Foundation or George and Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation.

2. Create a Scholarship Application Calendar

Scholarship deadlines vary significantly. Some applications are due as early as the fall of your senior year, while others accept applications year-round. Missing deadlines can mean missing out on thousands of dollars in aid.

Action Step: Create a calendar to track important dates for each scholarship. Include deadlines, essay due dates, and required submission materials. Online tools like Google Calendar, Trello, or even a simple planner can help you stay organized.

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3. Complete the FAFSA or TASFA

Many need-based scholarships in Texas require you to complete either the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA). These applications assess your financial need and determine your eligibility for federal, state, and institutional aid.

• FAFSA: For U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and eligible non-citizens.
• TASFA: For undocumented students or those who don’t qualify for FAFSA but are classified as Texas residents under the Texas Education Code.

Both applications open on October 1 of each year, and it’s best to apply as early as possible since some scholarships operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Action Step: Complete the FAFSA or TASFA early, even if you think you won’t qualify for aid. Some merit-based and institutional scholarships require these forms to verify financial status.

4. Gather Required Documents

Each scholarship has specific requirements, but most ask for similar materials. Having these documents ready will save you time as you fill out applications.

Common Documents You May Need:

• Transcripts (official or unofficial, depending on the scholarship)
• FAFSA or TASFA Confirmation (to verify financial need)
• Recommendation Letters (from teachers, counselors, or community leaders)
• Personal Essays (specific to each scholarship’s prompt)
• List of Extracurricular Activities and Achievements (volunteer work, leadership roles, clubs, sports, etc.)
• Proof of Residency or Citizenship (for scholarships limited to Texas residents or U.S. citizens)

Action Step: Create a “Scholarship Folder” on your computer or cloud storage with copies of your transcripts, personal essays, and letters of recommendation. This will make it easy to upload required files when applying.

5. Write Compelling Personal Essays

Many scholarship applications require you to write essays about your background, goals, or experiences. These essays are often the deciding factor for selection committees.

Tips for Writing a Winning Essay:

• Be Authentic: Share personal stories and challenges that shaped you. Avoid generic responses.
• Address the Prompt Directly: If asked to discuss your career goals, focus on that topic rather than veering off course.
• Start with a Hook: Draw the reader in with an attention-grabbing introduction.
• Show, Don’t Just Tell: Instead of saying, “I am a hard worker,” share a story that demonstrates your work ethic.
• Proofread Carefully: Check for grammatical errors, typos, and awkward phrasing. Ask a teacher, counselor, or mentor to review your essay before submission.

Action Step: Write a general “base” essay about your personal story, challenges, and goals. Then, customize it to fit the specific prompts for each scholarship. This saves time and ensures consistency in your applications.

6. Request Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation provide insight into your character, academic potential, and leadership skills. Choose recommenders who know you well and can highlight your strengths.

Who to Ask for a Recommendation Letter:

• Teachers or Professors (especially those in subjects related to your major)
• School Counselors (especially for high school seniors)
• Employers, Mentors, or Volunteer Coordinators (for non-academic scholarships)

Action Step: Request letters of recommendation at least 3-4 weeks in advance of the scholarship deadline. Provide your recommenders with details about the scholarship, your resume, and deadlines so they can tailor the letter accordingly.

7. Tailor Your Application for Each Scholarship

While it may be tempting to submit the same application for every scholarship, tailoring your responses to the scholarship’s mission and values will make your application stand out. If a scholarship focuses on community service, highlight your volunteer work.

Action Step: Research each scholarship’s purpose and values. Adjust your essays, activity list, and letter of recommendation requests to align with what the scholarship committee is looking for.

8. Submit the Application Early

Avoid submitting your scholarship applications at the last minute. Early submission allows you to fix potential issues, like missing documents or file upload errors.

Pro Tip: If an application allows you to edit your submission after submitting, review it again a few days later to ensure no errors were made.

Action Step: Set a “soft deadline” for yourself, 7-10 days before the actual deadline. This will give you time to review your application one final time before submitting.

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9. Follow Up on Your Application

After submitting, check your email regularly for updates or requests for additional information. Some scholarships require follow-up interviews, while others might request clarification on certain details.

Action Step: Create a list of all scholarships you’ve applied for, along with their deadlines, follow-up dates, and potential interview schedules.

10. Track and Manage Your Awards

Once you win a scholarship, you’ll want to keep track of how much you’ve received, renewal requirements, and deadlines for accepting awards. Some scholarships are one-time payments, while others are renewable each year.

Pro Tip: For renewable scholarships (like the TEXAS Grant), you may be required to maintain a minimum GPA or complete a specific number of credit hours each semester.

Action Step: Create a spreadsheet to track award amounts, renewal deadlines, and eligibility requirements for each scholarship you win.

Scholarship Resources in Texas

Here are some helpful platforms and organizations to explore for scholarships in Texas:

• Fastweb: Nationwide scholarship search engine
• Scholarships.com: Database of scholarships for U.S. students, including those for Texas
• Texas OnCourse: Resource hub for Texas students applying for college and scholarships
• RaiseMe: Earn “micro-scholarships” from participating colleges in Texas based on academic achievements

Top Universities Offering Scholarships in Texas

Texas boasts several prestigious universities that offer generous scholarship programs to support students in their academic pursuits. Here are some notable institutions and their scholarship offerings:

University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin):

UT Austin provides a variety of merit-based scholarships for both in-state and out-of-state students. Notably, the Forty Acres Scholars Program stands out as a comprehensive, full-ride scholarship covering tuition, living stipends, and enrichment activities. This program seeks students who demonstrate exceptional leadership, scholarship, and character.

Texas A&M University:

Texas A&M offers numerous scholarships, including the President’s Endowed Scholarship and the Lechner Scholarship, which are awarded based on academic excellence and leadership qualities. Additionally, the university participates in the National Merit Scholars Program, providing substantial awards to National Merit Finalists.

University of Houston:

The University of Houston‘s Tier One Scholarship is a prestigious program that covers tuition and mandatory fees for four years, on-campus housing and meal plan for the first two years, and includes stipends for research and study abroad opportunities. This scholarship is designed for high-achieving students who exhibit strong academic records and leadership skills.

University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas):

UT Dallas offers the Academic Excellence Scholarship (AES) to incoming freshmen based on academic performance. Awards range from partial to full tuition coverage, with some including additional stipends. The university also hosts the Eugene McDermott Scholars Program, which provides full tuition, stipends, and enrichment funds to a select group of students demonstrating exceptional achievement.

Rice University:

As a leading private institution, Rice University is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Through a combination of grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities, Rice ensures that financial constraints do not hinder talented students from accessing quality education.

These universities exemplify Texas’s dedication to supporting higher education through substantial scholarship programs, enabling students from diverse backgrounds to achieve their academic goals.