Two Texas Colleges Offer Free Tuition

Be an AGGIE for free. Finally, the Texas middle-class gets a break when it comes to paying for college. Both Texas A & M and The University of Texas in Arlington have implemented programs to help families that have an annual income of $65,000 or less. Students who are in this middle-income bracket can now have the opportunity to go to a four-year Texas University with a full-scholarship.

Eligible incoming freshman can become a part of the traditions of A & M with their “Aggie Assurance” program. Students will need to maintain a grade-point average of 2.5, apply for their FAFSA and be a Texas resident. The program will pay for all in-state tuition and fees (approximately $7780 per year). These students will also be eligible for additional grants, loans or work study programs to cover the rest: books, extra fees, room and board.

Undergraduates who attend The University of Texas in Arlington can take advantage of the “Maverick Promise” in the upcoming academic year. They will need to finish the application process, receive a Federal Pell grant and maintain a 2.0 while attending UTA. If students continue to meet the required conditions, the program may be renewed. They will also be eligible for other funds through various other school programs.

Both colleges require students to take the SAT or ACT as an entrance exam. The average incoming freshman at Texas A & M has an SAT score of 1210, (Math and Critical Reading) and an ACT score of 26. At UT Arlington, the average SAT score is a 1050 (Math and Critical Reading) and an ACT score of 22.

In the past, pursuing a higher education at a four-year university had only been a dream for many families who fell into the middle class. In many cases, they made too much money for grants but not enough to pay for college. It is about time that these folks who have worked hard for so long can finally reap some benefits back. So stop worrying about the money and start realizing there’s another great reason to live in Texas.

This article is the work of author, Jean Burk. It is the property of Maven of Memory Publishing, and may be reproduced according to the following terms.