Thursday, September 3, 2026
Texas Edition
Money

Texas State Expands Free Tuition Program to Cover Incomes Up To $100,000

The program aims to reduce student debt burdens as tuition costs rise across the state

By The Texas Chronicle Staff · Texas · 4 min read

Texas State University has expanded its Bobcat Promise program to provide free tuition for undergraduate students from families earning up to $100,000 annually. The change applies to incoming 2027 freshmen and doubles the previous income cap of $50,000 [1].

The program covers tuition costs but does not include fees, books, or living expenses. Eligible students must maintain a 2.5 grade point average and complete 15 credit hours per semester. The expansion comes as the university seeks to address rising education costs amid statewide tuition increases [1].

Other Texas developments include:

Rockport officials have implemented Stage 1 water restrictions due to declining reservoir levels. The measures limit outdoor watering to two days per week and prohibit car washing without a bucket [2].

Trinity County's ASISD school district is pursuing state funding to maintain disaster preparedness programs following recent severe weather events [3].

Wise County residents continue to benefit from Dolly's Gift, a local endowment that supports community projects and scholarships. The fund has distributed over $2 million since its creation in 2010 [4].

Williamson County approved a $712.9 million budget for 2027 that includes tax cuts despite population growth. The plan allocates $50 million for infrastructure improvements and $20 million for public safety initiatives [5].

The Bobcat Promise expansion takes effect August 15 2027. Students must submit financial documentation by March 1 2027 to qualify for the program [1].