Governor Greg Abbott (R) and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) have officially declared October 13–19, 2025, as the first-ever Free College Application Week in Texas. This initiative, made possible through Senate Bill 2231, allows Texas residents to apply for admission to public colleges and universities in the state without paying application fees.
“All public institutions in Texas are now required to waive undergraduate application fees during this week,” said Abbott. “It’s a vital step toward ensuring more students can access high-demand, good-paying jobs by starting with the education they need.”
Applicants must use the ApplyTexas Website to qualify for the waived fees. Both first-time college students and transfer applicants are eligible, provided they meet Texas residency requirements.
THECB Commissioner Wynn Rosser emphasized that this effort is part of a broader strategy to reduce barriers to higher education. Free College Application Week, combined with tools like My Texas Future and Direct Admissions, empowers Texans to take charge of their future.
My Texas Future is a digital tool that allows students to explore career paths, find matching academic programs, compare tuition costs, estimate salaries after graduation, and connect with advisors.
Direct Admissions further supports students by providing a list of participating Texas institutions where they may already qualify for acceptance based on academic performance.
Free College Application Week will take place annually during the second full week of October. The program represents a broader statewide commitment to expand access to higher education and ensure Texas students are prepared for the workforce needs of tomorrow.
