Savings Simulator
Estimate your total degree savings
*Simulating savings based on Texas Average's current in-state qualification rules.
Total Savings Goal
$76,720
Estimated Benefit Over 4 Years
Texas Universities
| University | In-State | Out-of-State | 4yr Savings | SAT Avg | Accept Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Texas at Austin Austin • Public | $11,448 | $41,070 | $118,488 | 1375 | 31% |
| Texas A&M University College Station • Public | $12,744 | $40,662 | $111,672 | 1290 | 63% |
| Rice University Houston • Private | $56,280 | $56,280 | $0 | 1530 | 9% |
Top Education Hubs in Texas
Higher Education in Texas
Texas operates one of the nation's largest and most diverse higher education systems, serving over 1.6 million students across more than 200 institutions. The state's public university landscape is dominated by two powerful systems: the University of Texas System and the Texas A&M University System, both internationally recognized for academic excellence and research output.
The University of Texas System encompasses 13 institutions, with UT Austin serving as the flagship campus. UT Austin consistently ranks among the top 10 public universities nationally, renowned for programs in engineering, business, law, and computer science. Other notable UT System schools include UT Dallas, UT San Antonio, and UT El Paso, each serving distinct regional constituencies.
The Texas A&M University System includes 11 universities, with the flagship campus in College Station enrolling over 70,000 students—making it one of the largest universities in the nation. Texas A&M is particularly strong in engineering, agriculture, veterinary medicine, and military-affiliated education through the Corps of Cadets.
Texas public universities offer remarkably affordable tuition compared to national averages. In-state undergraduate tuition at UT Austin is approximately $11,500 per year, while Texas A&M charges around $12,400. Many smaller public universities charge even less, with some regional institutions offering tuition under $8,000 annually. Combined with Texas's strong financial aid programs and unique benefits like the Hazelwood Act for veterans, higher education in Texas is exceptionally accessible.
UT System vs Texas A&M System: Which is Right for You?
Choosing between the University of Texas and Texas A&M systems often defines a student's college experience and career trajectory. Both systems offer excellent education, but they differ in culture, academic focus, and campus environment.
UT Austin embodies an urban, diverse campus culture in the heart of Texas's capital city. The campus sits adjacent to downtown Austin, providing unparalleled access to internships, the tech industry, and cultural events. UT is known for its strong liberal arts tradition, top-ranked business school (McCombs), and engineering programs. The student body tends to be politically diverse with an emphasis on individual expression.
Texas A&M offers a distinctly different experience rooted in tradition, camaraderie, and school spirit. The Corps of Cadets, the 12th Man tradition, and Aggie football create a tight-knit community that extends well beyond graduation. A&M excels in engineering, agriculture, veterinary science, and military-affiliated career paths. The Bryan-College Station location offers a college-town experience focused entirely on the university.
Cost-wise, tuition at both flagships is comparable: UT Austin at approximately $11,500 and Texas A&M at $12,400 for in-state students. However, Texas A&M's lower cost of living in College Station may provide overall savings compared to Austin's rising housing costs. Both universities offer extensive financial aid and scholarship programs.
| Aspect | UT | TAMU |
|---|---|---|
| Flagship Campus | UT Austin (50,000+ students) | Texas A&M College Station (70,000+ students) |
| System Size | 13 institutions | 11 universities |
| In-State Tuition | ~$11,500/year | ~$12,400/year |
| Campus Location | Urban (Austin) | College town (Bryan-College Station) |
| Strong Programs | Business, Law, Computer Science | Engineering, Agriculture, Veterinary Medicine |
| Culture | Urban, diverse, individual | Traditional, community-focused, school spirit |
Texas Financial Aid & Scholarships
Texas provides substantial financial aid opportunities that make higher education accessible across income levels, with several programs unique to the state.
The TEXAS Grant (Toward EXcellence, Access and Success) is the state's primary need-based grant program, providing up to $7,800 annually at public universities. To qualify, students must be Texas residents, demonstrate financial need through FAFSA, enroll at least three-quarter time in their first year, and have an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) within program limits. TEXAS Grant covers a significant portion of tuition at most public universities.
The Hazelwood Act is one of Texas's most valuable education benefits, providing tuition exemption (up to 150 credit hours) for Texas veterans with at least 181 days of active duty service who were Texas residents when entering the military. Unused Hazelwood hours can be transferred to dependent children through the Hazelwood Legacy Program—a benefit worth potentially $100,000+ per child.
Texas also offers Tuition Equalization Grants (TEG) for students attending private universities, with awards up to $5,000 annually. The Texas Educational Opportunity Grant (TEOG) targets community college students with demonstrated financial need.
Institutional aid at Texas universities is substantial. UT Austin's Texas Advance Commitment covers tuition and fees for students from families earning under $65,000 and provides significant support for those earning up to $125,000. Texas A&M's Aggie Assurance provides similar benefits. Many private Texas universities, including Rice University, meet 100% of demonstrated financial need.
Texas In-State Tuition Requirements
Texas has specific residency requirements that affect tuition classification. Understanding these rules is crucial for students seeking in-state rates.
The primary pathway to Texas residency requires establishing domicile in Texas for at least 12 months before enrollment. During this period, you must demonstrate intent to make Texas your permanent home through actions such as obtaining a Texas driver's license, registering to vote in Texas, and working in Texas (not just college jobs). The "36-hour rule" states that students who graduated from a Texas high school or resided in Texas for 36 months prior to enrollment generally qualify for in-state tuition.
Dependent students typically inherit their parents' residency status. If your parents are Texas residents, you likely qualify for in-state tuition even if you attend high school out of state. Independent students (those not claimed as dependents on parental taxes) must establish their own Texas domicile.
Military-connected students receive special consideration. Active duty military stationed in Texas, their spouses, and dependents qualify for in-state tuition regardless of their home of record. Veterans who establish domicile in Texas upon separation also qualify. The Hazelwood Act provides additional benefits beyond just residency status.
International students and DACA recipients may qualify for in-state tuition under Texas's Senate Bill 1528, which allows students who graduated from Texas high schools after attending for at least three years and signed an affidavit stating intent to apply for permanent residency to pay in-state rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost of tuition at UT Austin?
For in-state students, UT Austin tuition is approximately $11,500 per year for 2025-2026. Out-of-state tuition is around $41,000. Room and board adds approximately $12,000-$15,000 depending on housing choice.
How do I qualify for the TEXAS Grant?
You must be a Texas resident, demonstrate financial need through FAFSA, enroll at least 3/4 time in your first year, and have an Expected Family Contribution within program limits. Awards provide up to $7,800 annually at public universities.
What is the Hazelwood Act?
The Hazelwood Act provides tuition exemption for up to 150 credit hours for Texas veterans who served at least 181 days of active duty. Unused hours can be transferred to dependent children through the Legacy Program, potentially worth over $100,000.
How do I establish Texas residency for tuition purposes?
You must establish domicile in Texas for at least 12 months. This includes obtaining a Texas driver's license, registering to vote, and working in Texas. The 36-hour rule allows students who graduated from Texas high schools or lived in Texas 36 months prior to qualify.
What is the difference between UT and Texas A&M?
UT Austin offers an urban campus experience with strengths in business, law, and tech. Texas A&M provides a traditional college-town experience with strong engineering, agriculture, and military programs. Both are top-tier research universities with comparable costs.
Can undocumented students get in-state tuition in Texas?
Yes. Under Senate Bill 1528, students who graduated from Texas high schools after attending 3+ years and sign an affidavit stating intent to apply for permanent residency qualify for in-state tuition rates, regardless of immigration status.
How competitive is admission to UT Austin?
Very competitive. UT Austin has an overall acceptance rate around 30%, but automatic admission is guaranteed for Texas high school students in the top 6% of their class. Non-automatic admits compete with applicants nationwide for remaining spots.
Is Rice University expensive?
Rice tuition is approximately $56,000 per year, but the university meets 100% of demonstrated financial need without loans. Families earning under $75,000 typically receive free tuition. Rice's net cost often compares favorably to public universities for aid-eligible students.
What are the best public universities in Texas?
UT Austin and Texas A&M are the flagships. UT Dallas, Texas Tech, University of Houston, and UT San Antonio are also highly regarded. Texas State and regional universities offer excellent value at lower tuition costs.
How much can I save with in-state tuition in Texas?
At UT Austin, in-state students save approximately $29,500 per year compared to out-of-state rates. Over four years, this totals nearly $120,000 in savings on tuition alone.
What is Texas Advance Commitment?
UT Austin's program that covers tuition and fees for students from families earning under $65,000 annually, with significant support for those earning up to $125,000. Similar to Blue and Gold programs at other universities.
Can military families get in-state tuition in Texas?
Yes. Active duty military stationed in Texas, their spouses, and dependents automatically qualify for in-state tuition. Veterans establishing Texas domicile also qualify, plus may receive Hazelwood benefits.
What is the FAFSA deadline for Texas students?
File FAFSA as early as possible after October 1. Texas's priority deadline for state aid is typically January 15. Meeting early deadlines maximizes TEXAS Grant and other state aid eligibility.
How does Texas A&M tuition compare nationally?
Texas A&M is very affordable nationally. At around $12,400 in-state, it costs significantly less than flagships like Michigan ($16,000+), Virginia ($18,000+), or Penn State ($19,000+). Combined with lower living costs, A&M offers exceptional value.
Are Texas community colleges worth it?
Yes. Texas community colleges charge around $2,500-$4,000 per year and offer guaranteed transfer pathways to state universities. Many students complete core curriculum at community colleges before transferring to save substantially.
Official Data Sources & Authority
All tuition and enrollment data for Texas is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Education's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). We provide this data to help students make informed decisions based on official government records.
- University of Texas System. "Tuition and Fees Overview."Official Source
- Texas A&M University. "Tuition and Financial Aid."Official Source
- Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. "TEXAS Grant Program."Official Source
- Texas Veterans Commission. "Hazelwood Act Information."Official Source
- College for All Texans. "Texas Financial Aid Resources."Official Source
- U.S. Department of Education. "College Navigator."nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator
- Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®).studentaid.gov
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