Your complete guide to higher education success in the Lone Star State
Planning for college in Texas opens doors to some of the nation's most prestigious universities, innovative community colleges, and unique state-specific opportunities that can make your educational dreams both accessible and affordable.
Texas stands out as an exceptional choice for higher education, offering students a unique combination of academic excellence, affordability, and career opportunities.
Home to top-ranked universities including Rice University and UT Austin, with cutting-edge research facilities and world-class faculty.
Average in-state tuition of $8,432 per year with generous financial aid programs that can make college essentially free for qualified students.
Thriving industries in technology, energy, healthcare, and aerospace provide excellent internship and career opportunities for graduates.
Exclusive advantages like Top 10% automatic admission, TEXAS Grant program, and streamlined application processes through ApplyTexas.
Organized into major systems including UT System, Texas A&M System, and regional universities with specialized programs.
Extensive network providing affordable general education, career training, and guaranteed transfer pathways to four-year universities.
Prestigious colleges like Rice, Baylor, SMU, and TCU offering smaller class sizes and specialized programs.
Texas has developed an impressive array of resources specifically designed to help students and families navigate the college planning process.
Your central hub for college and career planning with tools for exploring careers, researching programs, and understanding financial aid.
Visit PlatformStreamlined application system allowing you to apply to multiple Texas institutions with one application.
Start ApplicationInteractive dashboard comparing programs and institutions based on graduation rates, employment outcomes, and ROI.
Compare ProgramsReal-time chatbot and advising services for questions about applications, financial aid, and academic planning.
Get HelpComprehensive guidance for each aspect of your college planning process, with detailed information and practical tools.
Discover the full range of higher education options available in Texas, from world-renowned research universities to specialized technical colleges.
Explore what life is really like at Texas colleges and universities, from housing options to student organizations and campus traditions.
Connect your college education to career success with information about job markets, internships, and career services at Texas institutions.
If you're just beginning your college planning journey, these essential steps will help you get started on the right track.
Visit MyTexasFuture.org to begin exploring career options and planning tools.
Learn about the Top 10% rule that guarantees admission to Texas public universities.
Create your account early to explore requirements and organize information.
Understand eligibility for this program that can cover full tuition and fees.
Use Texas CREWS database to research and compare institutions.
Top 10% rule provides guaranteed admission with clear academic goals.
TEXAS Grant and other programs can make college extremely affordable.
ApplyTexas allows applications to multiple institutions with one form.
50 districts with guaranteed transfer agreements to public universities.
My Texas Future and ADVi chatbot provide comprehensive guidance.
Diverse economy provides excellent internship and career opportunities.
Understanding and tracking important deadlines is crucial for successful college planning in Texas.
Focus on strong academic performance and explore career interests
Continue building GPA, take PSAT, begin researching colleges
Take SAT/ACT, visit colleges, research financial aid options
Complete applications, submit FAFSA/TASFA, make final decisions
Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board: highered.texas.gov
My Texas Future: mytexasfuture.org
ApplyTexas: applytexas.org
Texas OnCourse: texasoncourse.org
Federal Aid Center: 1-800-4-FED-AID
TX Higher Ed Board: (512) 427-6340
FAFSA Help: studentaid.gov
College Board (SAT): collegeboard.org
ACT: act.org
Texas Success Initiative: texascollegebridge.org
College planning in Texas offers exceptional opportunities for students who understand the system and take advantage of the resources available.
Whether you're aiming for a prestigious research university, planning a cost-effective community college pathway, or exploring specialized career programs, Texas provides the tools and support you need to succeed.
The investment you make in thoughtful college planning today will pay dividends throughout your educational journey and career. CollegeCompass is committed to helping you succeed.
Follow the complete 6-step path to college success
Research Texas colleges and universities. Know yourself and what matters to you.
Explore UniversitiesLearn about Texas grants, scholarships, and funding opportunities.
Explore Financial AidGet personalized guidance, track your progress, and access exclusive planning tools with a free CollegeCompass account. Join thousands of students already on their path to college success.