Texas State University (TXST) is expanding its commitment to affordability and college access through a significant enhancement of the Bobcat Promise, a free tuition and mandatory fee program designed to support students with financial need.
Beginning with the Fall 2027 entering class, first-time freshmen who graduate in the top 25% of their high school class and have a family adjusted gross income of $100,000 or less will qualify for free tuition and mandatory fees. First-time freshmen from families with an adjusted gross income of $50,000 or less will continue to be eligible for the Bobcat Promise regardless of class rank.
“For nearly two decades, the Bobcat Promise has helped students from lower-income families achieve the dream of a college degree without the cost of tuition and mandatory fees,” said TXST President Kelly Damphousse, Ph.D.
“By extending this opportunity to high-performing freshmen from families that earn less than $100,000 a year, doubling the current cap, TXST is opening more doors to deserving Texas students who are seeking to earn the high-quality college education that might have previously been out of their reach. Expanding the Bobcat Promise is a significant investment in Texas students, their families, and the future of our state.”
The expanded program is expected to benefit approximately 3,400 incoming freshmen, making a TXST education more attainable for thousands of Texas families.
The enhanced Bobcat Promise introduces a new, two-tiered tuition and fees guaranteed model that substantially broadens eligibility while continuing to prioritize students with the greatest financial need.
The expansion reflects TXST's ongoing efforts to increase college access, student success, and support the educational and workforce needs of Texas. The university has made affordability a cornerstone of its enrollment strategy and continues to invest in programs that reduce the cost of attendance for students and their families.
Eligibility Requirements
The program covers full tuition and mandatory fees for eligible first-time freshmen for up to four years (eight consecutive semesters). To qualify for the Bobcat Promise, students must:
- Be a Texas resident and have graduated from a Texas high school
- Apply for admission and be accepted to TXST
- Meet the applicable family income requirements for the Bobcat Promise
- Demonstrate financial need as determined through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 15 prior to enrollment
- Enroll full-time and complete at least 15 credit hours each fall and spring semester at either TXST’s San Marcos or Round Rock Campuses.
The expanded Bobcat Promise is expected to significantly increase the number of Texas students who can earn a degree from TXST without paying tuition and mandatory fees, reinforcing the university's mission of providing access to a high-quality, affordable education.
For questions about the Bobcat Promise or to learn more about eligibility and financial aid, contact TXST One Stop or visit the Bobcat Promise webpage.