AUSTIN—The University of Texas System is committing to waive tuition for undergraduate students from families earning $100,000 or less annually. The plan will begin in Fall 2025 at all nine UT institutions.
The new income threshold expands the UT System’s Promise Plus initiative, which aims to improve affordability for Texas families. Previously, UT Austin covered tuition costs for students from families earning up to $65,000.
Officials estimate that almost 3,000 students will benefit from the expanded eligibility.
The Board of Regents approved the plan on Thursday. According to a news release, it includes an initial $35 million allocation from endowment funds to campuses, along with additional long-term investments to increase financial aid programs.
“This initiative ensures students can pursue higher education at UT institutions without accumulating excessive debt,” said Kevin P. Eltife, Chairman of the UT System Board of Regents. “Through immediate funding and ongoing support for our Promise Plus endowments, we are committed to making education more accessible and affordable for Texas families.”
Currently, 56% of UT students receive some form of financial aid, according to the UT System. Chancellor James B. Milliken stated, “The Regents are addressing both current student needs and future generations. UT institutions are showing growth in enrollment and a decline in student debt, a trend that is uncommon in higher education.”
housing scholarships, textbook credits, and plans to add more on-campus housing options. For example, UT’s housing affordability program offers up to $2,300 annually for eligible students, while the UT for Me program, powered by Dell Scholars, provides financial aid and resources to Pell Grant recipients.
To qualify for the program, students must reside in Texas, enroll as full-time undergraduates, and apply for federal and state financial aid.
The UT system reports that average student debt at UT institutions has decreased over the past five years and is 10% lower than the average at other public four-year universities in Texas.
