🎓 Texas State University Scholarships (2025–2026)

← Back to the Public University Scholarships hub • See Texas state aid

What This Page Covers:

Tuition, housing, and what families actually pay on average
Automatic merit ranges and who typically qualifies
Competitive and hidden-gem scholarships worth a look
Honors perks and how to stack awards the smart way

📊 Admissions Snapshot

Acceptance Rate: ~90% (CDS 2024–25)
Middle 50% ACT: 19–25
Middle 50% SAT: 1000–1200
Average HS GPA: 3.6 (unweighted)

Source: Texas State University Common Data Set 2024–25 and Undergraduate Admissions.

Comparing multiple schools? Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →

📌

Texas State at a Glance

Average Net Price

≈ $15,361 (estimate)

Latest U.S. Dept. of Ed College Scorecard data; figure varies by year

Automatic Merit

$2,000–$8,000/yr (President’s & Achievement)

Automatic for qualified freshmen; typically renewable up to 4 years

Assured Admission (by class rank + test)

Top 25%: assured (test optional).
2nd quartile: typically ≥ 1090 SAT / 22 ACT.
3rd quartile: typically ≥ 1250 SAT / 26 ACT.
4th quartile: typically ≥ 1330 SAT / 29 ACT.
Always confirm the current chart in the TXST portal.

Testing Policy

Test-optional (scores not required for many applicants)

High scores can strengthen merit and competitive scholarship review

Key Deadlines

Dec 15: Competitive freshman scholarship app (BOSS)

Jan 15: FAFSA/TASFA priority for max aid consideration

Honors College

Selective; scores not required for most applicants

Perks: small seminars, priority registration, research support

Full-Tuition / Full-Ride

Terry Foundation Scholarship (full cost of attendance)

Statewide program; TXST is a campus partner (separate process)

Residency & Waivers

Competitive Scholarship Waiver (≥$1,000/yr → in-state rate)

Nonresidents can qualify for resident tuition with eligible awards

Verified via TXST Scholarships & Financial Aid and university calendars; some values are estimates pending annual updates.
Last reviewed: today

Texas State University combines the feel of a large public university with personalized scholarship opportunities. Many awards are automatic, but the biggest savings come from stacking Texas grants, institutional merit, and need-based aid.

This guide breaks down automatic and competitive scholarships, how the honors program fits in, and the best deadlines to maximize aid—especially for first-generation and middle-income families.

FAQ

Is Texas State test-optional? Yes—scores are optional for many applicants, though strong results can boost merit and competitive scholarship chances.

What’s the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT 19–25; SAT 1000–1200 (CDS 2024–25).

What’s the average net price? ≈$15,361 (estimate; varies by year per College Scorecard).

Do out-of-state students get waivers? Yes—nonresidents receiving $1,000+ in TXST competitive scholarships qualify for the in-state tuition rate.

Sources:
https://onestop.txst.edu/financial-aid/scholarships.html
https://onestop.txst.edu/financial-aid/scholarships/freshman.html
https://www.scholarships.com/scholarships/texas-state-university-achievement-scholarships
https://txstate.academicworks.com
https://onestop.txst.edu/financial-aid/scholarships/comp.html
https://mycatalog.txstate.edu/undergraduate/honors-college/
https://onestop.txst.edu/financial-aid/scholarships.html
https://onestop.txst.edu/cost-payments/cost-attendance/undergraduate-coa.html
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/texas-state-university-3615/applying
https://www.hhloans.com/types-of-financial-aid/competitive-scholarship-waiver/
https://reportcenter.highered.texas.gov/agency-publication/guidelines-manuals/competitive-scholarship-waiver-fact-sheet/
https://www.collegeraptor.com/colleges/cost/Texas-State-University-TX–228459
https://www.txst.edu/honors/apply.html
https://mycatalog.txstate.edu/graduate/general-information/scholarships/

💰 Cost of Attendance at Texas State University (2025–2026)

Below are the official 2025–2026 estimates for tuition, housing, and meals at Texas State University. These figures reflect typical full-time undergraduates taking 15 credit hours per semester. “Direct” costs are billed by the university, while indirect costs (books, travel, personal expenses) are not included here.

Category	In-State (TX Resident)	Out-of-State (Nonresident)
Tuition & Mandatory Fees	$12,220	$24,520
Housing & Meals (typical on-campus)	$13,000	$13,000
Estimated Direct Total (Billed)	$25,220	$37,520

📉 Average Net Price (after aid)

The average net price for Texas State students is about $15,361 per year after scholarships and grants (U.S. Dept. of Ed College Scorecard 2025). This represents what families typically pay out of pocket before loans. To see how your Student Aid Index (SAI) can change your cost, visit our Net Price & SAI Guide.

Out-of-State Tuition Waivers & Exceptions at Texas State

Texas State participates in the Academic Common Market (ACM) at the graduate level only—undergraduates are not eligible for ACM anywhere in Texas. Other options for reducing nonresident costs include:

Border County Waiver: Residents of eligible New Mexico counties adjacent to Texas may qualify for in-state tuition (proof of permanent address required by census day).
100-Mile Bordering States Waiver: Students from Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, or New Mexico who live within 100 miles of the Texas border may qualify if a reciprocal agreement exists in their home state.
Competitive Scholarship Waiver: Out-of-state students receiving a qualifying Texas State scholarship (≥ $1,000) may have nonresident tuition waived and pay the in-state rate.

Note: Waivers must be submitted by the 12th class day (the official census deadline). Confirm current details with Student Business Services.

💡 Don’t Miss State Aid: Texas residents can combine state programs like the TEXAS Grant and institutional merit awards to reduce costs even further.

👉 Texas State Grants & Scholarships

FAQ — Understanding Texas State Costs

What’s actually included in these totals?
Only the direct costs billed by Texas State—tuition, required fees, and on-campus housing and meals. Books, transportation, and personal expenses are separate and vary by student.

Why is there such a gap between in-state and out-of-state totals?
Nonresidents pay a higher base tuition rate. However, qualifying for a Border County Waiver or a Competitive Scholarship Waiver can reduce costs to the in-state level.

Can out-of-state students get in-state rates?
Yes. Nonresidents who earn at least $1,000 in qualifying scholarships per year or who live within 100 miles of the Texas border may be eligible for in-state tuition through an approved waiver.

Does Texas State participate in the Academic Common Market?
Only for graduate programs. No undergraduate ACM participation is available in Texas.

How accurate are these housing and meal numbers?
They’re based on standard double-occupancy housing with a mid-tier meal plan. Students selecting premium halls or expanded dining plans will pay more.

What does the average net price mean?
It’s the average amount students pay after grants and scholarships, not including loans. At Texas State, that’s about $15,361 per year, but individual totals vary by income and aid package.

When are tuition waivers applied?
Waiver documentation must be submitted before the 12th class day (census date) each semester for it to take effect that term.

Sources:
https://onestop.txst.edu/cost-payments/cost-attendance/undergraduate-coa.html
https://www.admissions.txst.edu/pay-for-college/cost-of-attendance.html
https://onestop.txst.edu/cost-payments/cost-attendance.html
https://onestop.txst.edu/financial-aid/scholarships/transfer.html
https://www.sbs.txst.edu/students/waivers-exemptions.html
https://www.sbs.txst.edu/billing/fee-definitions.html
https://onestop.txst.edu/cost-payments/cost-attendance/tuition-rates.html
https://www.collegevine.com/faq/65677/texas-state-room-and-board
https://www.hhloans.com/types-of-financial-aid/competitive-scholarship-waiver/
https://reportcenter.highered.texas.gov/agency-publication/guidelines-manuals/competitive-scholarship-waiver-fact-sheet/
https://reportcenter.highered.texas.gov/agency-publication/guidelines-manuals/100-mile-alternate-nonresident-tuition-program-fact-sheet/
https://mycatalog.txstate.edu/undergraduate/general-information/admissions/residency-tuition/
https://www.reslife.txst.edu/get-started/options.html

Automatic Merit Scholarships — Texas State University

Texas State offers guaranteed merit scholarships to incoming freshmen based on high-school GPA and standardized test scores. If your student meets the published criteria and applies for admission by the priority deadline, they’re automatically considered—no separate scholarship application required.

Superscoring Policy: Texas State does not superscore both the ACT and SAT. GPA is calculated on a 4.0 scale and based on core academic courses only.

Scholarship	Award Amount	Eligibility	Separate App?	Renewable?	Who Actually Wins?	Deadline
President’s Honor Scholarship	$16,000 total ($4,000 per year)	3.5 GPA and 30 ACT / 1360 SAT	No — automatic with admission	Yes — up to 4 years	Top 10% students, AP/dual-credit coursework, strong scores	Dec 1 Priority
Texas State Achievement Scholarship	$8,000 total ($2,000 per year)	3.5 GPA and 27 ACT / 1220 SAT	No — automatic with admission	Yes — up to 4 years	Above-average academics, usually AP or honors coursework	Dec 1 Priority
Texas State Distinguished Scholarship	$6,000 total ($1,500 per year)	3.5 GPA and 26 ACT / 1200 SAT	No — automatic with admission	Yes — up to 4 years	Solid GPA students with consistent academic record	Dec 1 Priority

Note: GPA/test-score cutoffs are based on the latest official grid. Superscoring is used, and awards are guaranteed for eligible students who apply by the deadline. Out-of-state students receiving at least $1,000 in competitive scholarships may qualify for the Texas Competitive Scholarship Waiver, reducing tuition to the in-state rate.

Automatic Merit FAQs — Texas State University

Do I need a separate application?
No. Once you apply for admission and meet the GPA/test criteria by Dec 1, you’re automatically considered for these awards.

Does Texas State superscore?
Yes. They use the highest sub-scores from all ACT/SAT attempts, which can raise the overall composite and boost eligibility.

Are these renewable each year?
Yes, for up to four consecutive years if you maintain full-time enrollment, complete 24 credits annually, and meet the scholarship GPA standard.

Can out-of-state students receive these awards?
Yes. OOS students meeting the same GPA/test benchmarks qualify for the same dollar amounts, and many will receive the in-state tuition waiver when combined with university scholarships.

Sources:
https://onestop.txst.edu/financial-aid/scholarships/freshman.html
https://www.finaid.txst.edu/scholarships/freshman/app.html
https://www.scholarships.com/scholarships/texas-state-university-achievement-scholarships
https://onestop.txst.edu/financial-aid/scholarships.html
https://txstate.academicworks.com
https://www.hhloans.com/types-of-financial-aid/competitive-scholarship-waiver/
https://blog.collegevine.com/which-colleges-award-automatic-scholarships-based-on-sat-scores
https://mycatalog.txstate.edu/undergraduate/general-information/financial-aid-scholarships/financial-aid-scholarships.pdf
https://onestop.txst.edu/financial-aid/scholarships/transfer.html
https://www.reddit.com/r/txstate/comments/1czxooa/scholarship_appeal/

Flagship Scholarships (Competitive Scholarships)

Texas State University doesn’t run multiple full-ride competitions like some larger Texas universities. However, it is one of a handful of campuses that partners with the Terry Foundation — a statewide program offering a full cost-of-attendance award to outstanding Texas residents who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and financial need.

Note: This is one of Texas’s most competitive scholarships. Each year, only a small group of students from across the state are selected. Recipients typically maintain GPAs above 3.8, rank in the top 10–15% of their class, and have exceptional leadership and service records.

Scholarship	Award Amount	Eligibility	Separate App?	Renewable?	Who Actually Wins?	Deadline
Terry Foundation Scholarship	Full cost of attendance (last-dollar aid)	Texas resident, strong GPA (3.8+), leadership, community service, and significant financial need	Yes	Yes (4 years)	Exceptional Texas residents who combine academic excellence, leadership, and resilience	Nov 15 (typical priority)

Note: Texas State nominates candidates for the Terry Foundation based on early admission, FAFSA submission, and strength of application materials. Finalists are invited to interview in spring.

Competitive Scholarship FAQ

Do I need to be low-income to qualify?
Financial need is a major factor, but it’s not the only one. The Terry Foundation looks for students who’ve overcome challenges and show exceptional drive and leadership, even if their income isn’t the very lowest.

What does “last-dollar” scholarship mean?
It means the award fills any remaining gap in your cost of attendance after grants and other scholarships are applied — covering tuition, fees, housing, and meals in full.

When should my student apply?
Students must first apply for admission to Texas State and complete the FAFSA/TASFA. Eligible applicants are then invited to submit the Terry application, usually due in mid-November with interviews in early spring.

Is it only for Texas residents?
Yes. The Terry Foundation only considers Texas high school graduates attending participating public universities in the state.

How can we make the strongest impression?
Focus on a strong personal essay and recommendation letters. Use the Essay Toolkit and Reference Request Kit to help tell your student’s story clearly and authentically.

Sources:
https://onestop.txst.edu/financial-aid/scholarships/terry.html
https://www.admissions.txst.edu/pay-for-college/terry.html
https://txstate.academicworks.com/opportunities/21535
https://terryfoundation.org/apply/
https://terryfoundation.org/news/2025-terry-scholars-selected/
https://terryfoundation.org/apply/traditional-scholarship-faqs/
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/scholarships/the-terry-foundation-scholarship-at-texas-state-university
https://www.ivyscholars.com/what-is-the-terry-foundation-scholarship/

Hidden Gems at Texas State University

These scholarships may not show up in the big marketing brochures, but many stack with other aid. Several live in TXST’s BOSS portal (college/department awards) or require auditions/interviews. Apply early and keep FAFSA on file.

Scholarship / Program	Award Amount	Eligibility	Separate App?	Renewable?	Who Actually Wins?	Deadline
Bobcat Promise (Tuition & Fees Coverage)	Covers in-state tuition & mandatory fees (15 hrs/term)	TX resident; FAFSA income ≤ $50,000; admitted; 15 credits/term; 2.0 GPA for renewal	No (FAFSA + admission)	Yes (up to 8 long semesters)	Low-income TX freshmen who file early and stay full-time	FAFSA priority (mid-March)
Bobcat Marching Band (BMB) Awards	$800 membership + $200 leadership + $200 3rd-year “Dedication”	Audition/placement; enroll in BMB; complete season requirements	Yes (audition/placement)	Annual while active	Committed members; leadership roles add extra	Auditions spring–summer
Bobcat Basketball Band (B3)	$100–$450 per semester (select members)	Audition; enroll in ensemble; spring season completion	Yes (audition)	Yes (per season)	Strong auditionees who can meet performance schedule	Selections late fall for spring
Army ROTC Scholarships	100% tuition & fees or up to $6,000/sem room & board + books + stipend	Meet academic, medical, fitness, and service requirements; contract with ROTC	Yes (ROTC application/interview)	Yes (maintain standards)	Leadership-oriented students ready to serve	National boards fall–winter
McCoy Scholarship of Excellence (Business)	$40,000 total ($10k/yr)	Business major + National Merit or val/sal or top 5%	Yes (BOSS)	Yes (3.3 GPA, 27 hrs/yr)	Top business admits with elite credentials	BOSS window Dec–Feb
McCoy Scholarship of Distinction (Business)	$24,000 total ($6k/yr)	Business major + National Merit or val/sal or top 10%	Yes (BOSS)	Yes (3.3 GPA, 27 hrs/yr)	High-achieving business students	BOSS window Dec–Feb
Ingram Engineering Scholarship	$32,000 total ($8k/yr)	Engineering; top 15%; SAT ≥1260 (M≥610) or ACT ≥27 (M≥26); need preferred	Yes (BOSS)	Yes (3.0 GPA, 28 hrs/yr)	Top engineering admits	BOSS window Dec–Feb
Ingram Engineering Technology Scholarship	$16,000 total ($4k/yr)	Qualifying engineering technology majors; academics + tests	Yes (BOSS)	Yes (3.0 GPA, 28 hrs/yr)	Strong engineering tech admits	BOSS window Dec–Feb
Ingram Concrete Industry Management Scholarship	$12,000 total ($3k/yr)	CIM major; academics; need preferred	Yes (BOSS)	Yes (per criteria)	Students committed to CIM	BOSS window Dec–Feb
University Scholars (College-selected)	$22,000 total ($5.5k/yr)	Top 10% of class; selected from freshman BOSS pool	Yes (BOSS; college-nominated)	Yes (3.25 GPA, 24 hrs/yr)	Top admits across colleges	BOSS window Dec–Feb
Patti Strickel Harrison Scholarship	$20,000 total ($5k/yr)	Math/Engineering/Science/CS/Musical Theatre/Dance/Music; need; top 10%	Yes (BOSS)	Yes (3.25 GPA, 12 hrs/sem)	High achievers in listed majors	BOSS window Dec–Feb
Rodeo Austin Scholarship (Business)	$16,000 total ($4k/yr)	Business; 3.0 GPA; need; top 25%; leadership; TX HS grad; Rodeo Austin involvement preferred	Yes (BOSS)	Yes (2.5 GPA, 12 hrs/sem)	Business students with leadership and need	BOSS window Dec–Feb
Lone Star Scholarship	$10,000 total ($2.5k/yr)	Top 10% of class	Yes (BOSS)	Yes (3.25 GPA, 12 hrs/sem)	Top academic admits	BOSS window Dec–Feb
College/Departmental Scholarships via BOSS	$500–$6,000+ (varies)	Declared major; criteria vary by college/department	Yes (BOSS)	Varies	Students who apply early and match specific criteria	Most close Jan–Feb

FAQ: Hidden Scholarships at Texas State

Do I need FAFSA? Yes. Bobcat Promise and many college awards require an early FAFSA, and merit awards often use it for packaging/stacking.

How do I apply for department/college awards? Use the Bobcat Online Scholarship System (BOSS). Many competitive awards (McCoy, Ingram, University Scholars) live there with fall/winter cycles.

Can ROTC stack with other aid? Often yes, but it can change need-based eligibility math. Coordinate with Financial Aid on stacking.

Does Texas State participate in Academic Common Market? No. Out-of-state students should look at competitive scholarship waivers and limited border-area options instead.

Sources:
https://onestop.txst.edu/financial-aid/learn-more/icons/bobcatpromise.html
https://onestop.txst.edu/financial-aid/scholarships/comp.html
https://www.txst.edu/bands/scholarshipandperformance.html
https://www.reddit.com/r/txstate/comments/1ih2ttk/financial_aid_bobcat_promise/
https://scholarships360.org/scholarships/search/ingram-engineering-scholarship/
https://txstate.academicworks.com/opportunities/13159
https://onestop.txst.edu/financial-aid/scholarships/boss.html
https://www.mccoy.txst.edu/students/scholarships/scholarships-index.html
https://onestop.txst.edu/financial-aid/scholarships/transfer.html
https://www.afrotc.txst.edu/new-cadets/opportunities.html
https://onestop.txst.edu/financial-aid/learn-more/icons/bobcatpromise.html
https://docs.gato.txst.edu/198988/Financial%20Aid%20Information.pdf
https://onestop.txst.edu/financial-aid/scholarships.html
https://txstate.academicworks.com
https://txst.com/news/2025/2/17/athletics-bobcat-club-announces-new-excellence-fund-expanded-benefits-for-2025.aspx
https://www.lonestar.edu/scholarships
https://www.txst.edu/honors/apply.html
https://onestop.txst.edu/financial-aid/scholarships/comp.html

Texas State University Honors College

The Honors College at Texas State University welcomes students from every major who want a smaller, more personal academic experience inside a large public university. Admission is holistic — there are no strict GPA or test cutoffs — and is based on curiosity, motivation, and potential. Students apply separately with a short personal statement and resume.

Parent Note: Texas State’s Honors College isn’t ultra-selective or scholarship-heavy, but that’s a strength. It gives driven, curious students a chance to thrive without the pressure of perfection — and to access smaller classes, faculty support, and meaningful research.

Honors College Highlights

Priority registration for classes
Small, discussion-based seminars taught by top faculty
Access to undergraduate research and conference travel funding
Dedicated Honors advising and faculty mentorship
National scholarship and fellowship advising (Truman, Goldwater, Fulbright)
Community of engaged students across all majors

Honors Scholarships & Opportunities

Scholarship / Program	Award Amount	Eligibility	Separate App?	Renewable?	Who Actually Wins?	Deadline
Honors College Research & Travel Grant	$250–$1,000 (varies)	Honors students presenting research or attending academic conferences	Yes	No	Engaged Honors students working with faculty mentors	Rolling (year-round)
Undergraduate Research Fellowship (URF)	Up to $1,000	Honors or upper-level students conducting mentored research projects	Yes	No	Students with strong proposals and faculty support	Varies by semester
Departmental / Donor Awards (Honors Priority)	$500–$2,000 (varies)	Honors students demonstrating academic excellence or leadership	Yes (via major’s portal)	Varies	Upperclassmen active in Honors and department activities	Feb 1

Note: The Honors College itself doesn’t offer large merit scholarships, but participants often receive departmental and research-based awards thanks to faculty connections.

Honors College FAQ

Is there a GPA or test score cutoff?
No. The Honors College evaluates each student holistically, focusing on intellectual curiosity, work ethic, and writing quality.

Do Honors students get extra scholarships?
Not directly from Honors, but participation opens doors to internal grants, donor awards, and research stipends.

Does Honors add time to my degree?
No. Honors courses count toward core or major requirements, and most students graduate on schedule.

When should I apply?
The application is open year-round, but students who apply before April 1 receive priority consideration for scholarships and research grants.

Sources:
https://www.txst.edu/honors/apply/admissions.html
https://www.txst.edu/honors/apply.html
https://mycatalog.txstate.edu/undergraduate/honors-college/
https://www.txst.edu/undergraduateresearch/undergraduate-research-fellowships.html
https://www.txst.edu/honors/opportunities/funding/honors-scholarships.html
https://www.txst.edu/honors/apply/faq.html
https://signup.txstate.edu/topics/2191-undergraduate-research-fellowship-urf-info-session
https://www.admissions.txst.edu/explore/academics/honors-college.html
https://www.txst.edu/honors/seasonal-pages/new-student-information/preregistration-guidance.html

⭐ Specialty Programs

Texas State University brings the best of both worlds — a large, research-driven campus with a warm, supportive culture. While it’s currently classified as an R2 university, its “Run to R1” plan shows that national-class research is within reach by 2027. Beyond the labs, TXST shines for its standout programs that grab the spotlight—from Broadway stages to global sales rankings.

Highlight Program: Musical Theater (Undergraduate)
Named one of the best drama schools of 2025 by The Hollywood Reporter, Texas State’s tuition-free undergraduate track in musical theater is highly selective (just 14 students/year) — but it delivers affordability, professional training, and real-world success in a league of its own. Adoption of this program offers one of the few truly elite performing-arts experiences in the state.

Other areas where Texas State stands out statewide or nationally:

Sales Program (Business): #1 in the world per University Sales Center Alliance — a global recognition of TXST’s sales education leadership.
Family Business Research: Ranked #4 in U.S. — TXST ranks among national leaders in that academic niche.
Global MBA (CEO Magazine): Tier 1 — ranking among the top MBA programs globally from a respected business publication.
Criminology (Graduate): #26 (tie), U.S. News — one of the most highly ranked grad programs TXST offers.
Health Care Management (Graduate): #57 (tie), Nursing (Master’s): #92 (tie) — both programs achieve national recognition.
“Very strong” STEM, Education, Chemistry/Biology/Human Health — TXST is notable for these fields in student impressions.

📎 Official Links

Texas State University Homepage
Official university website
TXST Honors College
Learn about Honors courses, scholarships, and how to apply
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Find automatic, competitive, and need-based aid opportunities