Applying to colleges can be stressful, but now students in Texas can know what colleges will accept them before even applying courtesy of the Direct Admissions portal where students are asked to submit their GPA, class rank, and test scores to receive a list of universities they qualify for automatic admission.
State leaders hope this program will ease the burden of the college application process, and make it more effective.
“We know that college admissions can be an exciting, but challenging process for students,” Interim Commissioner of Higher Education Sarah Keyton said in a news release. “The impact of that is real, with some students hesitating to even apply. Direct Admissions has the potential to reduce time, boost confidence, and increase transparency, encouraging Texans who might not otherwise consider college to take the next step.”
Governor Greg Abott empathizes with families going through the application process and hopes the Direct Admissions will help more students pursue an education.
“One of our top priorities in Texas is to ensure the next generation of Texans have the opportunity to choose the best education options so they can succeed in high-demand, good-paying jobs after graduation,” Abbott said in the news release. “As a father, I understand how confusing and stressful the college application process can be for your family. Working together, we will continue to develop a college admissions process that is more efficient and effective for all Texas students and create a brighter future for our great state.”
Students can begin utilizing this at the end of their junior year. Once students receive their lists, they must still fill out applications to submit for scholarship considerations and for the school’s records.
“I’m top ten percent of my graduating class so I have automatic admission to Texas A&M and other schools,” senior Nolan Sow said. “It definitely reduces my stress knowing that I have a guaranteed spot somewhere. And because I’m directly admitted into some of these universities I can focus on other things and enjoy my senior year.”
