Texas students now have the chance to apply to public colleges for free during Free College Application Week, a new statewide initiative starting Oct. 13- 19. 

“Texas prioritizes opportunities for students to pursue the best education they need to succeed in high demand, good-paying jobs after graduation,” Governor Greg Abbott said in a news release. “During free college application week, Texans can apply to their preferred colleges or universities without application fees. By supporting our students today, we are investing in a stronger Texas tomorrow

The state initiative for Free College Application Week was created by Senate Bill 2231 during the 89th Texas Legislative Session that ended in June. 

The program requires all Texas public colleges and universities to waive admission application fees for Texas residents which reduces the cost of applying and encourages students to explore their options.

“In addition to the cost savings, combined with other tools available to Texans for planning and achieving educational and career goals, free application week removes a barrier so more students can take their first step toward higher education,” Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board Commissioner Wynn Ross said in the news release. 

The program requires all Texas public colleges and universities to waive admission application fees for Texas residents which reduces the cost of applying and encourages students to explore their options.

“This can be a big advantage for students because this week allows them to get a taste of how Texas schools are like and see if a school is to their liking,” senior Bushra Yeasin said. 

Applications should be submitted before Oct. 19 at 11:59 p.m. through ApplyTexas.