FAFSA
Texas Education Agency (TEA): FAFSA Graduation Requirement.
House Bill 3 (HB 3) Implementation: Financial Aid Application
In 2019, the 86th Texas Legislature established the new requirement for Texas students to complete a financial aid application (or formally opt out) in order to graduate. Students enrolled in 12th grade must do one of the following in order to graduate:
Complete and submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Complete and submit a Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA)
Submit a signed opt-out form (provided by high school counselor)
Even if you don't think you will qualify for financial aid, it is still recommended that you complete FAFSA. Many schools require a FAFSA to be submitted, regardless of income, for any student who wants to be considered for federal, state, and school financial aid programs which include grants, scholarships, work-study funds, and loans.
Websites with more information about FAFSA:
TASFA
The Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA) is a free application that collects information to help determine eligibility for state (or institutional) financial aid programs administered by institutions of higher education in the state of Texas.
Students classified as Texas residents who are not eligible to apply for federal financial aid using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) are encouraged to complete the TASFA.
To review the FAFSA filing requirements, visit studentaid.gov or contact the financial aid office at the institution you plan to attend for the 2026-27 award year. The federal application covers federal and state financial aid opportunities. If you meet the FAFSA filing requirements, then you should submit a completed FAFSA.
YOU DO NOT NEED TO COMPLETE BOTH THE FAFSA AND TASFA.
Financial Aid Opt-Out Form