The Texas Dream Act [Texas Education Code §54.0525 – 54.0535] empowers qualifying students in Texas, regardless of immigration status, to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities. It also allows high school graduates who attended Texas schools for at least three years and graduated to access affordable higher education, serving as your guide to the Texas Dream Act and its opportunities.
Understanding the Texas Dream Act
Here’s why the Texas Dream Act matters:
- Instead of paying out-of-state tuition, which can be three to five times higher, students pay the same rate as Texas residents.
- Qualified “Dreamers” can apply for in-state student loans, state grants, and institutional financial aid, which is typically unavailable to undocumented students.
A Texas college degree improves job prospects, community integration, and eligibility for certain professional licenses. So, who qualifies?
Eligibility Requirements for the Texas Dream Act
You must meet all of the following criteria to benefit from the Texas Dream Act:
- Graduate from a Texas high school or earn a comparable GED
- Attend a Texas public high school for at least three years before graduation
- Register as an entering student and a Texas public institution
- Declare an intent to graduate or meet program requirements
- Sign an affidavit stating you will apply for permanent residency or other lawful immigration status as soon as eligible
- Provide documentation of graduation, school attendance, residency, and immigration status.
The types of institutions covered include public universities, such as the University of Texas or Texas A&M, Public community colleges such as Houston Community College and Austin Community College, and most public technical schools. These accredited institutions all follow identical policies regarding Dream Act eligibility, affidavits, and fees.
How to Apply for the Texas Dream Act
Always start by reviewing your school records to identify your graduation status and school attendance. If you graduated in Texas and attended at least three years in public schools, you are likely eligible.
Next, submit Form Affidavit for Determination of Residency for Tuition Purposes, swearing you will pursue legal status when eligible. This form is part of your college admissions application in most cases. Include your high school diploma or GED certificate, school attendance records, and proof of Texas residency or a credible affidavit.
Apply to the Texas public school or university of your choice. You must apply for admission following typical deadlines and include the residency affidavit for in-state tuition consideration. Qualifying applicants may also access in-state loans, institutional grants, or TX State financial aid. However, federal aid (FAFSA) is not available to undocumented students.
Applicants must remain eligible after admission. Therefore, always keep records proving ongoing enrollment, maintain good academic standing, and update any changes in status. Speak to an immigration lawyer at Lamb and Turner for more information.
Texas Dream Act FAQS
Q: Is a US birth certificate required?
A: Proof of immigration status is not required. Attendance and graduation in Texas schools, plus a signed affidavit, are enough.
Q: What if my parents live in another state or country?
A: Your parents’ address is not required, and only your Texas public school attendance matters.
Q: Can I transfer between schools in Texas?
A: Eligibility travels with you as long as you maintain your three-year attendance and graduation status.
Q: Can I switch schools mid-year?
A: Eligibility is based on cumulative attendance and graduation rather than continuous enrollment.
Ask an Immigration Lawyer to Help
An experienced immigration attorney can review your eligibility and guide you if you have complex histories or partial private school attendance. They can help you understand the implications if you adjust your status or receive new immigration classifications. Your immigration attorney can also assist with concurrent concerns, such as applying for DACA, family-based petitions, or future green card applications, making them your guide to the Texas Dream Act and related immigration matters.
Schedule a free consultation with Lamb and Turner to evaluate your Texas Dream Act eligibility and explore next steps.
