April 21, 2022
In an effort to increase the number of students enrolling in college after high school graduation and to ensure each eligible student is utilizing untapped federal resources available for their post-secondary education, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) has added a financial aid application provision as a graduation requirement.
Beginning this school year 2021-2022, students enrolled in the 12th grade are required to complete one of the following in order to meet their graduation requirements:
- Complete and submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) The FAFSA is an application used by current students living in the US used to determine eligibility for most federal, state, and institutional financial aid.
- Complete and submit a Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA) Note: Students classified as a Texas Resident who cannot apply for federal financial aid using the FAFSA are encouraged to complete the TASFA.
- Submit a signed opt-out form - A student may opt out of the financial aid application graduation requirement if:
- A parent or guardian submits a signed form;
- A student age 18 years of age or older or emancipated minor submits a signed form; or
- A school counselor, for good cause as determined by the school counselor, and the student
Parents and students who have questions regarding this information should contact their campus counselor for more information or visit the TEA website.