SHSU Boosts Free Tuition to $100K AGI

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Sam Houston State University Dramatically Expands Free Tuition Program, Opening Doors for More Texas Families**

**HUNTSVILLE, TX – April 18, 2024** – Sam Houston State University (SHSU) is making a significant stride in college affordability, announcing a major expansion of its popular Bearkat Promise program. Effective for the upcoming Fall 2024 semester, the university is substantially raising the income threshold for free tuition and mandatory fees, a move expected to benefit hundreds, if not thousands, of additional Texas families.

The university, located in Huntsville, Texas, will now offer free tuition and mandatory fees to Texas residents whose families have an adjusted gross income (AGI) of up to $100,000. This marks a substantial increase from the previous threshold of $65,000, reflecting SHSU’s commitment to making higher education more accessible amidst rising costs.

“This expansion of the Bearkat Promise is a testament to our enduring commitment to removing financial barriers and ensuring more Texans can achieve their dream of a college degree,” said SHSU President Alisa White in a statement. “We understand the financial pressures many families face, and by raising this threshold, we are opening our doors wider to talented students across the state, strengthening both individual futures and the workforce of Texas.”

The Bearkat Promise functions as a “last-dollar” scholarship, meaning it covers any remaining tuition and mandatory fees after federal grants (such as the Pell Grant), state grants (like the Texas Grant), and other institutional scholarships have been applied. It does not, however, cover expenses such as housing, meal plans, textbooks, or other personal costs.

For qualifying incoming freshmen, the program covers tuition and mandatory fees for up to four years, or eight fall and spring semesters. Transfer students also benefit, with the coverage period adjusted based on the number of transferable credit hours they bring to SHSU.

To be eligible for the Bearkat Promise, students must meet specific criteria:
* Be a Texas resident.
* Be admitted to Sam Houston State University.
* Enroll in at least 12 credit hours per semester.
* For incoming freshmen, meet the university’s automatic admission requirements.
* For transfer students, have a minimum of 30 transferable credit hours and maintain a 2.5 GPA.
* Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA) by the priority deadline to be considered for all available aid.

Currently, over 1,000 students benefit from the Bearkat Promise program. University officials anticipate this expansion will significantly increase that number, further diversifying the student body and supporting economic mobility for graduates. The expansion aligns with a broader trend among Texas universities seeking to address college affordability and reduce student debt.

“Access to quality education is paramount for the future of our state,” added President White. “By investing in our students, we are investing in the future leaders, innovators, and professionals who will contribute to Texas’s prosperity.”

Prospective students and their families are encouraged to visit the official Bearkat Promise website at [https://www.shsu.edu/bearkat-promise](https://www.shsu.edu/bearkat-promise) for more detailed information on eligibility, application processes, and deadlines. The SHSU Admissions office is also available to answer questions regarding enrollment and financial aid.

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**About Sam Houston State University:**
Sam Houston State University, a member of The Texas State University System, is a public institution dedicated to educating students for meaningful lives of achievement. Located in Huntsville, Texas, SHSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across its seven colleges. With a commitment to academic excellence, student success, and community engagement, SHSU prepares students to become responsible citizens and leaders.