Texas Seniors: Apply to College for Free This Week Through ApplyTexas

Texas high school seniors can apply to Texas public colleges and universities without paying application fees during Free College Application Week, October 12–18, 2026.  To qualify, students must submit—not merely start—their undergraduate applications through ApplyTexas by 11:59 p.m. CDT on Sunday, October 18.

Who Can Apply

The statewide fee waiver is available to Texas residents applying for undergraduate admission at Texas public institutions through ApplyTexas. That includes first-time college students, transfer students, returning students, and visiting students; for high school seniors, this is an especially helpful opportunity to apply to several schools without application costs adding up.

Texas public universities, community colleges, and state-funded technical colleges participate in the waiver requirement.  This statewide initiative generally does not cover private colleges, graduate programs, or professional-degree programs.

How to Apply

1. Visit ApplyTexas and create or sign in to your account.
2. Search for the Texas public colleges, universities, community colleges, or technical programs you want to consider.
3. Complete each application carefully, including your personal information, academic history, intended major, and any school-specific questions.
4. Review every section before submitting; saved or started applications do not receive the waiver.
5. Submit each application through ApplyTexas no later than 11:59 p.m. CDT on October 18.

Before You Submit

Students should gather key details before logging in so they can use the week efficiently:

• High school transcript information, class rank, GPA, and coursework
• Test scores, if the college accepts or recommends them
• Parent or guardian information, if requested
• A list of activities, leadership roles, work experience, volunteer service, honors, and certifications
• Draft responses for any required short-answer or essay questions
• An email address checked regularly for college updates

Submitting during Free College Application Week waives the application fee, but it doesn't change a college’s admission, scholarship, housing, or document deadlines.  Seniors should check each institution’s admissions page and send requested transcripts or supporting materials as soon as possible.

Don’t Wait Until Sunday

College applications can take longer than expected, especially when students request transcripts, complete short responses, or troubleshoot account access.  Aim to submit applications a few days early, save confirmation emails or screenshots, and double-check that every application shows as submitted.

A student who applies to several public Texas colleges this week can explore more options while avoiding fees that may otherwise total hundreds of dollars.  The waiver is automatic for eligible Texas residents who submit qualifying undergraduate applications through ApplyTexas during the October 12–18 window.

Bottom Line

Don’t let “I’ll do it later” turn into “Why is there a fee?” Texas seniors can apply to eligible public colleges through ApplyTexas for $0 through October 18—so open the laptop, hit submit, and let your future self enjoy the savings.  Just remember: an application sitting in your drafts is like a cowboy with no horse—it is not going anywhere.