Texas Southern University is required by law (Texas Education Code, Sections 56.011, 56.012, and 56.465) to set aside a percentage of designated tuition that students pay each semester towards financial assistance programs.

To comply with Senate Bill 1304, passed by the 81st Texas Legislature, the university is also required to report to each student the amount of tuition paid by the student that must be set aside to provide financial assistance to qualified students.

Each semester after the 20th class day, students are notified of the amount of their paid tuition that has been set aside for future need-based financial assistance programs for Texas residents. These funds are awarded to students with need-based eligibility based on their completion of the free application for federal student aid (FAFSA).

The set aside does not affect your financial aid awards, if any, nor does it guarantee that you will personally receive financial aid assistance. Financial assistance eligibility is determined by the information provided on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is tuition set aside?
Tuition set aside is a portion of the tuition paid by students “set aside” and dedicated to provide need-based financial aid to students thru institutional grants, federal work-study, and scholarships.

Why are funds “Set Aside”?
It is required by state law. Texas Education code sections 56.011 and 56.012

Do I owe?
No. Students do not owe and will not see these funds. You have already paid the amount and monies will now be given to financial aid to build their pool of money to help support need-based financial aid programs for qualifying students.

When will I get this money?
The set aside does not affect financial aid awards, if any, nor does it guarantee that you will personally receive financial aid assistance. To apply for these need-based funds, students must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Financial assistance eligibility is determined by the information provided on the form.

What if I don't want my money to be used in this way?
Unfortunately, Texas Southern University does not have the ability to change the requirements of the state law. You may direct further questions and concerns to the Texas Legislature