What the program does: 

The program provides:

1. an exemption of up to $2000 from the payment of tuition and mandatory fee charges for courses taken by eligible students at Texas public or (if matched) private colleges or universities; and/or 

2. up to $1000 to students who graduated having completed 15 or 30 college hours.

Who qualifies: 

1. Graduates who graduate from high school having completed the recommended or distinguished curriculum, 

2. Complete grades 9-12 in no more than 41 continuous months 

3. Attended high school only in Texas and 

4. Are Texas residents.

Time limit for when it can be used: 

The benefit has to be used within 6 years of graduation.

Where it can be used: 

It can be used to attend any public college or university in Texas or at any nonprofit independent institution in Texas that agrees to match the state award.

How to apply: 

To apply for a benefit under either program, the student's high school counselor must complete the program application and submit it to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (CB). If the student graduated prior to 9/1/2003, the counselor needs to complete Parts I and III. If the student graduated on or after 9/1/2003, the counselor needs to complete all three parts of the form. 

The Coordinating Board will assess the application and notify the student, counselor and selected institution: 

1. if the student is determined to be eligible for an early graduation award; 

2. the value of the award$500, $1000, or $2000); and 

3. uses of that award (tuition only or tuition and mandatory fees). 

4. If the student graduated after 9/1/2003, the CB will also indicate whether the application documented enough college hours to justify a college hour award. If the student later receives credit for additional college hours as a result of such things as Tech/Prep of entrance examinations and gives the CB proof of these additional hours, the CB will reassess his/her eligibility for the College Bonus award. A new notice will be sent to the college and student at that time.

For more information: Contact the CB at 1-800-242-3062 or grantinfo@thecb.state.tx.us.