Graduation Requirements
Financial Aid Graduation Requirement
In accordance with Texas Education Code (TEC), §28.0256, beginning with students enrolled in 12th grade during the 2021-2022 school year, each student must do one of the following in order to graduate:
Complete and submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA);
Complete and submit a Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA); or
Submit a signed opt-out form.
Laws and Rules
In 2019, the 86th Texas Legislature established the new requirement for Texas students to complete a financial aid application (or formally opt out) in order to graduate. The State Board of Education (SBOE) adopted rules related to the new requirement in January 2021.
House Bill (HB) 3 required the commissioner to adopt rules as necessary to implement the requirement. These rules were drafted in consultation with a statewide advisory committee.
Opting Out
A student may opt out of the financial aid application graduation requirement if:
a parent or guardian submits a signed form;
the student is 18 years of age or older and submits a signed form; or
a school counselor authorizes the student to decline to complete and submit the application for good cause.
Financial Aid Application Opt-Out Form
Financial Aid Application Opt-Out Form - SPANISH