Top 13 Texas Scholarships & Grants for 2026 - 2027

Texas Scholarship & Financial Aid Snapshot

This quick snapshot is built from CollegeWhale’s scholarship database and state-level resources. It shows how many scholarships we currently list for Texas, the total dollars represented, and a short overview of key state aid programs.

We currently have 113 scholarships in our database tagged for Texas. This includes statewide programs, school-specific awards, and private or foundation-based scholarships.

Across our Top 13 Texas Scholarship & Grant listings, the total advertised award value comes to roughly $77,000. Some programs are renewable or stackable, so your real lifetime value could be even higher depending on how long you remain eligible.

Texas students should begin with the TEXAS Grant, which provides strong need-based funding for qualifying residents at public universities. Students attending private colleges may qualify for TEG, while community college students may access TEOG. Workforce and regional foundations provide additional grants for high-demand fields. Public universities such as UT Austin, Texas A&M, and Texas Tech offer major institutional merit awards. Texas students should file the FAFSA early, determine TEXAS Grant eligibility, and apply broadly for local and regional scholarships that stack with state aid.

Top 13 Texas Scholarships (Scholarship FastFind™)

The CollegeWhale Scholarship FastFind™ makes it easy to discover the best Texas scholarships — fast. Filter by award amount, deadline month, and estimated time to apply, then instantly download your personalized list. No sign-ups, no personal info, no spam — just real, verified scholarships.

1

The Mary E. Bivins Religious Scholarship

The Mary E. Bivins Religious Scholarship is designed to educate ministers to preach the Christian religion and to support students who feel a clear call to pastoral ministry or vocational Christian service. The program primarily serves permanent residents of the

Award: $7,000 Deadline: January Est. Time: Low (~13 min)
2

Texas Nursery and Landscape Association Scholarship

The Texas Nursery & Landscape Association Foundation Scholarship supports students in Texas who are pursuing education and careers within the green industry — including horticulture, nursery management, landscape design, and related business fields. Since the program’s origin, the Foundation has

Award: $1,000 Deadline: January Est. Time: Med (~48 min)
3

Texas Farm Credit Scholarship

The Texas Farm Credit Marsha Martin Scholarship is awarded by Texas Farm Credit to recognize outstanding high school seniors who are committed to agriculture, rural communities, and leadership in their FFA or 4-H chapters. Applicants must be residents within Texas

Award: $5,000 Deadline: January Est. Time: Med (~68 min)
4

Macy’s Emergency Scholarship Fund

The Macy’s Emergency Scholarship Fund, a partnership between LNESC and Macy’s, provides immediate financial assistance to full-time college students facing unexpected economic hardship that could prevent them from completing classes or their degree program. Funds are intended for tuition and

Award: $500 Deadline: Rolling Est. Time: Med (~58 min)
5

Regions Riding Forward Scholarship

The Regions Riding Forward Scholarship Contest is hosted by Regions Bank and aims to amplify stories of personal inspiration from students in their communities. Entrants submit an essay or video about someone they know personally who has uplifted and empowered

Award: $8,000 Deadline: December Est. Time: Med (~68 min)
6

Tarleton State University General Scholarship Application

Name: Tarleton State University General Scholarship Application Award Amount: Scholarship award amounts vary depending on the specific...

Award: Varies Deadline: Rolling Est. Time: Low (~23 min)
7

Jo Caldwell Meyer Scholarship

Name: Jo Caldwell Meyer Scholarship Award Amount: Varies. Overview: The Jo Caldwell Meyer Scholarship is awarded to students pursuing a career...

Award: Varies Deadline: February Est. Time: High (~113 min)
8

3M STEM Scholarship

The 3M STEM Scholarship is designed to support entering Black, Latino, and historically underrepresented students pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields at The University of Texas at Austin. This scholarship aims to promote diversity within STEM

Award: Varies Deadline: Rolling Est. Time: Low (~13 min)
9

Young Women’s Alliance Scholarship

The Young Women’s Alliance Scholarship supports women in the Austin, Texas, area who demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, and a commitment to community service. This scholarship is designed to empower women pursuing higher education and making a positive impact. Eligibility Criteria:

Award: $2,500 Deadline: March Est. Time: Med (~78 min)
10

Cathay Bank Foundation Scholarship Program

The Cathay Bank Foundation Scholarship supports high school seniors planning to attend a U.S.-accredited college or university in the upcoming Fall semester. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, with a household income at or below the Low Income Level, and provide

Award: $2,500 Deadline: Rolling Est. Time: Med (~60 min)
11

Texas Top 10 Percent Scholarship

The Texas Top 10% Scholarship is awarded to high school graduates who rank in the top 10% of their class and are attending a Texas public college or university. Eligibility Requirements: Must be a Texas resident. Must graduate in the

Award: $2,000 Deadline: March Est. Time: Med (~38 min)
12

NACA Northern Plains Regional Student Leadership Scholarship

The NACA Northern Plains Regional Student Leadership Scholarship is offered by the NACA Foundation to recognize undergraduate students in the Northern Plains region who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and made significant contributions to their campus communities. Eligibility criteria include: Academic

Award: $500 Deadline: November Est. Time: Med (~48 min)

Texas Scholarships, Grants & Financial Aid Overview

Article Read Time Is 7 Mins

What Is the Top 10% Scholarship Program in Texas?

The Top 10% Scholarship Program was originally created to recognize Texas students who graduated in the top 10% of their class and encourage them to enroll in in-state colleges. Although statewide funding for the program has since been discontinued, many Texas colleges continue its mission by offering automatic scholarships for students with strong class rank, GPA, and standardized test scores. These institutional programs help keep talented students in Texas by rewarding academic excellence and creating predictable tuition savings. Schools like Texas A&M, UT Dallas, Texas Tech, and the University of Houston have replaced the statewide initiative with their own merit programs that often mirror or exceed the original award amounts.

  • Texas A&M Century Scholars Program — supports high-achieving students from partner high schools.
  • UT Dallas Academic Excellence Scholarships — automatic awards for outstanding academic performance.
  • Texas Tech automatic merit scholarships — awarded based on class rank, GPA, and test scores.
  • University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarships — guaranteed for qualifying applicants.
  • Institution-specific merit awards that replicate the original Top 10% benefits.

How Can You Get a Full-Ride Scholarship in Texas?

Full-ride scholarships in Texas are among the most competitive awards available and typically require exceptional academic performance, leadership experience, strong essays, and involvement in extracurricular or community activities. These awards often cover tuition, fees, room, board, books, and enrichment opportunities like research funding or study-abroad stipends. Prestigious programs such as the Terry Foundation Scholarship, Forty Acres Scholarship, and McDermott Scholars Program seek students who demonstrate both academic excellence and a commitment to service, personal growth, and leadership. Many programs require interviews, portfolio submissions, or nomination from a school counselor, making early preparation essential.

  • Terry Foundation Scholarship — full-ride for exceptional students with leadership and financial need.
  • Forty Acres Scholarship (UT Austin) — full cost of attendance plus enrichment experiences.
  • McDermott Scholars Program (UT Dallas) — merit award with travel, research, and cultural funding.
  • Presidential and trustees’ scholarships — available at universities like Texas Tech and Texas A&M.
  • Full-ride opportunities for academically elite students across public and private institutions.

Who Qualifies for Grants in Texas?

Grants in Texas are primarily awarded based on financial need and do not need to be repaid. To qualify, students must meet Texas residency requirements, demonstrate financial need, and enroll in an approved public or private institution. The TEXAS Grant supports students who complete a recommended high school curriculum and enroll in a four-year university, while the Texas Educational Opportunity Grant helps community college and technical school students with documented need. Universities also award Texas Public Educational Grants (TPEG), which may be available to all students—including non-citizens—depending on institutional policies.

  • TEXAS Grant — for financially needy students enrolled at eligible four-year universities.
  • Texas Educational Opportunity Grant (TEOG) — supports students at two-year colleges and technical institutes.
  • Texas Public Educational Grant (TPEG) — offered by institutions based on financial need.
  • Requires completion of FAFSA or TASFA for need assessment.
  • Residency and enrollment at an eligible Texas institution required for most programs.

Are There Full-Ride Scholarships in Texas?

Yes. Texas universities offer multiple full-ride scholarships designed to attract exceptional students from across the state and nation. These awards typically cover all major educational expenses, and some even include mentorship programs, leadership development, or funding for research and travel. Students must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership qualities, and often financial need. Many institutions automatically review applicants for merit awards, while others require separate applications or specific nomination processes.

  • Terry Foundation Scholarship — full-ride for strong leaders with financial need.
  • Forty Acres Scholarship (UT Austin) — premier full-ride option with enrichment funding.
  • McDermott Scholars Program (UT Dallas) — comprehensive package with travel and research support.
  • President’s Gold Scholarship (Texas Tech) — major award for top academic performers.
  • Regents Scholarship (Texas A&M) — competitive merit award for exceptional students.
  • President’s Endowed Scholarship (Baylor University) — elite merit-based funding.

What Scholarships Are Available in Texas for Adults?

Texas provides a range of scholarships and grants tailored to adult learners, career changers, and those re-entering higher education. These programs help adults complete degrees, earn certificates, or develop new skills aligned with Texas workforce needs. The Texas Reconnect Grant supports adult learners pursuing high-demand fields at community and technical colleges. The Finish@UT Scholarship assists students who previously earned college credits but did not complete a degree, making it easier for adults to return to school online. Workforce development grants also help adults train for in-demand occupations, and many local foundations offer financial support for nontraditional students balancing work and family responsibilities.

  • Texas Reconnect Grant — for adults pursuing high-demand careers at community colleges.
  • Finish@UT Scholarship — for adult learners completing UT System online degrees.
  • Texas Workforce Development Grant — supports training in workforce-aligned programs.
  • Local community foundation scholarships for nontraditional students.
  • Employer-sponsored tuition assistance programs.

What Scholarships Are Available for College Students in Texas?

Texas college students can access a large network of need-based, merit-based, and institutional scholarships. State programs like the TEXAS Grant and TPEG help financially needy students cover tuition at public institutions, while universities offer numerous academic, departmental, and leadership awards. Texas A&M, UT Austin, Texas Tech, and other large universities offer guaranteed scholarships for students who meet certain GPA and test score criteria, making college more affordable for high-achieving students. Private foundations and organizations—such as the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo—also award millions in scholarships annually.

  • TEXAS Grant — flagship need-based award for undergraduates.
  • Texas Public Educational Grant (TPEG) — institutional funding based on financial need.
  • Academic Achievement and Century Scholars Program at Texas A&M.
  • UT Austin merit-based and departmental scholarships.
  • Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Scholarships — major statewide scholarship program.

What Scholarships Are Available for High School Seniors in Texas?

Texas high school seniors can apply for a wide array of scholarships that recognize academic achievement, leadership, financial need, community service, or involvement in extracurricular activities. Nationally recognized programs like the Dell Scholars Program and Coca-Cola Scholars Program support exceptional Texas students, especially those overcoming financial barriers. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo also awards substantial scholarships to seniors across the state, including those pursuing agricultural, technical, or academic programs. In addition, many Texas universities provide automatic merit scholarships for seniors who meet certain GPA or test score benchmarks.

  • Dell Scholars Program — supports low-income, high-achieving students.
  • Coca-Cola Scholars Program — prestigious national leadership award.
  • Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Scholarships — major awards for Texas seniors.
  • Automatic merit scholarships offered by many Texas universities.
  • Local school district and community foundation scholarships.

Are There Scholarships in Texas for Hispanic Students?

Yes. Texas has one of the largest Hispanic student populations in the country, and many organizations offer scholarships specifically to support Hispanic and Latino learners. The Hispanic Scholarship Fund provides renewable awards for academic achievement, leadership potential, and community involvement. The Adelante Fund supports Hispanic students attending partner colleges with a focus on professional development and engagement. The Latinos in Tech Scholarship offers funding to students pursuing STEM or technology-related degrees. In addition to national programs, local Hispanic chambers of commerce and community organizations across Texas also provide region-specific scholarships.

  • Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) — renewable awards for academic excellence.
  • Adelante Fund Scholarship — supports Hispanic students at partner institutions.
  • Latinos in Tech Scholarship — for students pursuing STEM and technology fields.
  • Local Hispanic chambers of commerce and cultural organizations.
  • Community foundation scholarships targeted to Hispanic and Latino students.

College Scholarships By Category

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