UNT Dallas Opens Door to Free Tuition for Texas Families Earning Under $100,000

May 1, 2026 - 23:36

The University of North Texas at Dallas has announced a new program that will cover full tuition costs for qualifying Texas students. Under the initiative, students from families with an adjusted gross income of $100,000 or less can attend the university without paying tuition.

The program aims to reduce financial barriers for low- and middle-income households across the state. University officials say the move is part of a broader effort to increase access to higher education in the Dallas area, where many families struggle with rising college costs.

To qualify, students must be Texas residents, enroll full-time, and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. The university will use a combination of federal, state, and institutional aid to cover the remaining tuition balance after other scholarships and grants are applied.

UNT Dallas, a relatively young public university, has focused on serving a diverse student body, many of whom are first-generation college attendees. The tuition guarantee is expected to benefit thousands of students in the coming years, particularly those from communities where college affordability remains a major concern.

The announcement has drawn praise from local education advocates, who see it as a step toward closing the opportunity gap. However, some note that the program does not cover fees, books, or living expenses, which can still pose significant costs for families. The university says it is exploring additional support options for those needs.