UTRGV Unveils Historic Free Tuition Program

Updated: September 27, 2019

EDINBURG, TEXAS – The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley on Monday announced the most expansive free-tuition program among public institutions in the state of Texas.

Beginning Fall 2020, the new UTRGV Tuition Advantage will cover the costs of tuition and mandatory fees for qualifying students who have an adjusted gross family income of $75,000 or less.

UTRGV Tuition Advantage is open to all in-state undergraduate students, including incoming freshmen and returning and transfer students, who meet the program’s requirements.

“The ability to pay for college should not be a determining factor in who attends a UT institution,” said Board of Regents Chairman Kevin P. Eltife. “The regents are committed to minimizing financial barriers, and we are exceptionally pleased with UTRGV’s new tuition assistance program and the impact it will have on making access and affordability much easier for students and their families.”

Overall, UTRGV estimates more than half of its undergraduate students will attend the university during the 2020-2021 academic year without paying tuition and mandatory fees.

“The UT System is committed to increasing access and student success at all of our institutions, and we applaud UTRGV for launching this extraordinary program to make a high quality college education more accessible and affordable for all,” said UT System Chancellor James B. Milliken.

UTRGV President Dr. Guy Bailey announces UTRGV Tuition Advantage, the most expansive free-tuition program among public institutions in the state of Texas, on Monday, Sept. 16, 2019 at the Performing Arts Complex in Edinburg, Texas. Photo: Paul Chouy/UTRGV

UTRGV recently has been recognized nationally for its unmatched value. Money magazine ranked UTRGV the third-best public university in Texas (behind Texas A&M University and University of Texas at Austin, respectively) based on quality of education, affordability and outcomes. In the recent Washington Monthly college rankings, UTRGV was the highest-ranked public university for value nationwide and a Top 20 Master’s University.

“The UTRGV Tuition Advantage will be a game-changer for higher education in Texas,” said UTRGV President Guy Bailey. “At UTRGV, you can obtain a high-quality education without mortgaging your future. I truly believe we are the best value in Texas higher education.”

More information on UTRGV Tuition Advantage, including program requirements, is available here.