Federal Mandate Requires Changes to In-State Tuition Eligibility at East Texas A&M

In compliance with a recent federal court order and guidance from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, East Texas A&M University is making required changes to in-state tuition eligibility beginning in the Fall 2025 semester.

These changes affect students who previously qualified for in-state tuition under Texas Education Code § 54.053(a)(3) but are unable to demonstrate lawful presence in the United States. Under the new legal requirements, affected students will be reclassified as non-residents for tuition purposes unless they provide documentation of lawful presence. Documents demonstrating lawful presence are the same documents the Texas Department of Public Safety accepts for a Real ID driver's license.

“We remain committed to supporting all of our students during this transition,” said East Texas A&M President Mark Rudin. “We encourage students impacted by this change to contact the university registrar's office to discuss available resources.”

The university is reviewing each student's residency status in accordance with the law and is notifying students who may be affected.

Students with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the Office of the Registrar at [email protected] for personalized support.