WT Implements Required Changes to In-State Tuition Eligibility

Media contact: Chip Chandler, 806-651-2124, cchandler@wtamu.edu

CANYON, Texas — In compliance with a recent federal court order and guidance from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, West 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 who cannot 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.

“We remain committed to supporting all our students during this transition,” said Dr. Rick Haasl, WT vice provost for enrollment management. “We encourage all students including those impacted by this change to contact the Office of Financial Aid 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. Documentation demonstrating lawful presence aligns with the same documents accepted by the Texas Department of Public Safety for a Real ID driver’s license.

Students with questions or concerns are encouraged to Dana Melcher, executive director of student financial services, at 806-651-2055 or financial@wtamu.edu for personalized support.

Providing support for students and being responsive to their needs is a key principle of the University’s long-range plan, WT 125: From the Panhandle to the World.

That plan is fueled by the historic One West comprehensive fundraising campaign, which reached its initial $125 million goal 18 months after publicly launching in September 2021. The campaign’s new goal is to reach $175 million by 2025; currently, it has raised more than $165 million.

About West Texas A&M University

WT, a Regional Research University, is redefining excellence in Canyon, Texas, on a 342-acre residential campus, as well as the Harrington Academic Hall WTAMU Amarillo Center in downtown Amarillo. Established in 1910, the University has been part of The Texas A&M University System since 1990. WT, a Hispanic Serving Institution since 2016, boasts an enrollment of more than 9,000 and offers 66 undergraduate degree programs, including eight associate degrees; and 44 graduate degrees, including an integrated bachelor’s and master’s degree, a specialist degree and two doctoral degrees. The University is also home to the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, the largest history museum in the state and the home of one of the Southwest’s finest art collections. The Buffaloes are a member of the NCAA Division II Lone Star Conference and offers 14 men’s and women’s athletics programs.

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