TAMIU Implements Required Changes to In-State Tuition Eligibility for Fall

In compliance with a recent federal court order and guidance from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, all Texas public universities, including Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) are making required changes to in-state tuition eligibility beginning this Fall semester 2025.

These changes only affect students who previously qualified for in-state tuition under Texas Education Code § 54.053(a)(3) but who 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 are able to provide documentation of lawful presence.

TAMIU 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 (DPS) for a REAL ID driver’s license including an original certified birth certificate, social security card or current Texas vehicle registration or title, among others.  For a REAL ID checklist, visit the DPS website. 

TAMIU vice president for Enrollment Management Juan G. Garcia, Jr.  addressed the required compliance shared by all Texas public universities.

"We understand this news may be difficult for some members of our University community," Garcia said, "We remain committed to supporting all our students during this transition and encourage those impacted to contact our Office of Financial Aid to discuss scholarship opportunities or other resources that may help offset costs."

TAMIU students impacted by the change remain eligible to apply for scholarships and tuition waivers that are equally open to all non-resident students under Texas Education Code § 54.213.

Students with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the TAMIU Office of Admissions at adms@tamiu.edu or call 956.326.2200.

Since Fall of 2021, TAMIU has continued to hold tuition costs steady, enabling it to maintain the lowest tuition and fees of any South Texas university.  This Fall, as it has for the past five years, TAMIU has frozen any increases in tuition and fees.

Registration for the Fall Semester 2025 at TAMIU is underway now.  Visit the Registration Hub for details.

For more on University’s story, visit tamiu.edu or follow its social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube and X.